Floating Markets in Thailand: A Unique Shopping Experience

Most Popular Floating Markets in Thailand

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (Ratchaburi Province)

Dominoes Saduak Floating Market is one of the best-floating markets in Ratchaburi and also the most popular. You will find many foreign and local tourists traveling here for shopping, eating, and enjoying the ambiance of Thailand’s water markets. All the shops here are over 100 years old and appeal to everyone. King Rama IV of Thailand took on a royal initiative and built this canal to link the Chinese River with the Mae Klong River to support trade and transportation. The farmers used to sell their produce on boats here, and now other vendors do the same. It is the ideal place for buying local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 4 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food and row-boating.

Amphawa Floating Market (Samut Songkhram Province)

Amphawa floating market is famous for being an afternoon floating market near Wat Amphawan Chetiyaram Canal. The canal has many vendors selling food and beverages like iced black coffee, sweets, noodles, fried sea mussels, and more. It is the topmost tourist attraction in Samut-Songkharam. The seafood or local desserts are the most sold items here. You can head for a boat trip at night and watch fireflies in cork trees. Also, there are many places nearby, like Naphalia Memorial Park, where you can see antiques and traditional Thai houses, something you will love. You can take a bus from Bangkok to Damnoes Saduak to Amphawa Floating Market.

Address: Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand
Timings: 12-8 PM
Highlights/Famous For: fireflies, traditional Thai seafood, and sweets.

Taling Chan Floating Market (Bangkok)

Another floating market in Bangkok, which is quite famous, is Taling Chan Floating Market, 12 km from Bangkok. It is known for its authentic floating marketing experience. It is a weekend market, and you can take a bus from downtown Bangkok to reach this floating market. The charm of this market is still intact as the tourism here is not heavy. The Taling floating market is a 6-boat arena, and you will see many local musicians enhancing the overall floating market’s ambiance by playing traditional Thai music. The seafood here is freshly prepared and is the highlight of the market.

Address: 333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 3:30 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Longtail boat tour, food, and Thai desserts.

Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market (Bangkok)

The Khlong Lat Mayom floating market is also situated in the outskirts of Bangkok, 10 km away. It is near the Taling Chan floating market, so covering the two in one day is quite possible. It is known for producing and selling the highest-quality local sweets and produce. So, trying the coconut ice cream or taking a scenic & adventurous boat tour is quite possible. It is a weekend market and you will also find many shops here selling stationary for kids. Visit here early in the morning for the best bargaining deals and to shop with fewer crowds.

Address: 30/1 หมู่ที่ 15 Bang Ramat Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm (Sat-Sun)
Highlights/Famous For: Delicious street food and floating market tours using a boat.

Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market (Samut Prakan)

It is located in Samut Prakan and is one of the newest floating markets in Bangkok. It is a smaller market and is nestled on a canal feeding into the Chao Phraya River. You can reach this market via taxi or bus ride from central Bangkok. Or you can also take a ferry ride from the beautiful Sukhumvit Road, the cheapest option. The floating market is a tourist-centric spot, and the vendors are fewer here. But you can expect high-quality products here selling Thai sweetmeat and food. Also, if you are looking for a good massage with local products, this market is for you. It is 15 km southeast of Bangkok, and the best time to head here is during early morning.

Address: 98 Bang Nam Phueng, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan 10130, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 2 pm (Weekend)
Highlights/Famous For: Thai dessert and massages.

Tha Kha Floating Market (Samut Songkhram)

Tha Kha Floating Market, located in Samut Songkhram, is one of the oldest and most traditional floating markets in Thailand. Situated near the Maeklong River, it remains largely untouched by heavy tourism, offering an authentic experience. Vendors in wooden boats sell fresh produce, flowers, and traditional Thai snacks like coconut cakes and grilled meat. The market operates primarily in the early morning and attracts locals who come to buy daily essentials. Visitors can explore the picturesque canals by boat, and the peaceful setting, along with its historical charm, makes Tha Kha a great choice for those looking for an authentic and less crowded market.

Address: Tha Kha, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 4 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food and row-boating.

Phuket Floating Market (Kathu Province)

Located in Kathu on the island of Phuket, the Phuket Floating Market is a vibrant and lesser-known market that combines the charm of traditional Thai floating markets with a unique island setting. Unlike the more famous markets in central Thailand, this one offers a peaceful atmosphere with local vendors selling fresh seafood, tropical fruits, vegetables, and Thai handicrafts. Visitors can explore the market by foot or boat, savoring authentic Thai snacks like satay, pad Thai, and coconut ice cream. The market also features cultural performances and live music, giving visitors a taste of the island's local life and traditions.

Address: W89P+M9V Floating Market Phuket. Kathu, Kathu District ∙
Timings: 10 am to 10 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Live music and traditional Thai foods.

Bang Khla Floating Market (Chachoengsao Province)

Nestled in Chachoengsao province, Bang Khla Floating Market is a beautiful hidden market offering a beautiful and peaceful experience. The cool breeze here is always present, making your shopping experience pleasant. The market does not just have a place for shopping, but it also provides space to the people training for giving massages or creating souvenirs or more. You will find both traditional and contemporary things here to shop. You can head to a trip here using a boat from Ko Lat. It will take 2 hours and 300 baht for around 10 people, and 60 baht per person (children- 30 baht).

Address: ถนน Thetsaban Phatthana 1 Alley, Bang Khla, Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao 24110, Thailand
Timings: 8:30 am to 5 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Banana roti and peaceful vibe.

Ayothaya Floating Market (Ayutthaya)

Located in Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, Ayothaya Floating Market offers a charming blend of history and traditional commerce. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, this market recreates the ambiance of the past, with vendors selling fresh produce, local handicrafts, traditional Thai snacks, and herbal products from colorful boats. Visitors can also explore cultural exhibitions and enjoy boat tours of the nearby temples and ruins. The market’s historic setting, combined with its lively atmosphere, provides an excellent way to experience the local culture and cuisine while learning about Ayutthaya’s rich history.

Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 4 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food, and row-boating.

Pattaya Floating Market (Chonburi Province)

Pattaya Floating Market is one of the newest markets and an ideal place for looking at Thai culture. The owner had the determination to establish this place, stimulating the simplest way of life that Thai people live. It connects with the four regions of Thailand and is known for shops made entirely of teak wood, unique to the region and the cultural performance here. The people of the region have made the shops here in Tewkesbury represent the different lifestyles of people and the products here. It is the largest freshwater pond; it upholds the self-sufficient living concept.

Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 4 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food and row-boating.

Bang Noi Floating Market (Samut Songkhram Province)

Situated at Bangnoi Cabal (Wat Koh Kaew), this floating market in Thailand is located only 5 km away from King Rama II Memorial Park, Amphawa District, and the floating market. The Bangnoi community, or Bangnoi Nok, was an important trading water area along the Mae Klong River. Around 40 years back, wooden houses were built, and now they are the shops here. It is open only on Saturday and Sunday and is known for selling the most delicious and authentic agricultural products. These include mangoes, pomelo, and star apples. Lychees, rose apples, and desserts like Klong shrimp paste, lemon prickles, and more. You can also visit the 400-year-old temple to learn about the establishment and the people who live here.

Address: FW6V+QH9, S.S. 6002, Kradangnga, Bang Khonthi District, Samut Songkhram 75120, Thailand
Timings: 5 am to 6 pm (Saturday) and 8:30 am to 3 pm (Sunday)
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food, and rowboating.

Floating Markets Near Bangkok

Wat Sai Floating Market (Bangkok)

Wat Sai Floating Market, located near the Wat Sai Temple in Bangkok, is a small, tranquil floating market that attracts mostly locals. The market operates on weekends and offers a variety of traditional Thai foods such as grilled chicken, noodles, and sweets, as well as fresh produce and flowers. Unlike the larger floating markets, Wat Sai offers a quieter, less commercialized experience. Its proximity to the city makes it a great spot for those seeking an authentic and peaceful escape from the bustling Bangkok markets. Visitors can also enjoy a boat ride around the nearby canals.

Address: 58/229 Ekkachai 24, Bang Khun Thian, บางขุนเทียน Bangkok 10150, Thailand
Timings: 4 am to 1 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food, and row-boating.

Bang Nok Kwaek Floating Market (Samut Songkhram)

Bang Nok Khwaek Floating Market has a history of over 100 years and is situated near Mae Klong River. It used to be an active trading area before, and you can still see a few traces of the past, like the old gas station or the old mafia of Bang Nok Khwaek. The entrance to the market is via a small valley that is 2 boards wide. It is a pathway to the opium smoking building, later becoming the symbol of the Bang Nok Khwaek floating market. The most delicious things to try here include Ban Kanom Chine, butter-baked scallops, Ew Kuay, and more. Also, you can visit the Bali-style home to feed the fish in front of the temple along with checking out ancient trees. It is a weekend market that is also open on public holidays.

Address: FW6V+QH9 สส.6002 Kradangnga, Bang Khonthi District, Samut Songkhram 75120, Thailand
Timings: 5 am- 6 pm (Saturday); 8:30 am to 3 pm (Sunday)
Highlights/Famous For: Popular dishes like coconut shell noodles and more.

Lam Phaya Floating Market (Nakhon Pathom Province)

Wat Lam Phaya floating market is nestled in front of the ancient Lam Phaya temple on the banks of the Tha Jeen River. It is 30 minutes away from Bangkok, and the market is a weekend market ideal for tourists who love nature scenery and garden houses. Named after the Lam Phaya temple, 100 years back, it is known for the Mongkol Mala Nimtir. Tourists first check out the temple and then head to the market. You will find the local community selling products like vegetables, basketwork, fruits, clothes, cheap food, and more. You will also enjoy finger foods like Khun Dang Thai Sweets, fish curry in banana leaves, Khao Mok Kai, and more.

Address: วัดลำพญา Lam Phaya, Bang Len District, Nakhon Pathom 73130, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm (Saturday-Monday)
Highlights/Famous For: Lam Phaya temple, tugboat ride and more.

Don Wai Floating Market (Nakhon Pathom Province)

Wat Don Wai Floating Market is situated on the riverside in Thajeen, behind Amphoe Sam Pran, Nakhon Pathom, Wat Don Wai, and Tumbol Bang Kratuek. If you are a foodie, you should definitely head here, as one of the most impressive food spreads is found in this floating market in Thailand. Here you can eat old Thai-style food and other sweet things. One of the must-try things here includes whole ducks boiled in massive cauldrons using spices and herbs. Other things to try here include KhanomJeen, Nam Ya Kati, Nam Ya Pha, fish curry in banana leaves, and more. Also, you can cruise along the river and see the unique Thai-style houses preserving the heritage of antique Thai-style houses.

Address: วัดลำพญา Lam Phaya, Bang Len District, Nakhon Pathom 73130, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm (Saturday-Monday)
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food, and row-boating.

Kwan-Riam Floating Market (Bangkok)

It is situated in Ramkhamhaeng Soi 185 and is one of the best-floating markets in Thailand in the middle of the city. It stimulates the lifestyle of the waterfront via various interesting activities. For instance, you can offer food to the monks by boat, or you can go ahead and taste a selection of savory dishes and desserts from all the regions of Thailand. Either eat on the boat or on the shore; in any case, the experience is simply marvelous. The major attraction here is the boat-shaped bridge connecting Wat Bang Pheng Thai and Wat Bamphen Nuea. You can also go for canal cruises here and hire a guide providing you with a deep history of the Khlong Saen Saep community. You can also check out an exhibition of ancient boats on the waterfront and enjoy a cultural performance. It is open only on weekends, and you will enjoy the monks' sermons, Thai music, and performances here.

Address: 45 Ramkhamhaeng 185 Alley, Min Buri, Bangkok 10510, Thailand
Timings: 7 am to 5 pm (Saturday-Sunday, Public holidays)
Highlights/Famous For: Being the place with monks.

New and Emerging Floating Markets

Bang Kradi Floating Market (Bangkok)

Bang Kradi floating market nestled in Bangkok’s Bang Khun Thian district is a hidden gem known for its peaceful setting. It focuses on the traditional Thai culture and is a small market but is full of bustling energy. The local craft, homemade delicacies and fresh produce makes this floating market, a must-have experience. The tourists here can also head to the nearby places like the orchids to learn about the traditional way of living in the Band Kradi community. The highlights of the market for sure includes the chance for exploring the authentic Thai dishes like coconut curry or grilled fish prepared by the locals. It is open only on the weekends and the market offers a serene alternative to other busy floating markets of Bangkok.

Address: NOT ABLE TO FIND THE DETAILS
Timings: N/A
Highlights/Famous For: Unique items, delicious street food and row-boating.

Talad Nam Tha Chin Floating Market (Samut Sakhon)

Talad Nam Tha Chin floating market is located in Samut Sakhon. It offers a beautiful laid-back and authentic riverside shopping experience. This Thailand water market lets the visitor enjoy delicious foods like grilled prawns, local desserts, and steamed crabs. The market also has many handicraft stalls and cultural activities like boat rides along the Tha Chin River. The nearby stunning surroundings and friendly vendors makes it ideal for anyone selling an escape from the chaos of the city. It is open only on weekends, so do make a trip here on your next Thailand trip.

Address: 333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (weekends only)
Highlights/Famous For: Handicrafts and regional cuisines.

Pak Nam Tha Chin Floating Market (Samut Sakhon)

Pak Nam Tha Chin floating market is a floating market in Thailand and is known for being a vibrant hub in the Samut Sakhon. It is situated at the mouth of the Tha Chin River, making this market a haven for delicious seafood and riverboat dining experiences. Tourists here can buy handmade souvenirs while enjoying interactive workshops showcasing local crafts. The serene riverside ambiance along with the authentic Thai flavors makes it one of the most beautiful destinations for travelers and families. It opens only on weekends and Monday. So, the thrill of heading to this gem of a market is simply unbelievable.

Address: Tha Kha, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand
Timings: 6 am-2 pm (Sat-Sun); 6 am- 12 pm (Monday)
Highlights/Famous For: Boat ride and freshest seafood.

Ayutthaya Klong Sabua Floating Market (Ayutthaya)

Ayutthaya Klong Sabua Floating Market is known for its combination of historical charm and bustling market. The market also offers a beautiful rich array of local goods including traditional handicrafts to the most delicious Thai dishes like spicy salads and boat noodles. Tourists can also enjoy cultural performances here while taking boat rides to explore the historic waterways of Ayutthaya. It is open on weekends and makes for an excellent addition when you take a trip to the ancient city of Thailand. It offers a mix of culinary delights, culture, and history.

Address: 65/19 Phai Ling, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
Highlights/Famous For: Wood carvings, silk garments, wooden handicrafts ,and many artisanal items.

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People Also Asked

Which floating market is the best in Thailand?

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is often regarded as the best and most iconic floating market in Thailand. Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, it offers a vibrant scene with colorful boats selling fruits, vegetables, local snacks, and souvenirs. The market is well-known for its lively atmosphere and picturesque canals, making it a must-visit for first-time travelers. While popular with tourists, it still retains much of its traditional charm.

How do I get to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market from Bangkok?

To reach the Damnoen Saduak floating market from the main city of Bangkok, you should take a private taxi, or you can book a guided floating market tour to explore this. If you are traveling solo, the best way is to take a bus from the Southern bus terminal or Sai Tai Mai to Ratchaburi province, the location of the market. Or you can rent a car or use the minivan service. The distance between the two is approximately 100 km, and it will take you an hour or 2 to reach there, depending on traffic.

Are floating markets in Thailand tourist traps?

Some floating markets, particularly Damnoen Saduak, can be considered tourist traps, as they are crowded and geared towards foreign visitors. Prices for goods and food tend to be higher for tourists, and the experience can feel more commercialized. However, markets like Amphawa and Taling Chan are less tourist-focused, offering a more authentic experience. It's important to research and choose markets based on your preferences for authenticity and local interaction.

Which is the most famous floating market in Thailand?

The most famous floating market in Thailand is Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi province. It is famous for its colorful boats filled with vegetables, traditional Thai goods, and vegetables. The market is known as the iconic symbol of Thailand’s floating market culture. It is one of the best tourist attractions and is depicted in media and travel brochures. If you want to experience the classic Thai floating market scene, this is the best market to head to.

What should I buy at Thai floating markets?

Every Thai floating market is unique in some way, and you will see the most distinctive item there, and that is something you have to buy. However, a few items you must directly buy here include the local fruits like mangoes, coconuts, and durian. Also, you can buy other traditional Thai snacks like sticky rice with mango, coconut pancakes, and boat noodles. You can also buy handicrafts like clothes, souvenirs, and woven baskets. You should definitely bargain to get a better price for the products. The floating markets here give you a great opportunity for taking home authentic and unique products.

Are floating markets open all year round?

Most of the best floating markets in Thailand are open year-round. But the activities and energy levels may vary depending on the season. For example, the Dominoes Saduak and Amphawa are open every day, but you will find the weekends are busier here, especially the Amphawa floating markets. Moreover, if you are heading here during heavy rainfall, it will affect the operations of the market, making the waterways a challenging experience to navigate.

Can I bargain at floating markets?

Yes, bargaining at the floating markets in Thailand is perfect and a common practice. That is why bringing cash with you is ideal, as it lets you bargain easily. Sellers dealing in items like souvenirs, local produce, and clothing often expect sellers to negotiate the prices. It is part of the experience and surely more fun. You can always buy a product at a lower price and get a good deal. Just remember to be respectful and polite, as that is important.

Do floating markets serve vegetarian or vegan food?

Yes, most floating markets in Thailand do offer a variety of foods, and this includes both vegan and vegetarian options. Here you will be able to find dishes like fried spring rolls and coconut curry. Pad Thai, sticky rice with mango, and fruit smoothies. This is ideal for anyone who is on a vegan or vegetarian diet. To ensure you do not end up eating meat, it is best to ask the vendors about the ingredients in the dishes you are unsure about.

What should I bring when visiting a floating market?

When you are visiting a floating market, it is a great idea to always have cash with you. Sure, they might accept digital wallet payments or cards. But having cash is best, that too in small bills, as it lets you bargain easily. If you come here during the afternoon, sunscreen, goggles, and sun hats are necessary to protect yourself from the scorching sun. Also, bring a camera for capturing the vibrant colors and the market’s unique sights. Lastly, carry reusable water bottles because you will need to stay hydrated.

What is unique about the Pattaya Floating Market?

The Pattaya floating market is one of the most unique floating markets in Pattaya, divided into four sections. Each section represents a different region of Thailand (northern, southern, northeastern, and northern). This gives tourists a chance to experience a variety of crafts and cultural displays from different parts of Thailand in one place. It is a modern market with fewer crowds, offering you a chance to do contemporary shopping and enjoy traditional Thai experiences.