After the sun sets, Thailand’s infamous night markets come alive and the city streets turn into a carnival-like spectacle teeming with delicious food stalls, locally crafted items, live music and, of course, great bargains!
It's time to grab your baht and take your pick from the many after-dark shopping destinations across Thailand – from the neon-lit capital of Bangkok to lively Chiang Mai. Discover where to have fun once night falls with our guide to some of the best night markets in Thailand.
The best Thailand night markets
- Chatuchak Night Market, Bangkok
- Phuket Walking Street, Phuket
- Rot Fai Night Market, Bangkok
- Fisherman’s Village Walking Street, Koh Samui
- Khlong Thom Market, Bangkok
- Chillva Market, Phuket
- Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, Chiang Rai
- Cicada Market, Hua Hin
- Krabi Town Walking Street, Krabi
- Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai
- The best city in Thailand for night markets
1. Chatuchak Friday Night Market, Bangkok
For truly chilled out vibes, head to the Chatuchak Friday night market. With over 8,000 stalls of colourful, handmade wares – we are you to try and walk away empty-handed! – it’s safe to say that Chatuchak is one of the most impressive night markets in Thailand.
Shop for fabrics you won’t find anywhere else in the world, take home elegant glass trinkets for friends and family or have a little fun bargaining over antiques if you have an eye for vintage interior design.
And come the evening, Chatuchak is much cooler and less crowded than during the day – just another reason to visit after dark.
Opening hours: Fridays between 9pm and 6am
Address: 2 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Lat Yao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
Where to stay near Chatuchak Friday Night Market: Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok
Why: As well as a fantastic location along the Chao Phraya River, you’ll also enjoy lush gardens and a spa. This hotel is the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring Bangkok.
2. Phuket Walking Street, Phuket
Set in Phuket’s Old Town, this large weekend market is definitely one for Instagram. Every Sunday evening, the usually quiet Thalang Road lined with gorgeous historical buildings transforms into a vibrant and creative hub bustling with quirky vendors, arty corners and young street performers – expect everything from linocut flip flops and handmade soap carvings to plenty of local treats to sample. Make sure you barter down your prices, but don’t forget to give back to the Thai locals – a small amount makes a large difference to the young performers.
Opening hours: Sundays between 4pm and 10pm
Address: Thalang Rd, Talat Yai, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Where to Stay: Aleenta Resort & Spa Phuket Phang Nga
Why: This wonderfully modern beachfront resort provides the perfect base for travellers looking for somewhere to unwind. Throw some punches in a Thai boxing class, find zen with a Tai Chi session and tuck into cocktails at the swim up bar before heading to Phuket Walking Street in the evening for a livelier scene.
3. Rot Fai Market or Train Night Market, Bangkok
In the bustling and somewhat hectic streets of Bangkok, the colourful Rot Fai Market at Srinakarin– also known as the Train Market – is a unique and expansive market, so big it’s split into different sections. On the outskirts at the Warehouse Zone, you’ll find retro collectables, leather jackets, old-school cameras and vintage cars.
Venturing on you’ll be tempted by the wafting smells of Pad Thai, the dexterousness of vendors rolling fried ice-cream into delectable tubes and the spicy soups on display. There are also dozens of lively bars and plenty of haggling for sunglasses, shoes and shirts, so even if you don’t buy a thing, your evening at this trendy hangout will still be incredibly entertaining.
Opening hours: Daily 5pm to 1am
Address: Ratchadaphisek Road, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Where to Stay: Banyan Tree Bangkok
Why: For its rooftop Moon Bar with breathtaking sky-high views and classy mini-suites soaring above Sathorn Road right in the heart of the city.
4. Fisherman’s Village Walking Street, Koh Samui
Attracting both foreigners and locals, Bophut Road is the place welcoming everyone on Friday nights with market stall-filled streets. On top of the usual clothing and knick-knacks, Fisherman’s Village Walking Street defines itself as one of the more popular night markets of Koh Samui with premium local fabrics, unique jewellery pieces, personalised handicrafts and musical instruments as well as beatboxing, Thai dance and Muay Thai demonstrations in front of the pier.
Opening hours: Fridays between 5pm and 11pm
Address: Bophut Beach Road, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Where to Stay: SALA Samui Choengmon Beach
Why? For its close proximity to Fisherman’s Village Walking Street – only a short drive away! Its secluded and stylish accommodations create your own uninterrupted spa-like paradise and there is a selection of sea, jungle and mountain activities available from zip-lining through the canopy to private island tours.
5. Khlong Thom Market or Flashlight Market, Bangkok
For a truly unique experience charge up your phone and head to Khlong Thom Market – also referred to as the Flashlight Market.
Where did it get this unusual name? Well, it’s simply because certain areas of this night market can be very dark and you may need a torch to look a little closer at some of the goods for sale! However, once illuminated, you can rummage through everything from charming second-hand toys to vintage goods – if you’re a lover of fun little knick-knacks, you’re definitely in luck!
You’ll find this hidden gem on the corner of Chaokhamrop Road and Worachak Road within the Chinatown area of Bangkok – not far from the Rommaninat Park which was built on top of an old prison site. Sellers at Khlong Thom market start to set up for the night market from around 4pm, which gives you plenty of time for pre-market wining and dining at your hotel.
Opening hours: Daily 5pm to 1am
Address: Worachak, Samphanthawong, Pomprapsattruphai, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Where to stay: Oriental Residence Bangkok
Why? This chic hotel is situated in Bangkok’s shopping district, so you’ll never find yourself short of places to indulge in a little retail therapy. Plus, with access to public transport close by, you should be able to reach Khlong Thom Market relatively easily.
6. Chillva Market, Phuket
If trendy, bohemian vibes are your thing then plan a visit to Chillva Market in Phuket. Set up between Monday and Saturday along the side of Yaowarat Road, you’ll find the sellers putting out their wares in upcycled and brightly painted shipping containers. The colourful light up night market sign is a popular spot for the many Instagrammers visiting the area.
If you skipped dinner – or perhaps are in the mood for a second helping – the great news is that around half of Chillva Market is made up of Thai food stalls where you can sample everything from sizzling skewered chicken to simmering fish curries and fried sweet treats. We’re feeling hungry already!
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday between 5pm and 11pm
Address: 141/2 Yaowarat Road, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Where to stay: Angsana Laguna Phuket
Why? This luxury resort is just 20 minutes away from Phuket Town by car with an award-winning spa to unwind in the next day after exploring the night market.
7. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar, Chiang Rai
What it lacks in size it makes up for in liveliness and deliciousness. Chiang Rai’s Night Bazaar in the town centre is the definition of atmospheric and makes for an excellent evening mooch – the area is entirely pedestrian-only. Most people come here for the post-dinner snacks, artisan shopping with products crafted by hill tribes and Thai dance performances.
Opening hours: Wednesdays between 6pm and 11pm
Address: Wiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand
Where to stay: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
Why? This luxury resort is also a sanctuary for elephants where you can take walks with these gentle giants in the morning, indulge in a spa treatment in the afternoon then head to Chiang Rai city as the sun sets to explore the night market.
8. Cicada Market, Hua Hin
If you want to fill any spare space in your suitcase with some truly unique buys, then the Cicada Market in Hua Hin is the night market for you. You’ll find row upon row of incredible handmade items and crafts created by local artists, from hand-stitched plush toys and tie-dye t-shirts to painted pottery and home decor.
Cicada Market has a relaxed vibe, compared to other markets where you may feel like the sellers are calling out for you to buy everything on offer. Here, you have time to browse and learn more about the pieces that are being sold. Plus, when you’re done spending your travel money, you’ll find a variety of performing arts taking place and buskers to serenade you as you wander the stalls.
Opening hours: Friday to Sunday between 4pm and 11pm
Address: Soi Hua Thanon 23, Th Phetkasem
Where to stay: Amari Hua Hin
Why? The Amari is just 5 minutes away on foot from the popular Cicada Market – perfect for a stroll after dinner at the Mosaic restaurant on-site – plus there’s a city shuttle service to take you into the midst of Hua Hin.
9. Krabi Town Walking Street, Krabi
Wear your comfiest trainers or sandals to explore this 2,000 square metre plaza in Krabi’s downtown area, filled to the brim with yellow tented stalls offering everything from handmade accessories to your typical t-shirts and jewellery as well as freshly cooked food. After dark, the plaza is buzzing with life as tourists and locals flock to nab a bargain and have a good time.
This night market is the perfect choice if you’re looking for entertainment alongside your shopping as it’s centred around a stage where local artists perform. There are also karaoke shows that you can take part in, if you fancy a croon.
Opening hours: Friday to Sunday between 5.30pm and 10pm
Address: Soi Maharaj 8, Pak Nam, Muang, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Where to stay: Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort
Why? Located just 20 minutes from this lively night market, you can soak up the sun in pure luxury during the day, with two outdoor swimming pools to enjoy as well as watersports and plenty of dining options.
10. Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai
As the evening draws in, tourists and locals alike gather on the streets of Chiang Mai’s Old City on the hunt for bargains and to soak up the spirited atmosphere. This night market gets very busy, so expect to move at a slower pace than usual but as there’s so much to see along the way we’re sure you won’t mind.
Shop for lightweight clothing to add to your holiday wardrobe during your stay in Thailand, pick up souvenirs to take back to your friends back home and sample dishes from the many street food vendors lining the road – serving up hot noodles, spicy curry bowls and fresh salads to tuck into as you browse.
Opening hours: Sundays from 5pm to 10.30pm
Address: Rachadamnoen Rd, Si Phum, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Where to stay: Akyra Manor Hotel Chiang Mai
Why? In the heart of Chiang Mai, this luxury hotel puts you close to the action. You’ll find a rooftop pool, a state of the art fitness centre and delicious food to tuck into after a long day of relaxation.
11. The best city in Thailand for night markets – Bangkok
As you’d expect, Thailand’s capital is a popular destination for shoppers looking to part with their baht. But which is the best Bangkok night market you ask? There are too many for us to pick just one, all filled with tempting food stalls, excellent bargains and a vibrant atmosphere – here are our favourites to check out when staying in or near the city.
- Asiatique – This night market in Bangkok is a mish-mash of shopping experiences as it combines the fun of a bazaar with the familiarity of a shopping mall. Stalls are open from 4pm until midnight with 1,500 boutiques to shop in, plus there’s entertainment going on throughout the night if you need to stop for a breather.
- Patpong Night Market – A popular destination for tourists, you’ll find this market in the midst of Bangkok’s nightlife district. It pays to bargain during your visit, as vendors can be a little cheeky when it comes to prices for tourists.
- Artbox Bangkok – Looking for a chic shopping experience? You’ll find Artbox Bangkok in Chuvit Garden with sellers offering their wares out of revamped shipping containers – you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped into the likes of London’s Shoreditch. This open-air market features clothing and souvenirs crafted by local designers and artists which is great if you want to avoid the typical fake handbag stalls.
- Khaosan Road – The bright lights of Khaosan Road in Bangkok draw visitors from around the world – you may even recognise this location from the movie The Beach, starring a young Leonardo DiCaprio. This is where you’ll find secondhand book stores, internet cafes, tacky souvenir shops and a bustling atmosphere, all between the hours of 3pm and 2am.
- Chang Chui Bangkok Plane Night Market – Giant plane? Check. Wild and wacky art? Check. You must be at Chang Chui Plane Night Market! This unusual destination, located north of Bangkok with its very own Tristar airliner sat in the middle of everything, is a must-visit during your stay. After dark, it comes alive with lights and people shopping and having a good time.
Looking for more inspiration when it comes to what to see and do in Thailand? Check out our guides to Thailand below covering everything from the best spiritual retreats to tips for foodies.
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