Step away from the city and tantalise your taste buds (on a boat) with coconut ice creams and boat noodles

Shopping in malls and at night markets is one of the first activities that come to mind when we think of Bangkok, but did you know you can also do that on a boat? While they are mostly located outside of the city centre, these alluring floating markets draw many local and international visitors looking to experience shopping on water.

Bangkok’s floating markets are truly one-of-a-kind as you get to shop in the comfort of a rustic wooden rowboat. These markets are also an opportunity to test your wing span as you reach over the edges of your boat to pay for things like local souvenirs and snacks such as a quintessential scoop of coconut ice cream that you must have whenever you are in the Land of Smiles. 

Easily accessible by taxi, here are some of Bangkok’s top floating markets.

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1. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The early bird catches the worm here at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market as many stalls are closed in the afternoon, as is the case for many of its market counterparts. This market is one of the more popular ones in Bangkok, so crowds are definitely expected. From shopping to eating, you can easily spend a whole morning soaking in the hustle and bustle of this market. Locals line up the canal with unique souvenirs and vibrant food including delectable tropical fruits and local treats like mango sticky rice. 

Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand

2. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market is known for its natural atmosphere and mouth-watering food. Located on the outskirts of Bangkok, be surrounded by lush greenery as you journey through the canals before arriving at the main market. This market boasts a more authentic experience as it is mostly visited by Thais. Look out for pla pao (Thai salt crusted grilled fish) and goong ob woon sen (shrimp with mungbean noodles), two of the market’s iconic selections. 

30/1 หมู่ที่ 15 Bang Ramat Rd, Khwaeng Bang Ramat, Khet Taling Chan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10170, Thailand

3. Amphawa Floating Market

One of the older floating markets near Bangkok, Amphawa Floating Market attracts both tourists and locals alike. Before splurging on souvenirs and food, you can also veer off-course to see classic tilt houses, the traditional homes of locals. Eat your way through the market canal and enjoy the aroma of cooked food that will fill your senses. If you’re around the area till nightfall, don’t miss a mesmerising boat trip to watch fireflies in cork trees—an experience that other markets do not offer.  

CXG3+2X5, Tambon Amphawa, Amphoe Amphawa, Chang Wat Samut Songkhram 75110, Thailand

4. Taling Chan Floating Market

This semi-rural floating market is a great location which encompasses both nature and the waterfront. Plant people will have an affinity with this market as local gardeners bring in ornamental plants daily. Go deeper into the canal and you’ll find throngs of boats lined up along the perimeters running at full capacity. Seafood and small barbecue skewers are popular among market-goers. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of Thai traditional musicians serenading visitors in the area on certain weekends. 

333 Chak Phra Rd, Khlong Chak Phra, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand

5. Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market

Catered more towards the locals, come here to experience what the Thais are up to every weekend. Escape the busy city life at Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market as thatch-covered stalls welcome you as you emerge through the surrounding greenery. Here, you’ll also find gac, a vivid orange fruit that is not commonly found in Bangkok.  

98 Bang Nam Phueng, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan 10130, Thailand

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