Bangkok’s Bustling Market Scene.

Away from Bangkok’s shiny shopping malls are the markets where locals and expatriates like to browse and shop for everyday items. Markets are an integral part of Thailand selling a host of goods from fresh produce, clothing and other household items often at a cheaper price tag than found in shopping malls.

Markets tend to pop up throughout the city and are often close to business hubs to take advantage of the nearby office workers who spend their lunch hour browsing and shopping for goods. However, there are some larger and more established markets in the city that have become a bit of a Bangkok institution.

Khlong Toei Market.

Possibly Bangkok’s most famous market is also the city’s biggest fresh market selling every type and shape of food. Situated on Rama IV near the intersection of Ratchadaphisek this sprawling market holds significance since despite being a must see attraction for many tourists coming to the city, it is also frequented by locals and restaurateurs searching for fresh produce from eggs to vegetables, and chicken and shrimp. Khlong Toei market seems to rarely sleep and is IDEO Mobi Rama 4 is ideally located about 800 meters away. 

Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Probably as popular as Khlong Toei Market and vying to be equally as popular is the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Open at the weekend as the name suggests, this market is extremely accessible by Bangkok’s mass transit network from Mo Chit BTS Skytrain Station on the Light Green/Sukhumvit Line, Kamphaeng Phet and Chatuchak Park on the Blue Line of the MRT Network.

Whilst some might think that this market is just for tourists due to the wealth of souvenirs for sale, they would be mistaken as other items found here include up and coming designers featuring their clothes, art, jewellery and household items. There are ceramics, rugs, vintage wear and a whole section dedicated to furniture - modern and more traditional styles - that is open throughout the week. This is the ideal place to furnish a Bangkok condominium particularly as everything is all within one space.    

Tuesday and Thursday Market.

Ideal for Sukhumvit residents and particularly those at ASHTON Asoke and ASHTON Asoke-Rama 9 is this twice weekly market at Srinakharinwirot University on Sukhumvit Soi 23. Locals and expatriates flock to this market which specialises more in everyday items such as food, clothes, toys and homewares. This smaller market is set in a pedestrianised area and it is advisable to get here early to get all the good items before they are gone!