Republished with full copyright permissions from The Washington Daily Chronicle.

Finding a great place to unwind and enjoy a drink while traveling is an integral part of many globetrotters’ itineraries. Hidden bars, popularly known as speakeasies, hold a special appeal as they offer an alluring blend of secrecy, exclusivity, and exceptional concoctions.

Paris: The Undisputed Speakeasy Capital:
Topping the list is the romantic city of Paris, which emerges as the unrivaled speakeasy capital of the world. With a stellar score of 9.42 out of 10 on our speakeasy index, Paris houses a staggering 16 hidden bars. These establishments offer an enchanting array of drinks to cater to diverse tastes. Little Red Door, the city’s most popular speakeasy, reigns supreme with over 45,000 Instagram followers and an average Google rating of 4.4. However, for those seeking a more secretive experience, Le Bistrot Des Cinéastes, with just 483 Instagram followers, remains a hidden gem.

Bangkok and London: Close Competitors:
Bangkok secures the second position on our index, boasting 11 speakeasies and a commendable score of 8.93. London follows closely with 10 hidden bars and a score of 8.80. Sarajevo and Berlin, although not leading the pack in terms of quantity, offer hidden speakeasies with fewer than 400 Instagram followers and Google reviews, ensuring an exclusive experience for the discerning visitor.

Speakeasies Across the Globe:
While Paris, Bangkok, and London dominate the scene, other cities worldwide feature prominently in our study. Sydney emerges as Australia’s premier speakeasy spot, enchanting visitors with its hidden drinking treasures. Dubai and Singapore shine as Asia’s best destinations for discovering well-kept secrets within their vibrant cityscapes.

The Top 50 Cities for Speakeasies:
Our comprehensive study ranks a total of 50 cities based on the number of hidden bars, average Instagram followers, and average Google ratings. The results provide invaluable insights for avid speakeasy enthusiasts planning their next adventure. In addition to the top-ranking cities, the list includes renowned destinations such as Rome, New York, Berlin, and Amsterdam, each harboring a distinctive speakeasy culture waiting to be explored.

Methodology and Additional Insights:
To ensure the accuracy of the study, Radical Storage devised a meticulous methodology that defines speakeasies as bars referring to themselves as such or those offering hidden or secret experiences. By examining Google Maps reviews and Instagram data, the study created an index score for each speakeasy, leading to comprehensive rankings.

The world of speakeasies invites both locals and travelers on an enchanting journey filled with mystery, expertly crafted libations, and unforgettable experiences. Paris shines as the ultimate destination for these hidden gems, while Bangkok and London demonstrate their prowess as formidable contenders. Whether you seek a bustling metropolis or a charming urban enclave, the global landscape offers an array of speakeasies to satisfy your thirst for exploration.