Bangkok Airways Round-Up
- Visiting a floating market in Thailand is an absolute must-do. These markets reflect a simple way of life and offer a classic atmosphere with boat-based trading, where you can savor local cuisine and enjoy scenic boat tours along the river.
- Floating markets in Bangkok and nearby are full of unique charm, providing a nostalgic atmosphere and delicious local food that offers a genuine Thai experience.
Exploring a floating market is one of the highlights of any trip to Thailand. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with colorful boats gliding across the water, creates an enchanting scene. The unique experience of shopping from boats, where sellers expertly paddle their wares to you, truly makes it special. A visit to a floating market offers not only a glimpse into Thailand’s cultural heritage but also an unforgettable, immersive adventure.
Get ready to explore the magic of Thai floating markets! Bangkok Airways has 10 must-visit markets in Bangkok and nearby, each offering a unique experience. Find your favorite and enjoy the authentic charm of Thailand.
10 Floating Markets in Thailand: Bangkok and Nearby
Floating Markets in Bangkok
1. Taling Chan Floating Market
Taling Chan Floating Market offers a unique blend of traditional charm and local lifestyle, just 14 kilometers from the heart of Bangkok. A highlight of this market is the chance to enjoy fresh seafood grilled on a boat, paired with spicy papaya salad and an array of delectable local sweets and fruits.
For a deeper experience, take a leisurely longtail boat tour to explore the canals and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a relaxing foot massage—an experience that perfectly rounds off a day of delightful flavors, cultural immersion, and laid-back riverside charm.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Th5w9GB6qDsjbjEJ8
Open Hours: Saturday–Sunday and holiday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
How to go:
1. Take a taxi from any part of Bangkok. (The easiest option)
2. Take the BTS Skytrain to Wongwian Yai Station and continue by taxi to the market.
2. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market
Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere at Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market while dining on traditional Thai dishes served directly from boats: noodles, pad thai, Thai rice noodles in fish curry sauce, and crispy fried mussel pancakes.
Beyond the riverside dining, the market offers a variety of land-based zones where you can browse through a selection of Thai food, desserts, and fresh produce directly from local farmers.
Take a leisurely longtail boat ride to admire the old wooden houses, vegetable gardens, and lotus fields, then visit the home of Lung Chuan, the market’s founder.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CHuDox4TJ9jabCKe6
Open Hours: Saturdays–Sundays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on weekdays)
How to go: Take the BTS to Bang Wa Station, then catch a taxi for a quick ride to the market.
3. Kwan Riam Floating Market
The Kwan-Riam Floating Market was the inspiration for Thailand’s renowned novel “Plae Kao” (The Scar). Follow in the footsteps of the characters Kwan and Reum as you cross the iconic boat bridge connecting Wat Bampen Nuea and Wat Bang Peng Tai. Enjoy a traditional almsgiving ceremony by boat between 7:30 am and 8:00 am.
Savor delicious local foods such as Thai coconut crepes, traditional Thai iced tea, and Trang roasted pork. Don’t miss the opportunity to feed horses and goats, or admire Sulcata tortoises and African spurred tortoises at the farm. Pay your respects at the Kwan Reum Shrine for blessings in love, career, and happiness.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uyYm8e61JrAhQfU39
Open Hours: Saturdays–Sundays from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on weekdays)
How to go: Take the Pink Line Skytrain and get off at Min Buri Station. From there, hop on Bus No. 27 or take a motorbike taxi.
4. Wat Saphan Floating Market
Discover the hidden gem of Wat Saphan Floating Market, a haven for food lovers and culture seekers. Indulge in a feast of traditional Thai dishes like green curry with fish balls and deep-fried bananas. Don’t miss the chance to savor a steaming bowl of tom yum pork noodle soup.
Pay your respects to the revered Buddha images of Luang Phor Klang, Luang Phor To, and Luang Phor Dam for blessings and explore the surrounding area by longtail boat. Admire the scenic beauty of the canal, visit local farms, and learn about the traditional way of life.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XsLezz7sHSTungpN7
Open Hours: Saturdays–Sundays from 8:00 am – 3:30 pm (closed on weekdays)
How to go: Take the MRT Blue Line to Bang Khun Non Station, exit through Exit 3, and hop on the shuttle bus waiting just outside.
Floating Markets Near Bangkok
5. Wat Takhian Floating Market, Nonthaburi
Get your fill of delicious Thai food and fun at Wat Takhian Floating Market in Nonthaburi Province, located just a short drive from Bangkok. Enjoy a variety of street food favorites, from pad thai to stir fried Thai basil with minced pork, all at affordable prices. Don’t miss trying Mango and sticky rice and Pork and Rice Issan Sausage. Browse the market for unique souvenirs and local produce. With its friendly vendors, it’s a great place to spend a day with friends and family.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VfrRj1MaRB9oDiqP6
Open Hours: Daily, 7:30 am – 5:00 pm
6. Amphawa Floating Market, Samut Songkhram
Discover the magic of Amphawa Floating Market, a colorful spectacle along the Mae Klong River, just 1.5 hours from Bangkok. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling market as you savor delicious seafood, fresh fruits, and a variety of Thai desserts. Browse through unique handmade products, souvenirs, and vintage Thai clothing.
Take a boat tour in the evening to experience the enchanting sight of fireflies illuminating the surrounding nature, admire the wooden houses, and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/o9YPB7EPjkDF5bLo6
Open Hours: Friday – Sunday or public holidays, 9:00 am – 8:30 pm
(Weekends are livelier with more shops open, while weekdays offer a quieter experience with fewer stalls)
7. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Ratchaburi
Visit Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand’s very first floating market, located in Ratchaburi Province, just about 1.5 hours from Bangkok. Experience the timeless charm of traditional canal-side life that remains beautifully preserved. Watch vendors skillfully paddling their boats to sell a variety of goods. Don’t miss must-try dishes like Barbecued red pork in sauce with rice, Crispy Pork Rice, mango sticky rice, refreshing coconut juice.
Whether you take a boat ride through the bustling market and along the canals or enjoy a leisurely stroll on land, both experiences offer equal delight. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market has become a favorite destination for both locals and international travelers.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vJhRTV12r7V4AbWi8
Open Hours: Daily, 7:00 am – 11:00 am (The most vibrant period between 7:00 am – 9:00 am, continuing until late morning)
8. Pattaya Floating Market, Chonburi
Pattaya, a popular tourist city just a 2-hour drive from Bangkok, is home to the Pattaya Floating Market. A large boat at its entrance serves as a prominent landmark, celebrating Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
The market is divided into four zones, each representing a different region of Thailand. Each zone features signature dishes from its respective region, such as boat noodle soup from the central region, chicken curried noodles (Khao Soi) from the north, spicy papaya salad (Som Tum) from the northeast, and Thai iced tea (Cha Chak) from the south.
A must-do is to take a paddleboat ride, immersing yourself in the authentic floating market lifestyle. In the afternoon, enjoy cultural performances, Thai classical dance. Going to Pattaya Floating Market It’s like visiting all four regions of Thailand in one place!
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zCv7pQiNPjPyvUMG6
Open Hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
9. Ayothaya Floating Market, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
When visiting Ayutthaya, beyond exploring ancient temples and paying respects at historic sites, don’t miss the Ayothaya Floating Market. Located about an hour’s drive from Bangkok, this market is divided into 16 zones, each representing a different district in Ayutthaya. Explore over 249 shops and 50 food boats, as well as traditional Thai-style shops offering a wide range of OTOP products and local souvenirs.
You can also experience traditional Thai attire and engage in activities that reflect the way of life in the old capital. For anyone wanting to capture beautiful, vintage-themed photos, this place is the perfect destination!
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oifZZWa5cktvdAmR9
Open Hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
10. Don Wai Floating Market, Nakhon Pathom
Step into the timeless charm of Don Wai Floating Market, set along the Tha Chin River in Nakhon Pathom Province, just about an hour’s drive from Bangkok. The market is known for its old wooden houses and traditional canal-side lifestyle. It is a haven for local delicacies, including steamed duck, steamed fish in red curry mousse, and rare traditional Thai desserts.
Don’t forget to try the famous Sriyaphi coconut ice cream, served with delightful toppings. Take a moment to unwind by the river, feeling the cool breeze. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take in the peaceful surroundings, and get a real taste of everyday Thai life.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Y4NSjN7jEaHBWiaN7
Open Hours: Daily, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Explore more travel Guides in Thailand
- Bangkok Travel Guide: Explore Thailand’s Capital City
- Must-Visit Bangkok Street Food Havens
- Best Spots to Celebrate New Year in Bangkok
These are 10 floating markets in Thailand, both in and around Bangkok—unique destinations that beautifully reflect the traditional Thai way of life along the waterways. A trip to these floating markets is more than just shopping and tasting food; it’s an opportunity to experience the simplicity, warmth, and charm of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
Float into a world of tradition—Bangkok Airways takes you to Bangkok’s famous floating markets.
Discover the beauty of Thailand’s iconic floating markets with a direct flight on Bangkok Airways, with our comfortable flights and exceptional service, making every moment of your trip truly unforgettable
- Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat on your flight to ensure a comfortable journey.
- Baggage Allowance Included: Enjoy up to 20 kg of checked baggage, allowing you to bring along your essentials without worry.
- In-flight Meals: Savor delicious and satisfying meals on board, tailored to your taste preferences.
- Airport Lounge Access: Relax and unwind in our exclusive airport lounges before your flight.
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