travel tips

5 Must-See Thai Night Markets for Foodies and Shoppers

Jennifer Garcia | January 10, 2025

If you want to take the first step in learning about a country, eat their food—Thailand can be best described as a feast for the senses.

The first time you experience a Thai night market, it may feel as if you have been transported into a different universe. The bright neon signs, the rows upon rows of vendors, the smell of fresh herbs and spices filling the air as the meats sizzle and hot oils hiss. Walk in with an open mind, and you will find yourself to be rewarded with the enriching cultural experiences Thailand has to offer.

Should you have the pleasure of visiting a night market in Thailand, consider yourself lucky to dive into the old culture of flavourful dishes, artisanal shopping, and the hospitality of the people who bring these markets to life. To make your adventure easier, here are five of the best night markets in Thailand to visit.

1. Chiang Mai night bazaar (Chiang Mai)

The Chiang Mai night bazaar comes to life after each sunset. This is one of the most famous markets in northern Thailand, and debatably, one of its largest. Full of energy and packed with great selections, it has everything you would need to shop and eat till you drop. When in Thailand, street food is a must. Ever wondered what scorpion tastes like? Well wonder no longer, you can try the local delicacy that is maeng pawng (deep fried scorpion-on-a-stick). If that doesn’t appeal to you, then opt for the local specialty, Kao Soi, a rich curry noodle soup. Like any good night market, it doesn’t get going until after 5pm. Arrive any earlier and you’re bound to find vendors in the first stages of setting up. If you’re looking for entertainment, the traditional Chiang Mai Muy Thai boxing matches are hosted during the week. With a great variety of Thai artisanal crafts, galleries, and cozy cafes, you are guaranteed a night of good eats and shopping.

2. Asiatique the riverfront (Bangkok)

Located along the Chao Phraya River, Asiatique is the perfect blend of night market and shopping mall. Offering a picturesque scenery, you can walk along the docks or get lost inside the little alleyways, discovering a huge variety of foods and souvenir shops—it's also famous for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a live performance or take a ride on Thailand’s largest Ferris wheel (an impressive 60 metres high). Although it’s not the most authentic, since it was created with tourists in mind, Asiatique still has a lot of charm, and with over 1,000 shops to explore, it’s definitely worth a visit. Pro tip: If you want to skip the traffic, take a free Asiatique ferry from the Sathorn Pier.

3. Malin plaza patong beach (Phuket)

In Phuket, the Patong night market is a favourite spot for tourists with its tropical vibes and cheap eats. Looking for fresh seafood dishes? You won’t have to look far. This gastronomic wonderland gives you the ideal combination of tasty treats at wallet-friendly prices. After a long day at the beach, this is the perfect spot to take in the vibrant hustle and bustle that night markets are known for and indulge in some late-night snacks.

Follow Julien on tour in his pursuit of trying Thai delicacies during his visit in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

4. Ratchada Rot Fai train night market (Bangkok)

This outdoor market is famous for its colourful tents, cool vintage gift shops, and trendy bars. The food scene is just as renowned—with various stalls of crepes, tasty fried seafood, and nutrient-packed fried insects. The retro and eclectic vibe, combined with its brightly lit stalls, makes it a worthwhile place to visit.

5. Chatuchak friday night market (Bangkok)

When you picture an authentic Thai market, this will come to mind. Boasting a whopping 15,000 stalls, Chatuchak is known for its massive weekend market. However, on Friday nights a smaller section of the market opens that allows visitors to enjoy the culture in a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere. Located In Chatuchak Park, it is an accessible location for both locals and tourists who want to travel by train. Many vendors sell their wares wholesale, so you can expect a bargain if you purchase in larger quantities—a shopaholics dream! You’ll be able to find trendy clothes, artisan crafts, Thai art, and cool knick-knacks. Hungry? Indulge in yummy street food like skewered meats but keep in mind that this market is more ‘shopper’s paradise’ than ‘foodie heaven’. Overall, expect affordable prices, perhaps some bargaining if you’re feeling bold, and definitely good vibes.

Thai night markets are a window into the heart and soul of the country. They offer much more than just shopping and food—they provide an authentic, sensory experience that allows you to delve deep into Thai culture. Whether you're exploring the vast offerings of Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar, enjoying the riverside charm of Asiatique, or immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Ratchada Rot Fai Train Market, each market has its own unique character. Embrace the adventure, savour the flavours, and let the energy of these markets guide you through an unforgettable journey in Thailand. With these five iconic markets on your list, you're sure to experience the country in ways that will leave you wanting more.