Markets in Bangkok offer fascinating shopping experiences for bargain hunters, with alleys after alleys of shops selling things like one-off fashion accessories, fresh flowers, and agricultural produce. These markets also let you sample the kind of food you won't find in most restaurants in the city.

Unlike shopping malls, prices at Thai markets aren’t fixed, so you can always have a go at bargaining for the best possible price you want to pay. Just remember to do it politely and with a sense of humour. Below is our guide to some great markets in Bangkok.

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    The Klong Suan 100 Year Market is more than just a fresh food display, a giant bazaar or a touristic floating market – it's a living museum. A great way to enjoy the market is the way Thai people do it – by snacking on the many food options sold along the way. Some might look familiar, but it's always a lot more fun to try the unusual-looking ones until it’s time for a real lunch. Located outside Bangkok, about 20 km past Suvarnabhumi Airport, this very large old market is set on one side of the Prawet Burirom klong (canal).

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    Location: Theppharat-Lat Krabang Rd, Ban Pho, Chachoengsao 24140, Thailand

    Open: Daily from 7 am to 5 pm

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    Or Tor Kor Market is a nice place to stroll around, whether you're just browsing, taking photos, or actually doing some grocery shopping. Fresh, large-sized fruit of all types and varieties is what it's mostly known for, but you'll also find a wide range of vegetables, seafood, pre-cut meats and flowers. Thai sweets are also plentiful, ranging from the traditional kind to modern varieties. These include kanom krok (grilled coconut pancakes), sweet sticky rice, steamed palm sugar desserts, and kanom bueng (coconut crepes).

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    Location: 101, Phahonyothin Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

    Open: Daily from 6 am to 8 pm

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    Sampeng Lane Market pretty much sums up the whole shopping experience of Chinatown Bangkok and, to some extent, the surrounding Old Town. This daytime market is very busy, and the narrow lanes often become chaotic with rows of stalls peddling a wide range of goods. The steady flow of pedestrian traffic, pushcarts, worn-out Vespas, and the occasional truck overflowing with fresh produce all add to the fun 'madness' in this part of Bangkok.

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    Location: Soi Wanit 1, Yaowarat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand

    Open: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm (hours vary)

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    Ta Tian Market

    Ta Tian Market
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    Ta Tian Market is a fresh marketplace in Bangkok Riverside, just opposite the white walls of Wat Pho. The market is often missed by travellers who often take a break at one of the charming little cafes under the arches of the Sino-Portuguese façades. You can find its small entrance right in the middle of this U-shaped heritage style building. Walking through the maze-like Ta Tian market is both fun and disorienting experience. 

    Location: Maha Rat Rd, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

    Open: Daily from 11 am to 6.30 pm

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    The Circle Ratchapruk

    The Circle Ratchapruk
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    • Shoppers

    The Circle Ratchapruk is a modern ‘themed-market’ with bright colours, European-inspired décor, and a range of stores selling locally designed products. The market area, which is spread over some 7,000 square metres, has around 100 shops and stalls. It’s particularly popular with young families with its themed installations, artwork and regular events, activities and educational shops for the kids. 

    Unlike traditional markets in Bangkok, The Circle Ratchapruk has several chain restaurants, including MK and McDonalds, as well as Japanese buffets and grills.

    Location: 39 Ratchaphruek Rd, Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand

    Open: Monday–Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm, Friday–Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm

    Phone: +66 2 865 6850

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