Is Soi Cowboy In Bangkok a red light district?
Soi Cowboy Bangkok, yes, it’s all about a sex industry bursts with fun and things every single tourist would love to do while in Bangkok, the 150 meter long tiny street is where a series of flash lit neon Go Go bars, Discos and night clubs are all located.
This lively red-light district, which often referred to as Thailand’s #1, is famous for its vibrant neon lights and energetic atmosphere, offers one of the most entertaining things to do in Bangkok at night. Unlike the more intense Nana Plaza, Soi Cowboy in Sukhumvit feels more approachable for every casual tourists. Over the years, it has become a favorite spot to grab Happy Hour beers, soak in the fun, people watching and go ahead and look for some fun, yea fun.
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What area is Soi Cowboy in Bangkok?
The Location & Getting there
Soi Cowboy in Bangkok within just a short walk from Asoke BTS and Sukhumvit MRT stations. It is between Soi 21 (Asoke) and Soi 23. The easiest way is by BTS Skytrain to Asoke station or MRT Subway to Sukhumvit station, then a 5-minute walk. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available but may cost more due to traffic.
- BTS Skytrain: 15 to 30 minutes, 50 baht
- MRT Subway: 15 to 30 minutes, 40 baht
- Taxi: 30 to 40 minutes, 150 to 200 baht
- Tuk-tuk: ~30 minutes, 150 baht
What happens at Soi Cowboy?
Soi Cowboy is a walking street in Bangkok, known for its neon-lit red-light scene and go-go bars. Popular among tourists looking for nightlife & entertainment with bars, clubs, and live music, what exactly happens it mainly for its adult-themed entertainment, it also has casual eateries and pubs for a more relaxed experience.
Additionally, Soi Cowboy offers nothing but fun, people watching, sexy girls grabbing your hand inviting for a beer & fun, and i highly recommend checking it out. Just keep in mind that it’s very different from visiting an American strip club.
At Go Go bars where girls dance on stage in skimpy nude outfits featuring acts like pole dancing, fire breathing, and ping pong shows.
If you enter a bar, and you see a girl you like, buy them a drink, have a conversation, or invite them to a private room. Drink prices range from 150 to 200 baht (5-7 USD), bar fines are 600 to 1000 baht (pay to get the girl out with you), and spending time with a dancer girls costs 2000 to 4000 baht, depending on the duration.
When visiting Soi Cowboy: Pay Attention
- Dress casually, but avoid revealing or offensive clothing.
- Check prices and bar policies before ordering, and pay as you go to avoid disputes.
- Tip workers and staff (Most rely on tips for income)
- Don’t take photos or videos without permission; it’s rude and illegal.
- Don’t touch or harass bar girls
Soi Cowboy
Soi cowboy bangkok opening hours
Soi Cowboy bars and clubs start to open every night from 6 pm to 2 am, but the best time to visit is between 9 pm and midnight when the street is most crowded and lively. During the day, Soi Cowboy is quiet, with most bars and clubs closed, a few bars may open, offering cheaper prices and more privacy for those seeking a quieter experience.
Unlike other red-light districts in Bangkok, like Nana Plaza or Patpong, Soi Cowboy has its own red-light vibe.It’s very safe to walk down the street, however, remember to be aware of your surrounding.
Nana Plaza or Soi Cowboy : Which One is Best?
Soi Cowboy often stands out as the better choice over Nana and Patong. If you’re planning to check out both and are keen on visiting the “dance bars,” start with Nana Plaza for a more intense experience.
Soi Cowboy vs Nana Plaza and Patpong (2 of other most famous red-light streets in Bangkok), Soi Cowboy is smaller and more compact, making it easier to walk around and choose where to sit and get a drink. The atmosphere is more relaxed and friendly, ideal for new-comers and couples.
However, Soi Cowboy can be more expensive and touristy, making it feel less authentic and more commercial.
Bars & Clubs to Explore at Soi Cowboy
Baccara
This popular go-go bar in Soi Cowboy features three floors open for stunning dancers, performing on glass ceilings in schoolgirl uniforms. Although drinks are pricey, the shows make it worth the experience.
Cockatoo
Shark
This top show bar in Soi Cowboy boasts talented workers who perform amazing acts like fire breathing, ping pong shows, and more sexy acts. The drinks are affordable, and the entertainment is impressive.
Bars & Clubs to avoid at Soi Cowboy
I don’t name any on here but i’ve been reading the reviews over google and TripAdvisor and i’ve found there are a dozen of bars who scam and behave rude with the customers. The best tip when you order in Soi Cowboy is to check the beer and drink prices carefully, check if the VAT and Tax is added or not and pay for your drink upfront to avoid argue later on.
FAQ: Soi Cowboy, Bangkk
Is Soi Cowboy recommended for Solo Travellers?
Is filming allowed when walking in Soi Cowboy?
You can film while walking and take photos at Soi Cowboy, but the bar girls working generally dislike it. There are no signs prohibiting photography, so it’s usually fine to take a few snapshots of the bar girls. However, be cautious when taking pictures or videos. Tourists have had their cameras snatched, especially by club owners when taking photos of specific clubs.
When's best time to visit Soi Cowboy?
The best and safest time to visit Soi Cowboy for drinks is between 9 pm and midnight, as the area remains well-crowded.
Is Soi Cowboy safe?
Yes, very safe in general. We’ve never had issues at Soi Cowboy bars because we always drink at outdoor bars and seating terraces, never asking for anything other than beer. We prefer drinks outside the clubs where prices are clearly displayed. Inside the Go Go bars, you’ll likely be approached by dancer girls who offer you more than just a drink.
Tipping at Soi Cowboy bars
Tipping at Soi Cowboy bars and clubs is generally expected, even for a single casual drink in the outdoor seating areas. Some bar girls can be more assertive (or ‘demanding’) in suggesting tipping amounts, so i usually round up to the nearest 50 THB note for one or two drinks.
If you buy drinks inside the bars or clubs, you may see extra charges added to your final bill. If you’re unwilling to pay, bouncers and bar staff may ‘encourage’ payment in unfriendly ways.
