While visiting Pattaya on our Thailand trip, we landed in a one-of-a-kind shopping experience at the floating market Pattaya located at 45 304, 12 Sukhumvit Rd, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand. The name itself makes it clear – it’s a local shopping area that floats over water. The Pattaya floating market entrance fee cost us 180 Thai Baht each. We started by browsing through the marketplace for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Thai products, and our trip ended with a wooden boat ride.
About The Floating Market
This market is also known as the Four Regions Floating Market and is filled with tourists even during the off-season. The main reason is that the floating market Pattaya ticket price is between 180 and 550 Thai baht per person. So, everyone can get their share of the local Thai shopping experience. You can also book a ticket that includes costume dressing and a rowing boat.
Timing & Entrance Fee
We started off early in the morning. The floating market Pattaya opens at 10:00 am and lasts up to 11:00 pm. But, we suggest visiting during the early hours. The market is divided into four regions – north, northeast, central, and south. There are over 400 shops to browse unique and different products – from jewelry, foods, decor, and real succulents, to fresh seafood.
- North: Handicraft & Cuisines
- Northeast: Cultural Performance & Textiles
- Central: Fresh Fruits & Veggies On Floating Boats
- South: Seafood & Art Galleries
Local Stalls & Food
If you are planning to visit, we suggest trying out street food. They have the authentic taste & spice of Thailand but won’t burn your pocket. Our floating market in Pattaya tour began with exploring handicrafts and souvenirs. Then we moved towards numerous stalls offering seafood, deserts, and tropical fruits. After a nice stop for worthy snacks, we moved forward.
The local art galleries are worth looking at. You can see creative artwork framed for sale created by talented Thai artists. There are also vendors offering massage services, but since we were refreshed enough, we didn’t go for it. What made this tour most memorable was the final boat ride.
30 Min. Boat Ride
You can row the boat by yourself, but we prefer having a companion for safety. Our entire tour of the floating market lasted for about 2 hours, then we booked a taxi and went to see the Big Buddha temple [known as Wat Phra Yai]. It took us 35 minutes to get there. The midday sun would have burned us out hadn’t there been clouds. But, back to the floating market…
Cultural Shows
The boat ride includes a fish-eye view of the entire floating market Pattaya. But you can simply walk on the pavement on the sides if you don’t like water that much. Depending on your visiting hours, you can witness cultural shows like
- Mae Sai dance [at 11:00 am]
- E-Sarn dance [at 12:30 am]
- Larn-tred-teng dance [at 02:00 pm]
- Kung Fu Demo
We also saw a boxing match on a slippery bamboo pole across the water. It is known as Muay Talay or simply sea boxing. Fun fact, the one who knocks the opponent into the water wins! It was fun to watch.
In Evening
Finally, one of our friends wanted to visit Nong Nooch tropical botanical garden. So, we headed for it at around 4 pm. It is a one-time place you can visit. Finally, we went to the nearest restaurant for dinner and returned to the hotel. It was a busy day for our group exploring Pattaya.
Experience The Magic Of Floating Market Pattaya
From cultural performances to unique and refreshing shopping experiences, the Pattaya Floating Market has it all for us. You can, too, visit this market and immerse yourself in Thai culture, shopping for local goodies or just browsing through the vendors’ stalls. Contact the best DMC in Thailand to book your ticket to this shopping haven!
FAQs
Q1. What Are The Operating Hours Of The Floating Market In Pattaya?
Ans. The timing for the floating market is 10 am to 11 pm.
Q2. Where Is The Floating Market Thailand Located?
Ans. The address is: 45 304, 12 Sukhumvit Rd, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand. It is located in Chonburi province.
Q3. What Is The Pattaya Floating Market Entrance Fee?
Ans. The entrance fee is a mere 180 Thai baht. We had a great time and highly recommend you to visit.
Q4. Are There Any Specific Cultural Performances Or Shows Scheduled At The Market?
Ans. Yes, there are four to five cultural shows you can watch. We have mentioned them above.
Q5. How Can Visitors Best Navigate The Waterways And Explore The Market Efficiently?
Ans. We suggest taking a walk on the side of the river. The payment is robust, and you can explore the market up close. After you have some snacks, you can take a boat ride and end your floating market tour.
Q6. How Much Is the Floating Market Pattaya Ticket Price?
Ans. The entrance ticket is 180 Thai baht, for rowing boat & entrance you have to pay 400 Thai baht, and for entrance & costume dress up you will be paying about 550 Thai baht. You must know that the ticket price keeps changing due to offers and discounts.
Q7. Are There Any Recommended Dishes Or Specialties That Should Not Be Missed While Visiting The Market?
Ans. You can have Khao Soi [a creamy noodle soup], Som Tum [spicy papaya salad], and Pad Thai [fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, and peanuts] – it’s the best. You can try vegetarian options like Massaman curry which is a mild sweet curry with potatoes and peanuts and Ka Nom Krok [coconut pancakes]
Q8. What Are The Most Popular Items To Buy At Floating Market Pattaya?
Ans. The best items to buy at the floating market Pattaya are Thai silk, handmade crafts, postcards, décor pieces, and food. It is a must-try for everyone visiting there.