Joanna James
As one of the main attractions in the city, some tourists visit Bangkok for the sole reason of shopping in its extensive local markets. From iconic wholesale markets to bargain havens ideal for souvenir shopping, here are 5 thoroughfares to shop in during your holiday in Bangkok.
Occupying pride of place on the Bangkok Riverside, the Ta Tian Market is located just across the road from the exterior of the Wat Pho Temple. As a fresh market, locals and expats alike love to visit this charming thoroughfare to stock up on daily essentials as well as to dine in the many quaint cafes located underneath the arches of the market's Singaporean and Portuguese inspired arches. The entire space resembles a vast heritage site as the entrance to the market is placed at the middle of this U-shaped building which dates back to colonial times. Open to visitors from 11 am to 6.30 pm, the market is one of the most picturesque spots on the riverside.
With a rich history that dates back well over 100 years, the Klong Suan Roi Pee Market has a reputation of being a treasure trove for budget travellers. Serving as a living museum of Bangkok's past, the market is a place where one can purchase fresh produce, food items and other curios in a traditional bazaar-like atmosphere. Open to shoppers from 7 am onwards, this floating market is located along the Prawet Burirom canal on the Chao Praya River.
Another budget-friendly market for tourists in search of unique Thai food items, desserts and groceries, the Tor Kor Market is open from 6 am onwards and only closes its gates at 8 pm. Located down Phahonyothin Road, the best things to buy at this bustling marketplace include steamed palm sugar treats, grilled coconut pancakes and sticky rice while seafood and fresh flowers are also available. Shutterbugs may find the Tor Kor Market the most photogenic market in Bangkok as the area in which it is located and the layout of the venue is visually attractive.
Those based at Citadines Sukhumvit 16 Bangkok or any other serviced apartment in Sukhumvit Bangkok should not miss the chance to visit the Sampeng Lane Market. As the best market in the city's Chinatown area, the Sampeng Lane Market is Yaowarat's classic example of a Chinese marketplace. Retailing everything under the sun, the market occupies a vast area with vendors selling product from the back of trucks, pushcarts and even motorcycles. Although the market does not keep regular hours, it is usually open by 8 am and closes before 6.30 pm.
Foodies looking for a contemporary and European style market in Bangkok will find no finer alternative t the Circle Ratchapruk. Spread out across an area of 7000m2, there are at least a hundred stalls at this popular market place which also hosts events to attract families including art workshops and educational activities for children.
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