Where to stay in Bangkok for shopping 2024 - 3 Areas for shopaholics
Wondering where to stay in Bangkok for shopping? We’ve got you covered with expert advice, drawing on years of experience living in this vibrant city, which boasts some of the best shopping facilities in the region — including Southeast Asia’s largest shopping mall. Whether you’re after luxury brands or unique finds, we’ll guide you to the perfect areas for a memorable shopping experience.
Bangkok is a sprawling city with endless shopping opportunities that draw in tourists from all over the region, especially from China. Whether you’re seeking luxury malls offering haute couture or sprawling night markets filled with vintage goods and clothing, Bangkok has it all. Even if you’re on the lookout for unique souvenirs, the city’s diverse shopping scene won’t disappoint.
One of the best things about shopping in Bangkok is that it caters to every kind of shopper, whether you’re after high-end brands or hunting for a bargain at local markets. There’s something for every shopaholic in Thailand’s vibrant capital.
In this short article, I give you solid, no-nonsense advice to fully enjoy your retail therapy.
The best areas in Bangkok for shopping are Siam, ICONSIAM, and Asoke.
ICONSIAM, located across the Chao Phraya River, may not be as lively as central Bangkok, but it boasts excellent shopping facilities. It’s the largest shopping mall in Southeast Asia, with all the brands you can possibly think of. This makes it the best shopping venue in the city. You can easily reach it by boat, allowing you to stay in more vibrant parts of the city while still enjoying this world-class mall. Keep in mind that the area itself is not as bustling as the more central areas.
If you prefer staying around Asoke on Sukhumvit Road, you’ll find several exciting shopping malls nearby. As long as you’re close to a BTS station on the Sukhumvit Line, you’ll have easy access to a range of shopping options catering to all budgets. Sukhumvit, which Asoke is part of, is arguably the best area in Bangkok in general, meaning that you can also enjoy all other perks Bangkok has to offer.
You also have the option to stay at Siam, which is home to several shopping malls and is considered the shopping area of central Bangkok. From here, you can also arrange transport directly to ICONSIAM. As Siam is directly connected to the Sukhumvit Line, you can take the BTS to all the shopping malls nearby. Another benefit is that you have access to the other BTS Line, which takes you to the lesser-known shopping malls.
For vintage lovers, don’t miss the Srinakarin Night Market. This is one of the popular night markets in Bangkok. Most night markets are excellent for souvenir hunting and buying cheap clothes and accessories. At the bottom of this article, we highlight the most interesting markets Bangkok has to offer.
You can also easily navigate to each recommended area by tapping the link. Or simply go straight to the overview of the best areas to stay in Bangkok for shopping at the bottom of this article.
The best areas to stay in Bangkok for shopping are:
1. Siam
Without a doubt, Siam is the best area to stay in Bangkok for shopping. It’s home to some of the city’s most popular malls, including Siam Center, Siam Paragon, and Siam Discovery. This area offers an unparalleled shopping experience, and there’s even a direct connection to ICONSIAM, located across the river, which we also recommend later in this guide.
However, keep in mind that the MBK Center, a once-famous shopping destination, is now permanently closed and set to be demolished.
The downside to Siam is that hotels here tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of Bangkok. Many short-stay tourists opt to stay around Phaya Thai BTS Station, which is just two stops away and has a direct connection to Suvarnabhumi Airport. This area offers a wide range of quality hotels at more affordable prices.
As long as you’re near a BTS station, you can easily access all the shopping areas, so staying outside of Siam is still convenient.
If you’re in Bangkok over the weekend, don’t miss the Chatuchak Weekend Market—the largest weekend market in the world—located just five BTS stops north of Phaya Thai.
2. ICONSIAM
3. Asoke
Staying near Asoke is a fantastic alternative to staying in Siam, thanks to its ideal connections to both the BTS (SkyTrain) and MRT (metro). This allows for easy travel to nearby shopping malls as well as those located farther away.
At Asoke, you’ll find Terminal 21, a popular shopping mall offering a wide range of shops without breaking the bank. However, there are many other shopping malls close by, including:
- The Emporium (BTS Phrom Phong)
- EmQuartier (BTS Phrom Phong)
- Gateway Ekkamai (BTS Ekkamai)
- Central Embassy (BTS Phloen Chit)
- CentralWorld (BTS Phloen Chit)
All of these malls are just one or two stops away, providing options for every type of shopper, regardless of budget.
Another great perk of staying near Asoke is the easy MRT access to popular night markets like Jodd Fairs and The One Ratchada. These markets are packed with food, drinks, vintage goods, and plenty of options for budget shopping and souvenirs.
While other areas along Sukhumvit Road and the BTS Sukhumvit Line are also convenient, Asoke is by far the most practical thanks to its dual connection with the BTS and MRT.
The downside of staying in Asoke, however, is the notorious traffic, particularly at the busy intersection. To avoid delays, it’s best to stick with the BTS and MRT rather than relying on taxis in this area.
Popular places in Bangkok for shopping
Here are three popular shopping destinations in Bangkok that are well worth a visit, even if staying nearby isn’t recommended:
1. Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Description: Yaowarat is the largest Chinatown in the world, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with shops selling Chinese goods like herbs, teas, and oriental products. While you won’t find luxury brands, exploring the narrow streets can lead to unique finds like clothing and other treasures.
Highlights: A must-visit for exploring and experiencing authentic Chinese culture in Bangkok. It’s also renowned for its street food, so make sure to check out our article on the best food in Chinatown.
Note: Many shops in Chinatown are closed on Mondays.
2. Chatuchak Weekend Market
Description: The largest weekend market in the world, Chatuchak offers a vast selection of items including art, food, clothes, antiques, jewelry, and more. It’s a fantastic spot for shopping, especially if you’re looking for unique souvenirs.
Tips: Venture deeper into the market for better deals, as shops near the main walkways tend to be pricier. The market operates on Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday, with Saturday and Sunday being the best days for shopping.
3. Srinakarin Train Market
Description: This market is a bit farther from the city center but offers excellent shopping options, particularly in the Warehouse Zone, where you’ll find antiques and vintage shops. It’s a great place for discovering rare items with a nostalgic flair.
Tips: It’s located near Suvarnabhumi Airport, making it convenient for those staying nearby. Alternatively, you can take the BTS to On Nut and then a taxi to reach the market. For more inspiration, check out our article about the best night markets in Bangkok.
Places in Bangkok for shopping to avoid
1. Patpong Night Market
Avoid this market. Once a popular night market, Patpong has now become a shadow of its former self, with only a few remaining stalls selling low-quality electronics and gadgets. It no longer offers the vibrant shopping experience it once did.
2. Pantip Plaza
Pantip Plaza, once renowned for its vast selection of cheap electronics, has also lost much of its appeal. Many stores are now closed, and the quality of goods has declined. We do not recommend visiting this mall for shopping purposes.
Both of these once-bustling shopping spots are no longer worth your time, especially considering the many other vibrant and reliable shopping experiences Bangkok has to offer.