Damnoen Saduak Market and Maeklong Railway Market

Thai Trade Thrills: From Floating Boats to Trains on Tracks in Damnoen Saduak and Maeklong Markets

Forget department stores and online shopping sprees and buckle up for a sensory overload, a dash of adrenaline, and a healthy dose of Thai charm in a whirlwind day trip that will have you haggling for handicrafts, dodging trains (safely, of course!), and grinning wider than a Buddha with a mouthful of mango sticky rice. Prepare to conquer Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Maeklong Railway Market – two Thai experiences that are anything but predictable!

Morning Magic on the Water

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Step into a scene straight out of a National Geographic special. Imagine row upon row of vibrant wooden boats bobbing on a canal, packed with vendors brimming with smiles and exotic wares. Feast your eyes on a kaleidoscope of colors – glistening fish, fragrant spices, handcrafted souvenirs, and enough tropical fruit to make your Instagram explode. 

Hop on a longtail boat, bargain your way to a sweet deal on a silk scarf, and maybe even snag a fresh coconut drink straight from the husk. Just remember, In Bangkok haggling is half the fun (and an art form in Thailand)!

Lunch with a Locomotive Thrill

Maeklong Railway Market: Time to swap boats for steel tracks! Maeklong Railway Market is a marvel of human ingenuity and, let’s be honest, a tad bit crazy. Picture bustling stalls laden with fresh produce, spices, and clothes lining a narrow train track. Vendors nimbly fold their awnings and squeeze wares back as a locomotive chugs through the heart of the market, inches from mangoes and fish sauce bottles. 

Don’t worry, though! This is a well-orchestrated dance (although a good pair of sneakers and quick reflexes never hurt). Witness the daily routine, capture some heart-stopping photos, and marvel at the unique blend of commerce and chaos.

Safety First:

Market Manners: Be mindful of vendors and shoppers in the bustling markets. Stay alert, watch your belongings, and move cautiously to avoid bumping into boats or stalls.

Train Tracks, Not Playgrounds: Maeklong Railway Market might be thrilling, but safety comes first. Stand behind the designated lines, stay off the tracks when the train approaches, and never try to outrun it (trains win, always!).

Sunscreen & Snacks: Prepare for the tropical heat and humidity. Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are your allies. Pack some snacks to keep those tummy grumbles at bay between market explorations.

Respect the Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples, and be mindful of local customs and traditions. A little goes a long way in this warm and welcoming culture.

So, ditch the guidebooks, embrace the unexpected, and prepare to be amazed, amused, and maybe even a little train-dodged on this epic day trip. Damnoen Saduak and Maeklong Markets aren’t just shopping destinations; they’re vibrant slices of Thai life, whispering stories of tradition and offering experiences you’ll never forget. 

Ticket Prices

Adult (11 and above) 28.91 USD

Children (5-10) 23.13 USD

Infants (4 and younger) do not require a ticket

Tour guide available in English, Thai, Japanese, and German

Ticket prices include:

Roundtrip air-conditioned transportation

Paddle boat

Guide

Water

Hotel pickup (if option selected) (ticket prices vary)

Not included:

Lunch

Personal expenses

Tips (optional)

Important Information

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments

What to bring:

Comfortable shoes

Sunglasses

Sun hat

Sunscreen

Comfortable clothes

Cash

How to Get There: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

To join the tour to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, head to the main entrance of River City Shopping Mall—this is the designated meeting point.

Getting There:

• By BTS Skytrain: Take the Silom Line to Saphan Taksin Station (S6). From there, it’s a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride to River City.

• By Taxi or Grab: Simply search for “River City Bangkok.” Most drivers know the location well.

• By Boat: Take a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Si Phraya Pier (N3). The mall is just a short walk away.

Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as tours leave on time. The drive to the market takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.