The bustling markets of Samut Songkhram rank among Thailand’s most fascinating shopping experiences. I absolutely love the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors expertly pull back their awnings from passing trains – it’s street theater and commerce rolled into one. The Amphawa Floating Market, with its authentic local atmosphere and excellent Thai snacks, beats the more touristy alternatives. While Damnoen Saduak gets crowded, its historic canals and traditional vendors make it worth an early morning visit.
Most tours run 5-9 hours, and I recommend booking private tours to avoid the big bus crowds. The best experiences combine market visits with local food tastings – you’ll learn more and eat better.
Let’s explore my favorite market tours in Samut Songkhram.
Key Points
- The Maeklong Railway Market tour offers a unique shopping experience as vendors retract their awnings as trains pass through the market.
- The Amphawa Floating Market tour provides a vibrant atmosphere with food stalls, crafts, and local delicacies available for visitors to explore.
- The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market tour is renowned for longtail boat rides and the opportunity to sample traditional Thai street food.
- The tours emphasize sustainability practices, such as providing drinking water in glass bottles and offering carbon emission offset credits.
- The tours provide guided experiences with English-speaking guides, hotel pickup/drop-off, and all necessary entrance fees included in the pricing.
Bangkok: Maeklong Railway & Amphawa Floating Market Tour
The Bangkok: Maeklong Railway & Amphawa Floating Market Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience two of Thailand’s iconic marketplaces. Priced from $188.93 per person, this 8-hour tour includes a morning visit to the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors quickly retract their awnings as trains pass by.
Travelers will then visit the ancient Wat Bangkung temple, enveloped by banyan tree roots and home to a revered Buddha statue.
In the afternoon, the tour explores the vibrant Amphawa Floating Market, where visitors can stroll along the canals and sample local delicacies, seafood, and shop for souvenirs.
The day culminates with a peaceful boat ride to witness fireflies illuminating the trees along the waterways, creating an enchanting atmosphere as the sun sets.
The tour includes private vehicle transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, lunch, and more, with the option for private group bookings.
Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Bangkok: Maeklong Railway & Amphawa Floating Market Tour Review
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Kanchanaburi: Sightseeing Tour With Amphawa Market
Kanchanaburi Sightseeing Tour with Amphawa Market offers travelers a comprehensive experience that showcases the rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty of the Kanchanaburi region.
Priced from $200 per group, this 9-hour tour takes participants to the iconic Bridge on the River Kwai, the scenic Tiger Cave Temple, the unique Wat Bang Kung, and the vibrant Amphawa Floating Market.
The tour is limited to 9 participants and conducted in English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can enjoy air-conditioned transportation, a guided tour, and the opportunity to explore the markets and temples at their own pace.
The tour also emphasizes sustainability, providing drinking water in glass bottles and carbon emission offset credits.
Travelers should bring a camera, cash, sunscreen, and a sarong, and note that sleeveless shirts aren’t allowed.
With its diverse itinerary and commitment to responsible tourism, the Kanchanaburi Sightseeing Tour with Amphawa Market is an excellent choice for those seeking an enriching and memorable experience in this historic region of Thailand.
Read our full review: Kanchanaburi: Sightseeing Tour With Amphawa Market Review
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Bangkok: Maeklong Train Market & Amphawa Floating Market
Visitors to Bangkok can embark on a captivating day trip to explore the Maeklong Railway Market and the vibrant Amphawa Floating Market. This private tour, priced at €179.84 for up to 4 participants, provides an 8-hour immersion in these unique shopping experiences.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private driver, and an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.
At the Maeklong Railway Market, guests can witness the fascinating spectacle of vendors swiftly packing and unpacking their stalls as trains pass through the tracks.
The tour then moves on to the Amphawa Floating Market, where visitors can browse the diverse offerings of food and crafts sold from longtail boats. The tour allows ample time for exploring the markets, searching for souvenirs, and indulging in local street food.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some concerns about value for money and pacing, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a memorable shopping adventure in Samut Songkhram.
Read our full review: Bangkok: Maeklong Train Market & Amphawa Floating Market Review
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From Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak & Train Market Tour in Spanish
From Bangkok, travelers can embark on a captivating Damnoen Saduak & Train Market Tour in Spanish. This 5-6.5 hour tour takes visitors to the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and the unique Maeklong Railway Market, all with the guidance of a Spanish-speaking expert.
The tour departs Bangkok around 7 AM, with an air-conditioned van transporting guests to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Here, they’ll take a longtail boat ride and have an hour to explore, shop, and sample local delicacies like pad thai and mango sticky rice.
Next, the group heads to the Maeklong Railway Market, where they’ll witness the incredible sight of shops retracting from the tracks as the train passes by at 11:10 AM.
Priced from $82.02 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, a guide, the longtail boat ride, and bottled water. Shared or private tour options are available, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can expect a 4.4/5 overall rating based on 21 reviews.
Read our full review: From Bangkok: Damnoen Saduak & Train Market Tour in Spanish Review
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Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour
This comprehensive Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour takes travelers on an 8-hour exploration of some of Samut Songkhram’s most iconic destinations.
Priced at $184 per person, the tour includes private round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary entrance fees.
Guests will start at the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, where they’ll have the opportunity to take an optional 30-minute boat ride.
Next, they’ll visit the Maeklong Railway Market, where they’ll witness the dramatic spectacle of vendors quickly packing up their wares as a train approaches the active railway track.
After lunch at a local restaurant, the tour continues to Wat Bang Kung and Wat Sam Phran Dragon Temple, allowing participants to enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.
With the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers an efficient and comprehensive way to explore Samut Songkhram’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Maeklong Railway & Floating Market Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Markets?
The best time of year to visit the markets is typically during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller, making for an optimal shopping experience.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food Available?
The food available at the markets typically caters to a range of dietary preferences. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can usually be found, though it’s best to check with vendors beforehand to ensure specific dietary needs can be accommodated.
Can I Buy Souvenirs to Take Home From the Markets?
Yes, visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs from the local markets in Samut Songkhram. There are stalls selling handmade crafts, local produce, and unique Thai items that make great gifts to take home.
How Accessible Are the Markets for Those With Disabilities?
The markets in Samut Songkhram generally have good accessibility for those with disabilities. Many stalls and walkways are level, and vendors are often willing to assist customers who need help. Accessibility may vary across different market locations.
What Types of Payment Methods Are Accepted at the Markets?
Most markets in the area accept cash, though some larger stalls may accept credit/debit cards. There are generally ATMs nearby for visitors who need to withdraw local currency. Contactless payments like mobile wallets are becoming more common at bigger market shops.
Recap
Samut Songkhram offers a unique shopping experience with its Maeklong Railway and Amphawa Floating Market tours. Visitors can explore the bustling markets, sample local cuisine, and witness the fascinating interaction between the train and the market. These tours provide an immersive cultural journey, showcasing the vibrant traditions and way of life in this Thai province.