Maeklong Train station
Located just a one-hour drive from Bangkok, the Maeklong Train Market is a captivating destination where vendors sell a variety of goods, including fresh produce, meats, street food, and clothing. What sets this market apart is its unique location—right on the tracks of a working train station. Throughout the day, trains pass through the market, prompting the vendors to swiftly lift their items and make way for the train. This spectacle provides visitors with a remarkable experience and stunning views. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the sights, sounds, and smells, immerses visitors in a truly sensory experience. Exploring the market offers not only an opportunity to witness this incredible moment but also a chance to sample local delicacies and engage with the community. Don’t miss the chance to capture amazing photos and videos during the train’s passage. For a truly authentic and cultural experience near Bangkok, a visit to the Maeklong Train Market is a must.
Tip: For the best view of the train, it’s recommended to secure a table at one of the restaurants located on the tracks. When the train arrives, these restaurants only allow their customers to be present, ensuring an unobstructed view without crowds of people in front of you. Check out this reel of the market !
Amphawa Floating market
The floating market offers a wide range of items, including delicious food, drinks, street food, and souvenirs. Additionally, there are restaurants available for visitors. For just 50 baht per person, you can enjoy a boat ride through the entire floating market, which lasts around 50 minutes. During the boat ride, you’ll have the opportunity to admire temples from a unique perspective. Unlike the crowded Damnoen Floating Market, this floating market provides a more peaceful atmosphere. If you prefer a less crowded experience, I highly recommend visiting this place. To maximize your experience and see more vendors on boats, it’s best to arrive early. We visited in the late afternoon and found that most vendors selling from their boats had already left
How to get there from Bangkok
1.Private Tour with driver (most expensive) : Take a taxi straight from your hotel to Maeklong station around 2500 baht
2.Rideshare apps (mid-budget) : Grab, Bolt, Maxime can be used to get to the market for around 1500 baht.
3.Local transport (cheapest) : minibus, songthaew.
Take a Grab/bolt to Bangkok southern bus station→ go to booth number 10 and you can purchase your ticket for Maeklong train station (60 baht) , Amphawa floating market (70 baht) or Damnoen floating market (80 baht).
From Maeklong station to Amphawa Floating Market:
Take songthaew from outside the 711 opposite the market for around 10 baht. It will drop you off at Amphawa Floating market.
From Amphawa Floating Market to Bangkok:
To return to the Maeklong Train Station, cross the street from the Amphawa Floating Market parking lot and look for a coffee stand with a red bench. Wait at the coffee stand as it serves as a pickup point for the songthaew that will take you back to the Maeklong Train Station.
Once you arrive at the Maeklong Train Station, head back to the 711 convenience store where you initially started. From there, walk to the nearby bus stop, which can be found at the following location: https://goo.gl/maps/MPBR1D6mEtXXyExz6. This bus stop will be your departure point to catch the minibus back to Bangkok.