Joanna James
While there are plenty of malls in the Thai capital, the markets in Bangkok offer an altogether different shopping experience. You will find all manner of items and products for sale at these markets and can score some super discounts if you put your bargaining skills to good use!
Amongst the biggest markets you are likely to come across, the famed Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the most popular attractions in Bangkok. Located near Chatuchak Park, this market begins on Friday (6:00pm to midnight), though the main market days are on Saturday and Sunday (9:00am to 6:00pm). It is home to more than 15,000 stalls spread across 26 sections so expect to spend lots of time there! Be it handicrafts, clothing, furniture, antiques, art, books, souvenirs, ceramics or even pets, you can find it all here along with plenty to eat and drink too.
When it comes to sourcing fresh produce, the Or Tor Kor market is the place to visit in Bangkok. Hotel packages can be easily found at properties within easy reach of this site which is next to the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Bursting with colour, which makes for some great photographs, the market has vendors selling fresh veggies and fruits from all parts of Thailand as well as seafood, meats and flowers. This site is ideal to just stroll around and it's also a great place to try Thai food, snacks and sweets.
The Sampeng Lane Market is in a locale that runs parallel to Yaowarat Road, the city's main Chinatown area. Within easy reach of properties like Chatrium Residence Sathon Bangkok, it is not only an ideal spot to find bargains, but also experience the lively and sometimes chaotic hustle and bustle of the city! Held during the day, the market has a wide range of goods for sale including handicrafts, jewellery, sarongs made from silk, toys, women's shoes, décor for the home and more.
Also known as the Ratchada Train Market, the Rot Fai Market comes to life from Thursday to Sunday, beginning at six in the evening and closing at midnight each day. Situated in the Ratchada area, this site can be found next to the Cultural Centre MRT underground station and offers a lively night market setting outdoors. Vendors offer antiques, handbags, clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, second-hand items and shoes, while you have a chance to savour some of the city's much-loved street food too.
No list would be complete without mentioning one of the floating markets in Bangkok! The Taling Chan Floating Market is around 14 km from central Bangkok and is where you will find vendors on boats as well as around the canal. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm every Saturday and Sunday, this market offers a great range of foodie delights from seafood and sweets to fresh fruit and snacks. You can even look to take a ride on a longtail boat to explore the other canals in the area.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
