Bangkok has dozens of night markets, but they are not all the same. Some are best for shopping, some are best for food, and some are just fun places to relax, listen to music, and take photos. If you pick the right market for what you want, your night will be much better.
This guide covers five of the best night markets in Bangkok. You’ll learn what each one is good for, what to buy and eat, when to go, and how to get there by train.
Bangkok Night Markets at a Glance
| Night market | Best for | Open |
|---|---|---|
| Chatuchak Night Market | Cheap shopping | Evenings, usually Friday night |
| Jodd Fairs | Food variety and nightlife | Daily, about 4:00 p.m. to midnight |
| Srinakarin Train Market | Food, vintage shopping, and nightlife | Thursday to Sunday, about 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. |
| Chinatown (Yaowarat) | Street food and neon photos | Every evening |
| Pratunam Night Market | Very cheap clothes and shoes | Evenings |
Opening days and hours can change, so check before you go.
1. Chatuchak Night Market: Best for Cheap Shopping
Most people know Chatuchak as Bangkok’s famous weekend market. But many travelers miss its night market, and that’s a shame. At night, it’s cooler, calmer, and often cheaper than during the day.
Some shops only open at night, so you’ll find items here that you won’t see at the weekend day market. The best deals are usually placed right at the front of the shops.
What to buy:
- Clothes and shoes: Many items are on sale for about 100 baht. These are already discounted, so bargaining usually isn’t possible.
- Sunglasses: From about 20 baht (not brand names).
- Hats: From about 100 baht.
- Home decor: Artificial flowers and handmade wooden pieces, often cheaper than in the daytime.
- Scents and aroma products: Good gifts to take home.
If you buy more than one item from the same shop, ask for a discount. Many sellers will happily give you a better price.
There’s a food section too, but Chatuchak is really a shopping market. If you’re hungry, eat a snack here and save your appetite for the next stop.
How to get there: Take the BTS to Mo Chit Station or the MRT to Chatuchak Park Station. Traffic around the market is very heavy, so the train is the best choice.
2. Jodd Fairs: Best for Food Variety and Fun
Jodd Fairs is one of the busiest night markets in Bangkok. It sits right behind the Central Rama 9 mall and is very easy to reach.
The market is mainly about food and nightlife. Rows of stalls sell grilled meats, seafood, noodles, desserts, and colorful drinks. There are so many choices that you’ll want to try a bit of everything. Just know that prices are a little higher than at local markets, because it’s popular with tourists.
At the back of the market, there’s a relaxed nightlife area with live music, cold drinks, and classic cars for photos. There’s also a small shopping section with clothes, shoes, and accessories, plus nail and hair services. But for shopping, other markets are cheaper.
Opening hours: Daily, from about 4:00 p.m. to midnight. It’s busiest on weekends.
Tip: It gets very crowded, so come early if you want space to walk.
How to get there: Take the MRT to Phra Ram 9 Station and follow the signs.
3. Srinakarin Train Market: Best All-Round Night Market
The Srinakarin Train Market (Talad Rot Fai) is one of the most popular night markets with locals. It’s huge, lively, and has something for everyone: food, shopping, and nightlife.
Food
This is one of the best night markets in Bangkok for food. Prices are affordable, and portions are big. Popular dishes include:
- Pad kra pao: Spicy Thai basil stir-fry.
- Giant pork bone dishes: Big, spicy, slow-cooked pork bones, perfect for sharing.
- Grilled seafood: Often cheaper here than in Chinatown.
- Ice cream and desserts: Great for cooling down.
Come hungry. Two big sharing dishes can easily feed more than two people.
Shopping
The shopping area has three main parts: everyday items, second-hand goods, and vintage finds. You’ll find cheap shoes from about 100 baht, T-shirts with fun designs, and lots of unusual collectibles. There are even barber shops, nail salons, and massage shops if you want to relax.
Nightlife
Small bars with cheap drinks and live music are spread around the market. The market’s famous old airplane and classic cars make great photo spots.
Opening hours: Usually Thursday to Sunday, from about 5:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. It gets busier after 9:00 p.m.
How to get there: Take the MRT Yellow Line to Suan Luang Rama 9 Station. The market is right next to it.
4. Chinatown (Yaowarat): Best for Street Food Atmosphere
Bangkok’s Chinatown isn’t a classic night market, but after sunset, Yaowarat Road becomes one of the most exciting food streets in Asia. Neon signs glow above the road, tuk-tuks rush past, and people line up at famous food stalls.
What to eat:
- Pad Thai: Stir-fried noodles, cooked fresh.
- Seafood: Premium quality, but more expensive than at the Train Market.
- Roasted chestnuts: Warm, sweet, and crunchy.
- Thai-Chinese doughnuts: Look for stalls with Michelin Guide signs.
- Chinese sweets: Many famous dessert shops have long lines, but they’re worth trying once.
Be ready to wait in line, and be careful when crossing the busy roads. During Chinese New Year, Chinatown is even more colorful, with red decorations, traditional costumes, and dragon dances.
How to get there: Take the MRT Blue Line to Wat Mangkon Station.
5. Pratunam Night Market: Best for Bargain Clothes
Pratunam is Bangkok’s famous clothing district. During the day, it’s hot and crowded. At night, it’s much more pleasant for shopping.
Not every shop is open at night, but you’ll still find some of the cheapest clothes and shoes in Bangkok. There are also a few food stalls if you need a snack.
Many visitors walk past without finding the main market. A good way in is from Phetchaburi Road, Soi 21. Walk straight and follow the narrow path to the market.
Before you go, walk across the Ratchaprasong area to enjoy the city lights and busy streets around the big shopping malls.
How to get there: Take the BTS to Chit Lom or Ratchathewi and walk about 10 to 15 minutes.
Which Bangkok Night Market Should You Choose?
- For cheap shopping: Chatuchak Night Market and Pratunam
- For lots of food choices: Jodd Fairs and the Srinakarin Train Market
- For the best food atmosphere: Chinatown (Yaowarat)
- For nightlife and live music: Srinakarin Train Market and Jodd Fairs
- For vintage and second-hand finds: Srinakarin Train Market
A Simple Two-Night Plan
- Night 1: Shop at Chatuchak Night Market, then take the MRT to Jodd Fairs for dinner and drinks.
- Night 2: Eat street food in Chinatown, then head to the Srinakarin Train Market for shopping and live music.
Tips for Visiting Bangkok Night Markets
- Use the train. Bangkok traffic is heavy at night. The BTS and MRT are faster.
- Bring cash. Most stalls only take cash.
- Go on weekends for the best atmosphere. Markets are busier and livelier on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Come early to avoid crowds. Some markets get very busy after 8:00 or 9:00 p.m.
- Ask for a discount when buying more than one item. Always stay polite and friendly.
- Watch your belongings. Crowded areas can attract pickpockets.
- Wear comfortable shoes. These markets are big, and you’ll walk a lot.
Are Bangkok Night Markets Worth Visiting?
Yes. Night markets are one of the best ways to enjoy Bangkok. You can eat great food, shop for bargains, listen to live music, and see how locals spend their evenings. Try at least two different markets during your trip, because each one has its own style.
FAQs
What is the best night market in Bangkok? It depends on what you want. Chatuchak and Pratunam are best for cheap shopping, Jodd Fairs for food variety, the Srinakarin Train Market for an all-round night out, and Chinatown for street food.
Is Chatuchak Market open at night? Yes. Part of Chatuchak opens in the evening, usually on Friday nights. It’s cooler than the daytime market and has many cheap deals.
What time does Jodd Fairs open? Jodd Fairs is usually open every day from about 4:00 p.m. to midnight.
How do I get to the Srinakarin Train Market? Take the MRT Yellow Line to Suan Luang Rama 9 Station. The market is right next to the station.
Which Bangkok night market is best for cheap clothes? Pratunam Night Market and Chatuchak Night Market have some of the cheapest clothes and shoes in Bangkok.
Do Bangkok night markets accept cards? Most stalls only take cash, so bring small notes and coins.