Two Aussie cities ranked among the best in the world for nighttime tourism

Noctourism - exploring destinations after dark - is one of the biggest travel trends we've seen in 2025.

People are hitting the road to experience nightlife, stargazing, night markets, and after-dark tours.

And new data has revealed that both Sydney and Melbourne rank among the best global cities for tourism once the sun goes down.

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The travel specialists at Travelbag have analysed over 100 major cities around the world to find which is the best once the sun goes down.

Looking at Instagram hashtag volumes, light and noise pollution levels, safety when walking alone at night, and the number of late-night venues, New York City came out on top.

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The US hotspot, which is known as the "city that never sleeps", lives up to its name with a staggering 2,300 late-night venues.

But the two Aussie cities also ranked in the top ten - Sydney at number seven and Melbourne at number 10.

Tokyo is currently a trending destination for Aussie travellers, and this ranking reveals it's also a great place for night owls. The Japanese capital ranks second, with 996 late-night venues and a nighttime safety score of 75 out of 100, making it an ideal destination for after-dark exploration.

Dubai rounds out the top three, with a high nighttime safety score and nearly 30,000 images hashtagged #Dubaiatnight on Instagram.

Danny Hugill, Destination Executive for the Middle East and Indian Ocean at Travelbag, says: "Once the sun sets in Dubai, the city transforms. You can head to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood for an atmospheric evening walk, then catch the Dubai Fountain show before ending your night with drinks at Cé La Vi or a rooftop dinner at Paros.

"It's also a lot cooler after dark, even in the summer, so it's the perfect time to explore the city."

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Noctourism isn't just about nightlife - Muscat, the capital of Oman, was ranked fifth-best on the list, thanks to its amazing stargazing opportunities. Surrounded by desert, the city has low pollution and minimal artificial light, with pristine night skies.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi, UAE, stands out as the safest city to explore after dark, having the highest safety score of all destinations (87/100).

Sydney's place on this ranking is especially notable. After the institution of lockout laws in 2014, Sydney gained a reputation as a ghost town after dark, particularly in the CBD and Kings Cross.

The city has bounced back after the laws were repealed in 2021, as part of an initiative to revive Sydney's night-time economy. New bars and clubs have opened, there have been more live music events, and many restaurants have embraced outdoor dining

Events like Vivid, which is held in Sydney every winter, also help to cement the city as a great place to explore after dark.

Sydney also has great stargazing opportunities.

Last year, Palm Beach Headland became the first officially recognised city-based stargazing zone in the southern hemisphere.

The local council worked with experts to come up with a lighting management plan that would ensure the headland protects local flora and fauna, while still keeping public safety front of mind.

The plan enhances opportunities for people to enjoy the natural nighttime environment, and better viewing of the night sky.

The nocturnal wildlife of Palm Beach Headland includes bentwing bats, flying foxes, long-nosed bandicoots, possums and squirrel gliders.

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