10 Night markets in Bangkok you must visit 2024 - incl. hidden gems
One of the most popular questions from visitors is: what are the best night markets in Bangkok? Exploring these vibrant markets is one of the top evening activities in Thailand’s capital.
We start with an overview of all the recommended night markets in Bangkok, which helps you easily navigate through this article. If you want to skip that, tap on the following bottom.
Night markets offer much more than just a diverse range of street food and snacks. You’ll also find plenty of shopping opportunities, from unique souvenirs to trendy clothing and vintage items.
Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or a great way to kick off your evening before heading to one of Bangkok’s lively nightlife areas, visiting a night market is a fantastic option.
Both locals and tourists flock to these markets for their affordable food and drinks. The larger markets in Bangkok are especially energetic and full of life.
In this article, we’ll highlight the most popular night markets in Bangkok, perfect for visitors. We’ve left out the smaller ones to focus on those that provide the best experiences for tourists.
So, if you’re ready for a memorable evening, let’s dive into our top picks!
In summary: the best night markets in Bangkok are Jodd Fairs, Srinakarin, Chang Chui, and The One Ratchada.
As these are extremely popular and therefore busy night markets, you always have the option to visit one of the many alternative night markets. Here is a quick overview of all the night markets that we discuss in this article. You can easily navigate straight to that night market by tapping on its name.
1. Jodd Fairs
Bangkok’s most popular night market—vibrant but crowded. It offers plenty of street food and entertainment options.
Hours: 16:00 – 00:00 daily
2. Train Night Market Srinakarin
A local favorite and the last of its kind in Bangkok, with vintage goods, street food, and bars.
Hours: 17:00 – 00:30 (Thurs – Sun)
3. Chang Chui Plane Night Market
A unique, upscale market centered around a repurposed airplane and surrounded by scrap yard art.
Hours: 11:00 – 23:00 daily
One of the newest markets, located at the former site of Ratchada Night Market but run by a different group.
Hours: 16:00 – 00:00 daily
An authentic night market popular with locals. It may not be as flashy as others, but you’ll likely be the only tourist there.
Hours: 16:00 – 00:00 daily
Far less crowded on Friday evenings compared to the weekend, but many shops may be closed. Great for art lovers.
Hours: 18:00 – 23:00 (Friday)
Catering mainly to locals, this market is known for its unique restaurant with dancing bartenders.
Hours: 17:00 – 01:00 daily
8. Chinatown at Night (Alt. #1)
Not a traditional night market, but a must for food lovers. Explore Yaowarat’s alleys for street food and hidden bars.
Hours: 18:00 – 01:00 daily
9. Khao San Road (Alt. #2)
Famous for its tourist goods, this area is fun to explore before a wild night out on the party street.
Hours: 19:00 – 02:00 daily
10. Ong Ang Walking Street (Alt. #3)
A small evening market with street art. Perfect for some photos before heading to nearby Chinatown.
Hours: 16:00 – 22:00 (Fri – Sun)
1. Jodd Fairs
Most popular night market in Bangkok
When it comes to night markets in Bangkok, Jodd Fairs stands out as the most convenient and comprehensive option available.
Before the pandemic, the Ratchada Train Night Market was the go-to destination for both locals and tourists. However, the absence of tourists during COVID-19 forced the market to shut down. Once Thailand reopened its borders, the organizers relocated to a more accessible area, revamped the market, and reintroduced it as Jodd Fairs.
Although the iconic colorful tents of the old Ratchada market have been replaced with simpler white ones, the overall quality has improved, along with the variety of vendors. Many of the popular stalls from the Ratchada market continue to operate here, but new vendors have also joined, adding fresh flavors and goods to the mix.
In the central area of the market, you’ll find a wide range of items, from clothing and sunglasses to handmade jewelry. The outer stalls are packed with food and drink options, offering everything from street food snacks to full dining experiences.
With over 600 food vendors, there’s something to satisfy every craving. While Ratchada Train Market was known for its noisy bar area, Jodd Fairs has opted for a more relaxed atmosphere, making it a welcoming spot for a broader audience. However, for those seeking entertainment, there are still plenty of bars with live music to enjoy until midnight.
Jodd Fairs is conveniently located behind Central Plaza Grand Rama 9 shopping mall, easily accessible via the MRT. Simply take the metro to MRT Phra Ram 9, which is just one stop away from the old Ratchada Train Market’s previous location.
Why Jodd Fairs is one of the best night markets in Bangkok:
- Central and easily accessible location
- Wide variety of food and drink options
- A favorite among both locals and tourists
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily.
2. Srinakarin Night Market
Vintage, Antiques, and an Abundance of Food!
Srinakarin Train Night Market, run by the same organization behind Jodd Fairs, offers a unique night market experience in Bangkok. In fact, Srinakarin predates the now-closed Ratchada Train Market, which had to shut down due to a lack of visitors during the pandemic.
Since night markets require a lot of space to accommodate the various vendors, they’re often located outside the city center. Srinakarin is no exception, but the journey is well worth it, and here’s why:
Unlike the bustling Jodd Fairs, Srinakarin offers a more laid-back atmosphere, thanks to its larger size and fewer crowds. Being further from the city center, the market mainly attracts locals, giving it a more authentic, Thai experience compared to the tourist-heavy Jodd Fairs.
The market is divided into sections, starting with an array of street food and snacks near the entrance. As you move deeper into the market, you’ll find vendors selling everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and gadgets. But the real highlight of Srinakarin is its vintage section. Known for its collection of retro shops housed in renovated old buildings, browsing through these stores is a one-of-a-kind experience.
When hunger strikes, head to the outer areas of the market where you’ll find restaurants set up in quirky spots like shipping containers or brick buildings. At the far end of the market, you can admire classic cars like oldtimers and hot rods, along with even more vintage and antique shops.
Getting to Srinakarin can be a bit of an adventure. The easiest route for tourists is to take the BTS to On Nut and then grab a taxi. The market is in the direction of Suvarnabhumi Airport. Although a new BTS line is currently under construction, which will offer direct access in the future, it’s not completed yet.
Why Srinakarin is one of the best night markets in Bangkok:
- A sprawling market with a strong focus on vintage goods, antiques, and street food
- An authentic local experience, as it’s primarily visited by Thai residents
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM, Thursday to Sunday.
3. Chang Chui Plane Night Market
Upscale market with an actual airplane
As mentioned earlier, Bangkok’s larger night markets are typically located outside the city center. But unlike the smaller markets that might not leave a lasting impression, Chang Chui Plane Night Market is absolutely worth the trip. Why? Because its concept is so unique, you won’t find anything like it elsewhere.
As the name suggests, Chang Chui Plane Market is centered around a massive airplane—a Lockheed L-1011 Tristar. The interior of the plane has been completely stripped and redecorated with antiques, creating a striking display. And when you’re ready to leave, you can slide your way out! Surrounding the plane are eighteen separate buildings, all crafted from recycled materials.
The market itself is well-organized and offers a more upscale selection of food and drinks compared to other Bangkok night markets, but it’s worth the splurge. You can even find dishes made with insects for a truly adventurous experience.
Aside from the eye-catching airplane centerpiece, Chang Chui is also known for its impressive art installations and unique decorations. The scrap metal sculptures, in particular, are remarkable. Visitors can also explore a vintage cinema, trendy boutiques, and a variety of food and drink venues serving craft beers and artisan cocktails. The only drawback is its location in Taling Chan, a bit outside the main city center.
The nearest MRT station is Bang Son, but you’ll still need to take a 15-minute ride to reach the market. Despite the distance, this is one market you won’t want to miss!
Why Chang Chui Night Market is one of the best in Bangkok:
- A one-of-a-kind market offering exceptional (slightly upscale) food and drinks
- A unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Thailand
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily.
4. The One Ratchada Night Market
Your go-to-market before exploring Bangkok’s nightlife
Located in a familiar area, The One Ratchada now occupies the exact spot where the famous Ratchada Train Night Market once stood. Though it’s in the same location, this market is managed by a completely new organization, separate from Jodd Fairs and Srinakarin.
One key difference between The One and its main competitor, Jodd Fairs, is size—The One Ratchada is significantly larger. However, size isn’t everything. While there’s still plenty of street food to enjoy, the selection isn’t quite as vast as Jodd Fairs or even the old Ratchada market. That said, the quality of food at The One is just as high, and many visitors will find the offerings equally satisfying.
In addition to food, The One is a shopper’s paradise, though it doesn’t have a vintage section like Srinakarin. Despite this, we believe The One will thrive for three main reasons:
First, its larger size provides a comfortable space for visitors to explore without feeling cramped.
Second, the market is modern and well-organized, on par with Jodd Fairs in terms of quality.
Lastly, The One offers a lively atmosphere where people can enjoy affordable drinks and listen to live music or EDM. Much like the old Ratchada Night Market, The One aims to recreate that popular pre-nightlife vibe, and it’s doing a great job at it.
For those who want to experience both Jodd Fairs and The One Ratchada, the two markets are conveniently located just one MRT stop (Thailand Cultural Centre MRT) apart. You’ll find The One Ratchada right next to The Esplanade Bangkok.
Why The One Ratchada is one of the best night markets in Bangkok:
- A larger market than Jodd Fairs with a lively vibe and plenty of street food
- A perfect spot to enjoy drinks before heading out to explore Bangkok’s nightlife
Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily.
5. Indy Night Market
Local night market with excellent bars
Indy Night Market is located in Thonburi, across the river from the more touristy areas of Bangkok, offering an authentic experience with few foreign visitors.
While we usually don’t recommend markets that are a bit tricky to reach, Indy Night Market stands out. It’s relatively new, and the hassle of getting there is worth it.
For those who enjoy shopping, the market offers a wide variety of goods, from clothes and sunglasses to leather shoes and handcrafted items. Whether you’re looking for a unique accessory to match a new outfit or just browsing, Indy Night Market has something for everyone.
The food scene is equally impressive, featuring everything from street food to sit-down restaurants, many of which offer buffets. Catering primarily to locals, the market serves authentic Thai dishes, including some more unusual offerings like octopus heads. If you’re not feeling adventurous, classic options like a seafood barbecue are also available
One of the market’s highlights is its bar area. After exploring the stalls, you can relax with an ice-cold beer or a cocktail while enjoying live music. The atmosphere here is different from other markets, such as The One Ratchada, as the crowd is almost entirely Thai, and you’ll be treated to live Thai music.
Like many night markets, the shopping is concentrated in the center, while bars and restaurants are located around the edges. Though it’s not as large as Srinakarin, Indy Night Market is modern, clean, and spacious, making it a pleasant spot to visit regularly.
If you’re staying near Bangkok’s riverside, Indy Night Market is well worth checking out. The best way to get there is to take the BTS to Wongwian Yai Station and grab a taxi from there, or take a taxi directly.
Tip: Indy Night Market is known for its party atmosphere, especially during Songkran, Thailand’s New Year, celebrated from April 13th to 15th. During this time, the market becomes a hub of festivities, including water gun fights.
Why Indy Night Market is one of the best night markets in Bangkok:
- A trendy, new market that attracts mainly locals
- A great selection of food, goods, and bars with live Thai music
Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily.
6. Chatuchak Friday's Night Market
Casual evening at the largest weekend market in the world
Chatuchak Weekend Market is the largest of its kind in the world, boasting over 15,000 stalls and welcoming up to 300,000 visitors per day (pre-COVID). True to its name, the market primarily operates on weekends, drawing crowds eager to browse stalls filled with art, clothing, antiques, vintage finds, souvenirs, and jewelry.
For those who prefer window-shopping, there are plenty of street food vendors offering a wide variety of delicious bites. While Chatuchak’s popularity is well-known among tourists, many are unaware that the market opens on Friday evenings.
Although most stalls remain closed on Fridays, a handful of shops are open, making it a far more relaxed and laid-back experience. The lesser-known Friday night option allows visitors to explore without the usual weekend crowds.
If you’re particularly interested in art, Friday evening is the perfect time to visit, as the market’s art section is open. Once you’ve perused the art, you can unwind at one of Chatuchak’s funky bars, sipping strong cocktails or enjoying a few ice-cold beers.
As for food, there are still several street food stalls open, offering a great selection to satisfy your appetite.
While Chatuchak’s Friday Night Market doesn’t have the full shopping experience of its weekend counterpart, it’s an excellent option for those looking to avoid the throngs of visitors. For the complete shopping spree, visit Chatuchak on a Saturday or Sunday, but if you still want to skip the peak crowds, plan to arrive in the late afternoon when it’s generally quieter.
Conveniently located next to Mo Chit BTS Station, the easiest way to reach Chatuchak Weekend Market is by taking the BTS.
Why Chatuchak Friday Night Market is worth visiting:
- An alternative to the bustling weekend crowds at Bangkok’s most famous market
- While not all shops are open, it’s a great option for a relaxed shopping experience
Opening Hours:
Friday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
7. Hua Mum Night Market
The hidden gem of all night markets in Bangkok
While it may not match the size of Srinakarin or Chatuchak, Hua Mum Night Market is a must-visit if you’re seeking an authentic, local experience. This market offers much of what you’ll find at the city’s other popular night markets, including a wide array of street food, drinks, shopping, and live music. However, it’s not as flashy as Chang Chui Plane Night Market or as meticulously organized as Jodd Fairs.
Located in Lat Phrao, north of the city center and away from Bangkok’s tourist hubs, Hua Mum is a spot where you’ll encounter few, if any, tourists. It’s an ideal destination if you want to see how the locals enjoy their night markets.
Shopping here is abundant, with a vast section dedicated to a variety of goods that cater to every taste. Whether you’re looking for clothes, accessories, or unique market finds, Hua Mum has it all.
Although it was once a hidden gem, Hua Mum has slowly been discovered by non-locals. Still, the market remains largely a place where Thai visitors dominate, with most tourists opting for Jodd Fairs or Srinakarin instead.
For a true taste of Bangkok’s local scene, Hua Mum is highly recommended. And if you’re looking to top off your visit with an eccentric experience, check out Stanee Mee Hoi, a restaurant within the market. Here, shirtless waiters serve food with quirky dance moves and playful antics, making it a popular spot among young Thai women who enjoy the lighthearted vibe.
To reach Hua Mum Night Market, take the MRT to Lat Phrao Station and grab a taxi for a 15-minute ride to the market. Unfortunately, there’s no direct public transportation to Hua Mum.
Why Hua Mum Night Market is one of the best local night markets in Bangkok:
- An authentic, non-touristy market with a fantastic range of street food
- Primarily caters to Thai visitors, with few tourists in sight
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM daily
8. Alternative #1 - Chinatown
Bangkok's most popular street food area
If you’re looking for a traditional night market in Bangkok, in my opinion, Chinatown doesn’t quite fit the bill—and here’s why. The night markets we’ve recommended, such as Jodd Fairs and Srinakarin, are purpose-built areas where visitors can eat, shop, drink, and socialize in one lively space, often with live music and entertainment. Chinatown, while bustling with street food, doesn’t offer the same curated night market experience.
That said, Chinatown is one of the top evening destinations for tourists, and its vibrant street food scene is often compared to a night market. Several websites even list it as such, but we view it more as an alternative to a traditional night market.
While you can walk through its packed streets and find plenty of shopping opportunities, Chinatown’s layout and atmosphere differ significantly from places like Jodd Fairs or Srinakarin. In fact, the shops you see in Chinatown are open during the day as well, so it lacks the distinct evening market feel.
That said, Chinatown is still a must-visit part of Bangkok. Its cultural significance and unique character make it a vital stop for most tourists, and the food scene here is among the best in the city. If you have time, we recommend visiting one of the night markets on a different day and saving Chinatown for a separate evening adventure. You’ll notice the contrast between this iconic district and the more typical night market experiences.
Why Chinatown is a great alternative to night markets in Bangkok:
- A top destination for street food lovers, offering some of the best options in Bangkok.
- A variety of shops, souvenirs, and even a fresh market, though it doesn’t feel like a traditional night market.
Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 1:00 AM daily (Note: some popular street food stalls are closed on Mondays)
9. Alternative #2: Khao San Road
Vibrant Nightlife with a Touch of Street Shopping
Khao San Road, like Chinatown, is not a designated night market but offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of shopping and food.
While Chinatown boasts a wider variety of street food, Khao San Road caters more to young, Western travelers, with stalls selling clothes, flip-flops, sunglasses, and other items commonly found at night markets.
The nightlife here is significantly wilder than at any night market, so Khao San doesn’t have the same market vibe. However, if you’re looking for a night out filled with street food, casual shopping, and late-night partying, Khao San is a great spot.
Although the street has been fully renovated, it’s not the kind of evening destination you’d typically bring the whole family to. If you have time, we recommend visiting one of the suggested night markets and saving another evening for the unique experience of Khao San Road.
Why Khao San Road is a good alternative to Bangkok’s night markets:
- A vibrant nightlife popular with young locals and tourists, with plenty of street food options.
- A decent selection of tourist-oriented shopping.
- It’s not a traditional or full-fledged night market.
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM daily, with peak activity on Friday and Saturday nights.
10. Alternative #3: Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street
A Tiny, Charming Market with Street Art and a Unique Vibe
Technically, Khlong Ong Ang is a night market, but it’s more of a vibrant walking street than a traditional market. If you’re seeking something different that doesn’t take up too much time, Ong Ang is a fantastic choice. Despite its low-key introduction, this spot is actually quite a gem. Here’s why.
In 2020, this area—part of a previously underdeveloped district in Bangkok—underwent a major revitalization. The canal (Khlong) was cleaned up, and new walkways, bridges, and decorative fences were built along both sides. The transformation is so striking that it feels more like a European city than Bangkok.
Beyond the street food and souvenir shopping, one of the highlights here is the street art. Like other older parts of Bangkok, such as Talad Noi, Ong Ang features impressive murals and graffiti in the surrounding alleys. For more on Talad Noi, check out our article on the best places to visit in Bangkok.
While exploring, don’t miss the chance to snap a photo at the Chinese Lantern Alley, which you can easily find on Google Maps. For a unique culinary experience, head to Little Bhutan, located right in the heart of Ong Ang Walking Street.
Overall, Khlong Ong Ang is a fun stop, especially in the evening when the ambient lighting brings it to life. The easiest way to get there is by taking the metro to Sam Yot MRT Station, just a short walk away.
Tip: You can easily combine a visit to Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street with a trip to Chinatown or Pak Khlong Talat (the Flower Market), which is nearby. With good planning, you can explore all three in one evening. Chinatown is the most exciting to wander through, and after a meal, check out Soi Nana (Chinatown, not Sukhumvit) for some nightlife and unique cocktail bars.
Why Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street is a great alternative to Bangkok’s night markets:
- A cozy night market near Chinatown with a distinctive atmosphere and street art.
- A great spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
Opening hours: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Friday to Sunday. Best visited in the evening when the lights are on.
