List of Floating Markets in Bangkok – Retail Therapy on the Water

This is one of the three floating markets located close to Bangkok that still retains its authentic charm. Situated just twenty kilometres from the city centre the market can be easily reached by hopping in a taxi from Wongwian Yai which is the last stop on the Silom BTS line. Here there are more locals than tourists, hence the place is not tourist oriented and offers one the experience of a genuine floating market atmosphere.

Damnoen is the most famous of all Bangkok floating markets. Enjoy the touristy atmosphere and attractions aimed at catching visitor's attentions. There you can take as many photos as you like and treat the foodie in you to a myriad of Thai food straight from the boats. As Damnoen is a tourist oriented market you will be able to avoid the crowds and savour a quieter perspective of the market by getting there very early in the day. Located about an hour from Bangkok this market and its surroundings are ideal for picking up souvenirs and simply enjoying the holiday vibes. For an even deeper experience of the Chao Phraya River you will be able to take on a culturally rich river cruise. The best way to enjoy a cruise in Bangkok, are the live aboard tours on converted rice barges. Offering you a gist of how life was on the river in the past Anantara Cruises, Thailand and many other tour suppliers strive to help you capture true Thai river life.

Amphawa is not as huge as Damnoen but it is just as popular and much less touristy. Located 50kms from Bangkok Amphawa is an ancient village that was established from the mid-seventeenth century. The place is extremely popular amongst weekend holiday makers who relish the many food stalls located both on the water and around the banks of the river. The main attraction is the seafood that is grilled on the wooden boats; look forward to tucking into juicy king prawns, shell fish and spicy squid. Today Amphawa is not limited to the river instead the market has established itself on the banks and surrounding precincts.

Bang Khu Wiang is another less crowded authentic market which one should go to for a real taste of Thai river life. Arrive in the wee hours of the morning and you will be rewarded with sights of monks arriving by boat to collect alms. At this market farm fresh produce is the biggest lure; you can arrive here via a private charter boat from Chang Pier in Bangkok or hop on one of the public boats from Wat Chalo Pier.

This is more a riverside market than a floating market since most of the boats are marooned at the same spot servicing customers on shore. But still this form of floating market seems to be taking the city by storm with more and more likely markets cropping up all over the place.