There are several floating markets in Bangkok but Damnoen Saduak is the most “famous”. This is the one that most people want to visit while in Bangkok. The problem is that the floating market is quite far from Bangkok and you have to go up really early to go there. Even if there are several floating markets closer to the town – Damnoen Saduak is the most popular one. 

Visit a Floating market while in Bangkok

A lot of people will tell you that one of the things they will do while in Thailand is to visit a floating market. The true story is also that most of them will return after visiting Bangkok without visiting a floating market. Why? Most common is that the Damnoen Saduak is quite far from the city and that you have to get up as early as five o´clock in the morning to make it to the market. While you are on vacation you might not want to get up that early and the result is that many people skip the floating market. That’s a shame if you ask us because the market is a “must see” while visiting Bangkok.

Even if this post is about the “mother of floating markets”, Damnoen Saduak – we want you to know that there are several floating markets much closer. In fact, there is one that is only 12 kilometers from Siam Paragon. And these floating markets are opened all day so no need to get up that early.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Bangkok

This floating market is about 100 kilometers from Bangkok and you have to prepare yourself for about one and a half hour in a car to get there. And being the most popular floating market, it also makes it the most touristy. What once was a way for the Thai people to buy fresh food from local farmers around the channels is today a flock of tourists with cameras. However, it is an amazing experience and even though you won’t be the only tourist there you will probably enjoy it!

Fresh mango, papaya, orchids and other delicious treats – all for you to buy. Floating food where you just float by and buy whatever you want when it crosses your path. The river is not a natural, but a man-made channel. It was ordered by king Rama IV to create a way of transportation. Today you will both see old rowing boats as well as motorized longboats. Yes, it’s crowded but also wonderful!

How to make the best out of your visit

The market is open daily between 08.00 and 11.00.

• Make sure to be there at 08.00 because at 09.00 all the tourist busses arrive and the market gets super crowded.
• The most visited spot is around the bridge and here you can walk around and don’t need to go by boat.
• Make sure to do the boat ride first and then stroll around. It’s a lot better because then you have the best chance of actually move while on the water.

Sometimes there are so many boats in the water that you get stuck and can’t move. It’s huge, lively, full of boats selling food and fruits. Totally worth it even if it does not feel genuine. This is a true touristy place. Love it.

Information about the floating market

Address: Damnoen Saduak, Damnoen Saduak District, Ratchaburi 70130, Thailand.