SHOPPING GUIDE
Best and cheapest shopping in Bangkok
From giant weekend markets to glittering malls, Bangkok is one of the best shopping cities in Asia.
Bangkok has everything from 15,000-stall markets to luxury malls. Markets are best for cheap clothes, souvenirs and street food, while malls are perfect for escaping the heat.
Bargaining is normal at markets but not in malls. Stay friendly, smile and walk away if the price isn’t right.
On this page: Quick facts · Top places · Bargaining tips · FAQ
Quick facts
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| Best market | Chatuchak Weekend Market (Saturday and Sunday) |
| Best malls | Siam Paragon, ICONSIAM, CentralWorld |
| Cheap clothes | Pratunam and Platinum Fashion Mall |
| Tax refund | Tourists can claim VAT back on purchases of 2,000 THB or more at shops marked VAT Refund for Tourists |
| Payment | Cash at markets; cards in malls |
Where to shop in Bangkok
Our favourite places for bargains, souvenirs and air-conditioned browsing.
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market
Thousands of stalls selling clothes, art, homeware, plants and food. Go early and bring cash.
- When: Saturday and Sunday 9:00am–6:00pm
- Getting there: BTS Mo Chit or MRT Chatuchak Park
2. MBK Center
Eight floors of phone accessories, clothes, souvenirs and electronics at bargain prices. Haggling is accepted at many stalls.
- Getting there: BTS National Stadium
3. Pratunam and Platinum Fashion Mall
Bangkok’s wholesale clothing district. Prices drop if you buy several items.
- Getting there: BTS Chit Lom or Ratchathewi, then walk
4. ICONSIAM
A huge luxury riverside mall with an indoor floating market (SookSiam) selling regional Thai food and crafts.
- Getting there: Free shuttle boat from Sathorn pier, or the Gold Line monorail
5. Asiatique and Jodd Fairs
Evening markets with souvenirs, street food and live music. Great for gifts.
6. Maeklong Railway Market
About 1.5 hours from Bangkok, vendors pull back their awnings as a train passes right through the market. Often combined with the Damnoen Saduak floating market.
Prices and opening hours were checked in 2025–26 and change often. Please confirm with the official site before you go. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.
Bargaining tips
- Ask the price, then offer around 50–60% and meet in the middle.
- Buying several items gives you a better discount.
- Always stay polite. A smile works better than arguing.
- Don’t bargain on food or in shops with fixed price tags.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bangkok cheap for shopping?
Clothes, souvenirs and accessories at markets are very cheap. Designer brands in malls are similar to prices at home.
Can I get a tax refund?
Yes. Spend at least 2,000 THB in one store on one day at shops that display the VAT Refund for Tourists sign, keep the form and claim at the airport before check-in.
