9 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Bangkok: My Favorite Hidden Gems
Here are my favorite non-touristy things to do in Bangkok, Thailand. I spent an entire month here and got to really know this bustling city. But instead of only visiting Bangkok’s tourist hotspots, I took a moment to explore the lesser-known streets and neighborhoods. And, guess what!? It completely surprised me. I never saw this side of Bangkok the first time I visited over 10 years ago. I truly loved the creative streets, unique shops, and delicious food I discovered this time around.
Have you ever visited a place and not loved it the first time, but then returned and completely fell in love? That’s exactly how this trip felt for me.
I thought I’d grow tired of the city and have lots of downtime to work, but it was completely the opposite. I wish I could have even stayed longer to discover more of its hidden gems.
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9 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Bangkok
1. Explore the quirky neighborhood of Talat-Noi
Just a 10-minute walk from Chinatown, you’ll find Talat Noi.
This super quirky neighborhood is filled with street art, old mechanic shops, cute cafés, and the most adorable little stores.
I spent the day wandering its colorful streets, popping into a beautiful temple, and spotting murals everywhere.
On Soi Chareonkrung 22, you will find a long stretch of art murals. Lots of them have cats on them! They are so fun to look at, as each is so unique. There are even signs explaining the artwork. I used Google Translate to read what they said. One said Talat Noi is an old Chinese neighborhood full of cats to welcome you, and another showed a cat owning a house surrounded by mechanics.
I tried street food, grabbed a mango popsicle, shopped for handmade goodies, and honestly couldn’t bring myself to leave.
Then I ended the day with lunch by the river at Hong Sieng Kong. It was such a fun day.
This place is still so off the tourist radar… but trust me, it’s a must-visit.
2. The Erawan Museum
I didn’t expect this place to take my breath away, but wow, it really did! I can’t believe how most people don’t even know this place exists. The Erawan Museum is one of Thailand’s most underrated spots. It’s part museum, part temple, and a complete art masterpiece.
If you love unique, spiritual, and beautiful places, don’t skip this hidden gem in Bangkok, Thailand.
3. Day trip to the Red Dragon Temple
My favorite day trip from Bangkok was going to Wat Samphran, this mysterious red dragon temple! And after I loved visiting the cafe I mention right below this (After the Rain).
There is no good public transport to get here. It takes a long time and involves multiple transfers. I recommend taking a Grab instead. It is like Uber. You can download the app and book a ride. It should cost around 400 THB (about $13 USD).
To be honest, I expected this temple to be pink after seeing it on social media. It’s been repainted to its original red color as of April 2026. The temple looked pink because the red had faded over the years. I did prefer the pretty pastel pink color, but the red really stands out, doesn’t it!? It looks super cool on the drone, which I was able to legally fly here after registering my drone.
When you arrive, you are given a ribbon to write your name on. A very sweet lady gently guides you through the steps. She handed me some flowers and told me to leave them outside the temple next to the day of the week I was born. I was born on a Wednesday. I placed my flowers there and lit a candle as an offering
Next, you climb 17 floors up inside the dragon. There is also a lift for a small fee if you feel lazy.
Once you reach the top, you get beautiful views all around. You can tie your ribbon onto the dragon and make a wish. It is said to bring good luck and protection.
Everything is free, but you’re encouraged to leave a donation. This was such an easy and fun day trip. Definitely add it to your bucket list when visiting Bangkok.
4. Relax at After the Rain Coffee
Just a 10-minute drive away from the Red Dragon Temple is the most beautiful café. It’s called After the Rain Coffee and feels like a serene escape from Bangkok’s busy streets.
You are completely surrounded by nature. When you order a drink or a meal, you get a free little boat ride along the river.
I went solo, and the staff was so kind. They helped me take photos and videos for me. They also have a swing that faces so many tropical trees. This is one of the most instagrammable cafes in Thailand, and it’s still a bit of a hidden gem.
You can watch my Instagram video on the whole experience.
5. Song Wat Road
Song Wat Road used to be Bangkok’s oldest trading street. Today, it’s been transformed into a super aesthetic street full of hidden cafés, street art, and even a riverside to stroll.
It’s right next to Chinatown but without the masses. I loved strolling it and discovering its charm. Don’t miss the cool elephant mural located here.
Enjoy lunch or dinner by the riverside at NAAM 1608 and visit the coffee shop Koff & Bun at Songwat
Everyone goes to Wat Arun, but fewer people know about this amazing viewpoint where you can see the view with fewer crowds and enjoy ice cream at the same time. This spot is called Before Sunset, and I’d definitely go before sunset, as the name suggests. It was so magical for the sunset! This seat in front of the view is reserved just for taking photos, so you don’t have to worry about it being too busy when you arrive.
There’s also plenty of photo opportunities outside on the balcony overlooking Wat Arun and the water.
I highly recommend taking the public boat from Sathorn Pier to Phra Arthit using the blue line before or after your visit here. You will get amazing views without paying for an expensive cruise! It only costs 40 Baht ($1.25), and you pass by so many iconic spots in Bangkok. Sit on the left side for the best views and enjoy the 30-minute ride.
7. See the Giant Buddha at Wat Paknam
This is one of the prettiest spots in Bangkok that not everyone makes it to. This giant gold Buddha is a sight to see! Wat Paknam is a peaceful temple complex in Thonburi. Inside the temple, you’ll find a stunning glass stupa, which is so magical.
You can get a boat ride past it, which is well worth it. We paid 240 baht ($7.70) for a private one. Or you can book this tour, which will get you boat tickets and also take you to some hidden spots in the area.
My favorite part was actually taking a walk in this neighborhood to find unique views of the Buddha in the middle of old buildings. I did this by venturing to the side streets that faced the Buddha.
For a while, the Buddha was under construction, and I can verify it’s back in order now!
8. Eat your way down Banthat Thong Road
If you’re wondering what the local version of Chinatown is, then make your way to Banthat Thong Road. This street is full of endless foodie options and is way less touristy than Chinatown. I loved wandering here and trying all the food!
The most famous spot is Nueng Nom Nua. I went here and tried their famous milk toast set. It comes with different sauces like chocolate, condensed milk, and strawberry. I also tried the shaved ice bingsu, which was super delicious and came loaded with sweet milk and toppings.
My favorite meal in Bangkok that I’m still dreaming about was from Mee Dee Pochana. I tried Tom Yum Soup, and I can verify it was absolutely yummy!
For dessert, don’t miss the banana creme brulee at Ice Cream Samosorn. It’s to die for – I was so obsessed!
9. Check out the Ari Neighborhood
Ari was one of my favorite neighborhoods in Bangkok! There are so many cute cafes, and not a whole lot of tourists know about it.
Start by getting off at Ari BTS Station and taking Exit 3. As soon as you come down, you’ll already feel how much quieter and more local it is compared to central Bangkok.
The streets you will want to hit for exploring shops and the cafe scene include Phahon Yothin 7 (the main street) as well as Soi Ari 3 and 4.
I loved GUMP’s Ari Community Space. This courtyard has a colorful painted street full of seating and surrounded by fun photobooths, cafes, and shops.
I stopped by a cat cafe (Ari Me Meow) and even a dog cafe (Dog in Town) while I visited Ari! The cat cafe is just one super cute cat, and there’s quirky decor inside.
If you’re looking for brunch, I’d recommend trying Landhaus Bakery or Yellow Lane.
Hopefully you enjoyed this post, and it’s helped you discover some non-touristy things to do in Bangkok! I really love slow traveling so I can discover more beyond the typical tourist spots. Leave a comment below if you have some discoveries you’d like to share too!
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