0

Traveloka Team

16 Mar 2024 - 5 min read

Things to Know Before Visiting Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok

If you're seeking a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Bangkok, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is not to miss. This is one of the world's largest and most popular markets, with over 15,000 stalls spread across 26 sections selling everything from clothing and accessories to antiques and artwork.

Every corner of this market offers bargains, treasures, and surprises, as well as wonderful street cuisine and live music.

Ahead, we will provide some advice on things to know before visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market, from what makes it famous to things to do near the market so that you can make the most of your visit. Read on!

What Makes Chatuchak Weekend Market Famous?

Chatuchak Weekend Market, located in the heart of Bangkok, is one of the biggest and most popular markets in the world. This market stuns visitors with their amazing bargains.

If you’re into retail therapy, you will definitely love exploring every inch of this market, especially with its easy-to-navigate layout. Boasting 27 sections, you can find bargains, unique items, and delicious food while exploring the maze of alleys and sections. For instance, section 19 is perfect for fashionistas, while section 26 is best for foodies.

The market attracts over 200,000 visitors every weekend who enjoy the lively atmosphere and the variety of goods, making it so diverse.

Chatuchak Weekend Market Opening Hours & Location

Located at 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Khet Chatuchak, Chatuchak Weekend Market is easily accessible. Despite the name, Chatuchak Weekend Market is also open on weekdays. However, the weekday items sold are limited to certain categories only.

You can visit this market on Wednesday and Thursday from 7 am to 6 pm to explore the plant section. There are tropical plants, succulents, cacti, orchids, and even bonsai trees.

Meanwhile, Friday is the best day for those visiting to buy in bulk, as the market only opens for wholesale from 6 pm - 12 pm. This day is especially beneficial for resellers or people who need something in a lot of numbers.

The main days are Saturday and Sunday when the whole market opens from 9 am to 6 pm. This is where the market is flooded by thousands of visitors who want to experience the lively Bangkok market—and maybe grab home several memorabilia!

How to Get to Chatuchak Weekend Market

There are several options to get to the market, including skytrain, taxi, MRT, tuktuk, and bus.

1. BTS Skytrain

The BTS Skytrain runs throughout Bangkok. You can drop off at (N8) Mo Chit Station (Sukhumvit Line) and take exit no. 1 to leave the station. From the exit gate, you can just follow the crowds and will eventually stumble upon a small entrance where the market’s clothing section is located.

2. Taxi

Taking a taxi is the most convenient way to go to the market if you don’t want the hassle of thinking about the route. Make sure you say your destination clearly to the driver, and they will take you there. Before taking the taxi, you can go by the metre or barter for a fixed price. Also, it is recommended that you give them a tip!

3. MRT

Staying outside Siam and on a budget? Take the MRT instead—it’s only 40 Baht for adults and 20 Baht for children. Get on the one central line for the MRT and drop off by Chatuchak Park. From the park, you can walk to the market’s Entrance 2.

4. Tuktuk

Tuktuk, or a motorcycle with a small carriage attached, is the best option if you want to experience Bangkok to the fullest. From 100-350 Baht, you can get around Bangkok and stop by the market.

5. Bus

This is by far the cheapest option on the list—it only costs 20 Baht! It is especially great if you go from Khao San Road, as no BTS Skytrain or MRT is nearby. Bangkok buses run from 5 am to 11 pm daily. Remember to take bus number 3 or 524 to go to the market.

Things to Do Near Chatuchak Weekend Market

1. Exploring Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Situated 110 km west of Bangkok, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of Thailand’s oldest markets. It features vendors in wooden boats filled with souvenirs and goods for sale, from clothes to grilled meats.

Private Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Chatuchak Weekend Market Day Tour by AK

You will be guided on the boats throughout the vendors in the market’s canal. From there, you can look around at the sides in case anything sparks your eyes. If you want to buy something, the boat will stop for a while until you receive your purchase.

One of the market's highlights is its various food choices, especially authentic Thai cuisine, from street food to fresh fruits and vegetables. To get the best value for money, try negotiating with the sellers.

To get the best out of your “floating” experience here, visit early in the morning or afternoon to avoid crowds and hot weather. This way, you’ll be more convenient in exploring the market.

2. Relax at the Chatuchak Park

Want to get some fresh air instead? Visit Chatuchak Park, located just a 6-minute walk from the Chatuchak Weekend Market. This free-entry park is a verdant recreational space with jogging and cycling paths, flower beds, and a big pond.

If you’re visiting Bangkok with your family, this park is a great place to stop by and unwind together for a while. Pack your own picnic basket, take pictures amidst the greenery, and have a great time together.

Are you the sporty type? Another interesting thing to do is walking, jogging, or cycling around the park. You can also buy food pellets nearby for 10 Baht and feed the fish in the park’s pond.

3. Learn Something New at the Children’s Discovery Museum Bangkok

Families with kids are recommended to go to the Children’s Discovery Museum Bangkok, which is only a 2-minute walk away from the Chatuchak Weekend Market. This free science-focused museum has interactive outdoor and indoor exhibits for kids to keep them engaged. Foreigners are required to bring their passports for ID verification.

Open from 10 am to 4 pm, this park lets you take your kids to try various activities, like City Building, Dinosaur Digging, Pretend Play Area, Large Block Building, and Library. On top of that, a decently sized water park is available, so make sure to pack extra clothes for the kids!

After exploring, you can savour delicious food from across the street at Chatuchak, as there are no food stalls available inside the museum.

If you want an unforgettable shopping experience in Bangkok, you should not miss Chatuchak Weekend Market. It is a place where you can find anything you want, from fashion and art to food and souvenirs. You can mingle with the locals, too, and learn more about their culture and lifestyle.

On top of that, there are many attractions and activities available near the market, elevating your Bangkok trip experience.

Traveloka is your ideal companion for a hassle-free trip to Bangkok! We offer significant savings on flights, hotels, and activities to enhance your travel experience. Ready to create unforgettable memories? Book your Manila to Bangkok flight with Traveloka today and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure!

Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe