Maeklong Railway Market & Amphawa Floating Market

Day trip from Bangkok: The unique combination of Maeklong and Amphawa

At a Glance
Price: from €39 per person.
Duration: 8 to 10 hours on average from Bangkok.
Departure point: Siam Paragon gate no. 1 (Siam BTS Station Exit 5).
Suited for: both first-time visitors to Thailand and returning travelers. Available as a group or private tour, every weekend (Amphawa is only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday).

Anyone visiting Bangkok who wants to experience the real Thailand simply mustn’t miss this unique excursion. The combination of the Maeklong Railway Market and the Amphawa Floating Market takes you to a world where tradition, trade and everyday Thai customs come together in a colourful spectacle.

As well as visiting the Maeklong Railway Market and the Amphawa Floating Market, there are plenty more sights in Bangkok that you shouldn’t miss.

Haven’t booked a hotel in Bangkok yet? Check out our guide to the best hotels in Bangkok.

Maeklong Railway Market: Where the train runs right through the stalls

Our day begins at one of the most spectacular markets in the world: the Maeklong Railway Market. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary local market, with stalls full of fresh vegetables, fruit, fish and fragrant herbs. But appearances can be deceiving. An active railway track runs right through the middle of the market.

As the train approaches, a fascinating scene unfolds: within seconds, the vendors pull in their awnings, move their wares aside and make way for the passing train. As soon as it has disappeared, everything effortlessly returns to normal. This unique spectacle demonstrates the resourcefulness and flexibility of Thai traders and is guaranteed to give you goosebumps.

Amphawa Floating Market: The authentic alternative near Bangkok

After the hustle and bustle of Maeklong, we travel on to the charming Amphawa Floating Market, situated along the tranquil canals of Samut Songkhram. Here, you’ll experience Thailand at a completely different pace. Climb aboard a traditional long-tail boat and let yourself be carried along past colourful boats where local vendors are selling their wares.

The market is renowned for its culinary offerings: freshly grilled seafood, fragrant noodle soups, spicy snacks and sweet coconut desserts are all prepared on the spot. This is the place to discover authentic Thai flavours, straight from the kitchens of the locals.

The Amphawa Floating Market is the most authentic floating market outside Bangkok. It takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Why you’re better off skipping the Damnoen Saduak market

Many travel guides send you straight to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, but be warned: this has now become nothing more than a tourist trap. With over a million visitors a year, you’re more likely to find yourself stuck in a traffic jam with other tourist boats than actually enjoying the culture. Prices are sky-high and the authentic atmosphere has long since disappeared.

Choose Amphawa instead. Why?

• Authenticity: You’ll be visiting a place where the local Thai people themselves spend their weekends.
• Fair prices: Enjoy freshly prepared street food at local prices, not tourist prices.
• Atmosphere: Instead of pushy salespeople, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere, peace and quiet, and genuine craftsmanship.

OUR TIP: If you have the choice, be sure to plan your visit for the weekend. The extra travel time to Amphawa is more than worth it for an experience that feels truly authentic.

Culture, craftsmanship and local charm

As well as the spectacular sights along the railway and the bustling activity on the water, this region offers a deep insight into Thai culture. In the narrow streets around the canals of Amphawa, you won’t find mass-produced goods, but authentic little shops full of handmade souvenirs and traditional crafts.

Take a moment to appreciate the local artisans who patiently craft their wares, from woven baskets to exquisite ceramics. The scent of incense from nearby temples, the rhythmic calls of the boat vendors and the nostalgic wooden houses along the waterfront create an atmosphere you won’t easily find in modern Bangkok. It is this unpretentious, local charm that makes a visit to Maeklong and Amphawa so much more than just a tourist trip.

Opening times and the best time to visit Amphawa and Maeklong

Planning your visit to these markets requires careful consideration, as you’ll need to coordinate your train times with the floating market’s opening hours.

The best time to visit the Maeklong Railway Market

The railway market is open daily from approximately 06:00 to 17:30. The most spectacular moment is, of course, when the train passes by. The train usually arrives at 08:30, 11:10, 14:30 and 17:40. Would you like to see the train depart? It leaves at 06:20, 09:00, 11:30 and 15:30.

Tip: Make sure you arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled arrival time. That way, you can see the market in full swing and watch the chaos as the awnings are retracted.

Opening hours of the Amphawa Floating Market

Unlike the railway market, Amphawa is a genuine weekend market. The market is only open on:

• Friday, Saturday and Sunday: from 2 pm to around 8 pm.

The atmosphere reaches its peak in the late afternoon (around 5 pm). As night falls, you can also take a boat trip to spot fireflies along the riverbank – a magical way to round off your day.

Our recommendation

The best time to travel is on a Saturday or Sunday. Set off from Bangkok at around 10:00 or 11:00. You’ll then arrive in Maeklong in time for the 14:30 train, before continuing on to Amphawa for a charming dinner by the water and a sunset boat trip.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Maeklong Railway Market and how do you get there?

The Maeklong Railway Market is located in the province of Samut Songkhram, approximately 70 kilometres south-west of Bangkok. The easiest way to reach the market is by organised day tour, private taxi (a 1.5-hour journey) or via an adventurous train ride from Wongwian Yai station in Bangkok.

What time does the train pass through the Maeklong Railway Market?

The train passes through Maeklong Market daily at fixed times. The train arrives at 08:30, 11:10, 14:30 and 17:40. The train departs again at 06:20, 09:00, 11:30 and 15:30. Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes early to see the market stalls being folded away.

On which days is the Amphawa Floating Market open?

The Amphawa Floating Market is a weekend market and is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The market comes to life around 2 pm and lasts until around 8 pm. For the best experience and the most activity on the water, it’s best to go on a Saturday or Sunday.

What is the difference between Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak?

The biggest difference is the authenticity. Damnoen Saduak is very touristy, open every day and expensive. Amphawa is a local weekend market mainly frequented by Thai people. In Amphawa, you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, lower prices for street food and a much more authentic experience than in the tourist traps.

How long does a trip to Maeklong and Amphawa take?

A combined day trip from Bangkok lasts on average 8 to 10 hours. As the Amphawa market doesn’t get going until the afternoon, most tours leave Bangkok around midday, allowing you to visit the Railway Market and round off the day with a charming boat trip in Amphawa.

An experience you’ll never forget

This excursion is the perfect blend of excitement, culture and fine dining. Whether you’re visiting Thailand for the first time or have been here before, the Maeklong Railway Market and Amphawa Floating Market will leave a lasting impression. You’ll return to Bangkok with a camera full of photos, a stomach full of delicious food and memories that will linger for a long time to come.

Available as a group or private tour, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.