15 Best Night Markets in Thailand: Complete Backpacker Guide (2026)

Thailand after dark is a different country. As the sun drops and the heat breaks, the streets transform. Folding tables appear from nowhere, woks ignite, fairy lights flicker on, and the real Thailand comes alive. Night markets are not a tourist attraction bolted onto Thai culture — they ARE Thai culture. This is where locals shop for dinner, where families stroll on weekends, where teenagers hang out, and where backpackers stumble into some of the best meals and cheapest shopping on the planet.

We have visited every market on this list. We have haggled for pants, burned our tongues on som tam, and walked until our feet begged for mercy. This is the result: the 15 best night markets in Thailand, ranked, dissected, and explained so you know exactly what to expect when you show up.

What this guide covers: For each market we give you location, opening hours, how to get there, the best food stalls (with specific dishes and prices in Baht), what to buy, how much to budget, and insider tips that most guides skip.

Night Market Basics: What You Need to Know

Before we dive into the rankings, here are the ground rules for Thai night markets.

Food Markets vs Shopping Markets

Not all night markets are the same. Understanding the distinction saves you time:

Food-focused markets (Jodd Fairs, Chang Phueak Gate) are primarily about eating. You go hungry, you eat a lot, you leave happy. Shopping is secondary.
Shopping-focused markets (Chatuchak, Rod Fai Srinakarin) are about browsing stalls. You can eat there, but the main draw is merchandise.
Mixed markets (Sunday Walking Street, Naka Weekend Market) balance both. Half the stalls are food, half are shopping.

Haggling Rules

Food stalls: Prices are fixed. Do not haggle over a 40B pad thai. It is rude and pointless.
Clothing and accessories: Haggling is expected. Start at 50-60% of the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. Smile while you do it.
Art, handmade crafts: Light haggling is acceptable but do not go below 70-80%. These items take real skill and time to make.
Electronics, phone cases, generic items: Haggle hard. These are mass-produced and markup is high.

What to Bring

Cash. Most vendors are cash-only. Bring plenty of 20B and 100B notes. Some larger stalls accept PromptPay QR codes, but do not rely on it.
A small backpack or bag. You will buy things. You will need your hands free for food.
Mosquito repellent. Outdoor markets at dusk = mosquitoes. Apply before you go.
An empty stomach. Eat nothing for 4-5 hours before arriving. You will thank us.

When to Arrive

Too early (before 5pm): Many stalls are still setting up. Limited selection.
Sweet spot (5:30-7pm): Everything is open, food is fresh, crowds are manageable.
Peak time (7-9pm): Maximum energy, maximum crowds. Great atmosphere but expect queues at popular stalls.
Late (after 9:30pm): Stalls start packing up. You might score deals on shopping items, but food options thin out.

Common Tourist Traps

"Special price for you, my friend" — There is no special price. It is the inflated tourist price. Haggle or walk away.
Fake brands. Those Ray-Bans for 200B are not real. You know this. Buy them anyway if you want, but know what you are getting.
Elephant pants. Yes, every backpacker in Thailand owns a pair. No, that does not mean you need to pay 350B. They cost 100-150B at most markets if you negotiate.
Pre-packaged "Thai tea" or "coconut oil" at inflated prices. Check 7-Eleven or Tops supermarket for the same products at 30-50% less.

The Rankings

We ranked these markets based on five criteria: food quality, atmosphere, value for money, variety, and accessibility for backpackers. Here they are.

1. Jodd Fairs Dan Neramit (Bangkok)

Why it is #1: Jodd Fairs has dethroned every other night market in Bangkok. It is photogenic, well-organized, and the food is genuinely excellent — not just "night market food" but some of the best street food in the city. The atmosphere is electric without being suffocating, and the layout makes it easy to navigate.

Location: Rama 9 area, behind Fortune Town (จ๊อดด์ แฟร์ส แดนเนรมิต)

Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 4pm-midnight

How to get there: MRT Rama 9 (exit 1), walk 5 minutes east. Or MRT Phra Ram 9, exit 3.

Budget: 200-500B for food, 200-500B for shopping

What to Eat

Must-Try Food Stalls

1. Fire Grilled Seafood (กุ้งเผา)

Giant river prawns grilled over charcoal until the shells char and the meat turns sweet and juicy
Price: 200-400B per plate depending on size
The prawns are the Instagram star of Jodd Fairs, and they earn it

2. Pad Thai Cart (near entrance)

Classic pad thai cooked in a proper wok with serious heat
Price: 60-80B
Get the "special" with extra shrimp for 100B

3. Mango Sticky Rice Stand

Perfectly ripe Nam Dok Mai mango (มะม่วงน้ำดอกไม้) with warm coconut-cream sticky rice
Price: 120-150B
The drizzle of coconut cream on top is the difference between good and unforgettable

4. Boat Noodles (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ)

Small, intense bowls of beef or pork noodle soup, deeply savory with spices and herbs
Price: 25-35B per bowl (eat 3-5 bowls for a meal)

5. Crab Omelette (ไข่เจียวปู)

Fluffy egg omelette packed with real crab meat, served over rice
Price: 100-150B

6. Coconut Ice Cream

Served in a halved coconut shell with toppings: roasted peanuts, sweet corn, sticky rice
Price: 60-80B

What to Buy

Vintage clothing and Thai streetwear (150-500B per item)
Handmade jewelry (100-400B)
Art prints and postcards (50-200B)
Vinyl records and retro collectibles
Thai snack gift boxes (150-300B)

Insider Tips

Come on Thursday or Friday for smaller crowds. Saturday is packed.
The back section (Zone D) has the best food stalls with shorter lines.
There is live music most nights — check the stage near the center.
Bathrooms are clean (rare for a night market). 5B entry fee.
Grab pickup is easy — use the designated pickup zone on the Rama 9 side.

2. Sunday Walking Street (Chiang Mai)

Why it is #2: Tha Phae Gate to Wat Phra Singh — one straight road, one kilometer, and arguably the best night market experience in all of Thailand. The Sunday Walking Street (ถนนคนเดินวันอาทิตย์) is a Chiang Mai institution. It is equal parts food heaven, art gallery, and cultural festival.

Location: Ratchadamnoen Road, from Tha Phae Gate into the Old City

Opening hours: Sunday only, 4pm-10pm (stalls start setting up around 3pm)

How to get there: Any songthaew (red truck) to Tha Phae Gate for 30-40B. Or walk from anywhere in the Old City.

Budget: 150-400B for food, 100-500B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Khao Kha Moo (ข้าวขาหมู)

Braised pork leg over rice with pickled mustard greens and a boiled egg
Price: 50-60B
Look for the stalls where the pork leg is enormous and glistening

2. Sai Oua (ไส้อั่ว) — Northern Thai Sausage

Spicy, herby pork sausage unique to northern Thailand, packed with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime
Price: 30-40B per piece
This is THE Chiang Mai street food. You cannot leave without trying it.

3. Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย)

Northern Thai curry noodle soup with crispy noodle topping, served with pickled cabbage, shallots, and lime
Price: 50-70B
Multiple stalls serve it. Look for thick, rich coconut curry broth.

4. Kanom Krok (ขนมครก)

Coconut milk pancakes cooked in a cast-iron pan, crispy on the outside, creamy inside
Price: 20-30B for 5-6 pieces
Sweet or savory versions (corn, taro, spring onion toppings)

5. Fresh Fruit Smoothies

Mango, passion fruit, watermelon, or mixed — blended with ice on the spot
Price: 30-50B

What to Buy

Hill tribe handicrafts — woven bags, scarves, textiles (100-500B). These are genuine and support local artisans.
Handmade soap and essential oils (50-200B)
Watercolor paintings of Chiang Mai temples (200-1,500B for originals)
Coconut shell bowls and wooden utensils (50-150B)
Handmade paper lanterns and journals (80-300B)

Insider Tips

Start at Tha Phae Gate and walk toward Wat Phra Singh. The best food is in the first half; the best shopping is in the second half.
Side sois (alleys) branching off the main road have hidden gems with fewer crowds.
The temple courtyards along the route have their own mini food courts — often cheaper and less crowded.
By 9pm, vendors start offering deals on remaining stock. Good for shopping, bad for food (stalls run out of popular items).
This is Chiang Mai's most crowded event. If you hate crowds, go to the Saturday Wualai Walking Street instead (see #5).

3. Chatuchak Weekend Night Market (Bangkok)

Why it is #3: Most people know Chatuchak as a daytime market — and it is the largest market in Thailand with 15,000+ stalls. But few backpackers realize there is also a night section. JJ Green and the Chatuchak night extensions operate Friday and Saturday evenings, offering vintage goods, street food, live music, and a much cooler temperature than the scorching daytime market.

Location: Chatuchak area, adjacent to the main weekend market (ตลาดนัดจตุจักร)

Opening hours: Friday and Saturday, 5pm-midnight. The daytime market runs Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm.

How to get there: BTS Mo Chit or MRT Chatuchak Park. Both stations are directly adjacent.

Budget: 200-600B for food, 300-2,000B for shopping (it is easy to go overboard)

What to Eat

1. Coconut Ice Cream in a Coconut Shell

The original Bangkok coconut ice cream stall. Rich, fresh, with peanuts, sweet corn, and sticky rice on top.
Price: 50-70B
Multiple vendors, but the most famous is near Section 26

2. Pad See Ew (ผัดซีอิ๊ว)

Wide rice noodles stir-fried with soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, and your choice of protein
Price: 50-70B

3. Grilled Pork Skewers (หมูปิ้ง)

Sweet marinated pork on sticks, grilled over charcoal
Price: 10B per stick (buy 5-10, no shame)
Look for the stalls with massive queues — that is where the good moo ping is

4. Thai Iced Tea (ชาเย็น)

Bright orange, creamy, sweet, dangerously addictive
Price: 25-40B
The perfect walking-around drink

5. Moo Kata (หมูกระทะ)

Thai BBQ hotpot combo — grill meat on the dome while soup bubbles around the edges
Price: 199-299B all-you-can-eat at the sit-down stalls in the night section

What to Buy

Vintage clothing and retro finds — JJ Green area is the best in Bangkok for vintage
Thai designer brands — young Thai designers sell here before they get big (200-800B)
Home decor and plants — Chatuchak has an entire plant section (weekend only)
Custom leather goods — wallets, bags, belts made while you wait (300-1,500B)
Thai art and posters (100-2,000B)

Insider Tips

The night section is much smaller than the daytime market. You can cover it in 2-3 hours.
Combine your visit: do the daytime market Saturday afternoon, take a break, then return for the night section.
The food court near Section 8 has excellent and cheap options (40-60B per dish).
Download the Chatuchak Guide app — the market is a maze and you WILL get lost without a map.
ATMs are available at the market edges but charge 220B withdrawal fees. Bring cash.

4. Rod Fai Market Srinakarin (Bangkok)

Why it is #4: Rod Fai (รถไฟ, meaning "train") is Bangkok's coolest night market. Set in a former train yard, the market has a retro-industrial vibe that no other market in Thailand can match. Vintage cars, antique furniture, neon signs, and a massive food zone make this a full evening experience. It is further from central Bangkok than Jodd Fairs, but the atmosphere is worth the trip.

Location: Srinakarin Road, behind Seacon Square mall

Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 5pm-1am

How to get there: BTS On Nut, then taxi or Grab (about 80-120B). Or Yellow Line to Si Iam station, then short walk. No direct MRT/BTS access yet, which keeps tourist numbers lower.

Budget: 200-500B for food, 200-1,000B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Rod Fai Ribs (ซี่โครงหมู)

Massive grilled pork ribs with sticky sweet sauce, served on a cutting board
Price: 150-250B
The signature dish of this market. Order a half-rack and share.

2. Oyster Omelette (ออส่วน)

Crispy egg omelette stuffed with fresh oysters, served with spicy dipping sauce
Price: 80-120B

3. Korean-Thai Fusion Corn Dogs

Crispy battered hot dogs with mozzarella cheese stretch, coated in sugar or potato cubes
Price: 60-100B
Not Thai at all, but the kids and Instagram crowds love them

4. Kuay Teow Tom Yum (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวต้มยำ)

Tom yum flavored noodle soup — spicy, sour, and loaded with herbs
Price: 50-70B

5. Craft Beer Stalls

Thai craft beers (Devanom, Chitbeer, Stone Head) on tap
Price: 120-200B per glass
Rod Fai has the best craft beer selection of any night market in Bangkok

What to Buy

Vintage everything — retro cameras, old radios, vinyl records, vintage Levi's, antique typewriters
Classic car and motorbike memorabilia (the entire back section is a retro paradise)
Streetwear and sneakers (both Thai brands and imported)
Custom art and screen prints (150-800B)

Insider Tips

Thursday nights are the least crowded and the vendors are more relaxed — better haggling.
The vintage section is in Warehouse Zone 1 and 2. Go here first before the crowds thicken.
There are often live bands playing rockabilly, jazz, or Thai indie music in the bar area.
This market runs late. Unlike most markets that wind down by 10pm, Rod Fai keeps going until midnight or later.
There is a smaller Rod Fai Market Ratchada (near MRT Thailand Cultural Centre) that is more accessible, but smaller and less atmospheric.

5. Saturday Wualai Walking Street (Chiang Mai)

Why it is #5: If the Sunday Walking Street is Chiang Mai's blockbuster night market, the Saturday Wualai Walking Street (ถนนคนเดินวัวลาย) is its indie cousin — smaller, calmer, and in many ways more authentic. It runs along Wualai Road in the silver-crafting district south of the Old City. The ratio of locals to tourists is much higher here, and the craftsmanship on display is exceptional.

Location: Wualai Road (south of Chiang Mai Gate)

Opening hours: Saturday only, 4pm-10pm

How to get there: Songthaew to Chiang Mai Gate (30-40B), then walk south on Wualai Road. Or walk 15 minutes from the Old City.

Budget: 100-300B for food, 100-600B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Northern-Style Laab (ลาบเมือง)

Minced pork (or chicken) salad with herbs, dried spices, and roasted rice powder — the northern version is drier and more intensely seasoned than the Isaan version
Price: 40-60B

2. Nam Prik Ong (น้ำพริกอ่อง) with Sticky Rice

Northern Thai tomato-pork chili dip with fresh vegetables and warm sticky rice
Price: 30-50B

3. Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao (ขนมจีนน้ำเงี้ยว)

Rice noodles in a dark, rich tomato-pork broth with blood cake and dried chili paste — a Shan-influenced northern Thai classic
Price: 40-50B

4. Grilled Sticky Rice with Egg (ข้าวเหนียวปิ้งไส้ไข่)

Sticky rice tubes filled with egg, grilled over charcoal until crispy
Price: 15-20B per piece

5. Fresh Passion Fruit Juice

Tart, sweet, and perfect for the evening heat
Price: 25-35B

What to Buy

Silverwork — Wualai is Chiang Mai's traditional silversmithing district. Rings, bracelets, pendants, and bowls handmade by local artisans (200-3,000B)
Lanna textiles — Traditional northern Thai woven fabrics, table runners, and pillow covers (150-800B)
Celadon pottery — The distinctive green-glazed pottery Chiang Mai is famous for (200-1,500B)
Hill tribe embroidery — Hmong and Karen handwork (100-500B)
Handmade paper products — Saa paper notebooks, cards, and lanterns from the nearby umbrella village tradition (50-300B)

Insider Tips

The temple courtyard at Wat Sri Suphan (the Silver Temple) has food stalls with some of the cheapest and best food on the street.
Wualai silver is real. Unlike mass-produced jewelry elsewhere, these are handcrafted by artisans whose families have been silversmithing for generations.
If you are in Chiang Mai for a full weekend, do Wualai on Saturday and the Sunday Walking Street on Sunday. They are different enough to justify both.
The southern end of the market (near Chiang Mai Gate) has more food; the northern end has more crafts.
The side soi near Wat Muen San has a quiet courtyard with fewer tourists and local musicians performing.

6. Naka Weekend Market (Phuket)

Why it is #6: Phuket is not known for its night markets the way Bangkok and Chiang Mai are, but Naka (Naka Weekend Market or ตลาดนัดนาคา) is a genuine standout. It is enormous — easily the biggest market in southern Thailand — and it draws a mostly Thai crowd, which is always a good sign. The food section alone is worth the trip.

Location: Chao Fa West Road, near Central Festival Phuket

Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday, 4pm-10pm

How to get there: Grab from Phuket Town (60-100B) or Patong (200-300B). No public transit directly to the market.

Budget: 200-500B for food, 200-800B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Southern Thai Fried Chicken (ไก่ทอดหาดใหญ่)

Crispy fried chicken Hat Yai-style, with crispy shallots and sticky rice — southern Thailand's answer to KFC, and it is infinitely better
Price: 50-80B for 2 pieces with rice

2. Roti with Banana and Condensed Milk (โรตีกล้วยหอม)

Thin, crispy flatbread stuffed with banana, drizzled with sweetened condensed milk and sugar
Price: 30-50B
A southern Thai specialty (Muslim-influenced). Watch the vendor flip and stretch the dough — it is mesmerizing.

3. Grilled Squid (ปลาหมึกย่าง)

Whole squid grilled over charcoal and served with seafood dipping sauce (nam jim seafood)
Price: 80-150B depending on size

4. Gaeng Som (แกงส้ม)

Southern Thai sour curry — spicier and more pungent than central Thai curries, with fish and vegetables
Price: 40-60B with rice

5. Fresh Coconut Water

Young coconuts hacked open on the spot
Price: 30-40B

What to Buy

Cashew nuts (Phuket is famous for cashews, 150-300B per bag)
Thai sarongs and beachwear (100-300B)
Coconut oil products (soaps, lotions, cooking oil — 80-250B)
Souvenirs and trinkets (cheaper here than in Patong by 30-50%)
Phone cases and tech accessories (50-200B)

Insider Tips

Naka is split into two clear zones: the covered shopping area and the open-air food zone. Head straight for the food zone in the back.
Prices here are 20-40% cheaper than Patong's Bangla Road market for the same items.
Saturday evening draws more locals; Sunday tends to have more tourists.
If you are staying in Patong, combine Naka with a visit to Phuket Old Town for the best day trip.
The market gets muddy after rain. Wear sandals you do not mind getting dirty.

7. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Why it is #7: The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (ไนท์บาซาร์) is the city's most famous market and it runs every single night of the week. That alone makes it incredibly convenient. The quality is a step below the walking streets (more mass-produced goods, more aggressive vendors), but the food court behind the main building is excellent, and the sheer convenience of a nightly market cannot be overstated.

Location: Chang Klan Road, between Tha Phae Road and Loi Kroh Road

Opening hours: Every night, 5pm-midnight

How to get there: Walk from anywhere in the Old City or Tha Phae Gate area (10-15 minutes). Any songthaew (30B) or tuk-tuk (60-100B).

Budget: 150-400B for food, 100-1,000B for shopping

What to Eat

The Anusarn Market food court (behind the main bazaar) is the real draw:

1. Khao Soi at the Anusarn Food Court

Multiple stalls compete for the best khao soi in the area
Price: 50-70B
Sit at the open-air tables and people-watch while you eat

2. Grilled Meats on Sticks

Chicken, pork, sausage, and mystery meats grilled over charcoal
Price: 10-20B per stick
The vendor rotation changes, but the grilled chicken (ไก่ย่าง) is always reliable

3. Pad Kra Pao (ผัดกะเพรา)

Stir-fried basil with minced pork, chicken, or seafood over rice with a fried egg on top
Price: 50-60B
Thailand's most popular dish. Order it "pet" (spicy) if you can handle it.

4. Mango Sticky Rice

Available at multiple stalls throughout the market
Price: 80-120B

What to Buy

Hill tribe goods — bags, clothing, jewelry (but quality varies — inspect carefully)
Thai silk scarves (300-1,500B depending on quality)
Wood carvings — elephants, Buddha figures, decorative items (100-2,000B)
Paintings and art — copies and originals (200-5,000B)
Leather goods — bags, wallets, sandals (200-1,000B)

Insider Tips

The outdoor stalls are the tourist trap zone. The indoor sections and the Anusarn food court behind the main building are where the value is.
Haggling is aggressive here. Vendors expect it. Start at 40-50% of the asking price.
The Night Bazaar is directly connected to several malls (Kalare Night Bazaar, Ploen Ruedee Night Market) — wander between them for variety.
Ploen Ruedee (across the street) has a more relaxed, hipster vibe with craft beer and live music. Better for couples and digital nomads.
Quality of goods is lower than the walking streets. If you want genuine handmade crafts, wait for Saturday or Sunday markets.

8. Pai Walking Street

Why it is #8: Pai is a backpacker bubble in the mountains, and its walking street is the nightly social event for the entire town. It is small — you can walk the whole thing in 20 minutes — but the food is excellent, the prices are low (even by Thai standards), and the atmosphere is pure backpacker magic. Fairy lights, live acoustic music, hippie vibes, and some of the friendliest vendors in the country.

Location: Main street through central Pai (walking street area)

Opening hours: Every night, 5pm-10pm (busiest 6-8pm)

How to get there: You are already here. Pai is tiny. Walk from your guesthouse.

Budget: 100-300B for food, 100-400B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Pai's Famous Roti Lady

Banana roti with Nutella, or savory roti with egg and chicken curry
Price: 30-50B
She has been at the same spot for years. There is always a crowd.

2. BBQ Chicken on a Stick (ไก่ย่าง)

Marinated, slow-grilled chicken skewers basted with a sweet-spicy glaze
Price: 20-30B
One of the best versions in Thailand. The marinade is complex and the chicken is incredibly juicy.

3. Pad Thai (made to order)

Fresh wok-fried pad thai with shrimp, tofu, or chicken
Price: 50-60B

4. Fresh Spring Rolls (ปอเปี๊ยะสด)

Rice paper rolls stuffed with vegetables and vermicelli, served with peanut dipping sauce
Price: 30-40B for 3 rolls

5. Mango Shakes

Fresh mango blended with ice — simple and perfect in the mountain air
Price: 30-40B

What to Buy

Hippie clothing — tie-dye, harem pants, loose cotton everything (80-250B)
Handmade jewelry — leather, beads, crystals, and wire-wrapped stones (50-300B)
Essential oils and natural products (50-200B)
Postcards and stickers (10-30B)
Handmade dream catchers (100-400B)

Insider Tips

The food is better and cheaper at the stalls on the side streets just off the main walking street.
Live music starts around 7pm at several bars flanking the market. Grab a Chang beer (60B) and listen.
Pai is a "no shoes, no problem" kind of place. Flip-flops are fine everywhere.
The market is noticeably smaller during the rainy season (June-October). Peak season (November-February) brings maximum stalls and maximum crowds.
For the best sunset before the market, ride a scooter to Pai Canyon (10 minutes) then come back for dinner.

9. Phuket Old Town Sunday Market (Lard Yai)

Why it is #9: While Naka is the bigger market, Phuket Old Town's Sunday walking street (ถนนคนเดินภูเก็ต or Lard Yai) has more character. It runs through the Sino-Portuguese architecture of Thalang Road, past colorful shophouses and heritage buildings. The food is heavily influenced by Phuket's Peranakan (Baba-Yaya) culture — a blend of Thai, Chinese, and Malay flavors you will not find anywhere else in Thailand.

Location: Thalang Road, Phuket Old Town

Opening hours: Sunday only, 4pm-10pm

How to get there: Grab from Patong (200-300B). Local bus from Phuket bus terminal (25B). Walking distance if you are staying in Old Town.

Budget: 150-400B for food, 100-500B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Oh Tao (โอ้เต้า) — Phuket Tofu Stew

Deep-fried tofu in a savory sauce with bean sprouts and cilantro — a Peranakan specialty
Price: 40-60B

2. Mee Hokkien (หมี่ฮกเกี้ยน)

Hokkien-style stir-fried yellow noodles with pork, squid, and thick gravy
Price: 50-70B
A dish you rarely find outside Phuket

3. Apong (อาโป๊ง)

Phuket-style crispy coconut pancakes — thinner and crunchier than kanom krok
Price: 20-30B for a bag

4. Lo Ba (หลอบะ)

Braised pork offal in five-spice broth, served with crispy wontons — deeply Chinese-Thai
Price: 40-60B

5. Fresh Fruit Rojak

Fruit salad with shrimp paste dressing — sweet, salty, spicy, sour all at once. Southeast Asian fusion at its finest.
Price: 40-60B

What to Buy

Peranakan-inspired jewelry and accessories (200-1,000B)
Batik cloth and sarongs (150-500B)
Local art and photography prints of Old Town architecture (100-800B)
Phuket cashew products (butter, cookies, roasted nuts — 100-300B)
Hand-painted ceramics (150-600B)

Insider Tips

Arrive early (4-5pm) to walk the shophouses and take photos of the Sino-Portuguese architecture without crowds blocking the view.
The side streets (Soi Romanee, Soi Phutorn) have beautiful colored buildings and hidden cafes worth exploring before the market gets busy.
The food here is genuinely unique to Phuket — you will not find Oh Tao or Mee Hokkien at markets in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
Street art is scattered throughout Old Town. Combine your market visit with a street art walking tour.
This is a much more cultural experience than Naka. If you can only do one Phuket market, choose based on preference: Naka for volume and bargains, Old Town for character and unique food.

10. Rot Fai Market Ratchada (Bangkok)

Why it is #10: Rot Fai Ratchada (ตลาดรถไฟรัชดา) is the most accessible night market in Bangkok — it is directly behind MRT Thailand Cultural Centre, making it the easiest market to reach from anywhere in the city. It is smaller and less atmospheric than its Srinakarin sibling (#4), but the food section is strong and the rooftop photo opportunity from the adjacent Esplanade mall parking garage has become one of Bangkok's most iconic views.

Location: Behind Esplanade Ratchadaphisek mall

Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 5pm-1am

How to get there: MRT Thailand Cultural Centre (exit 3), walk 2 minutes. The easiest night market to reach in all of Bangkok.

Budget: 200-500B for food, 100-500B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Steamed Crab (ปูนึ่ง)

Fresh crab steamed and served with seafood dipping sauce
Price: 200-400B per plate

2. Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง)

Shrimp tom yum soup — hot, sour, and fragrant with lemongrass and galangal
Price: 80-120B

3. Satay (สะเต๊ะ)

Grilled chicken or pork skewers with peanut sauce and cucumber relish
Price: 10-15B per stick

4. Moo Ping (หมูปิ้ง) — Grilled Pork Skewers

Sweet marinated pork grilled over charcoal, served with sticky rice
Price: 10B per stick, 20B for sticky rice

5. Fruit Shakes and Thai Tea

Every flavor imaginable, blended fresh
Price: 30-50B

What to Buy

Clothing (mostly fast fashion and copies — 100-300B)
Phone accessories (50-200B)
Sneakers (both genuine Thai brands and "inspired" designs — 300-1,500B)
Bags and backpacks (200-800B)

Insider Tips

The famous aerial photograph of the market's colorful tent tops is taken from Level 4-5 of the Esplanade parking garage. Go around 7pm for the best light. It is free to access.
The food zone is in the back left of the market. Walk past the shopping stalls to find it.
Thursday is the quietest night — best for a relaxed visit.
The bar zone on the right side has live music and cocktails (150-250B per drink).
This market is more "young Bangkok local" than tourist. Good for people-watching.

11. Hua Hin Night Market

Why it is #11: Hua Hin's night market (ตลาดโต้รุ่งหัวหิน) is the best beach-town night market in Thailand. It has been running on Dechanuchit Road for decades, and unlike the touristy night scenes in Pattaya or Patong, Hua Hin's market feels genuinely local. The seafood here is exceptional — fresh off the boats that dock at Hua Hin pier — and the prices are fair.

Location: Dechanuchit Road, central Hua Hin (parallel to the main road, 2 blocks from the beach)

Opening hours: Every night, 5pm-11pm

How to get there: Walk from anywhere in central Hua Hin. If coming from Bangkok, minivan from Victory Monument (180B, 3 hours) drops you in central Hua Hin.

Budget: 200-500B for food, 100-400B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Grilled Seafood Platters

Prawns, squid, fish, and shellfish grilled over charcoal, served with spicy lime dipping sauce
Price: 150-400B for a mixed platter
The seafood is the reason to come here. It is absurdly fresh.

2. Pla Pao (ปลาเผา) — Salt-Crusted Grilled Fish

Whole fish (usually snakehead or tilapia) packed in a thick salt crust and grilled over coals, then cracked open tableside
Price: 120-200B
The salt seals in moisture. The fish comes out perfectly flaky and seasoned.

3. Pad Thai (Seafood Version)

Pad thai loaded with prawns, squid, and crab meat
Price: 60-100B

4. Fresh Oysters

Raw or grilled, with lime and chili sauce
Price: 100-200B per dozen (seasonal)

What to Buy

Thai cotton clothing (100-400B)
Handmade jewelry — shell, bead, and stone designs (50-300B)
Local snacks — dried seafood, coconut chips, fruit leather (50-150B)
Hua Hin branded souvenirs (50-200B)

Insider Tips

The seafood restaurants lining the market are sit-down, not grab-and-go. Plan to spend 30-60 minutes eating.
Prices are listed on signs at most food stalls — less haggling required here compared to Bangkok markets.
The market connects to Hua Hin's night scene — bars and live music venues are within walking distance.
Visit Cicada Market (Friday-Sunday, 4-11pm) nearby for a more upscale art-and-design market experience.
Hua Hin is a popular weekend trip from Bangkok. Friday and Saturday nights are busiest.

12. Krabi Town Night Market

Why it is #12: Krabi Town's weekend night market (ตลาดกลางคืนกระบี่) is a hidden gem that most tourists miss because they head straight to Ao Nang or Railay Beach. The market sets up along Maharaj Soi 8 and spills into the waterfront area. It is overwhelmingly local — you might be the only foreigner there — and the southern Thai food is excellent and cheap.

Location: Maharaj Soi 8 (near Khong Ka pier), Krabi Town

Opening hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 5pm-10pm

How to get there: Songthaew from Ao Nang to Krabi Town (60B, 30 minutes). Or walk from anywhere in Krabi Town (it is small).

Budget: 100-300B for food, 100-300B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Kanom Jeen (ขนมจีน)

Fresh rice noodles served with your choice of curries (fish curry, green curry, crab curry). Point at whichever curry trays look good.
Price: 30-50B
A southern Thai breakfast staple that works brilliantly as dinner too

2. Sataw Pad Goong (สะตอผัดกุ้ง)

Stink beans stir-fried with prawns and shrimp paste — pungent, funky, and absolutely delicious if you can handle the smell
Price: 60-80B

3. Roti Mataba (โรตีมะตะบะ)

Savory stuffed roti with minced chicken or beef, potato, and curry spices — Indian-Muslim influence
Price: 40-60B

4. Grilled Squid on a Stick

Small squid grilled whole and served with sweet chili sauce
Price: 20-30B per stick

What to Buy

Local batik fabrics (100-400B)
Handmade soaps and coconut oil (50-150B)
Thai snacks and dried fruit (30-100B per bag)
Shell jewelry and beach accessories (50-200B)

Insider Tips

This market is much more "real Thailand" than anything you will find in Ao Nang or the islands. If you want to see how locals shop and eat, this is it.
The waterfront area is beautiful at sunset. Arrive at 5pm, watch the sunset, then eat.
Prices are not inflated for tourists because there are very few tourists here. Everything is priced for locals.
Combine with a visit to Krabi Town's riverside restaurants and the tiger cave temple (Wat Tham Sua) during the day.
If you are not here on a weekend, the night food stalls along Maharaj Road operate most evenings (smaller but still good).

13. Koh Samui Fisherman's Village Walking Street (Bophut)

Why it is #13: The Fisherman's Village walking street in Bophut (ถนนคนเดินหมู่บ้านชาวประมง) is the best night market on any Thai island. While island markets tend to be overpriced and tourist-focused, Bophut manages to maintain charm. The market runs along the old fisherman's village waterfront, past wooden shophouses and past the beach. The seafood is fresh, the atmosphere is romantic (this is a great couples market), and the sunset views from the beachfront stalls are stunning.

Location: Bophut Beach Road, north coast of Koh Samui

Opening hours: Friday only, 5pm-11pm

How to get there: Songthaew from Chaweng (60-80B) or Nathon (50-70B). Or Grab/taxi (150-300B depending on distance).

Budget: 200-600B for food, 200-800B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Beachfront Seafood BBQ

Grilled prawns, fish, and squid served right on the beach
Price: 150-400B
Eat with your feet in the sand as the sun goes down

2. Coconut Pancakes (ขนมครก)

Cooked fresh in cast-iron molds, crispy bottoms, soft coconut centers
Price: 30-40B for a bag

3. Som Tam (ส้มตำ)

Green papaya salad pounded to order — specify your spice level (1-5 chilies for tourists, 10+ for Thais who want to suffer beautifully)
Price: 40-60B

4. Fresh Smoothie Bowls

Acai, dragon fruit, or mango smoothie bowls with toppings (granola, coconut, banana)
Price: 100-180B
More expensive than the mainland, but it is an island

What to Buy

Coconut shell products — bowls, candles, jewelry boxes (100-400B)
Island-style clothing — linen shirts, beach dresses, coverups (200-800B)
Handmade leather sandals (300-800B)
Local art and photography (200-2,000B)

Insider Tips

This is a FRIDAY ONLY market. Plan your Samui itinerary around it.
The beachfront bars have happy hour specials (2-for-1 cocktails, 100-150B) that overlap with market hours.
The old wooden shophouses in Bophut village are photogenic even without the market. Come early to explore.
Prices are 20-40% higher than mainland markets — it is an island, expect the island tax.
The atmosphere here is more upscale-backpacker and couples-friendly than party-backpacker.

14. Koh Phangan Thong Sala Night Market (Pantip)

Why it is #14: Koh Phangan is known for the Full Moon Party, but its best-kept secret is the Thong Sala night market near Pantip Pier. It runs almost every night and serves as the island's communal dining room. Backpackers, long-stay digital nomads, Thai families, and even the odd monk all eat here. The food is cheap (island-cheap, which means closer to mainland prices than other Koh Phangan restaurants), and the vibe is gloriously casual.

Location: Thong Sala pier area (near Pantip Market)

Opening hours: Most nights, 5pm-10pm (busiest on Saturday)

How to get there: Walk from Thong Sala pier or town center. Songthaew from other beaches (100-150B).

Budget: 100-300B for food, 50-200B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Pad Kra Pao Moo Grob (ผัดกะเพราหมูกรอบ)

Holy basil stir-fry with crispy pork belly over rice, topped with a fried egg
Price: 60-80B
The crispy pork version is the upgrade you did not know you needed

2. Massaman Curry (แกงมัสมั่น)

Rich, slightly sweet curry with potatoes, peanuts, and tender beef or chicken
Price: 50-70B with rice

3. Fresh Fish (catch of the day)

Whole fish grilled or fried, served with garlic and chili sauce
Price: 100-200B depending on size and type

4. Mango Sticky Rice

Price: 60-100B (island prices)

5. Thai Pancakes (banana, Nutella, egg)

Price: 30-50B
A late-night backpacker staple

What to Buy

Shopping is minimal here — this is primarily a food market with a few clothing and souvenir stalls.

Full Moon Party gear — neon paint, tank tops, glow accessories (50-200B)
Beach accessories — sarongs, sunglasses, waterproof phone pouches (50-300B)
Coconut oil products (80-200B)

Insider Tips

This is the cheapest place to eat on Koh Phangan. Restaurant prices on the island are 50-100% higher.
The stall at the far end (closest to the pier) does an exceptional green curry.
Come here for dinner before a Full Moon Party to save money and line your stomach.
The market is small enough to browse entirely in 30 minutes.
There is also a smaller night market in Haad Rin (the Full Moon Party beach), but it is more expensive and less authentic.

15. Chiang Rai Night Bazaar

Why it is #15: Chiang Rai's night bazaar (ไนท์บาซาร์เชียงราย) is a scaled-down version of Chiang Mai's — smaller, quieter, and more manageable. What sets it apart is the nightly cultural show at the central stage, the excellent northern Thai food, and the proximity to hill tribe communities. If you are visiting Chiang Rai for the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) or the Golden Triangle, the night bazaar is a perfect evening activity.

Location: Phahonyothin Road, central Chiang Rai (near the bus station)

Opening hours: Every night, 6pm-11pm

How to get there: Walk from most Chiang Rai hotels and guesthouses (the town is small). Songthaew within town (20-30B).

Budget: 100-300B for food, 100-500B for shopping

What to Eat

1. Sai Oua (ไส้อั่ว) — Northern Sausage

Same style as Chiang Mai but with subtle regional differences (Chiang Rai versions tend to be slightly more herbaceous)
Price: 30-40B per piece

2. Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย)

Northern curry noodle soup — Chiang Rai khao soi tends to have a thinner, more soupy broth compared to Chiang Mai's thick coconut version
Price: 50-60B

3. Naem (แหนม) — Fermented Pork Sausage

Sour, tangy, fermented raw pork sausage eaten with ginger, chili, and peanuts
Price: 20-30B per portion
An acquired taste but beloved in the north

4. Khao Piak Sen (ข้าวเปียกเส้น)

Thick, hand-rolled rice noodle soup in a clear chicken broth — Lao-influenced comfort food
Price: 40-50B

What to Buy

Hill tribe handicrafts — Akha, Lahu, and Hmong products (bags, clothing, silver — 100-1,000B)
Chiang Rai coffee and tea — the province is Thailand's tea and coffee growing region (100-300B per bag)
Hand-woven textiles (150-800B)
Blue Temple and White Temple souvenirs (50-200B)

Insider Tips

The cultural performance at the central stage runs from about 7-9pm most nights and features traditional Lanna dancing and hill tribe performances. It is free.
Chiang Rai tea and coffee make excellent gifts. The province grows some of Thailand's best Arabica coffee and oolong tea.
The food court area behind the main stalls has the cheapest food (40-50B per dish).
Chiang Rai is noticeably cooler than Chiang Mai at night, especially November through February. Bring a light jacket.
The Saturday Walking Street on Thanalai Road is a newer addition and worth visiting if your timing works out.

Night Market Comparison Table

Here is every market at a glance so you can decide which ones to prioritize:

| Market | Location | Days Open | Best For | Budget (Food) | Budget (Shopping) | Tourist Level | |--------|----------|-----------|----------|---------------|-------------------|---------------| | Jodd Fairs | Bangkok | Thu-Sun | Food + photos | 200-500B | 200-500B | Medium | | Sunday Walking Street | Chiang Mai | Sun only | Everything | 150-400B | 100-500B | High | | Chatuchak Night | Bangkok | Fri-Sat | Shopping + vintage | 200-600B | 300-2,000B | Medium | | Rod Fai Srinakarin | Bangkok | Thu-Sun | Vintage + atmosphere | 200-500B | 200-1,000B | Low-Medium | | Saturday Wualai | Chiang Mai | Sat only | Crafts + silver | 100-300B | 100-600B | Medium | | Naka Weekend Market | Phuket | Sat-Sun | Volume + bargains | 200-500B | 200-800B | Medium | | Chiang Mai Night Bazaar | Chiang Mai | Every night | Convenience | 150-400B | 100-1,000B | High | | Pai Walking Street | Pai | Every night | Vibes + budget | 100-300B | 100-400B | Medium-High | | Phuket Old Town | Phuket | Sun only | Culture + unique food | 150-400B | 100-500B | Medium | | Rod Fai Ratchada | Bangkok | Thu-Sun | Easy access + photos | 200-500B | 100-500B | Medium | | Hua Hin Night Market | Hua Hin | Every night | Seafood | 200-500B | 100-400B | Medium | | Krabi Town | Krabi | Fri-Sun | Local experience | 100-300B | 100-300B | Low | | Bophut (Koh Samui) | Koh Samui | Fri only | Couples + sunset | 200-600B | 200-800B | Medium-High | | Thong Sala (Koh Phangan) | Koh Phangan | Most nights | Budget island eating | 100-300B | 50-200B | Low-Medium | | Chiang Rai Night Bazaar | Chiang Rai | Every night | Culture + northern food | 100-300B | 100-500B | Low-Medium |

How to Plan Your Night Market Route

If You Are in Bangkok (3-5 Nights)

Night 1: Jodd Fairs (Thursday-Sunday) — the best food experience
Night 2: Rod Fai Ratchada (easy access) or Rod Fai Srinakarin (better atmosphere)
Night 3: Chatuchak Night (Friday/Saturday only) — combine with daytime Chatuchak
Night 4: Yaowarat (Chinatown) — not technically a "night market" but the best night food street in Bangkok (see our Bangkok Street Food Guide)

If You Are in Chiang Mai (3-5 Nights)

Saturday: Wualai Walking Street — smaller, more authentic
Sunday: Sunday Walking Street — the flagship experience
Any other night: Chiang Mai Night Bazaar — convenient and reliable
Bonus: If you have a car or scooter, the Saturday organic farmers market at JJ Market (morning) pairs well with the evening market

If You Are Island Hopping

Phuket: Naka (Saturday/Sunday) for volume, Old Town (Sunday) for culture
Koh Samui: Bophut Fisherman's Village (Friday only)
Koh Phangan: Thong Sala every night for cheap meals

If You Have One Night Only

Choose based on what matters most to you:

Best food: Jodd Fairs (Bangkok) or Sunday Walking Street (Chiang Mai)
Best shopping: Chatuchak (Bangkok)
Best atmosphere: Rod Fai Srinakarin (Bangkok) or Pai Walking Street
Best value: Krabi Town or Thong Sala (Koh Phangan)
Best for couples: Bophut (Koh Samui) or Phuket Old Town
Most authentic: Saturday Wualai (Chiang Mai) or Krabi Town

Night Market Survival Guide

Money Tips

Bring cash in small bills. 20B and 100B notes are ideal. Most vendors cannot break 1,000B notes, especially early in the evening.
Budget 400-800B per market visit (food + shopping combined).
ATM fees: Bangkok ATMs charge 220B per withdrawal. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently.
PromptPay/QR codes: Some stalls accept mobile payment, but assume cash-only to be safe.

Health and Comfort

Hydrate. You are walking in heat for hours. Carry a water bottle and refill at 7-Eleven (7B for 1.5L).
Wear comfortable shoes. Not flip-flops — you will be walking and standing for 2-3+ hours.
Mosquito repellent. Outdoor evening markets are mosquito territory. Apply before you go.
Watch your belongings. Night markets are generally safe, but pickpockets exist in crowded markets. Keep valuables in a zipped front pocket or crossbody bag.

Food Strategy

Eat small, eat often. Share dishes with travel companions so you can try more stalls.
Follow the queues. If locals are lining up, the food is good. Empty stalls with aggressive touts are usually mediocre.
Eat what is being cooked fresh. Avoid items that have been sitting on display for hours.
Be adventurous. The weirdest-looking stall often has the best food. Fried insects? Try them. Fermented sausage? Go for it. That is what travel is about.

Shopping Strategy

Walk the entire market once before buying anything. Prices and selection vary, and you might find the same item cheaper at a different stall.
Haggle respectfully. Smile, counter-offer, and be willing to walk away. If the vendor calls you back, you have leverage.
Buy in bulk for discounts. "If I buy 3, what is the price?" works almost everywhere.
Check quality carefully. Seams, zippers, stitching — inspect before you pay. No returns at night markets.

Seasonal Considerations

Cool Season (November - February)

Best time for night markets. Temperatures drop to 20-25C in the evening (even cooler in Chiang Mai and Pai at 15-20C). Markets are busy with peak tourist season, but the weather makes everything more enjoyable. Bring a light layer for northern markets.

Hot Season (March - May)

Markets are sweltering. Even at night, temperatures stay above 30C in Bangkok. Drink constantly. Markets are less crowded (fewer tourists), which means better haggling and less waiting. Some smaller markets reduce their operating days.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Rain can shut down outdoor markets with little warning. Covered markets (Rod Fai, Night Bazaar) operate rain or shine. Outdoor walking streets (Sunday Walking Street, Wualai) may be partially closed or very quiet during heavy rain. Fewer tourists mean lower prices and friendlier vendors. Pack a compact rain jacket.

Final Thoughts

Night markets are Thailand at its most alive. They are democratic — a millionaire and a backpacker eat the same 50B pad thai side by side on plastic stools. They are social — families stroll, friends laugh, couples share mango sticky rice. And they are delicious — the concentration of cooking talent in a single Thai night market puts most Western food festivals to shame.

Do not overthink it. Show up hungry. Walk slowly. Eat everything that catches your eye. Talk to the vendors. Sit on a plastic stool and watch the chaos swirl around you. You will eat better for 300 Baht than you would for 30 dollars anywhere back home.

That is the magic of Thailand after dark.

Related Guides

Best Street Food in Bangkok — Neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown of Bangkok's street food scene
Thai Street Food Guide — How to order, what to try, and how to eat like a local
Thailand Budget Breakdown — How much to budget per day including food
Street Food Ordering Guide — Essential Thai phrases for ordering at stalls and markets