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BANGKOK

14 Must-Visit Night Markets in Bangkok: Where to Shop & Eat

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

31 OCT 23 . 10 MIN READ . GUIDES

The Ultimate List of Night Markets in Bangkok

Heading to a night market remains one of the must-do activities when travelling in the capital.

Be it chowing down on incredibly delicious Thai street food or buying affordable clothes or trinkets, here are some of the best night markets in Bangkok that you need to visit:

  1. Asiatique: The Riverfront
  2. Chatuchak Weekend Market
  3. Srinagarindra Train Night Market
  4. Hua Mum Night Market
  5. INDY Night Market
  6. Jodd Fairs
  7. ChangChui Plane Night Market
  8. JJ Green 2 Market
  9. Pratunam Night Market
  10. Liab Duan Night Market, Ramintra
  11. Chinatown Food Night Market
  12. The One Ratchada
  13. Huai Khwang Night Market
  14. Patpong Night Market

1. Asiatique: The Riverfront

Asiatique: The Riverfront is a true shopping paradise. This famous open-air shopping mall in Bangkok has everything from food markets to fashion-friendly stalls.

What used to be a former trading port by the Chao Praya River is now a retail heaven, Thai-style.

Think of various warehouses containing vintage shops, artisanal crafts, and restaurants.

While prices are generally fixed, bargaining is still common so don’t forget to haggle a little to strike the best deal.

There’s even a huge Ferris wheel and the Sirimahannop cruise, a vintage tall ship that’ll give you that old Siam feel.

Make sure to sample Pad Thai at one of the pubs at the venue, coupled with a cold beer to make the best of your evening.

PS: Skip the tuk-tuk and reach Asiatique via the free daily shuttle boat from Pier Sathorn.

Nearest train station: BTS Taksin

Address: 2194 CharoenKrung Rd, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok 10120 (Map)


2. Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Bigger is not usually better. But in the case of the Chatuchak Weekend Market, size matters. This popular spot is the biggest night market in Bangkok.

Here, you’ll need to carve out plenty of time in your schedule to fully explore the market’s more than 15,000 stalls and 27 sections.

The third Prime Minister of Thailand, Field Marshal Plaek Pibunsongkhram was the brains behind this weekend market, which was first started in 1942 in Sanam Luang.

Over the years, it changed venues, before assuming a permanent place at Chatuchak, in 1982.

What was once an unassuming flea market has become the world’s largest weekend market and a bustling epicentre in Bangkok.

If you need to stock up your wardrobe, this place has got everything fashion-related, from shirts to socks, and dresses to bags.

You can even find art, jewellery, and of course, plenty of street food. Plus, prices can be super cheap (at least if you know how to strike the right bargain).

Nearest train station: BTS Mo Chit/MRT Chatuchak Park/MRT Kamphaeng Phet

Address: สวนจตุจักร Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand (map)


3. Srinagarindra Train Night Market

Srinagarindra Train Night Market

Do you have a hipster beard and is The Smiths on repeat on your Spotify? Then the Srinagarindra Train Night Market (or Rod Fai Market) will be right up your alley.

This open-air market is lined with cute pubs, and you have to walk through several sections to reach the large warehouse zone, where you can grab a couple of vintage goodies. Think classic and retro.

Make sure to take pictures at the garage which is full of vintage rides like Volkswagen vans, Chevys and old farmer trucks.

Cool kids can find all things bohemian and vintage here, from kitschy collectables and nostalgic memorabilia to antique furniture and hippy clothing pieces.

Eating here isn’t too shabby too – think pad Thai, salads, grilled meats, and all sorts of desserts. You get the drift.

While it is not very popular with tourists, you get an authentic flavour of Thai evenings as the local crowd starts filling up the place.

Nearest train station: BTS On Nut. Take a taxi from there (a 10- to 20-minute ride)

Address: 1 4 Srinakarin Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250, Thailand (Map)


4. Hua Mum Night Market

Hua Mum Night Market

Bangkok has many brilliant night markets, a lot of them well-known.

And there aren’t many hidden gems left. But the Hua Mum Night Market could prove to be an exception.

A 40-minute drive from the city centre, this is one market not over-trodden with tourists.

While it started in 2015, it is relatively undiscovered, although you might find a bunch of tourists clutching to their cameras and making reels while you are there.

Chilling here is pretty much Bangkok’s local night market experience, by locals for locals.

We recommend trying your hand at Kanom Krok Bai Toey, a Thai dessert made with rice and coconut milk, which is a popping green colour.

But the maximum queues are around stalls selling Bingsu, a milk-based Korean shaved ice dessert that is the perfect ending to a really fun evening.

Before you call it a day, make sure to pop into the nearby Hunk Seafood, the restaurant that went viral for ultra-muscular dudes prancing around in nightgowns serving you seafood.

Yes, you did read that right. It might not be family-friendly, but it certainly is as unique as Thai experiences go.

Nearest train station: Lad Phrao station, and you can take a taxi from there.

Address: 11 Prasert-Manukitch Road, Lat Phrao, Bangkok 10230, Thailand (Map)


5. INDY Night Market

INDY Night Market

Another night market that you might want to check out to escape the touristy vibes is the INDY Night Market Dao Khanong.

The market is catered to locals living in Thonburi, roughly 30 minutes away from central Bangkok.

And what’s cool about this hip spot is that it opens daily.

Prices are also slightly cheaper compared to other commercialised markets – yippee!

Our favourite thing about this night market is the lively atmosphere.

There are fairy lights strewn everywhere, and small stalls sell everything under the sun, from graphic tees to satin jammies (girls, we are looking at you), knockoffs of high-end sneakers and much more.

Plus, you can shop while you jam to one of the many live performances that happen in this arena.

If you’re up for a spontaneous tattoo, head to a tattoo parlour in the vicinity (do make sure it’s hygienic).

And our conversation can’t be summed up without mentioning the many varieties of local snacks that you can gorge on.

While the staple seafood is plenty, you can also savour mookata, or, at the risk of sounding risque, phallic-shaped waffles.

Nearest train station: There are no public stations nearby. Your best option is to take a taxi.

Address: Dao Khanong, Chom Thong, Bangkok 10150, Thailand (Map)


6. Jodd Fairs

Jodd Fairs

After pictures began circulating of the desolate and abandoned Ratchada Train Night Market (Talad Rot Fai) back in 2020, we began to mourn one of our favourite markets of all time.

Thankfully, all those worries were for nothing.

This super popular market has found new life, reinventing itself as Jodd Fairs and relocating from Ratchada to Rama 9, a much more convenient locale to visit.

However, if recent information is to go by, a night market by the name of The One Ratchada has come up at the original location of the train night market so you can still visit the area.

At Jodd Fairs, you will first come across a paradise of street food, with multiple stalls offering all Thai specialities like spicy pork ribs which is a crowd favourite.

In addition to Thai, you can also try a variety of cuisines such as Japanese, Taiwanese and even Middle Eastern at this popular night market.

However, since this is a tourist heaven, the prices might be a little steeper than regular markets.

After a walk where you can buy a bunch of bargain fashion items like shoes, tees, glasses and more, rest your feet at one of the many small open-air bars at the market.

The music is lively and the beer flows freely.

Need we say more?

Nearest train station: MRT Rama 9

Address: Rama IX Rd, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310, Thailand (Map)


7. ChangChui Plane Night Market

ChangChui Plane Night Market

Whether you are looking to stuff yourself silly or to check out some quirky art installations, the ChangChui Plane Night Market is a good spot to hit up.

Unlike other popular night markets in Bangkok, this indie space is quieter, thanks to a more serious ambience and artsy crowd that it pulls every evening.

There’s a decent selection of food and drinks, and the market is pet-friendly too, so you’ll see many people with their fur kids strolling about.

Eateries and art galleries housed in containers are a definite hit, and so are the neon-lit small vans that sell pre-loved T-shirts and Thai milk tea.

The many art installations and pop-ups make this the perfect place for you to take your cameras out and get clicking.

There are corners lit up with neon lights and reflective panels all across the venue, so if it’s pictures that you want, you’ve come to the right place.

Of course, the main attraction is the Lockheed L-1011 Tristar decommissioned aeroplane right smack in the middle of everything, making it the perfect IG backdrop.

It is no wonder then, that the market is popularly just called the Plane Night Market, even though its name translates to ‘messy artisan’, an homage to all the artists that put up their work here.

It also doubles up as a secret restaurant called Na Oh Bangkok, also known as Noah’s Ark, that seats a limited number of people, so we advise you to book your tickets way in advance if you want to grab a table here.

Nearest train station: Bang Bamru station, then a 10-minute walk.

Address: 460/8 Sirindhorn Rd, Bang Phlat, Bangkok 10700, Thailand (Map)


8. JJ Green 2 Market

JJ Green 2 Market

Four years after the Chatuchak, Green Night Market or JJ Green, was opened to the public but was shut down in 2018, much to the dismay of both locals and travellers.

But fret not, because the legendary JJ Green Night Market is back and with a bang.

One of the most famous night markets in Bangkok is reincarnated in its latest form as JJ Green 2 Market and has come up in a new location at Soi Prachachuen 10, near Dhurakij Pundit University.

While the locale has changed, what hasn’t changed is the vibe of the place, where you can soak in some serious hipster cool, with trendy clothes on sale and graffiti-decorated container stalls.

Over 120 shops offer the best that (less) money can buy. While you’ll be tempted to snack as soon as you enter, hold your horses for the bigger food zone at the back.

Be sure to sample  “khanom tokiao”, a legendary sweet Thai pancake.

Pro tip: The bottom floor is where you can find delish Thai snacks, and the second floor is where the restaurants are located.

Nearest train station: There are no public stations nearby. Your best option is to take a taxi.

Address: 61 16 Pracha Chuen Rd, Thung Song Hong, Lak Si, Bangkok 10210, Thailand (Map)


9. Pratunam Night Market

Pratunam Night Market

One of the most popular night markets in Bangkok is the Pratunam Night Market, and for good reason.

When all the malls are shut and the main Pratunam market calls it a day, this market across Baiyoke comes alive with numerous pop-up stalls that sell everything from Adidas pants to the cliche Thai elephant shirts that make for great souvenirs.

Another great deal is to get a custom passport with your name on it, only for 100 THB.

It is way cheaper than getting it done at one of the malls in the city, which can set you back by 300-400 THB.

When it comes to ridiculously affordable prices and good deals (better than those at MBK Center, dare we say), you don’t have to look any further.

We recommend grabbing a pair of handmade shoes, or a killer chic bag while you’re here. But be sure to strike a bargain, which is tricky but the norm in the night markets of Bangkok.

Nearest train station: Ratchaprarop Station, and a 400-metre walk after

Address: QG3Q+CVH Unnamed Road Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand (Map)


10. Liab Duan Night Market, Ramintra

Liab Duan Night Market, Ramintra

What combines Transformers Autobot statues like Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, along with the Eiffel Tower, a Christmas Tree, and LED lights?

Nope, it ain’t some weird, dystopian Michael Bay-inspired robotic alternative universe held in France.

It’s the Liab Duan Night Market!

Just on the outskirts of downtown Bangkok, this market is also popular as the Night Market by the Highway.

It is a little out of the way, so you will not bump into massive crowds like in Chatuchak.

It also helps that the souvenirs and drinks at this market are considerably cheaper than in the city.

Also, you can stay here till around 2am, but don’t plan a visit on Monday, since many stores and vendors don’t open on the day.

Come here to check out these random but impressive sculptures, as well as to chow down on the incredibly delicious night market food on offer.

Look out for pork chops at Highway Steak and Pasta for complete food bliss. And, will you believe the market also boasts a small petting zoo?

Nearest train station: There are no public stations nearby. Your best option is to take a taxi.

Address: 9 ถนน ประดิษฐ์มนูญธรรม Tha Raeng, Bang Khen, Bangkok 10230, Thailand (Map)

 


11. Chinatown Food Night Market

Chinatown Food Night Market

As Bangkok’s smallest district, Chinatown lets you experience how the Chinese in the country have retained their culture and traditions.

They settled in what is now the Yaowarat district, bringing to life a bustling food market that is also called Yaowarat Night Market.

The Chinatown Night Market is a foodie pilgrimage that you can’t afford to miss.

A short walk away from Yaowarat Road, the market is a street food paradise, and you can find everything here from Peking Duck to Pad Thai.

The street also offers a blend of both cultures, Thai and Chinese, so it is the best of both Asian cuisines.

Plus, the place is chock-full of Michelin-awarded restaurants, like Guay Jub Ouan Pochana, Nai Ek Roll Noodle, and Pa Tong Go Savoey – serving up some of the best street food dishes in the city.

Whatever the case is, you know what you’re going to eat here is legit. The only thing you need to remember is to keep your belly empty!

Nearest train station: Hua Lamphong station

Address: 148 Maha Chak Rd, Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
(Map)


12. The One Ratchada

The One Ratchada

The One Ratchada is a new night market in Bangkok, opening up at the former spot of the famed train night market, Talad Rot Fai Ratchada, which was closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

You’ll find the market right behind The Esplanade Mall.

Do take note, though, if you’re looking for the same Talad Rot Fai vibes, you might need to manage your expectations as this market is more “modern” in comparison as it’s owned by a different management.

Nonetheless, there is enough here to keep you busy. Over 100 vendors ply the area and entertain in the form of food, shopping and music.

There are many outdoorsy spaces to soak in the cool evenings and dine under the stars.

If you are a culinary adventurist, there is one vendor who sells crocodile meat too (however, it’s not recommended to consume exotic meats because of animal cruelty).

If not, you can still try out the popular volcanic ribs which are a hit with locals.

For those here with friends, make sure to head to one of the many bars set up in container houses. The rest is quite similar to other Bangkok spaces. But hey, it’s still a great place to check out though if you’re looking for a night market to visit.

Nearest train station: MRT Thailand Cultural Centre station. Head to either Exit 3 or 4

Address: Din Daeng, Bangkok 10400, Thailand (Map)


13. Huai Khwang Night Market

As one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Huai Khwang is popular for its iconic night market that features some of the best food stalls, restaurants and fish vendors in the city.

It is one of Bangkok’s few markets that are open 24 hours (it runs till about 4am to be realistic), Huai Khwang sees travellers throng its streets mostly post 7pm.

As you walk along Pracharat Bamphen road, there is a huge statue of Lord Ganesha, a venerable Indian deity, where people come to offer their prayers.

Once you walk in, you’ll be surrounded by sights and smells that are symbolic of Thailand.

From fresh fruits to the best of fish, there is little that this night market does not offer when it comes to food.

Nearest train station: MRT Huai Khwang. Head to Exit 4.

Address: Huai Khwang, Bangkok, Thailand (Map)


14. Patpong Night Market

If you’re into a bit of shopping, a dash of street food, and a pinch of nightlife all rolled into one, this is your place.

It’s right smack in the middle of Silom, one of Bangkok’s buzzing districts.

You can’t miss it, thanks to the neon lights and a dash of chaos.

You can shop your heart out for clothes, trinkets, souvenirs – the works.

And if you’re in the mood for some serious bargaining, this is the place to flex those haggling muscles.

But wait; there’s more! When the sun goes down, Patpong transforms into party central. You’ve got bars, clubs, and shows galore. Ever heard of ping pong shows?

Well, let’s just say Patpong is famous for a certain kind of entertainment that’s, well, unconventional.

From pad Thai to grilled seafood, the street food game here is strong too.

It’s a taste bud adventure you won’t want to miss. And don’t forget to wash it down with a cold Singha beer or some coconut water straight from the shell.

Nearest train station: MRT Silom Station. Walk 5 minutes.

Address: 61, ซอย Thanon Patpong 1, Suriya Wong, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand (Map)


Other things to do in Bangkok at night:

15. Tour Bangkok’s temples and streets after dark

Bangkok’s nightlife is so much more than its crazy party scene. A more chilled out to see the city at night and live like a local is to see temples at night (the daytime is usually crowded with tourists).

Spend an evening riding Bangkok’s public transport system and exploring some of the city’s iconic temples like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew after dark.


16. Cycle your way through Bangkok at night

A truly unique way to explore the capital is to stretch your calves and go on a cycling expedition through the city’s legendary backstreets.

All those urban nooks and crannies are sometimes a better way to see another side of the city, far away from the mainstream tourist crowd.

If you would like the see Bangkok in a different light, then you can’t beat exploring the city on a bike at night.


17. Travel back to old Siam on a dinner cruise

Channel some serious Jack Sparrow vibes with a dinner cruise on a tall ship docked at Asiatique on the Chao Praya River. You’ll get to set sail on an old school vessel that dates to the reign of King Rama V in the mid-19th century.

Feel like a pirate as you soak up the golden era of Thai heritage. But leave some space for modernity with an exquisite dining experience to cap off your night.


18. Hit up Bangkok’s best street food spots on a tuk-tuk

Visiting Bangkok (or anywhere in Thailand, really) without going for a tuk-tuk ride is non-negotiable.

One of the best ways to enjoy riding this three-wheeled vehicular wonder is to go for a tuk-tuk food tour. Ride to some of the best street food stalls in the city.

And broaden the horizons of your taste buds by trying new cuisines like Thai-Isan food, guay tiew gai, and pad Thai.


19. A Night of Muay Thai 

One Championship is the world’s largest martial arts organisation and they have made their way to the iconic Lumpinee Stadium.

If you’re there on a Friday, immerse yourself in the world of combat sports with tickets to the One Lumpinee Muay Thai One Championship event.

Witness electrifying Muay Thai matches and experience the energy of Thai martial arts.


20. Experience Thai Glitz and Glamour At Golden Dome

We promise you a night of scintillating fun at Thailand’s famous cabaret shows at the Golden Dome Cabaret.

Enjoy 60 minutes of non-stop dazzling performances by men dressed up in outlandish costumes.

There is a reason Golden Dome has been the leading ladyboy musical show since 1997! 10 amazing acts, inspired by the world of Thai, Southeast Asian and European pop culture, make this a roaring experience for all first-time travellers to Bangkok.


21. Cap off your Night with a Cruise

As the city’s iconic landmarks light up, make your way to the Alangka Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise, where you will be treated to a sumptuous buffet dinner of Thai and international cuisine.

The Chao Phraya River is stunning during the day, but it is a sight to behold at night and makes for the perfect romantic getaway with stunning views of Bangkok’s skyline.

 


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular night markets in Bangkok?

Bangkok is renowned for its vibrant night markets. Among the favourites are Asiatique the Riverfront, Chatuchak Night Market and Rod Fai Market.

What is the best time to visit Bangkok’s night markets?

Most night markets in Bangkok start setting up in the late afternoon and are in full swing by early evening. The best time to visit is generally after 6 p.m. when the markets are most lively and bustling with locals and tourists.

What type of goods can I find at Bangkok’s night markets?

You can find anything from trendy clothing and accessories to handmade crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Additionally, the markets are famous for their street food stalls, offering a variety of delicious Thai dishes and snacks.

Are Bangkok’s night markets open every day of the week?

While some night markets in Bangkok operate daily, others have specific days. For example, the Chatuchak Night Market is usually open on weekends, while Asiatique the Riverfront is open every day. Do check the schedule of the specific market you plan to visit.

How can I negotiate prices at Bangkok’s night markets?

Start by expressing interest in the item and then suggest a price lower than the initially quoted one. Be friendly and willing to compromise, and remember that a good-natured negotiation is your best bet in Bangkok.


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