Planning for Bangkok? Mark These Markets in Your List

Whether you want to sing along to live music at a night market, cruise through the canals of a floating market, taste amazing cheap Thai dishes at a street food market, or watch a train pass right through the center of the mind-boggling railway market, you’ll find what you’re looking for in one of the many Bangkok markets. Plus, they’re a great way to get in touch with the real, local vibe of a city and save you some money on food, fashion and more.

# Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market

Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market is not on the usual tourist itinerary, but is a favourite amongst the city’s hip expat crowd. Located on the “Lungs of Bangkok” aka the lush island of Bang Krachao, this is one of Bangkok’s best markets. You can browse handmade goods and a huge range of Thai foods at a leisurely pace, as you criss-cross the series of small canals that dissect the market.

# Srinakarin Rot Fai Night Market

If you’re a fan of vintage cars, unusual antiques and hipster bars with live Thai bands, then this is the place for you. The road leading into the market is crammed with fun looking bars and small restaurants, however don’t stop here because this place is big. Head further into the market to discover a huge assortment of Thai foods, ramshackle clothing shops and well restored vintage cars and motorbikes.

# Ko Kret Market

Ko Kret is another manmade island on the Chao Phraya River, located just north of Bangkok in the neighboring Nonthaburi Province. Walking or cycling around the island counter clockwise from the ferry pier will take you through a local riverside market. This market is famous for its handmade pottery, and you’ll find plenty of tasty Thai foods and traditional desserts here too.

# Maeklong Railway Market

Think of a market sprawled all over a narrow train track, heavily covered by umbrellas. Then a train sounds its horn and within minutes the entire market has been momentarily packed away. This is the Maeklong Railway Market, one of Thailand’s most unique attractions. The stalls mostly sell fresh fruits and seafood, which will really only interest locals. However there are some good restaurants and cafes around the area, and of course the main attraction is to see the train glide right through the middle of the market.