Night sites: The best cities to explore after dark

Amsterdam, Netherlands

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The canal-lined city is charming by day, but it bursts with character at night. Visit the serene arches of Seven Bridges at dusk, and avoid the infamous and overrun Red Light District by opting for the lively lights of Leidseplein instead.

Barcelona, Spain

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In a city where it's normal to eat dinner at around 10 pm, Barcelona has perfected the nighttime atmosphere, with Art Nouveau and modern architecture that takes on new life after sunset, and endlessly entertaining strolls amid buzzing tapas bars and music clubs in the Gothic Quarter.

New Orleans, USA

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The bars on Bourbon Street and the jazz in the French Quarter blooms in the darkness as the neon lights wake from their slumber and lead you to endless adventures—much of which is open well after the standard closing time of 2 am in the US.

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

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Brunei's capital is known for Islamic architecture (don't miss the night's golden glow cast over the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque), and the Gadong Night Market (lively tented stalls where vendors cook up local dishes in a cloud of delectable aromas).

Montreal, Canada

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This French-speaking city in Quebec is transformed from June to October with summer festivals including jazz, comedy, beer, fireworks, and more. The European charm in Old Montreal only gets more magical at night, as does the walk by the pier.

Brussels, Belgium

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Belgian beer and traditional pubs aren't the only attractions in Brussels after dark. There is also a pulsating jazz scene, stunning illuminated architecture, the charming Kunstberg museum quarter, and of course the Grand Place.

Paris, France

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After sunset, the City of Light sparkles with the passion of a thousand fires, and whether you're at the Eiffel Tower or cruising along the Seine, the night-cloaked romanticism will put you under its spell. Additionally, the Louvre organizes night tours, which are ideal for avoiding the chaos of the daytime crowds.

Sydney, Australia

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The Sydney Harbor scene is truly majestic at night, and it also offers the opportunity to spend some family time at Luna Park. There's endless entertainment in the city, from theater and outdoor film screenings to eccentric bars and the Chinatown night market.

Rome, Italy

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Rome never fails to enchant, and when the sun disappears it is replaced by another golden light gilding everything from its quaint alleys and squares to its greatest fountains and monuments.

Bruges, Belgium

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The iconic Rozenhoedkaai canal and Belfry tower are some of the best places to capture Bruges by night. There's also the Market Square, Lake of Love, as well as an added tranquility along the canals and bridges as most other tourists wore themselves out during the day.

Edinburgh, Scotland

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Nights in Edinburgh boast the chance to visit the myriad comedy or cultural venues, explore historical landmarks away from the crowds, and dive into famed whisky bars. Go ahead and sleep through your alarm tomorrow!

Ljubljana, Slovenia

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Slovenia's capital is very safe, and many popular streets in old town have become pedestrian only, meaning it's extremely friendly for night strollers. You can also take the funicular to the castle, and leisurely explore the river.

Ankara, Turkey

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Wander the streets of the Old Quarter, admire the elegance of Kocatepe Mosque, take in panoramic views from Atakule Tower, indulge in some delicious street meat, and visit Botanik Parki, one of Ankara's lesser-known parks, which is romantically lit by the Atakule in the evening.

London, England

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The elegant grandeur of the Houses of Parliament and the twinkling Thames only blossoms at night. Take advantage of late openings at the Tate Modern, and visit bustling Soho, which is steeped in history, culture, and pints. Stop by Covent Garden and Leicester Square if you're in the mood for some street performances.

Budapest, Hungary

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When the sun dips below the horizon and the strategically placed lighting clicks on, the city takes on a magical element. Go on a river cruise or stroll along the Danube, and admire the splendor of Budapest Parliament and Buda Castle.

Cairo, Egypt

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The beauty of Cairo is best exposed at night, where the big city lights shine brighter than stars on the Nile River, and where Muizz street is filled with delicious scents and bubbling chatter.

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