Joanna James
Bangkok is a loved holiday destination for its street food, entertainment, and nightlife; encompassing all this with the bonus of a shopping spree are the vibrant street markets of Bangkok. Check out this list of top markets below.
A unique and popular attraction in Thailand is the traditional floating market. There are a few you can choose from that are easy to reach from city hotels in Bangkok. The canals that once served as the city's main highways are where the markets are located, each offering a unique experience. If you want to explore a quieter market that is also popular, pay a visit to the Taling Chan Floating Market, located within the city under a railway bridge. Interconnected platforms and wooden pontoons located along the canal accommodate sellers, while some ply the waterways in traditional wooden boats, selling stuff out of their vessels. The market is open on weekends between 7.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. and is a good venue for purchasing street food, seafood, souvenirs, handicrafts, fresh produce, flowers, and more.
Another easy-to-reach night market from your 5-star Bangkok hotel is The One Ratchada, open from 4 p.m. to midnight. Just around the corner from Emporium Suites by Chatrium, it's an ideal spot for night owls. However, the best time to visit this market is around 6 p.m., if you are planning on some serious shopping. The place exudes a festive vibe with fairy lights and lots of palm trees creating a cheerful ambience. The market itself is sectioned off into three zones: an area for picking up souvenirs and other retail goodies like clothing and accessories, a dedicated zone for popular Thai street food and one lined with bars for chilling into the wee hours of the night.
You cannot miss Chatuchak, as it is Bangkok's largest market, boasting over 15,000 stalls. It runs from Wednesday to Sunday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. The early hours of the morning are the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and give the place a thorough browse. You can shop for just about anything at this market, including clothing, art, antiques, books, and even goodies for your pets. The selection of food is staggering, as is the entertainment, which makes this venue a top attraction in Bangkok.
Enjoy a night out exploring Khao San Road. A popular pedestrianised area, Khao San Road is a cheerful street that is a huge tourist hotspot in Bangkok. The road is lined with cafes, bars, and boutiques for simply kicking back and enjoying the vibe as you shop, dine, and chill. The street comes alive between 3 p.m. and 2 a.m., offering a mix of entertainment for everyone.
Yaworat, or Chinatown, is open 24 hours, so head over to the precinct for an unforgettable experience. The place is ideal for enjoying traditional food, shopping for souvenirs and other quirky items, and being a part of Bangkok's celebrations, as Chinatown consistently hosts several traditional festivals throughout the year.
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 passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
