Although many promotional photos of Bangkok show the floating markets so popular in Thailand, you won't actually find many of them in the city.

The biggest one is in the Taling Chan district, and if you don't have time to head to the Amphawa or Damnoen Saduak floating markets about an hour and a half outside of Bangkok (see the Activities section for more), definitely make the trip to Taling Chan. A short trip for a few hours is definitely worth it.

What to buy at Taling Chan Floating Market?

Located in the centre of the Taling Chan district on the Chak Phra Water Canal, the market was built in 1987 to boost the local micro-economy.

As a result, farmers and traders from the immediate area flock to Taling Chan. It mainly sells food of many kinds and forms. You can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and other food products here.

Tourists are probably most attracted by the stalls and canoes with already prepared food. Here you can buy simple dishes ideal for snacks and great traditional Thai desserts.

The market is divided into two parts: a land-based smaller hall under a green roof with many eateries and stalls with ready-made food, and a floating part on the water channel, where about twenty canoes with a variety of products dock daily.

When is Taling Chan Market open?

The market is only open on weekends and public holidays from 7:30am to about 4pm. The earlier you arrive, the more goods you can buy here.

Transportation to Taling Chan Market

The easiest transport is by taxi, which you pay for from the centre at about 120 thb.

Bus line 79 also stops near Taling Chan, which takes you to both the old Bangkok (Khaosan) and the Siam Square area once every 20-30 minutes on weekends for about 20 thb.