The Best Bangkok Night Markets That Aren't Jodd Fairs or The One Ratchada (2024)

I’ve been to Bangkok more times than my fingers can count. And every time I go there, I always make it a point to check out new night markets. Here are my favourite tried-and-tested markets, according to this writer’s experience.

The best thing about these markets is that they are all within a 30-minute car ride of main tourist areas like the Asoke and Pratunam neighbourhoods (not factoring in the infamous Bangkok jam).

Pro tip: if you’re brave enough, you can cut down on commute time by A LOT if you dare to ride on motorcycles. From my experience, this is the cheapest and most time-saving way to get around anywhere in Bangkok, no matter the time.

Best night markets in Bangkok (2024)

SWU night market

Just a 15-minute walk from the touristy Asoke area lies SWU Night Market, located on the grounds of Srinakharinwirot University.

Open every Friday evening, this market comes alive with a diverse range of food options, all at super affordable prices. From sushi and Korean potato swirls to spicy Thai curries and delectable local desserts, there’s something to satisfy every taste!

Indy market Pinklao

Indy Market is a charming local market located just a 30-minute drive away from central Bangkok. With its affordable prices and delicious food, it’s a haven for budget travellers and locals alike.

You won’t find hordes of tourists here, and it’s a vibrant atmosphere filled with young people, especially students. The market offers a diverse range of food, shopping and even beauty salons, with ample free seating anywhere in the market. There are also live bars for folks looking to enjoy a chill ambience.

Although it may not be the largest night market in Bangkok, its lack of tourists and reasonable prices make it a personal favourite for us.

Beyond food, Indy Market offers a variety of services. For the girlies, there are affordable nail salons (I paid S$13 for a full set of gel nail extensions!) and lash extensions available. Gentlemen can also get a trim at the local barber shop.

If you prefer to reach the market via public transportation, Indy Market Pinklao is conveniently located right next to the Bang Yi Khan MRT station.

Where: 209 Charan Sanit Wong Rd, Bang Bumru, Bang Phlat, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
Opening hours: 6pm to 12am, daily

Street Fruit Market (On Nut)

Tucked away in the On Nut neighbourhood, this unassuming night market offers a truly local experience. Unlike many tourist-oriented markets, it’s a bit off the beaten path, making it a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic taste of Bangkok.

I chanced upon it after a random cooking class nearby on one of my previous trips, so I don’t know the exact name of the market.

But according to Google Maps, it’s called Street Fruit Market — however, I find that this “fruit market” mostly sells street food instead of fruits at night.

I recommend this market because you can literally dedicate an entire day to exploring this area on foot — there are fantastic massage places (try out Chiang Mai Massage), Big C Supermarket, Lotus Supermarket, various indoor food courts, two shopping malls and even more night markets litter the area. The best part? Zero tourists.

Conveniently located near the On Nut MRT station, this market is easily accessible by public transportation. With its abundance of food, shops, and activities, you can easily spend an entire day or night exploring this vibrant local destination.

Where: 2025 Sukhumvit Rd, Phra Khanong Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Opening hours: From 6pm to late, daily

Sampeng Market

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown district, Sampeng Market is renowned for its wide variety of goods, from food to textiles and clothing to souvenirs.

Bargaining is a common practice here, so be prepared to negotiate prices with the friendly vendors. Sampeng Market is also a popular destination for other vendors to stock up on goods and food in bulk, so you know you’ll be getting the best prices as well.

The market is open all night (from 11pm to 5.30am), making it a perfect spot for those who can’t sleep. Don’t miss the famous Yaowarat toasted buns and consider purchasing some delicious pork floss to take home!

Where: Khwaeng Chakkrawat, Khet Samphanthawong, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10100, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am to 5pm and 11pm to 5.30am from Mondays to Saturdays. 8am to 2pm on Sundays

Ramkhamhaeng Night Market

Ramkhamhaeng Night Market offers a truly authentic Thai experience, far from the tourist-trodden paths. It is not accessible by train, so you’ll have to take a cab or motorbike to this market.

But trust me, this market is so worth it as it is huge — you can find a wide variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and household items at super affordable prices.

A standout feature is the abundance of halal food options, making it a great choice for Muslim visitors. Many vendors can also communicate in Malay, according to Google reviews.

While Ramkhamhaeng Night Market is located a bit farther from the city centre, it’s well worth the 30-minute trip for a unique and authentic experience. If you’re travelling by taxi, alight at Rajamangala National Stadium (Gate 1). The night market will be situated near the entrance of the gate.

Where: Ramkhamhaeng Rd Hua Mak, Bang Kapi District, Bangkok 10240, Thailand
Opening hours: 3.30pm to 10pm on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Pratunam Night Market

Okay, okay, I know Pratunam is a tourist hotspot, but hear me out. The night market has a totally different vibe from the daytime madness. Sure, the shopping might not be as extensive, but you’ll find some seriously sweet deals and a ton of street food that’s perfect for a late-night snack.

The vendors start setting up around 4pm, and you need to try the mango sticky rice. Despite being in a tourist area, this dessert only costs 50 – 60 baht (around S$2) for a generous set.

If you’re still feeling the shopping bug after Pratunam Night Market, head over to Palladium Night Market. And don’t forget to check out the massage places along the way. They’re super affordable at around 250 baht (S$9.59) per hour, and you deserve a little pampering after all that shopping.

Where: Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Opening hours: 4pm onwards, daily

Chang Chui Plane Night Market/ Chang Chui Creative Park

Chang Chui Plane Night Market is a quirky and creative night market destination in Bangkok that’s definitely worth a visit. As the name suggests, the market centres around a real, retired airplane, which has been transformed into a high-end restaurant.

The market boasts a bohemian vibe with repurposed materials, colourful installations, and a focus on local design. You’ll find a wide range of shops selling everything from handmade crafts and vintage clothing to unique souvenirs. You can also enjoy live music performances, art exhibitions, and other cultural events.

While not located in the city centre (not far from Indy Market Pinklao), Chang Chui is easily accessible by taxi.

If you would like to capture photos without the crowd, we’d recommend you to arrive there by 4pm!

Where: 460/8 Sirindhorn Rd, Bang Phlat, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
Opening hours: 4pm onwards, daily

Srinagarindra Train Night Market

Srinagarindra Train Night Market, also known as Talad Rot Fai Srinakarin, is a massive open-air night market in Bangkok.

The market is a treasure trove for vintage collectors, with numerous shops selling a wide range of old memorabilia. From antique furniture to vintage clothing, you’ll find plenty to explore and discover.

It’s located slightly far off the central places in Bangkok but trust us, it’s worth the trip for the vibes… And the lack of other tourists.

Forget getting to this market via public transport — Grabcar or motorbike is the way to go, and it should only take you around 30 minutes from Bangkok’s city centre.

Where: 1 4 Srinagarindra Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok 10250, Thailand
Opening hours: 5pm to 1am, Thursdays to Sundays