Asiatique The Riverfront – Bangkok Night Market

Bangkok’s Best Night Market by the Chao Phraya River

If you’re looking for a perfect mix of shopping, food, entertainment, and river views in Bangkok, Asiatique The Riverfront is hard to beat. This massive open-air night market sits right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, blending historic warehouses with modern vibes. It’s less chaotic than Chatuchak and more scenic than Patpong—ideal for a relaxed evening out.

From Sawmills to Night Market Magic

Asiatique’s story starts in the early 20th century when these huge buildings were sawmills, with logs floated down the river for processing. During World War II, the Japanese army took over the warehouses to store ammunition. After the war, the site fell into disuse until the early 2000s, when it was beautifully renovated and reopened in 2012 as Asiatique The Riverfront—one of Bangkok’s most stylish market destinations.The old industrial hangars now house hundreds of stalls under high ceilings and exposed beams, giving the place a unique, airy feel. At night, fairy lights and river breezes make it feel magical.

Shopping at Asiatique

Spread across four zones (Factory, Waterfront, Town Square, and the Clock Tower area), you’ll find:

• Fashion: Boutique clothes, trendy Thai designs, shoes, and accessories you won’t see in standard markets.
• Leather goods, bags, wallets, and luggage.
• Souvenirs, gifts, homeware, arts & crafts, paintings, and jewellery.
• Plenty of “genuine imitation” designer items (handbags, watches) at bargain prices.

Bargaining is mild here—prices are more fixed than street markets, but you can still ask for small discounts.

Food & Dining Options

Asiatique shines for eating:

• Food Court: Cheap, tasty Asian eats—Thai curries, pad Thai, Vietnamese pho, grilled meats, and fresh juices (meals ~100–200 THB / A$5–10).
• Riverfront Restaurants: Upscale spots with views—seafood, Thai fusion, international.
• Fast food: KFC, pizza, and more familiar options.

Grab a drink at one of the bars or cafés along the water and watch the river boats go by.

Entertainment & Attractions

• Giant Ferris Wheel: The 60m-high Sky Wheel offers stunning panoramic views over Bangkok and the Chao Phraya—especially beautiful at night.
• Small Amusement Park: Kid-friendly rides and games.
• Calypso Cabaret Show: One of Bangkok’s longest-running cabaret performances (30+ years), featuring glamorous Thai transgender performers in dazzling costumes, music, and dance. Tickets ~1,000–1,500 THB.

How to Get There

Super easy and scenic:

1. Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station (Silom Line).
2. Exit and walk 100 meters to the Chao Phraya Express Boat pier.
3. Catch the free Asiatique shuttle ferry—runs every 30 minutes from 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM (return trips until 11:30 PM).
   • Daytime: Open from 11:00 AM, but ferry starts at 4:00 PM—taxi/Grab otherwise.

Traffic can be heavy, so the free ferry is usually quicker and more fun.Why Asiatique Should Be on Your Bangkok ListIt’s family-friendly, has river breezes, great food variety, and that unbeatable city-river view. Go late afternoon for sunset photos, stay for dinner and the ferris wheel at night.

Pro tips:

• Best time: 6–10 PM (lively but not overwhelming).
• Wear comfy shoes—it’s huge.
• Bring cash for small stalls; cards accepted at bigger spots.
• Combine with a Chao Phraya dinner cruise or nearby Asiatique hotel stays.

Asiatique isn’t just a market—it’s an experience. Have you been? What’s your favourite stall or ride there?

Check out the location of Asiatique The Riverfront in Bangkok