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The Continental Bar
Nightlife & Bars
Chiang Mai

The Continental Bar

4.8(167 reviews)

Tucked along Lane 5 of Nimmana Haeminda Road, The Continental Bar sits at the heart of one of Chiang Mai's most energetic neighbourhoods. The Nimman area is a favourite among both expats and visitors, and this bar has carved out a consistent following thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and reliable quality. It strikes a balance between casual and convivial, making it equally suited to a quiet drink after a day of sightseeing or a longer social evening. The venue draws a mixed crowd of locals and travellers, giving it an easy, unpretentious energy that tends to put people at ease. The surrounding stretch of Nimmana Road is dense with cafes, restaurants, and other bars, so The Continental sits within a natural circuit for those who enjoy moving between venues on foot. The pedestrian-friendly lane makes it simple to arrive, linger, and continue exploring the neighbourhood at your own pace. Good to know: The Nimman area picks up noticeably on weekends, when the streets are busier and the atmosphere around the bar is at its most lively. Visiting midweek offers a quieter experience if a more relaxed setting is preferred. As no website is currently listed, it is worth checking local listings or asking at your accommodation for current opening hours before heading out.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After The Continental Bar, round out your day in Chiang Mai with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – February

Avoid: March – May (smoke & heat)

Rainy season

June – October

Avg. temperature

15°C – 36°C(59°F – 97°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: December – January & Songkran (April)

Getting there

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has direct flights from Bangkok (1 hr), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Overnight sleeper trains from Bangkok take ~12 hrs.

Getting around

  • Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks)
  • Grab (available in city centre)
  • Motorbike rental (฿150–250/day)
  • Tuk-tuks (negotiate price first)

Tips for Visiting Nightlife & Bars

Carry Your Passport or a Copy

Clubs and some bars check IDs strictly, especially in Bangkok's Thonglor, RCA, and Sukhumvit areas. A photo of your passport info page on your phone usually works, but carrying a laminated photocopy is safer.

Know the Closing Times

Legal closing time is 2 AM for most venues, though enforcement varies. In Bangkok's designated entertainment zones (RCA, Silom Soi 2/4, Khao San), some clubs stay open until 4 AM. Islands tend to be more relaxed about hours.

Buy Bucket Drinks Cautiously

Island bucket drinks (mixed spirits in a small bucket) are cheap and fun but notoriously strong and inconsistent. Stick to one, stay hydrated, and never leave your drink unattended at beach parties.

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