The massive success of The Hangover pushed its creators to go bigger, louder, and more international in the sequel, leading fans to ask one enduring question: where was the hangover 2 filmed? Released in 2011, The Hangover Part II traded Las Vegas for Southeast Asia, delivering a darker, edgier story set against the vibrant backdrop of Thailand. The filming locations were not just scenery; they played a crucial role in shaping the mood, chaos, and authenticity of the movie. This guide takes a deep dive into the real places used in filming and how they brought the story to life.
Why Thailand Was Chosen as the Primary Setting
When considering where was the hangover 2 filmed, Thailand stands at the center of the answer. The filmmakers wanted a location that felt exotic, unpredictable, and visually intense. Bangkok offered exactly that. Its crowded streets, towering hotels, temples, nightlife, and river culture created a sense of controlled chaos that matched the film’s darker tone. Unlike Las Vegas, which felt polished and artificial, Bangkok delivered raw energy that elevated the sequel’s storyline.
Thailand also provided practical benefits. The country has a strong film infrastructure, experienced local crews, and visually diverse locations within short distances. This made it easier to film complex scenes while maintaining a consistent atmosphere throughout the movie.
Bangkok: The Heart of the Film
If you are still wondering where was the hangover 2 filmed, the clearest answer is Bangkok. Most of the film’s key scenes were shot in and around the city. Bangkok’s streets appear throughout the movie, capturing the intensity and unpredictability that the characters experience after their wild night.
Lebua State Tower and Sky Bar
One of the most iconic filming locations is the Lebua State Tower, particularly its Sky Bar. The rooftop scene featuring sweeping views of the city became one of the film’s most recognizable moments. The luxury and height of the location contrasted sharply with the chaos unfolding in the story. Today, the Sky Bar remains a major attraction for fans retracing where was the hangover 2 filmed.
Streets, Markets, and Alleyways
Many street-level scenes were filmed in real Bangkok neighborhoods rather than constructed sets. Narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and dense traffic added realism that could not be replicated elsewhere. These locations helped ground the film in reality, making the city feel like an active character rather than a background.
Krabi and Phuket: Expanding the Visual Palette
Although Bangkok dominates the discussion of where was the hangover 2 filmed, other Thai locations also played supporting roles. Certain scenes were filmed in Krabi and Phuket, particularly those involving coastal views and resort-style settings. These areas provided visual breathing room between the film’s intense urban sequences.
The lush landscapes and turquoise waters contrasted with the gritty city scenes, reminding viewers that Thailand offers a wide range of environments. These locations were used strategically to maintain visual variety while keeping the story rooted in the same country.
Interior Sets and Studio Work
Not every scene tied to where was the hangover 2 filmed took place on location. Some interior scenes, including hotel rooms and controlled environments, were filmed on constructed sets. This allowed the production team to manage lighting, sound, and complex camera movements more effectively.
However, even these sets were designed to reflect real Thai interiors, ensuring visual consistency. The goal was always to make the audience feel immersed in Bangkok’s atmosphere, even when filming indoors.
How Filming Locations Shaped the Story
Understanding where was the hangover 2 filmed helps explain why the sequel feels darker and more intense than the original. Bangkok’s density, noise, and visual overload amplified the characters’ confusion and panic. The city’s contrasts—luxury hotels beside gritty alleyways—mirrored the characters’ descent from celebration into chaos.
The choice of real locations added authenticity. Instead of sanitizing the environment, the film embraced the city’s edge, allowing the setting to influence pacing, tone, and character behavior in a way that felt organic.
Challenges of Filming in Thailand
Shooting in Thailand was not without difficulties. Crowded locations, extreme heat, and tight filming schedules created logistical challenges. Despite these hurdles, the production team pushed forward to preserve authenticity. These challenges are part of why discussions about where was the hangover 2 filmed often highlight the commitment to realism over convenience.
The result was a film that felt visually distinct from its predecessor while maintaining the same core energy that fans expected.
Why Fans Still Care About the Filming Locations
More than a decade after its release, audiences still ask where was the hangover 2 filmed because the locations left a lasting impression. Fans continue to visit Bangkok landmarks featured in the movie, turning filming sites into unofficial tourist attractions.
The film also sparked broader interest in Thailand as a travel destination, proving how powerful on-location filming can be when done thoughtfully.
Conclusion
So, where was the hangover 2 filmed? Primarily in Bangkok, with additional scenes in Krabi and Phuket, all within Thailand. These locations were not chosen at random; they were essential to the film’s identity. From luxury rooftops to gritty streets, Thailand provided the perfect stage for the sequel’s wild narrative. By embracing real locations and their natural intensity, the filmmakers created a setting that remains unforgettable and deeply tied to the story’s impact.