Top 6 floating markets in Bangkok (2024)
Bangkok’s floating markets are a great way to experience a slice of the city’s culture. As many travellers come to the capital to take in the scenery of ancient temples, missing out on a floating market experience will surely leave visitors feeling incomplete. Kids can also enjoy glimpse’s of Thailand’s old culture by taking a boat ride through the river, experiencing how people used to commute.
With beautiful flowers, food, and products, taking a trip to one of these markets is highly recommended. Additionally, some of the markets cater only to locals, giving visitors the opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the culture. Thus, if you’re interested in giving one a visit, we’ve compiled a list of the top 6 floating markets near the capital city.
Best floating markets in Bangkok to visit
- Wat Sai | Opens daily, 4am to 1pm
- Amphawa | Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10am to 9:30pm
- Bang Phli | Opens daily, 8am to 5pm
- Damnoen Saduak | Opens daily, 8am to 4pm
- Bang Nampheung | Saturday, and Sunday, 7am to 4pm
- Taling Chan Floating Market | Saturday, and Sunday, 8am to 3:30pm
1. Wat Sai Floating Market
Key Features of Wat Sai market
- Opening Hours: Opens daily, 4am to 1pm
- Location: 58/229 Soi Ekkachai 24, Bang Khun Thian, Khet Chom Thong, Bangkok 10150.
- Historical Significance: Established over 150 years ago by Chinese merchants
Highlights of Wat Sai market
- Boat Tours: Unique views of local life from the water.
- Food Variety: Try local delicacies like noodles, dim sum, and coconut ice cream.
What makes Wat Sai market special
- Authentic Experience: Less commercialized than other markets; great for cultural immersion.
- Cultural Insight: See traditional trading methods in action.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy beautiful canals and natural surroundings.
Insider advice
- Cash Payments: Bring cash; many vendors do not accept credit cards.
What people say about them (4 out of 5 stars, 861 reviews)
| Marco Schirmer (Bittersweet) “A beautiful market, there is a lot to see here from fish to all kinds of fruits to ready-made dishes. You can also easily buy art, toys and clothes here. Unfortunately, we were unlucky, we arrived at 10.30am and there was not a single boat. Unfortunately, I can’t say whether they come later or have disappeared completely due to a lack of tourism. We then took a short boat tour, which was also very worthwhile.” |
Known for its shopping, this is perhaps the best floating market to find some awesome products. Located in the Chom Song district, Chinese traders established Wat Sai more than 150 years ago. Therefore, its Thai and Chinese influence is apparent. Here, you can learn how the vendors rely on canals as their primary means of trade.
Visitors can sample the fruits and vegetables offered at Wat Sai while taking in the surrounding views. The relaxing atmosphere makes it a great place to take time off from Bangkok’s busy streets while absorbing a bit of culture. Just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, make sure to book your visit ahead of time as it can get busy. Besides, to find your ideal choice if you’re also searching for a hotel in the heart of the city, head to our partner’s website, “Agoda – Bangkok.”
2. Amphawa Floating Market
Key features of Amphawa market
- Opening hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10am – 9:30pm
- Address: Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110
- Known For: Vibrant historical reenactments, captivating traditional performances, and a charming ancient Siamese ambience.
Highlights of Ayothaya market
- Authentic Atmosphere: Wander through a recreated ancient Siamese village featuring traditional wooden houses and canals.
- Period Costumes: Vendors dressed in traditional attire offer local products, handicrafts, and tasty treats.
- Cultural Shows: Delight in traditional Thai music, dance, and martial arts performances.
- Boat Rides: Glide through the picturesque canals of the market for a unique perspective.
What makes the Ayothaya market special
- Step Back in Time: Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a 17th-century Siamese market.
- Live Performances: Be entertained by cultural shows showcasing Thailand’s rich heritage.
- Learning Experience: Gain insights into Ayutthaya’s history as the former capital of Siam.
- Instagram-Worthy: Snap stunning photos of the architecture, canal scenes, and traditionally dressed vendors.
- Family Fun: Enjoy activities and shows that appeal to all ages.
Insider advice
- Combine Adventures: Pair your visit with a tour of the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Ayutthaya Historical Park.
- Dress the Part: Rent traditional Thai costumes for a fun and unique photo experience.
Taste Local Delights: Don’t miss Ayutthaya’s famous boat noodles and roti sai mai (Thai candy floss wrapped in roti). - Ethical Tourism: While elephants sometimes appear at the market, consider ethical alternatives instead of rides.
- Stay Comfortable: Visit during the cooler parts of the day and pack sun protection to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
What people say about them (4.3 out of 5 stars, 21,825 reviews)
| Kantima Xanouvong: Not too crowded on weekdays! Chill place to walk around, their food is average for me but some of them taste great like Kyua Tew Ruea aroi mak ! People there are so friendly! |
Amphawa Floating Market is the second most popular in Bangkok as it sits along the Mae Klong River. Just 50 kilometres from the city centre, the market’s community was once quite small as it dates back to the 17th century. Back then, it clearly was successful in trade and agriculture.
Now, visitors can see the small houses lining the riverbank, where locals still have access to the water. Inside some of these houses, visitors can stop for a bite of fresh seafood from the morning’s catch. Moreover, noodle dishes and Thai desserts can be consumed as well. The floating market is great for socialising along with taking in the surrounding scenery.
3. Bang Phli Floating Market
Key features of Bang Phli market
- Opening hours:Opens daily, 8am to 5pm
- Address: 10 20 Sukhaphiban 1 Alley, Bang Phli Yai, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan 10540.
- Unique Structure: The market features wooden shop houses along the canal, with boats ferrying goods and visitors.
Highlights of Bang Phli market
- Authentic Thai Cuisine: Enjoy a variety of local dishes, including pad thai, seafood, and fresh fruits.
- Cultural Events: Experience the Rab Bua lotus-throwing festival in October, where locals throw lotus flowers into the canal.
- Scenic Canalside: The picturesque setting along Khlong Samrong enhances the overall experience.
What makes Bang Phli special
- Local Vibe: Less touristy than other markets, allowing for a more genuine interaction with local culture.
- Variety of Offerings: In addition to food, find handicrafts, clothing, and unique souvenirs.
Insider advice
- Transportation: Reachable by boat from behind Big C shopping center or via taxi from central Bangkok.
- Language: Basic Thai phrases can enhance communication, as English is not widely spoken.
What people say about them (4.4 out of 5 stars, 345 reviews)
| Chua Ken “Visited on a Saturday morning, a long public holiday weekend. It was busy and bustling. Burmese migrants food and noodles was not bad. Interesting to view vendors and their goods. Not much food dining options but plenty of snacks and drinks stall. Very local and no foreign tourists : )) Limited parking, if you drive parking at Big C is a better option.” |
Bang Phli floating market is the best to visit if you love food and culture. As it is one of the oldest in Bangkok, its history and tradition stand out. Here, visitors can learn a bit about Thai culture as well as sampling fresh fruit, seafood, Thai noodles and more.
Moreover, if you are sick of the tourist scene, this market actually caters to the locals so you can spend some time in true, Thai communities. Asking the vendors about their lives and how they operate in the modern world is sure to get an interesting answer. To access Bang Phli, you can hop on the BTS Sky Train to the Bearing Station. Then, get a short ride to the floating market.
4. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Key Features of Damnoen Saduak market
- Opening Hours: Opens daily, 8am to 4pm
- Location: Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130.
- Known for: Iconic photogenic canals, diverse goods, and scenic boat tours.
Highlights of Damnoen Saduak market
- Vibrant canals: Discover boats brimming with tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, and vibrant flowers.
- Authentic Thai street food: Local vendors in traditional attire serve delicious snacks and meals.
- Unique souvenirs: Explore a variety of handicrafts and region-specific items.
- Long-tail boat tours: Glide through the intricate waterways for an unforgettable experience.
What makes Damnoen Saduak market special
- Cultural immersion: Step into a living piece of Thai history and tradition.
- Picture-perfect moments: Capture the colourful chaos of boat-filled canals and local life.
- Taste adventure: Enjoy fresh Thai dishes and exotic fruits straight from the source.
- Shopping with a twist: Find truly unique souvenirs and artisanal crafts.
- Learn as you go: Gain insights into traditional riverside lifestyles and heritage.
Insider advice
- Beat the crowds: Arrive early for quieter moments and the best photography.
- Be prepared: Bring cash for purchases and boat tours, as card payments may not be accepted.
- Dress comfortably: Opt for lightweight clothing and shoes suitable for walking.
- Negotiate with care: Bargain politely for the best deals on souvenirs.
- Enhance your visit: Consider a guided tour for deeper cultural and historical insights.
What people say about them (3.8 out of 5 stars, 27,754 reviews)
| Mark Phillips “This is a fun place and there are a great variety of food and items. A paddle boat is 1000 THB and a motorised boat is 400 per person. There are obviously a lot of tourists, but the Thai people at the market are great. I recommend the paddle boat as it is a bit more laid back and relaxing. It is quite a trip from Bangkok, so I recommend planning at least half a day. If you want to go to the train market (about a 30 minute drive from the floating market), I recommend planning a full day.” |
Damnoen Saduak is the most popular floating market in Thailand. However, it is a bit further outside of Bangkok as the trip is 90 minutes on the 511 bus from the Southern Bus Terminal. Despite the long commute, it is easy to get there and you won’t be disappointed once arriving.
Once there, you can work your way through vendors as you shop and snack. The market offers local handicrafts, agricultural products, and boat noodles, all made directly from local vendors. With photo ops galore, visitors can boast about visiting the best floating market in Thailand.
5. Bang Nampheung Floating Market
Key Features of Bang Nampheung market
- Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 7am to 4pm
- Location: 98 Bang Nam Phueng, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan 10130
- Known for: Features wooden stalls along the canals, with vendors selling goods both from boats and on land.
Highlights of Bang Nampheung market
- Culinary delights: A wide variety of local Thai street food, including boat noodles and seasonal fruits like mango and rambutan.
- Activities: Rent bicycles or boats to explore the surrounding greenery and canals; enjoy art and music events.
What makes Bang Nampheung market special
- Authenticity: Experience a true local market that reflects the everyday life of Bangkok residents.
- Natural beauty: Enjoy the scenic surroundings, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
- Cultural experience: Engage with local food culture and traditional crafts in a peaceful setting.
Insider advice
- Getting there: Accessible by taxi or ferry from Khlong Toei pier; consider renting a bike for a fun way to explore the area.
- Plan for leisure: Allocate 2–4 hours to fully enjoy the market and nearby attractions.
What people say about them (4.5 out of 5 stars, 2,178 reviews)
| Isabella Grandic “This market is a FABULOUS afternoon activity. Like 20/10. Rent a bike for 40 baht across the entrance of the botanical garden, ride for 30 mins to the market and then just stuff your face with food. The woman selling steamed buns at the end of the market road entrance has a special place in my heart. A right turn from her was this roti-type stand and it smelled good and tasted even better. Roam around…. Listen to the live music… do a DYI food tasting at different stalls. Absolutely stellar. We stumbled on the live Thai karaoke performance on a Saturday afternoon. Maybe they do it weekly? I’m not sure, but nonetheless, visit. It’s also not packed like many of the other markets in Bangkok! Super tranquil.” |
Bang Nampheung floating market is definitely the smallest of all, but also the best in terms of cuisine as its food is to die for. Located on the city’s outskirts, the market is much quieter, making your time there more serene. Here, you can bargain for better deals compared to other markets as its customer base is smaller.
Additionally, check out the ‘green lung’, which is one of the market’s highlights. Located on the opposite side of the Chao Phraya River in Bang Krachao, visitors can rent a bike and ride through the beautiful flora. To end the day, try some spicy mango salad and sticky rice that will leave you feeling happy and content.
Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday, 7am to 4pm
Address: 98 Bang Nam Phueng, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan 10130
6. Taling Chan Floating Market
Key Features of Taling Chan market
- Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 3:30pm
- Location: 333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170
Highlights of Taling Chan market
- Traditional Thai massage: Relax your body and mind at the market with a Thai massage that will cost about 200 baht
- Tradtional Thai music: Enjoy listening to Thai music in the pavilion while enjoying the views of Thai people’s lives
What makes Taling Chan market special
- Grilled fish: The freshly caught fish and then grilled right at the restaurant is one of the best taste experience
- Thai puppet theatre: There’s a free puppet theatre with handmade puppets always at 2pm on the weekends
Insider advice
- Getting there: The best way to visit there is by taxi, or you can take bus No.79 to get there as well. For taking a boat for getting back, it will cost about 100 baht per person
- Shopping options: You should visit nearby popular night markets such as Chatuchak Weekend Market
| Buster Got it “Fun little floating market !!! Not too touristy like the popular ones. Food, drink and mechadises are fantastic here. Boat ride of 1 hour ans 20 minutes tour is 500 bahts ($14, 13 Euros, 19,000 wons). Taxi ride from Democracy Monument was 100 bahts ($3) or maybe take Tuk Tuk 120-150 bahts, which is more fun to get to the market. Stroll around and see what it is like to love like the local villagers and market people go about their lives. Get a hair cut while you enter the floating market !!! Totally, worth a visit. It was very fun experience 😎👍” |
The market also has shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and plants. Visitors can listen to traditional Thai music and enjoy a foot massage under the trees. For more adventure, they can take a longtail boat ride to see the calm life of nearby villages. Taling Chan Floating Market is a simple and lovely way to enjoy Thai culture and food.
Tips for experiencing the floating market in Bangkok
To enhance your experience at Bangkok’s floating markets, consider these practical tips.
- Visit early: Visitors should arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds, enjoy fresh produce, and experience a lively atmosphere with cooler temperatures.
- Bring cash and bargain: Vendors only accept cash, so it’s important to carry small Thai Baht bills. Bargaining is expected and can help secure better prices.
- Dress comfortably: Light clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended. Bringing a water bottle is also essential to stay hydrated.
- Try local foods: Sampling local dishes like grilled seafood and Thai desserts is a must for a complete experience.
- Explore the canals: Taking a boat tour offers a broader view of local life, with some tours including stops at nearby attractions.
- Be ready for rain: Carrying a small raincoat or umbrella is advisable, as sudden rain showers are common.
Your trip to Bangkok definitely is not complete without visiting one of these floating markets. Clearly just seeing the boats along the water, moving produce and other materials, is quite telling of how people survived before modernisation hit the city.
Stopping at these markets is quite the experience as visitors can see a much calmer way of life inside the country’s capital, where Thais almost prefer such a peaceful ambience. Before you leave, however, make sure you try out some of the vendors’ food, as some of these markets are known for delicious Thai cuisine. Finally, if you want to support such a way of life, stop by the shops inside and buy a souvenir.
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