15 Can’t Miss Hidden Gems in Bangkok

Bangkok is a much-loved tourist destination and is home to some of the most famous attractions in Southeast Asia. From breathtaking temples and vibrant floating markets to diverse neighborhoods and some of the best food in the world, you’re certain to fall in love with Bangkok from the moment you arrive.

With so many tourists visiting each year, it can be tricky to get off the beaten path and discover lesser-known things to do. If you’re seeking a unique trip away from the typical tourist trail, keep reading. Here’s our travel guide to 15 can’t miss hidden gems in Bangkok.

1. Dragon Temple (Wat Samphran)

Photo Credit: lemaret pierrick

• Website: inthailand.travel/wat-samphran-temple-of-the-dragon
• Address: 92 8, Sam Phran, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom
• Opening hours: 7.00 am – 6.00 pm daily

Bangkok’s three best-known Buddhist temples are Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew, and each is well worth a visit. However, many tourists miss Wat Samphran. This dramatic, 80-meter-tall temple is surrounded by a huge dragon sculpture that seems to be climbing the tower. Join the dragon on its climb to the top for spectacular views of the city.

2. Bangkok’s Markets

No trip to Bangkok is complete without a visit to a market or two. If you’d like to shop and eat like locals, get off the tourist trail by visiting these fabulous markets:

Amphawa Floating Market

• Website: amphawafloatingmarket.org
• Address: 4 Chothamrong Rd, Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram
• Opening hours: 2.00 pm – 9.00 pm, Friday to Sunday

Bangkok’s floating markets are an iconic activity that is not to be missed, but many of the most famous are now overrun by tourism. Amphawa is the perfect antidote to this — located in the province of Samut Songkhram on the Mae Khlong River, you’ll find a wide array of street food and handicrafts (and at great prices).

Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

• Address: 15-30/1 Bang Ramat Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 8.00 am – 5.00 pm Saturday & Sunday

Another option for a lesser-known floating market is Khlong Lat Mayom. This market is much closer to Bangkok, making it easier to get to, but the market itself is much smaller so you’ll have less choice if you’re shopping for souvenirs.

Maeklong Railway Market (Hoop Rom Market)

• Address: Mae Klong, Mueang Samut Songkhram District, Samut Songkhram
• Opening hours: 7.00 am – 4.00 pm daily

This local market is known as the life-risking market because it is attached to the Mae Klong-Ban Laem railway. If you’re brave enough, a visit to this market with reward you with a glimpse into the daily lives of local residents as they shop for fish, fruits, and vegetables.

Hua Mum Night Market

• Address: 11 Prasert-Manukitch Rd, Lat Phrao, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 10.00 am – 12.00 am daily

If the famous, sprawling Chatuchak Market is too overwhelming, Hua Mum Night Market is a smaller and more relaxed option. You’ll find plenty of stalls selling traditional Thai delights such as freshly-made Kanom Krok Bai Toe (a sweet treat flavored with pandan leaf).

3. The Artist’s House

Photo Credit: maodoltee

• Address: 309 Phet Kasem Rd, Khuha Sawan, Phasi Charoen, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm Monday to Friday / 9.30 am – 6 pm Saturday & Sunday

The Artist’s House (Baan Silapin in Thai) is an old house that dates back to the 1800s. The property is now a gallery and museum featuring traditional Thai puppet shows and other arts that are important to Thai culture.

You’ll find this hidden gem tucked between Nangkok’s ultra-modern skyscrapers across the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi, which makes it all the more special. Taking a tuk-tuk is the easiest way to visit Baan Silapin or you can take public transportation — hop on the MRT to Bang Phai station to reach Soi 28, where the house is located.

4. Museum of Contemporary Art

• Website: mocabangkok.com
• Address: 499 Kamphaeng Phet 6 Rd, Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm Tuesday to Sunday

Thailand is mostly known for its ancient art and culture, but fans of modern art shouldn’t miss the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). Visitors can enjoy 800 works that demonstrate Thai art and creativity in an attractive gallery space.

5. Chiang Mai

Photo Credit: LAMBERTO JESUS

If you’re seeking a change of pace, head to Thailand’s Chiang Mai. This pretty mountain city is home to more ethical elephant sanctuaries than any other place in Southeast Asia, making it a must-visit for lovers of these gentle giants.

Flights from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) are very regular and take just over an hour, making Chiang Mai an easy side trip.

6. The Old Siam Plaza

• Address: 12 Tri Phet Rd, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon
• Opening hours: 9.00 am – 8.00 pm daily

A trip to Bangkok’s Chinatown reveals a whole different side of the city and it’s highly recommended to spend a few hours strolling around the area. While you’re there, don’t miss The Old Siam Plaza. You’ll find Thai-Chinese sweets and Thai silks that make fantastic gifts for friends and family back home.

7. Khlongs

Photo Credit: ozerkizildag

Bangkok is sometimes referred to as the Venice of the East because of its intricate maze of canals. The Khlongs are traditionally used for trade, transportation, and irrigation and are a Bangkok hidden gem not to be missed. Take a boat tour to learn about the city’s history and find a moment of peace on the waterways.

8. Benchakitti Forest Park

• Address: Ratchadaphisek Rd, Khlong Toei
• Opening hours: 4.30 am – 9.00 pm daily

Benchakitti Forest Park is known as the city’s green lung and is where locals head to escape Bangkok’s hectic streets. Wander in the forest and take shade from the hot sun, or stroll around the picturesque lake. This is also a popular place to run and jog if you like to stay fit during trips overseas.

9. Fantasia Lagoon Waterpark

• Address: The Mall Shopping Center, Ngamwongwan Branch, Bang Khae, Bang Kapi, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 11.00 am – 7.00 pm daily

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out Fantasia Lagoon Waterpark. This spot is on the rooftop of The Mall Shopping Center and is loved by local and expat families as a respite from the heat and humidity. There are many slides and pools on offer so you’ll have no trouble keeping children entertained for a few hours.

10. Wat Kalayanamit

• Address: 371 Arun Ammarin Road, Thon Buri, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 7.00 am – 5.00 pm daily

Wat Kalayanamit is another impressive temple that many visitors overlook. It was founded in 1825 and is a striking combination of Chinese and Thai architecture. Head to Wat Kalayanamit to see the huge Buddha statue and marvel at the 13-ton bell which is the largest of its kind in the country.

11. Muang Boran Ancient City

Photo Credit: EcoSpace

• Address: 296/1 Sukhumvit Rd, Bang Pu Mai, Mueang Samut Prakan District, Samut Prakan
• Opening hours: 9.00 am – 7.00 pm daily

This majestic tourist attraction is a recreation of an ancient Thai kingdom that gives visitors an accurate glimpse into Thailand’s unique past. There are more than 110 structures to admire — don’t miss the Grand Palace of Ayutthaya which is an incredible sight.

This complex was created by the team behind the Erawan Museum and the two locations combined make a fascinating day out.

12. Tuk Tuk Tours

Photo Credit: Amonsak

Bangkok is renowned for its terrible traffic jams, so taking taxis isn’t recommended. The BTS Skytrain is the fastest way to reach attractions that aren’t within walking distance, but taking a tuk-tuk is much more fun.

For an exciting day of bouncing from one tourist destination to another, take an official tuk-tuk tour. There are several itineraries to choose from, and the friendly drivers speak English so they can answer any questions about the sights that you see along the way.

13. Hai Som Tam Convent

• Address: 2, 4-5 Convent Rd, Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 11.00 am – 9.00 pm Monday to Friday / 11.00 am – 8.00 pm Saturday

It’s no secret that Thailand has some of the best food in the world, but there are a few hidden dining spots that will blow your mind. Hai Som Tam Convent is one of these places — this beloved restaurant serves spicy northeastern Isan food that local workers can’t get enough of.

This firey cuisine is known for its intense heat, delicious sticky rice, and innovative use of fresh vegetables. Go in the late afternoon to avoid the dinnertime rush.

14. Calypso Cabaret

• Website: calypsocabaret.com
• Address: Asiatique The Riverfront (Warehouse 3), 2194 Charoenkrung 72-76 Rd, Prayakrai, Bangkorlaem, Bangkok
• Opening hours: 7.30 pm – 8.40 pm & 9.00 pm – 10.10 pm daily

Bangkok’s nightlife is the stuff of legend and no trip is complete without seeing the city come to life after the sun goes down. For a unique night out, head to Calypso Cabaret. Founded in 1988, this show features talented transgender artists singing and dancing with plenty of comedy throughout. There are two shows per evening — book in advance to secure the best seats.

15. Private Muay Thai Lessons

• Website: muaythaiacademymta.com/training/muay-thai-private-training
• Address: Rama 4, Thang Rotfai Sai Kao Pak Nam Rd, Sai Kao Pak Nam Rd, Bangkok 10110

Seeing a Muay Thai fight is a popular experience in Bangkok, but why not learn some moves yourself? Dozens of reputable schools throughout the city will safely teach you how to punch, kick, knee, and elbow your way to a Muay Thai victory.

All safety equipment is provided, instructors speak English, and pick-up from your hotel is usually offered.

Get Off the Beaten Track in Bangkok

Bangkok is one of the most-visited cities in the world, and you’ll find tourists in every corner of this sprawling metropolis. But, with these travel tips, you’re ready to uncover the Thai capital’s best hidden gems. Which spot will you discover first as you explore the lesser-known side of Bangkok?