There is something quietly thrilling about the world after dark, a sense that familiar places are holding their breath and waiting to reveal their secrets. While many travelers return to their hotels when the sun goes down, a growing number are doing the opposite: stepping out into the night to see the world in an entirely different way.
This is "noctourism," a rising movement that’s flipping the script on traditional travel by turning the night into prime time for discovery. And it’s not just about avoiding crowds or enjoying cooler temperatures (though those help). It’s about chasing experiences that only happen when the lights dim and the stars take center stage.
Why has this nocturnal pastime gained traction recently? And what are the places that people are prioritizing for their noctourism travel plans? Click through this gallery to find out.