Pack your bags and surrender to wanderlust with vibrant, lesser-known neighbourhoods in Osaka, Athens, Hamburg, Budapest and more
We’ve heard all the classic holiday destinations like Paris, Rome, Bali and beyond, but sometimes the adventurer in us wants to go down the road less travelled and see a city from a local viewpoint. Thankfully, the kind folks at Airbnb have let us in on their wanderlust-sparking list of lesser-known neighbourhoods that have been becoming popular with their users in recent times. And don’t go all the way there and stay in a posh hotel! Rent a room with a local using Airbnb and you’ll get to see a whole new side of the city. We pick 16 neighbourhoods that you need to see.
Chūō-ku in Osaka, Japan
Theatre, good food and a magnificent castle all in one neighbourhood steeped in history; what more could the culture vulture in you want? Though the ward might be dominated by financial buildings, the intrepid explorer will find lots of hidden gems that the casual tourist might miss. Like live music? The neighbourhood is filled with trendy nighspots like the Brick Sound Bar, a swish live music venue in Daimyo. If you’re not too hung over after your evening of revelry, grab a hearty bowl of ramen and watch a Kabuki show at the Osaka Shochiku-za Theatre, or explore the sprawling grounds of the Osaka Castle.
Banglampoo in Bangkok, Thailand
Once a name whispered only between the savviest of travellers, Banglampoo has transformed from backpacker Mecca to tourist hotspot. Despite its sudden growth however, Banglampoo still manages to retain its charm. Duck into any side street on Khao San Road and you’ll find locally famous noodle shops, hidden temples and even Muay Thai fighting rings. Travellers might be surprised to find bars like Jazz Happens, frequented by Silpakorn University music students, where they can mingle with the locals and watch live music.
Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur’s largest ‘Little India’, has managed to shake off its reputation as an unsavoury locale and, instead, become a hub for travellers on a budget. Here, you can grab a cheap meal at one of the many South Indian banana leaf shops in the neighbourhood and explore the many stores selling spices, silk and much more. If the bustle of the neighbourhood starts to get to you, visit the Maha Vihara Temple to centre yourself.
Capucins in Bordeaux, France
A day spent in Capucins is one best spent indulging in fresh oysters and fine white wine in the neighbourhood’s many seafood stands. After that, explore the labyrinthine maze of the famous Marché des Capucins market where you can stock up on cheese, fresh produce and bread; perfect for an afternoon picnic in the park. If cash is not an issue, splurge on some decadent French fine cuisine at one of the neighbourhood’s many restaurants like La Tupina.
Koukaki in Athens, Greece
Koukaki is a quiet, rustic neighbourhood bordering the historical district of Plaka. Its pedestrian-only streets have spawned a burgeoning café culture; it’s perfect for grabbing a book and plonking yourself down for a bit of coffee and people-watching. And don’t worry about it being too quiet a neighbourhood at night, bars like O Pmampas and Vinni Biraria provide ample opportunity for a little late night revelry before turning in.
Triana in Seville, Spain
Our perfect day in Triana would begin with a stroll along the iconic Puente de Triana (Triana Bridge) where we’d take in the town’s old school architecture while enjoying an ice cream from a street vendor. The district was once home to gypsies, flamenco artists, sailors, bullfighters and other vagabonds not permitted to enter Seville’s city walls – that storied past has contributed to Triana’s vibrance today. Amidst the narrow cobbled streets, you’ll find tasty tapas and hidden bars where you’ll be treated to some spectacular flamenco performances.
Hammerbrook in Hamburg, Germany
Travellers with a keen eye for architecture will enjoy this neighbourhood’s mix of old and modern building styles. Architectural landmarks here include the stunning glass arches of the Berliner Bogen. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the hotter months, kick back at one of the beach bars and tuck into some incredibly fresh seafood.
Kaneohe on Oahu, US
If lush greenery and a salty sea breeze are what sparks the wanderlust in you, pack your bags and hop on a flight to this quintessential tropical holiday destination. If you’re in the mood for a little hiking, the Friendship Gardens trail will reward you with a spectacular view from the top of the ridge. You’ll probably have worked up a hearty appetite after that trek, so treat yourself to the best garlic chicken on the island at Fat Boy’s.
Meireles in Fortaleza, Brazil
Meireles will satisfy any party-hungry traveller with its constant stream of parties. This neighbourhood is well known to locals for its bars, restaurants and its burgeoning comedy scene. But if the beach is what you’re after, you really can’t beat lazing on a hammock and taking in the sea breeze, perhaps with a sweet treat from Doceria Balu?
Roma Sur in Mexico City, Mexico
If you think trips to a museum are boring, dull affairs, a minute in Vertigo Galeria will make you rethink that opinion. The museum is packed with all manner of surreal pop art sculptures and paintings by contemporary artists, both local and international. After taking in some culture, break bread at Broka Bistrot and grab a drink at the nearby whisky bar, Diente De Oro.
Oak Lawn in Dallas, US
At first glance, this dense urban neighbourhood may seem like any other in Dallas, but the outlying parks and trails offer a welcome respite from urban living. Take a jog down the picturesque Katy Trail, and then treat yourself to some good old-fashioned Texan grub at The Rustic or The Common Table. We can’t think of a finer way to end a day besides some good live music, so pop by Klyde Warren Park where you’ll enjoy free live performances on Thursdays.
Poncey-Highland in Atlanta, US
Take a walk down the city’s pedestrian-friendly Beltline Trail and you’ll find a host of art exhibitions and cute boutiques. We hear one boutique that you definitely shouldn’t miss is Youngblood, which features pieces designed by local artists. End your day off by grabbing a bite at Sweet Auburn, followed by drinks at Manuel’s Tavern, a local favourite and practically an institution in Poncey Highland.
District VII in Budapest, Hungary
Perhaps the most unique feature of Budapest’s nightlife is the city’s ‘ruin bars’. Built within old buildings and derelict public spaces, these ruin bars offer fantastic local brews and light bites. The district, the former Jewish Quarter, is also home to several beautiful synagogues including the world’s second largest, The Great Synagogue. When you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the district, grab a table at Bock Bisztró and sit down to some authentic Hungarian cuisine.
The Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Indonesia
The Bukit Peninsula in Bali is possibly one of the world’s worst kept travel secrets. On this little slice of paradise, you’ll find the famous cliff-hanging Uluwatu temple as well as some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia. Pack your swimwear and beach towel and plonk yourself down at Balangan beach, with a fresh coconut by your side of course. When you’re ready to fill up on some tasty local grub, pop by one of the many restaurants dotting the coast like Padang Padang Breeze.
Richmond in Melbourne, Australia
None of us are surprised that the hipster capital of the world made this list. The Richmond neighbourhood in particular is a cultural landmark, playing host to museums, street art and, of course, an abundance of cafés. If you’re having difficulty picking a café, your Airbnb host probably has a recommendation of his own. Trust us, Melbournites know their coffee!
Constitución in Buenos Aires, Argentina
It’s easy to lose yourself in the sprawling city of Argentina, but Constitución in Buenos Aires manages to retain its close-knit, intimate community feel. While the neighbourhood might be a bit rough around the edges, more adventurous travellers will revel in the complete lack of tourists in the area. Slip into any small byway in this barrio, and you’ll find yourself a plethora of local eateries like El Mazacote and Arumburu. Feel like a nightcap? At Bar Magico, you’ll find that the art of magic is kept alive, tucked away in an unassuming Victorian house.
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