Top Floating Markets in Bangkok You Can't Miss
Bangkok's floating markets date back to the 19th century when canals, or klongs, were the main transportation routes, and locals relied on boats to trade goods and produce.
Today, they remain a feast for the senses, where the lively energy of Thailand’s culture meets the charm of its traditional waterways. Imagine colorful boats piled high with tropical fruits, sizzling street food, and handmade goods sold by local vendors right on the water.
These markets are more than just a shopping experience — they’re a glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant way of life. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or an adventurous traveler, exploring Bangkok’s floating markets is a must.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the top Bangkok floating markets you need to visit!
1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Photo Credit: KPG_2016 on Pixabay
Damnoen Saduak is the most popular of the Bangkok floating markets. The best way to experience the Damneon Saduak floating market is on a boat so you'll see all the different stalls and get immersed in the local culture.
You'll find many stores within the wooden boats at the side of the canal selling unique items from fresh fruits to local snacks!
An iconic souvenir to buy from Damnoen Saduak is the wooden cone hat. Thai food you must try when at the Damnoen Saduak floating markets includes boat noodles, coconut ice cream and pancakes, and mango sticky rice. 🥭
- Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand (Map)
- Distance: 1 hour 40 minutes from Bangkok
- Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 4pm
2. Amphawa Floating Markets
The second most popular floating market in Bangkok, is the Amphawa Floating Markets! Compared to Damnoen Saduak, this floating market is less crowded and it only operates during the afternoon and evening, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a more laid-back market experience! 😌
Klook Tip: Locals say that rain and light drizzles are frequent, so it's advisable to bring along a small umbrella, a raincoat, or a lightweight jacket!
Aside from having fewer crowds, Amphawa Floating Markets has gained popularity for its fresh seafood.
Whether you’re walking by or riding a boat along the river, you will see boats filled to the brim with squid, scallops, and more! Some offer them as freshly caught ingredients while others cook seafood meals and serve them from their boats.
Klook Tip: If you love seafood, you can’t go wrong with visiting the Amphawa Floating Markets. We highly recommend that you try the fishcakes (which you can pair with sweet hot sauce), fish stew, and grilled squid!
There are also pork dumplings, noodle soup, and Som Tham (a kind of salad that has green papaya) if you want something other than seafood.
For dessert, the sticky mango rice, as well as the Khanom Alua (a sugary kind of jelly) are must-tries!
- Address: Amphawa, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand (Map)
- Distance: 1 hour 30 minutes from Bangkok
- Opening hours: Fri-Sun from 10am to 9.30pm
3. Taling Chan Floating Market
Spice up your Bangkok itinerary with a visit to the Taling Chan Floating Market — one of the city's most accessible and charming local markets. It's well-known for offering relaxing Thai massages at wallet-friendly prices, so go ahead and treat yourself before heading home!
The market is also a favorite photo spot, thanks to its vibrant display of tropical fruits and authentic riverside setting. Make sure to snap a few shots with the colorful stalls and local culture as your backdrop!
Getting there is easy and affordable. Simply head to the S6 BTS station, hop on the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Phra Pin Klao Pier, and then take bus number 79 straight to the market.
4. Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market
Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market is a charming little market tucked away in the suburbs. It’s quiet, laid-back, and not packed with tourists — perfect if you’re not a fan of crowded spots.
The market sits in Bang Kachao, a lush green area often referred to as Bangkok’s “green lung,” surrounded by the Chao Phraya River.
You’ll find all kinds of delicious street food here, but if there’s one thing you have to try, it’s the mango sticky rice — a local favourite that totally lives up to the hype.
While you're in Bang Kachao, take some time to walk or cycle around. It’s like stepping into an oasis in the middle of the city, complete with tropical plants and peaceful nature trails.
If you're planning a visit, check out this Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market tour for an easy and convenient way to get there!
5. Bang Phli Floating Market
Bang Phli Floating Market is one of the oldest markets in Thailand — a favourite spot for food lovers and history buffs alike. What makes Bang Phli special is the chance to really connect with the locals, with decades-old shops lining the canal.
You’ll find everything from noodles and fresh fruit to seafood and more — perfect for when those hunger pangs hit! Visit early in the morning and you might even catch the serene sight of monks collecting alms by boat — a beautiful glimpse into local traditions.
- Address: ตลาดโบราณบางพลี Tambon Bang Phli Yai, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand (Map)
- Distance: 45 minutes from Bangkok
- Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 5pm
6. Bang Khla Floating Market
Bang Khla Floating Market is about a 90-minute drive from central Bangkok, tucked away in the peaceful countryside. Surrounded by nature, the market offers a calm, relaxing atmosphere — perfect for a slow day out.
For a real cultural experience, the journey (1.5 hours from Bangkok) is definitely worth it! You might want to book a private chartered car with driver for the day, or rent a car ahead of time to ensure your plans go smoothly.
- 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
7. Tha Kha Floating Market
Tha Kha Floating Market is about an hour’s drive from Bangkok. While it’s smaller than the famous Damnoen Saduak Market, it’s a lovely spot to unwind and shop without the overwhelming crowds.
The vendors here are super friendly, and you can buy fresh fruits and local produce straight from the boats. One of the must-tries? Crispy fried oysters — just 20 THB! You’ll also spot boats serving up fried rice and other tasty bites. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy great food and connect with the locals all at once.
- Address: Tha Kha, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand (Map)
- Distance: 1 hour 25 minutes from Bangkok
- Opening hours: Sat-Sun from 6am to 2pm
Bonus: Maeklong Railway Market
While Maeklong Railway Market may not exactly be a floating market, it's a market that’s unique in a way that the shops are right next to the train tracks! 🚇
Klook Tip: Dress in light clothing — it can get extremely hot here! Remember to bring a handkerchief, towel, tissues, a water bottle, or a portable fan to stay cool.
Maeklong Railway Market is like the usual fresh market selling seafood, veggies, tropical fruit, fresh and dried food, and meats. But, apart from the usual market goods, they also sell cute souvenirs here like keychains, ref magnets, silk scarves, and the iconic elephant pants! 🐘
If you're scared the vendors are going to get run over by the trains, don't fret! The whole market’s routine is that these vendors will move back the moment the train honks its horn.
Important Reminder: When the locals and market staff signal that the train is approaching and advise everyone to stand behind the red line, please follow their instructions and MAKE SURE TO STAY BEHIND THE RED LINE!
Feel free to wave at the train’s passengers and take pictures as it zooms past the market stalls!
Klook Tip: Much of what you’ll find being sold here are food, plenty of them being dried fruits. There are even several places where you can dine, too! Make sure to try Khao Man Gai (Thai rice and chicken), dried durian, coconut juice, and coconut ice cream!
Now that you know which floating markets to visit, make sure to add these destinations to your Bangkok itinerary. Happy and safe travels! ✈️
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