7 Best Floating Markets Around Bangkok
Floating markets in Thailand are a must-see for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. Set along canals, these bustling markets provide a window into traditional Thai culture. Each floating market has its own unique charm, offering everything from delicious street food to handcrafted souvenirs, as local vendors sell their goods directly from their boats. Here is our guide to the 7 best floating markets around Bangkok that you should not miss.
1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Wooden boats and colorful goods at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Damnoen Saduak is perhaps the most famous of all the floating markets in Thailand, and for good reason. Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Bangkok, this market is a vibrant hub of activities, where vendors paddle their boats laden with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.
A delicious local meal sold from the boat .
The market is particularly popular with tourists, so if you want to enjoy the experience without fighting through the masses, go early in the morning. Several vendors offer tasty, made-to-order Thai dishes fresh off their boats, don't miss the chance to try them.
How to Get There:
You can reach Damnoen Saduak by taking a bus from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal. The journey takes about 2 hours. Buses leave every 30 mins from 6:00 AM.
2. Amphawa Floating Market
Take a fireflies watching boat tour at Amphawa Floating Market.
Just a short drive from Bangkok, the Amphawa Floating Market is a local favorite. Unlike touristy markets, Amphawa retains a more authentic atmosphere. The market is famous for its delicious seafood, which is grilled right on the boats and served fresh. The evening ambiance here is particularly charming, with vendors lighting up their boats with lanterns as the sun sets. Take a boat tour around 6:00 PM to view the mesmerizing sight of fireflies as you sail along the Mae Klong River.
How to Get There:
Amphawa is located about 90 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. You can take a minivan from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or take a shuttle bus tour.
3. Taling Chan Floating Market
Taling Chan Floating Market is accessible by Bus No. 79. from Siam Center.
Taling Chan Floating Market is a perfect option for those who don’t want to travel far from the city. Located just a 20-minute drive from central Bangkok, this market is smaller but offers a cozy and authentic experience. Take a 1-hour longtail boat tour and enjoy plenty of food choices including grilled seafood, boat noodles, pork satay with peanut sauce, old-fashioned Thai desserts, and fresh coconut water. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to Get There:
Taling Chan is easily accessible by taxi or public bus from central Bangkok. Bang Khun Non MRT Station is only 4 kilometers away from the market, and you may take a taxi from there. Bus No. 79 takes you to the market as well. It also stops right in front of landmarks such as Siam Center, Central World, and Pantip Pratunam. Check the schedules here.
4. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market
Riding along Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market.
Khlong Lat Mayom is another market close to Bangkok, offering a more intimate and local experience. Unlike the larger markets, Khlong Lat Mayom has a more laid-back vibe, with fewer tourists and more locals.
Khanom Jeen (fermented rice noodles) served fresh off the boat.
The market is spread along a narrow canal, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to homemade Thai sweets. The food here is excellent, with plenty of options to sample authentic Thai dishes at reasonable prices.
How to Get There:
Khlong Lat Mayom is located in the Taling Chan district, Bangkok and can be reached by taxi.
5. Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market
A house by a canal at Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market.
Bang Nam Phueng Floating Market offers an authentic Thai experience just a stone’s throw from Bangkok. This charming market, located in Samut Prakan, is less crowded than other floating markets, making it perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can stroll along the canals, sample delicious local delicacies like Khanom Jeen (fermented rice noodles), Miang Kham (betel leaf wrap) and mango sticky rice, or shop for handmade crafts and fresh produce.
How to Get There:
From Bang Na BTS Station, a quick taxi ride will bring you to the Bang Na Pier, where you can catch a ferry across the Chao Phraya River. The scenic boat ride takes you straight to the market.
6. Tha Kha Floating Market
The old charm of Tha Kha Floating Market.
Tha Kha Floating Market offers a glimpse into Thailand’s past, where the history of the market dates back over 100 years and time seems to stand still. Tha Kha maintains its traditional charm, with friendly locals paddling along narrow canals in wooden boats, selling fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic herbs, and handmade goods. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area by renting a bicycle or taking a guided tour through the lush coconut groves and peaceful villages.
How to Get There:
Tha Kha is located about 60 kilometers southwest of Bangkok. You can take a minivan from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai).
7. Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market
A longtail boat ride at Khlong Bang Luang.
Khlong Bang Luang Floating Market offers a unique blend of culture, art, and Thai living. The area is known for its bohemian atmosphere, where art galleries, antique shops, and wooden houses line the tranquil canal. One of the main highlights is Baan Silapin (the Artist’s House), that performs a Thai puppet show at Wat Kamphaeng Bangchak (2-min walk from the Artist's House) every weekend at 2:00 PM. Art lovers can also explore the vibrant galleries filled with local artwork and handmade crafts.
Eat and relax at Khun Aoi’s Kitchen. Source.
Try a homecooked Thai food at Khun Aoi’s Kitchen, a cozy canalside restaurant, and enjoy the lovely ambiance. Their Mama Tom Yum Moo Krob (tom yum nooddle with crispy pork) is an absolute must-try.
How to Get There:
From Bang Phai MRT Station (Exit 4), take a taxi or motorbike taxi ride to the market.