If you are looking for a unique and authentic experience of Thailand’s culture and lifestyle, then you should not miss the Pattaya Floating Market. This is one of the largest and most popular floating markets in the country, where you can explore the different zones and regions of the market, each representing a part of Thailand. You can also enjoy the traditional shows and crafts, taste the delicious street food, and ride the wooden boats along the canals.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Pattaya Floating Market, such as its history, zones, attractions, activities, timings, prices, and how to reach. So, let’s dive into the world of the Pattaya Floating Market and discover its charm and beauty.
History of Pattaya Floating Market
The Pattaya Floating Market was opened in 2008 as a project to preserve and promote the Thai riverside community and culture. The market covers an area of 100,000 square meters and is divided into four zones, each representing a part of Thailand: the north, the northeast, the central, and the south. The market has more than 100 shops and vendors, selling a variety of products and services, such as souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, accessories, massage, and boat rental. The market also has more than 30 restaurants and cafes, offering a wide range of Thai food, desserts, and beverages. The market aims to showcase the diversity and richness of the Thai culture and lifestyle, and to provide a fun and educational experience for the visitors.
Zones and Attractions of Pattaya Floating Market
The Pattaya Floating Market is divided into four zones, each representing a part of Thailand. Here are some of the attractions and features of each zone:
The North Zone: This zone represents the northern region of Thailand, which is known for its mountainous landscape, ethnic diversity, and distinctive culture. Some of the attractions and features of this zone are Lanna Village, Hill Tribe Museum, Northern Thai Dance Show and Northern Thai Food.
The Northeast Zone: This zone represents the northeast region of Thailand, which is also known as Isan. This region is famous for its rural and agricultural lifestyle, its spicy and sour food, and its ancient and religious heritage. Some of the attractions and features of this zone are Isan Village, Isan Art and Craft, Isan Dance Show and Isan Food.
The Central Zone: This zone represents the central region of Thailand, which is the heart of the Thai culture, history, and politics. This region is renowned for its royal and religious monuments, its art and literature, and its diverse and refined food. Some of the attractions and features of this zone are The Ayutthaya Village, Thai Puppet Show, Thai Literature Museum and Central Thai Food.
The South Zone: This zone represents the southern region of Thailand, which is known for its coastal and island scenery, its maritime and fishing industry, and its spicy and aromatic food. Some of the attractions and features of this zone are Southern Thai Village, Southern Thai Art and Craft Southern Thai Dance Show and Southern Thai Food.
Activities and Experiences in Pattaya Floating Market
The Pattaya Floating Market is not only a place to see, but also a place to do. There are many activities and experiences that the visitors can enjoy in the market, such as:
1. The Boat Ride
One of the best ways to explore the market is to ride the traditional Thai wooden boats along the canals. You can either rent a boat for yourself or join a group tour, and see the different zones and attractions of the market from the water. You can also interact with the boatmen and women, who will tell you stories and facts about the market and the Thai culture. The boat ride costs 200 baht per person for a 30-minute tour, and you can buy the tickets at the entrance or at the boat station.
2. The Food Tasting
Another highlight of the market is to taste the delicious and diverse Thai food, desserts, and specialties offered by the vendors and restaurants. You can find a variety of dishes and snacks from different regions of Thailand, such as noodles, curries, salads, soups, grilled meats, fried insects, fruits, ice creams, and drinks. You can either walk around and sample the food from the stalls, or sit down and enjoy a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants. The food prices range from 10 to 200 baht, depending on the type and size of the food.
3. The Shopping
If you are looking for some souvenirs, gifts, or bargains, then you will not be disappointed by the market. You can find a wide range of products and services, such as clothing, accessories, handicrafts, art, antiques, massage, and more. You can also find some unique and rare items, such as the crocodile leather, the snake wine, the herbal medicine, and the amulets. You can haggle with the sellers and get a good deal, but remember to be polite and respectful. The shopping prices vary from 50 to 5000 baht, depending on the quality and rarity of the product.
4. The Massage
After a long day of sightseeing, eating, and shopping, you might want to relax and pamper yourself with a massage. You can find several massage parlors and spas in the market, offering a range of services, such as foot massage, Thai massage, oil massage, aromatherapy, and more. You can also enjoy the massage on the boat, while floating on the canal. The massage costs from 100 to 500 baht, depending on the type and duration of the massage. The massage is a great way to relax your body and mind, and to experience the Thai hospitality and wellness.
Timings and Prices of Pattaya Floating Market
The Pattaya Floating Market is open daily from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, and the shows and activities are available throughout the day. The prices of the market are as follows:
1. The Entry Fee
The entry fee to the market is 200 baht per person for foreigners, and 100 baht per person for Thai nationals. The entry fee includes access to all the zones and attractions of the market, except the boat ride and the massage. You can buy the tickets at the entrance or online, and you can also get discounts for groups or students.
2. The Boat Ride Fee
The boat ride fee is 200 baht per person for a 30-minute tour, and 400 baht per person for a 60-minute tour. The boat ride fee includes a guide and a driver, who will take you around the market and tell you stories and facts about the market and the Thai culture. You can buy the boat ride tickets at the entrance or at the boat station, and you can also rent a private boat for yourself or your group. The boat ride is a must-do activity in the market, as it gives you a different perspective and a memorable experience.
How to Reach Pattaya Floating Market
The Pattaya Floating Market is located on Sukhumvit Road, about 10 kilometers south of Pattaya city center. There are several ways to reach the market, such as:
By Car: If you have your own car or rent a car, you can drive to the market by following the Sukhumvit Road and looking for the sign of the market. The market has a large parking lot that can accommodate up to 2000 cars, and the parking fee is 20 baht per car.
By Bus: If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus to the market from Pattaya city center or from Bangkok. The bus fare is about 50 baht per person, and the bus stop is right in front of the market entrance.
By Taxi: If you want a more comfortable and private ride, you can take a taxi to the market from Pattaya city center or from Bangkok. The taxi fare is about 300 baht from Pattaya, and about 1500 baht from Bangkok, and the taxi will drop you off at the market entrance.
By Shuttle: If you book a ticket or a tour online, you can also get a free shuttle service to the market from Pattaya city center or from Bangkok. The shuttle service is available daily, and the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or at a designated location.
The Pattaya Floating Market is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to experience the Thai culture and lifestyle in a fun and authentic way. The market offers a variety of zones, attractions, activities, and experiences that will suit every taste and budget. You can explore the different regions of Thailand, enjoy the traditional shows and crafts, taste the delicious street food, and ride the wooden boats along the canals. You can also relax and pamper yourself with a massage, shop for some souvenirs and bargains, and learn more about the history and literature of Thailand. The market is open daily from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, and the prices are reasonable and affordable. You can reach the market by car, by bus, by taxi, or by shuttle, and you can also book your tickets or tours online.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Pattaya Floating Market today and discover its charm and beauty. You will not regret it.
