Amphawa Floating Market is one of the most charming evening markets in Thailand, located in Amphawa district of Samut Songkhram, about 1 to 1.5 hours drive from Bangkok. Open Friday through Sunday, this market draws both local and international visitors, especially in the evenings of Saturday and Sunday, when the canals come alive with lights, aromas, and voices of boat vendors.

This market is famous for its delicious seafood dishes cooked on longtail boats, traditional Thai desserts, and handmade souvenirs. The market stretches along the banks of the Amphawa Canal, surrounded by vintage wooden houses, temples, and bridges that preserve the community’s old-world charm.

A “must-do” activity here is a boat tour along the canals to experience local riverside life. As night falls, you can witness the glowing lights of fireflies sparkling beneath the cork trees—a rare and mesmerizing natural phenomenon. The boat fee is usually no more than 100 THB per person.

Amphawa is a favorite among photographers, couples, and culture lovers. The mix of golden sunset reflections on the water, steam rising from grilled prawns, and the glimmering fireflies creates a unique sensory experience. Local musicians, traditional lanterns, and canal views enhance the vibrant yet relaxing ambiance.

A visit to Amphawa Floating Market offers a peaceful escape from the city's chaos and a deep dive into authentic Thai riverside culture.

• By Car: Take Highway 35 (Rama II Road, formerly Thonburi–Pak Tho Road) from Bangkok. At Km. 63, use the elevated parallel road to enter Samut Songkhram town. Turn right at the major junction, then left across the railway track. Continue right, then left at the next red-light junction, and drive about 6 km until you reach Amphawa junction. Keep left to enter Amphawa, pass the market and cross the Amphawa Canal bridge (Decha Ditsar Bridge). The temple gate will be on your left.

• By Bus:

  • From the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok, take air-conditioned Bus No. 76 (Bangkok–Damnoen Saduak), which passes through Samut Songkhram and stops near the Amphawa market.

  • Or take Bus No. 967 (Bangkok–Samut Songkhram), then transfer to Bus No. 333 (Mae Klong–Amphawa–Bang Nok Khwaek), which stops right in front of the temple.

• Departure from Bangkok should be before 4:00 PM to avoid traffic and catch the market at its liveliest.

• Best visiting time: November–February for cooler weather and firefly sightings

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes or sandals are recommended for walking on wooden bridges and narrow alleys

• Photography: Golden hour (around 17:00–18:30) is ideal for capturing canal life and glowing lights

• Must-try: Grilled river prawns, coconut pancakes, and local Thai iced tea

• Plan ahead: Weekends get crowded; parking is limited, so early arrival is a plus

Admission Fee:

• Thai visitors: Adult 0 THB, Child 0 THB

• Foreign visitors: Adult 0 THB, Child 0 THB

• (Updated 2025 by Amphawa Municipality)

Opening Hours:

• Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Firefly boat tours available until approximately 8:30 PM