I quite often get emails from eBayers, wholesalers and bargain hunters who want to buy clothes and other items in bulk to sell back home, either by export or simply carrying goods home in their luggage.
From experience, I also know that savvy shoppers looking for a deal on a year’s supply of fisherman pants, or multi-buys like 3 vests for 100 Baht , love trawling the markets too.
So, “Where is the best market in Bangkok?”
Those of you who've visited the city know that there's pretty much a market on every corner, so I've combed the city and come up with a list of 12 markets in Bangkok that you should definitely consider on your shopping itinerary. In addition to clothes and crafts, I've thrown in some food and flower market options which are worthy outings too.
You'll want to bookmark this page in advance of your trip, as there's a lot of information here.
Oh! And make sure you check out my top haggling tips at the end of the list to make sure you get the best bang (kok) for your buck,
1. Pratunam Market
Man, if I had a dime for every time I've been here. Filled to the brim with bargain clothes, shoes and other accessories, Pratunam market is one of the most visited in Bangkok for its fantastic deals and fun atmosphere. Warning though: The outdoor area can get very packed which makes it difficult to walk around. It also gets hot.
Photo credit: laiyieng (Flickr)
1. How to get there
Keep your eyes peeled for the Amari Waterfront Hotel and once you see it, you know that Pratunam market is right around the corner! The market is nestled right at the intersection of Ratchaprop and Petchburi road. You can walk the markets to your heart's content, as they end at Baiyoke towers.
2. What's on sale
Are you a bargain shopper looking for clothes, shoes and other accessories? Pratunam market is the place to go. Most shops will even offer up the goods for insanely cheap wholesale prices, so you can go in expecting a great deal. The market itself is open round the clock, but the retail shops open at 10 am and close at 9 pm.
3. What prices to expect
Prices at Pratunam are truly out of this world. The best bargains are usually to be had outside in the alleyways rather than inside the main building. T-shirts could level out at 80-90 baht, bags average out to 50 baht, pants average at about 150 baht and knitwear at a max of 200 baht.
4. Newbie tip:
Getting hot? Baiyoke towers is chock full of shopping opportunities and it is very efficiently air-conditioned. Escape the heat of Bangkok and get out of the hustle bustle of the market by ducking into the tower for a cool breeze.
Click here to get directions on Google maps
2. Boebae Market
Textile fiend? Clothes lover? Boebae is another great option for deeply discounted garment shopping, mostly geared toward those buying in bulk.
1. How to get there
Bobae Market is near Yotse Bridge and is located directly on Krung Kasem Road. If you're OK on public transport, try taking the BTS to National Stadium. From there, Bobae Market is a 10 minutes drive or a twenty minute stroll.
2. What's on sale
Bobae Market is pretty much a clothes and textile shopper's paradise. With a variety of styles to choose from, in addition to good quality fabrics at amazing prices, Bobae should be on the top of any clothes horse or clothing trader's list. In addition, Bobae has a fantastic selection of fun jewelry that is some of the cheapest I've seen in Thailand, especially if you buy in bulk.
3. What prices to expect
We're looking at rock bottom prices here: you'll usually have to buy in multiples but can occasionally persuade a shop owner to sell you a single piece. For a set of three dresses, I've seen as low as 550 baht. That's a steal.
4. Newbie tip
Don't miss out on Bobae Market's food selection: yes, they have a variety of delicious Halal Food, but they also have an incredible selection of fresh fruits and vegetables that are, of course, native to Thailand.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
3. Chatuchak Market
Another of my favourites, but relegated to the weekends, Chatuchak is the biggest market in Bangkok. It has everything and spans 35 acres, but don't let this intimidate you. It's a fun day out with plenty to eat, busking entertainment and lots of weird and wonderful things to buy.
Photo credit: Karl Baron (Flickr)
1. How to get there:
Chatuchak is easy to find and navigate. Since Chatuchak is located near one of Bangkok's most well known bus terminals, you can easily take the BTS to Mo Chit station and stroll until you see the beginning of the market. In addition, you can also take the MRT to Chatuchak Park Station. From there, you can follow the crowds.
2. What's on sale
Literally everything. Since there is 35 acres of ground to cover, Chatuchak stalls have everything you could possibly want, including antiques, books, pet needs, ceramics, clothing and shoes, plants and gardening, food, furniture and more.
3. What prices to expect
The thing about Chatuchak is that there are is so much variety in terms of quality and selection that prices vary greatly. You can find jewelry pieces for 20 baht or 500 baht. Tshirts level out at 150 baht and quality, unique clothes could run you 400-500 baht. Definitely shop around, there are almost 10,000 stalls!
4. Newbie tip
Keep your wits about you in Chatuchak! It's definitely crowded enough that you need to mind your wallet and your purchases. Also, the stalls are arranged in sort of a semi-circle, with a central soi framing the market. Inside, there are individual sois that you can explore.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
4. Sampeng Market
Not the prettiest on this list, but give it a chance because Sampeng is the holy grail for cash strapped travelers looking to make a buck (or few) selling foreign goods overseas.
Photo credit: Maxim B (Flickr)
1. How to get there
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Sampeng is located on Soi Wanit 1, which is a long and narrow lane. From here, the market expands horizontally and reaches the central avenue of Chinatown. Note that Sampeng Lane is also part of the market but primarily sells textiles.
2. What's on sale
Sampeng itself is home to many objects originally made in China that have been sold to Thai resellers. You can expect to find the typical fabric and clothing offerings, but also miles and miles of trinkets that include purses, tools, electronics, jewelry, watches, cosmetics and even household goods. Those looking to resell jewelry will have an absolute field day in Sampeng's busy stalls. Resellers, note that there are plenty of watches, glasses frames and sunglasses to purchase, as well.
3. What prices to expect
The more you buy, the more of a discount you'll get. Go into Sampeng expecting to buy in bulk, it's the only way you'll really make the most of it. Jewelry is mostly priced at 120-150 baht and other accessories are about the same. Think of the markups you could charge at home.
4. Newbie tip
If you're a serious shopper and looking to resell in your home country, try to befriend a few shopkeepers or try to cultivate a business relationship. A language barrier shouldn't be too prohibitory!
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
5. Saphan Phut Market [closed as of 2019]
There is a lot of young energy at Saphan Phut, as can been seen from the picture below. There's a trendy vibe here and always lots of fun offerings. This is a cool place to visit even if you have no intention of buying anything.
Photo credit: Ian Fuller (Flickr)
1. How to get there
It's not know as the Memorial Bridge Night Market for nothing! Located near the bridge right next to the river, Saphan Phut also shares a market space with the flower market. The market itself can be found right at the intersection of Maharat and Chakraphet road.
2. What's on sale
Clothing items are available, such as t shirts and pants, as well as shoes and purses. Saphan Phut also offers video games, DVDs and other electronics that attract a younger crowd. You can be sure that you'll find a bargain on your favorite movie or game and maybe even find a cool new tech toy.
3. What prices to expect
Prices here are so cheap that many say bartering is completely unnecessary. In addition, a lot of Thais will shop here, ensuring that it is a great deal for all of your entertainment needs!
4. Newbie tip:
Trying to reach Saphan Phut on a Monday or a Wednesday? Don't bother! They're closed both of those days and don't open until nearly 6 pm. However, some parts of the market stretch late into the night, with some stalls running until 2 am!
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
✓ Your next read: 10 Most Luxurious Hotels in Bangkok
6. Chinatown Market / Klong Thom
The China Town area is a giant complex of bustling markets and you can find pretty much anything under the sun in these stalls.
In the late afternoon you'll find sellers lining the streets with small offerings of vintage goods like watches and amulets, but be careful not to get sucked in if you don't know what you're buying. It's an interesting sight to see, though.
You'll also come across the famous Klong Thom market, which is a haven for second-hand goods like games consoles and other electronics, old bits and bobs, DVDs and more. I have an extensive review of this market – which you can read here – because it really does deserve it.
Photo credit: Eddy Milfort (Flickr)
1. How to get there
Formally called Pahurat, the Chinatown markets can be found off of Chakraphek Road, between Yaowarat Road and the Chao Phraya River. It's easiest to get to Chinatown from the Chao Phraya River Express- get off at Ratchawong Pier.
2. What's on sale
Dealing in gold? Yaowarat Road's Hua Seng Heng is one of the best places in Bangkok to purchase gold as its reputation for reasonable prices and exceptional quality precedes it.
In addition, off of Yaowarat is Itsaraphap Lane, which has a delightful assortment of cooking spices- think nuts, herbs, etc. Then check out Klong Thom for vinatage goods like old game consoles, electronics, toys and vinyl.
3. What prices to expect
Get your bargain on in Chinatown, but also expect to pay some of the lowest prices that you will in Bangkok. Ask a local Thai what the appropriate prices are for items that you're interested in and then start haggling. Chinatown is a stupendous deal for those looking to buy an assortment of goods for a home or shop.
4. Newbie tip
Take it easy! The Chinatown markets are expansive and can be overwhelming. Take time to admire the variety of goods that each shop offers and stop to get food at one of the delicious stalls. If you're into tea or cooking, be sure to take home some authentic goodies.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
7. Rot Fai Market
Alas, perhaps my favourite night-time wander. Rot Fai is a happening place where young Thais go to browse, eat, sell and hang out. Expect to see lots of old VW camper vans turned into make-shift shops selling everything from old vinyl to cool-slogan tees.
Photo credit: Dana Mcmahan (Flickr)
1. How to get there
It's not called the train market for nothing! Rot Fai got its original name from its close proximity to abandoned train tracks. When it was moved to accommodate the BTS expansion, the name stuck and vendors got an even bigger area to showcase their goods.
Rot Fai is also easy to find: it's located behind the well known Seacon Square Shopping Mall that is easily accessible by taxi or BTS. If you intend to take the Skytrain, get off at On Nut Station and either walk or taxi to Seacon Square.
2. What's on sale
Unlike most other markets listed before it, Rot Fai is known for its eccentricities in terms of sales offerings. It's got an amazing variety of goods that range from vintage cameras to kooky old clothes and appliances.
If anything, Rot Fai is cool and the vibe continues to its food stalls and little bars, where trendy food and drink is the norm. If you're an enthusiast of anything vintage, be sure to visit Rot Fai for the most unique offerings.
3. What prices to expect
Called Bangkok's biggest hipster bargain basement, Rot Fai is quite cheap. Since it's off the beaten path, vendors rarely have prices that are inflated because of tourists. You can bargain all you'd like, but rest assured that the price they offer is generally a bargain.
4. Newbie tip
Looking to shop and have fun? Visit Rot Fai on a Saturday evening, near midnight. That's when the market really starts to rumble with great food, music, performances and sports showings at the local bars. A note to the claustrophobic: it does get quite crowded, so if you're looking to shop in peace, go earlier!
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
8. Pak Klong Talad
Inarguably Bangkok's most beautiful market, Pak Klong Talad has a long history of providing the city with its share of gorgeous and incredibly fresh flowers. Looking for an assortment that includes the rare and beautiful orchid? Look no further than Pak Klong Talad, which offers large bundles of either 50 or 100.
Photo credit: Ninara (Flickr)
1. How to get there
Located on Chakphet Road, you can take a taxi to the location, which is situated right next to both the Memorial Bridge and the Saphan Phut Chao Phraya pier.
2. What's on sale
Flowers, flowers and more flowers. Pak Klong Talad offers every beautiful variety of bloom you could imagine, perfect for personal bouquets or for more ornate decorating projects. The plants originate from the provinces that surround Bangkok, as well as the northern province of Chiang Rai.
3. What prices to expect
Every Westerner knows that flowers can be incredibly expensive. Not so at Pak Klong Talad, where a bunch of 12 roses could be as little as 80 Baht.
4. Newbie tip
The flower markets are open 24/7, but the best time to go is generally early in the morning at 3 or 4 am until 6 am, when the growers are delivering huge, fresh cut bundles of flowers straight from the truck.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
9. Klongsan Market
Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, but on the Thonburi side, Klongsan is a market that not many tourists are inclined to visit. As it is geared toward local Thai, it may be the perfect place to experience a truly authentic Thai market. You also won't be inundated with tourist prices and can stroll at your leisure.
Photo credit: Time Travel Turtle (Pinterest)
1. How to get there
You can reach the market from the BTS- get off at the Saphan Taksin station. You'll have to cross the river, but it's easy with the Phraya Express Boat. Afterward, you can take another ferry across to Klong San Pier.
2. What's on sale
The contents of this market are varied; some stalls sell trendy items that mirror Western fashions at good prices and others sell little trinkets that would not be out of place as souvenirs. There are also a variety of delicious food stalls, if you get hungry and want to experience truly authentic Thai food.
3. What prices to expect: You'll feel far from the overpriced and overrun markets of Bangkok that often trap tourists. Prices, however, are not fixed so feel free to bargain on goods for a few less baht than they're marked.
4. Newbie tip
Go after dark so you can enjoy the live music and good beer that flows abundantly on the river banks!
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
10. Klong Toey Market
Klong Toey is one of Bangkok's greatest fresh food markets. If you've dined out in Bangkok, chances are your restaurant got their ingredients from the crazy streets that make up Klong Toey. If you fancy taking home some authentic Thai chili, this is your place.
Photo credit: Greg Holtfreter (Flickr)
1. How to get there
You can access the market easily if you take the MRT, as there is a Klong Toey station, though you'll have to exit south on Rama soi 4 and then walk under the Rama soi 3 Overpass.
2. What's on sale
Every food you could imagine is on sale at Klong Toey, making it a central hub for Bangkok's cooks and restaurant owners. You can buy an abundance of extremely fresh veggies and fruit, in addition to spices and other goods. It's a bit chaotic, but just go with the flow and watch the cooks of Bangkok buy their daily ingredients.
3. What prices to expect
Most places sell by the kilo, if you're looking to buy. Also, don't try to haggle! The market has fixed prices and they apply to everyone- tourist and local alike!
4. Newbie tip
Here's a little hint: Klong Toey is called a ‘wet market' for a reason: the streets can be quite sloshy, so be mindful of this when selecting footwear!
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
11. Wang Lang Market
Wang Lang will have you saying ” aroi mak mak!” (“delicious!”) before you know it. Little known to tourists, but loved by Thai university students, the Wang Lang market houses a variety of delicious street food vendors. It also offers up some bargains on trainers, tees and other loose clothing in and around the lanes.
Photo credit: Kitty Chirapongse (Flickr)
1. How to get there
It is located directly across from the Amulet Market, if you're feeling like you need a bit more luck.
2. What's on sale
Food, glorious food! You can sample the best of Thai cuisine on these market streets and munch your way through the maze of stalls. At the edges of the market, vendors also sell quite realistic knock off bags and trendy clothes and shoes for the younger crowd.
3. What prices to expect
Low prices make this market particularly hospitable to University students in Thailand, so you're bound to be able to fill your belly and not empty your wallet. Additional offerings, like clothes and shoes are also offered cheaply.
4. Newbie tip
If you're looking to experience the best of both worlds at Wang Lang, go around noon! That's when the food will be piping hot and the vendors will be in a great bargaining mood!
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
12. Tor Kor Market
Tor Kor is the ‘Whole Foods' of Bangkok fresh markets: it is scrupulously clean with really pristine produce. It also ranks as one of the more expensive fresh food markets in Bangkok. But is it worth it? Visitors give a resounding ‘yes!'
Photo credit: Dr Burtoni (Flickr)
1. How to get there
You can easily get to Tor Kor by taking the MRT to Kampheng Phet Station and exit at door #3, following the signs for the Marketing Organization for Farmers. Voila!
2. What's on sale
Tor Kor sells beautiful produce, prepared foods and kitchen goods. You'll be sure to find whatever your heart or your stomach desires in this airy, light market.
3. What prices to expect
Prices here are definitely going to be higher than what you see at other fresh markets in Bangkok, simply because the produce is a cut above the rest. Fruit and veggies here are meticulously checked for scrapes or spots, and vendors ensure that you're always getting the best, even if it means you pay a bit more.
4. Newbie tip
Try the local fare and also visit a couple of different fresh markets in Bangkok- you'll definitely see the difference between them, as Tor Kor is much more serene than most.
Click here to get directions on Google maps.
5 Top Haggling Tips: Bag the Best Bargain!
- Be friendly: Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles for a reason: Thai people respond well to friendly behavior and haggling is no exception. To ensure that you get off on the right foot, approach with a friendly countenance and give the vendor a smile- lighten the mood.
- Don’t expect a huge discount on already very cheap items: Let's keep in mind that you're still most likely getting a steal. Trying to force an already low price lower is a sure way to alienate the vendor and they might decide not to sell to you
- Buy in bulk: This is generally going to yield you the best price. That being said, don't try to haggle if you're purchasing in large quantities, as chances are, it's already wholesale. There's nothing more ungrateful than a tourist trying to haggle a sale price.
- Stay composed! If you've never haggled before, it might be nerve wracking, but just remember not to raise your voice or gesture violently. Thai vendors will respond much more favorably when you approach the situation as a game of jest- not as a serious competition. They'll likely appreciate your patronage more if you're not forceful in getting the best price.
- If you feel you're being ripped off, don't force the issue. Just leave it. Chances are, if you say ‘thank you' and walk off, you'll find that the vendor will fold to your price or that you'll find something incredibly similar 5 steps down the road from a vendor who will sell it closer to your preferred price. Don't make a scene or try to argue!
4 Must-Read Safety Tips: Stay Vigilant & Enjoy Browsing
Though Bangkok is known as a generally safe country in terms of petty street crime, the crush of the markets creates an ideal scenario for pickpockets, so stay alert with these tips:
- Watch your bag: It's much easier if you decide to bring a backpack to the markets, so you're not bogged down by multiple plastic shopping bags. However, if you do decide to wear a backpack, position it on your chest- that way you alone have access to its contents.
- Take money out carefully: Be mindful of how ostentatious you are with your wallet. Try to avoid dipping in every few minutes because you're letting a lot of people know exactly where you keep your stash.
- Buddy system: it's easier to stay safe if you have an extra pair of eyes. This might also detract pickpockets. If you can, go with a friend or acquaintance.
- Careful after dark: There are few places you shouldn't go after dark, and Chinatown might be one of them as unlit alley ways could attract pickpockets. Be sure to ask your hotel or a local before deciding to peruse these markets late at night.
Tips to Start Planning Your Trip Now:
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight to Thailand using Momondo. This is my go-to search engine.
Book Your Accommodation
Best hotel rates are found at Agoda, Booking.com, and Hotels.com. For hostels check out Hostelworld.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I never travel without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for 15 years. You should too.
Things to Do in Bangkok?
Once you are done shopping, take one of these popular trips and tours.