Explore Bangkok's 15 Best Floating Markets Besides Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa Floating Market

Klook Team

Last updated 14 Nov 2024

Credits: @hennessydaily_, @maielnaga and @epicurean_gypsy on Instagram

The floating markets in Bangkok are among the city's star attractions. Almost every traveler has visited at least one on their first trip here. Where Venice has gondola rides, Thailand has floating marketplaces, whereas Venice has gondola rides. Locals can be seen cruising about on wooden boats, offering fresh food, fresh vegetables, and fresh fruit to customers in these historic and attractive markets.

You may even take a ride on one of these wooden boats and cruise down the water while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the floating market.

Although for the authentic floating market experience, many people go to the Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa Floating Markets. However, did you know that Bangkok also has floating markets that are closer? Are you prepared to go on a remarkable trip right in the middle of Bangkok? The exciting realm of floating markets is the only place to look. The following 15 popular floating markets are all near Bangkok and are worth visiting!

Wondering what is the best time to visit the floating markets?

Klook Tip: The majority of floating markets operate only on weekends. The best time to visit is before lunchtime, when the majority of tourists arrive, in order to avoid the crowds. Try to get there as early as possible in the morning.

1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Damnoen Saduak has been Thailand's most popular floating market for a very long time, but that also makes it one of the most touristy ones. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the largest and most famous floating market in all of Thailand.

Shop and snack to your heart's desire on a sea full of boats that sell delicious food and fruits, which is exactly how people imagine a floating market would look. There are also boat noodles and agricultural products coming directly from the vendors' farms!

But it's not just about the food. The market is an absolute treasure trove of unique local handicrafts and souvenirs, each of which tells a tale of Thai artistic talent and culture. Being a casualty of its own popularity, it is also around 100 km from Bangkok and frequently lacks a rural vibe, feeling more like a tourist park than an actual local market.

This floating market is famous for: Shopping, Thai desserts and authentic Thai food
Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour 40 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 4pm

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2. Amphawa Floating Market

After Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa Floating Market Bangkok is the second-most famous floating market in Bangkok. Situated about 50 kilometers away from the city, it draws a large number of Thai visitors who come here to dine on sumptuous seafood and shop.

Sitting just along the Mae Klong River, this once-small community dates as far back as the 17th century. You'll find quaint houses dotted along the riverbank, giving locals convenient access to the water. Have an early seafood lunch on the riverbanks and get a little longtail boat cruise when the rest of the crowd just starts eating. Check out this Floating Markets Day Tour and book a ticket to tour this floating market!

This floating market is famous for: Local seafood
Address: CXG3+2X5, Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour 30 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Fri-Sun from 2pm to 8pm

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3. Taling Chan Floating Market

The most genuine locations are typically those primarily visited by residents, and this is precisely the atmosphere you'll encounter at Taling Chan Floating Market. Located only 12 km from downtown Bangkok, Taling Chan is open all day and has just enough boats to be called a floating market. Despite being smaller compared to other floating markets mentioned, the market boasts a remarkable array of boat-based food vendors.

From delectable noodles to flavorful som tum and many more good food, this is the ideal spot to indulge in an extensive culinary experience (plus, there are also opportunities for massages!) at this indigenous floating market situated in the core of Bangkok.

This floating market is famous for: Massages
Address: 333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 15 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 8am to 6pm

4. Kwan-Riam Floating Market

Differing from typical floating markets, Kwan-Riam Floating Market stands apart with its absence of vendors on traditional wooden boats. Instead, you'll encounter speedboats shuttling passengers along the canal. Situated around 30 kilometers away from Bangkok, this renowned market is often referred to as the central floating market.

However, this unique setup doesn't diminish the enjoyment of a visit. The area boasts numerous food stalls adjacent to the market, along with an adjacent temple. A distinctive bridge resembling ribs spans the canal, connecting both sides, and a cherry blossom tree adds to the picturesque charm of the floating market.

This is one of the weekend floating markets; it also operates on any other public holiday and is one of the busiest markets near Bangkok. Kwan Riam floating market rightly reflects the culture of the region

This floating market is famous for: Thai food
Address: 45 Ramkhamhaeng 185 Alley, Min Buri, Bangkok 10510, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 40 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 7am to 5pm

5. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

Desiring the liveliness of a local market while cherishing the intimacy of small floating markets? What sets Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market apart is its unique assortment of Thai food, including fresh grilled seafood, som tam, pork satay, and pork ribs. This market welcomes the public exclusively on Saturdays and Sundays.

The primary market area stands firmly on land, yet it offers a captivating array of delightful confections and fresh fruits. Situated in close proximity to Taling Chan Floating Market, it's recommended to explore both markets during the same morning for an enhanced experience.

This floating market is famous for: Boat noodles and pad thai
Address: 30/1 หมู่ที่ 15 Bang Ramat Rd, Bang Ramat, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 17 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 8am to 5pm

6. Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market

Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market is one of the compact yet conveniently situated markets in close proximity to central Bangkok, a mere distance of around 20 km. However, its proximity doesn't mean to easy accessibility, and often a taxi becomes the sole means of reaching this destination.

You’ll rarely find any sellers selling food on boats here, as the "floating market" name is mainly attributed to its location beside a canal.

Nevertheless, you can still expect to find a wide spread of delicious Thai food and desserts, including chicken satay and coconut pudding, still await. This renders the market a compelling spot to explore, particularly if you’re around the area and are up for some scrumptious Thai food!

This floating market is famous for: Thai food such as Gac Fruit
Address: 98 Bang Nam Phueng, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan 10130, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 35 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 7.30am to 4pm

7. Wat Takien Floating Market

Next to Wat Takhian, you’ll find Wat Takien Floating Market, reknowned for its mini floating market and packed with numerous of vendors selling fresh fruits, Thai desserts, and savory food like Pad Thai wrapped in an omelet, and som tum sold in stalls and on wooden boats.

Fun fact: This floating market was constructed by the Wat Takhian temple as a gesture of gratitude for the local residents' acts of kindness and contributions, allowing the community to generate income here!

The temple offers a variety of uncommon sculptures not commonly found in typical Thai temples; statues of giants are common, but certainly not ones sporting sunglasses and iPhones. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to enter the heads of a tiger and a dragon for a unique photo opportunity.

This floating market is famous for: Various authentic Thai food
Address: 86 RCGF+X36 7 Bang Khu Wiang, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi 11130, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 25 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 7.30am to 4pm; Sat-Sun from 7.30am to 5pm

8. Wat Saphan Floating Market

The charming ambiance of Wat Saphan Floating Market might evoke the familiarity of a local market just around the corner from your home. The local store owners will warmly greet you with smiles, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This floating market is also located nearby the Talingchan Floating Market, you can conveniently explore both.

Situated alongside a temple and bordered by a canal, this floating market showcases locals vending food from wooden boats. Alongside these unique boats, food stalls offer delectable treats such as Thai-style omelets and chicken satay. For added excitement, consider taking a speedboat ride along the canal's waters.

This floating market is famous for: Thai local food and friendly vendors
Address: 38 ถนน ปากน้ำกระโจมทอง Bang Phrom, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 25 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 8am to 3.30pm

9. Wat Sai Floating Market

Established more than 150 years ago by Chinese traders, Wat Sai Floating Market is a traditional floating market recognized for its influence from both Thai and Chinese cultures. Get introduced to the lifestyle that prevailed on the canal side.

Shop your way through the floating market and indulge in delicious fruits and vegetables sold from the canal boats, and discover how the vendors rely on the canals as their primary means of trade. This place also has some really interesting places that you must visit that reflect a great influence on Chinese culture.

One way to access this market is by taking bus number 43 or 120 to Wat Sai through Ekkachai Road. Alternatively, you also have the option of utilizing the ferry service from Tha Chang along the Chao Phraya River to reach the market.

This floating market is famous for: Fresh fruits, vegetables, food, and a sneak peek into Chinese culture
Address: 58/229 Soi Ekkachai 24, Bang Khun Thian, Khet Chom Thong, Bangkok 10150, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 35 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Daily from 6am to 9pm

10. Bang Phli Floating Market

Bang Phli Floating Market is one of the oldest floating markets in Bangkok. It is one of the must-visit markets for the food lovers and the cultural admirer. Its historical aura of the floating market attracts few tourists from distant lands.

While the majority of the shopping takes place at the stores on the sides of the canal, you’ll still be able to spot wooden boats passing through this floating market.

The market is famous for the various array of dining options. Immerse yourself in a symphony of delectable dishes, ranging from noodles to seafood and more. You will also find many stores selling food, toys, houseware items, and more.

This floating market is famous for: Thai noodles, fresh fruit, seafood and local products
Address: JP36+89P ตลาดโบราณบางพลี Tambon Bang Phli Yai, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour from Bangkok
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 5pm

11. Don Wai Floating Market

From best duck noodle dishes to delectable sticky dried clams, Don Wai stands out as the ultimate destination for culinary enthusiasts in Bangkok. But have you ever wondered what Thai wet markets are like?

Get a glimpse of its vibrant atmosphere at Don Wai Floating Market where you’ll find fruit stands selling fresh mangoes, oranges, and cherries, plant stands selling little cactuses, and food stands selling taro sticks and coconut ice cream.

Don’t forget to drop by the eatery here too - you’ll be ablwe to see and even feed the catfishes swimming in the Tha Chin River!

This floating market is famous for: Street food and local thai food
Address: Don Wai-Highway 3414, Bang Krathuek, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom 73110, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 40 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Mon-Fri from 8am to 5pm; Sat-Sun from 7am to 6.30pm

Book for your Private Day Tour to visit Don Wai Floating Market!

12. Wat Lam Phaya Floating Market

Arrive with an empty stomach, or you'll soon wish you had savored the delicious Thai food awaiting you at Wat Lam Phaya Floating Market. Not convinced? Select from an array of options like fried tofu, fish cakes, crunchy shrimp fritters, chicken satay, Thai-style chicken biryani, and spring rolls – and that's just a small glimpse of the culinary treasures on offer!

Moreover, you have the chance to purchase a loaf of bread and offer it to the catfish in the Tha Chin River – toss a piece into the water, and you'll witness a rapid gathering of catfish before you know it!

This floating market is famous for: Delicious Thai food
Address: วัดลำพญา Lam Phaya, Bang Len District, Nakhon Pathom 73130, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour 15 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 8am to 5pm

13. Tha Kha Floating Market

Tha Kha Floating Market is known as the understated version of the nearby Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. It may be smaller in size, but it's no less special. Situated within an hour's drive from Bangkok, it serves as an ideal destination for savoring local Thai food and chill out, as this is one of those floating markets in Bangkok where the vibe is relaxed.

Join in the experience of exploring this tranquil trading hub, where you can buy fruits and fried rice from friendly sellers on their canal boats. Be sure not to overlook the renowned fried oyster omelet – a must-try treat in this locale!

This floating market is famous for: Local culinary items
Address: FXCV+PWJ, Tha Kha, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour 40 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 6am to 2pm

14. Red Lotus Floating Market

Possibly the most visually pleasing (commonly referred to as Instagram-worthy) floating market in Bangkok, Red Lotus Floating Market offers a stunning scene of lotus leaves and blossoms adorning a large pond that greets visitors.

Diverging from the typical floating market setup, this one stands out as it doesn't feature locals vending food from traditional wooden boats. Nevertheless, you can still indulge in delectable meals at the pondside restaurant to satisfy your hunger.

Klook Tip: Don't forget to make your way to the center of the pond where you can take the perfect photo on a wooden boat worthy of posting on your socials!

This floating market is famous for: Gorgeous view of lotus leaves and flowers
Address: 10 Kan Prapa Nakhon Luang Rd, Bang Len, Bang Len District, Nakhon Pathom 73130, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 5pm

Book your tour to Red Lotus Floating Market now!

15. Bang Khla Floating Market

If you have a fondness for mangoes, a visit to Bang Khla Floating Market could be quite appealing. Despite being approximately 100 kilometers away from the capital city, which might discourage some people, this market offers an abundance of tempting street food, seafood, and fruits similar to other floating markets. However, what sets it apart is an additional special feature – the rustic charm and serenity of the countryside, which many other floating markets lack.

For an authentic cultural encounter, the journey of about 1.5 hours from Bangkok is definitely worth it! You might also want to book a private chartered car with a driver for the day or rent a car ahead of time to ensure your plans go smoothly.

This floating market is famous for: Local fish, seafood, street food, and mangoes
Address: ถนน Thetsaban Phatthana 1 Alley, Bang Khla, Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao 24110, Thailand (Map)
Distance: 1 hour 30 minutes from Bangkok
Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 9am to 4pm

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Looking forward to exploring, indulging in delicious food, and immersing yourself in the distinct attractions? Start organizing your Bangkok vacation today and be sure to include these floating markets in your travel plans!

Written by: Grace Oktaviani