Updated: 30 October, 2024
A visit to the floating markets in Bangkok is one of the great essentials in Thailand that will captivate you.
The floating markets in Thailand are an exceptional experience full of color and exquisite aromas that you should not miss.
These markets have existed for centuries and originated as a way for farmers to sell their products.
The reason is that in those times Boats were the main means of transportation, in a country where roads in many areas were non-existent and waterways abundant.
Over time, Vendors began to gather to form markets. that continue to operate to this day.
Although, with the development of Thai roads, many markets disappeared and others function mainly thanks to tourism.
Visiting the floating markets in Bangkok is a authentic experience full of history that you can combine with other stops in the area, in Hellotickets you can see all the options.
7 Floating Markets in Bangkok
1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
This is the floating market, it is the most famous and busiest in the entire country, which is 1 and a half hours by car from Bangkok and about 2 hours by bus.
There you can take a boat trip through its canals next to stalls built facing the water or other boats that sell their product as it was originally done.
At the same time that you marvel at the color of its fresh products, the delicious street food ready to taste at a good price and the memories.
👉 This market is open every day and the best time to visit is early in the morning.
2. Amphawa Floating Market
Amphawa is the second most important floating market in Thailand in terms of the number of visitors it receives.
However, its buyers are mainly locals looking for fresh seafood, which is their star product and other fresh foods.
Therefore, this market It is considered much more authentic because it is not focused on tourists.
If you visit this market be sure to try their prepared food of noodles, sticky rice and of course a lot of seafood, both fried and grilled that will envelop you with its delicious aroma.
👉 This market only Open in the afternoon from 2 to 8 p.m. from Friday to Sunday, it is ideal to dine there early.
3. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market
Like the previous market, it is not a tourist market, but a place to see the daily life of local people and more exotic products.
If you go to visit this market you will probably see very few Westerners.
Another of the great differences of this small market is its narrow channels which do not allow much movement of boats, therefore, here you will not be able to do the typical boat ride
What you will find are the boats parked along the edge of the canal, ready to serve their delicacies. 😋
👉 It is Open on weekends and holidays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4. Taling Chan Floating Market
This is another of the popular floating markets in Bangkok that mixes local clientele with tourists.
This market is more varied in terms of its products, with more clothing and souvenir stalls, in addition to fresh products and prepared food.
You will even find somewhere to get a relaxing foot massage for a few bahts, an excellent gift for your tired feet after touring the city.
You can also buy food to give to the fish, a very Thai activity, sometimes related to Buddhist religious beliefs and others simply for attract good fortune.
👉 This market Open on weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m..
5. Floating market in Bang Nam Pheung
This floating market is quite picturesque thanks to its rural setting, ideal for taking a walk in its quiet canals.
Your visit is very popular with cyclists and walkers that combine their visit with the different routes through the area.
At the market you will find fruits and vegetables, ready-made Thai food and local crafts.
Visiting this market is a total immersion in Thai culture, although compared to other markets on the list It is very small and may not know much.
👉 You will find it open on weekends between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m..
6. Tha-Ka Floating Market
This is one of the floating markets in Bangkok less known among tourists and with a relaxed atmosphere.
In the past, there would only be a few days a month, now it is open every weekend, especially Saturdays and Sundays.
One of the most interesting things about this market is the coconut sugar production in the area that you can see it there or even buy related products.
👉 This weekend market open very soon, that's it from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.. If you want to see it at its peak, visit it first thing in the morning.
7. Bang Khu Wiang Floating Market
Bang Khu Wiang market is the least known on the list.
Like any good Thai market, food in all its forms (fresh and cooked) cannot be missed.
But what stands out about this market are its fresh flowers, ornamental plants and gardening related products.
Hence, it mainly attracts local people and other Thais who love gardening.
Without a doubt, a visit to this market in Bangkok is a unique experience, the only drawback is that its stalls in some areas are quite far from each other.
👉 Its opening days are Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m..
Final Thoughts
These are the best floating markets in Bangkok, so you can find the best alternative according to your preferences.
Although, if it is your first time in Thailand and you can't decide, I tell you that the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most attractive of all, for a reason it is the most visited.
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Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.