A Guide to Bangkok’s Floating Markets

For many travellers, the famous floating markets of Bangkokare high on the agenda when planning a visit to Thailand’s capital. There are plenty of tour operators in Bangkokthat offer tours of these markets, which sit on the outskirts of the city. Mostexcursions start before sunrise, to truly capture the floating markets at theirbusiest, so be sure to get an early night. And remember to dress the part; best to wearclothes you’re not afraid to get a little dirty as you may find yourselfenjoying a meal sitting on the pier floor!

Taling Chan is one of Bangkok’s most accessible floating markets, located just a fewkilometres outside the city. Though one of the smaller markets around, Taling Chan Floating Market maintains an authenticcharm and is less crowded with tourists than other larger markets, giving yousome room to appreciate the environment and food at local prices.

Take the chance to chat with some locals as you enjoy boat after boat of tasty food. Fill up on smoky grilled seafood on wooden sticks topped off withrefreshing, creamy coconut ice cream. While all the seafood at Taling Chan Floating Marketcomes highly recommended, keep a special eye out for Som Tum and theirbarbecued prawns, fish and blue crabs. For a different perspective at a small price, you can rent your own long-tail boat and explorethe market from the water for just 100 baht.

Treat yourself to a soothing massage beneath the trees after you’ve scoured the market for the best delicacies on offer.

Located on the bank of Saen Saeb canal near the outskirts of Bangkok, Kwan Riam Floating Market is one of the newest additions to Bangkok’s colourful array of floating markets. 

At first glance, KwanRiam gives off a more modern vibe with a built-up wooden structure for themarket’s many land vendors. Fans on the ceiling blow cool mist at eagervisitors and hawkers, keeping everyone comfortable and relaxed. Still, themarket does not neglect the customs and eats that make the floating market experienceso unique. 

Here, traditional Thai favourites like meat skewers and exotic icecreams mingle with younger café set-ups and international flavours likeVietnamese spring rolls and noodle soup. This market is popular with localuniversity students who you can find enjoying a meal on boats while hip hopmusic blasts unapologetically nearby.

You’ll also find local crafts on display, with everything going atreasonable pricesdespite the modern comforts. 

Damnoen Saduak is perhaps the most famous floating market in Bangkok. It is also one of the busiest, with thousands of locals andtourists flocking to its piers every day — and it’s not hard to see why.

This buzzing hive of activity attracts all kinds of boats overflowingwith fresh delicacies, juicy fruit and perfumed flowers. Soak in the market’svibrancy and remember to snap some priceless photos. The bursts of coloureverywhere make a picturesque, postcard backdrop for the holiday album.

Despite some complaints that Damnoen Saduak Floating Market has become more commercialin recent times, this iconic attraction is always worth a visit. No list of Bangkok’s best floating marketscan be complete without it.

Besides, where else can you enjoy the experienceof buying a meal off a boat and having it served to you on a fishing pole?