Visiting Pattaya, but its night markets are not in your itinerary? Night markets in Pattaya are a must-visit for first-time visitors because of the city’s lively mix of food, shopping, and entertainment. Unlike Bangkok or Phuket, Pattaya’s markets offer a unique charm. The city blends authentic Thai street food, bargain shopping, and fun performances.
Whether you’re here to eat, shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Pattaya’s night markets promise an experience you won’t forget. In this guide, we’ll explore the top night markets in Pattaya where you can eat like a local, shop for unique finds, and enjoy the buzzing nightlife atmosphere.
Top Night Markets in Pattaya
Looking for a true taste of Pattaya at night? Picture yourself walking through glowing stalls, sampling street eats, picking up quirky finds, and soaking in the electric atmosphere. With so many night markets in Pattaya, it can be hard to pick the best ones. That’s why we’ve put together this list of must-visit markets where you can enjoy everything from street food and fashion to music and local culture.
1. Thepprasit Night Market
Only got time to visit one market in Pattaya? Then make sure you visit the Thepprasit Night Market. It is one of the most popular weekend markets in the city, operating Friday to Sunday from 5 pm to around 11 pm.
It’s a paradise for foodies, shopaholics, and anyone looking for some entertainment.
It’s cloud nine for foodies, with stalls lining the streets. These stalls serve grilled seafood, traditional Thai desserts, and even exotic snacks you might not find elsewhere.
Other than the food, you’ll find stalls selling clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. If you want to try out some bargaining for fun, head over here, but make sure you’re respectful.
To add to the lively vibe, there’s often live music and street performers keeping the crowd entertained.
Tip: If you want to explore the market with fewer crowds, arrive early in the evening. You can even try out the best food varieties by waiting in shorter lines. On the other hand, if you’re here for the lively atmosphere, head in later in the evening when the place is crowded.
2. Pattaya Night Bazaar
An air-conditioned market is obviously what you would want if you are looking for a more comfortable experience. Located right in the heart of the city, near Beach Road, is the Pattaya Night Bazaar.
Unlike the other open-air markets in Pattaya, this night bazaar is fully air-conditioned. This makes it a great place to explore during hot or rainy weather. It is also located in a central location, which makes transportation convenient if you’re staying at a nearby hotel.
Inside, you’ll find plenty of stalls selling quick snacks, fruit shakes, and light bites to keep you refreshed while you shop. The bazaar is especially popular for handicrafts, budget-friendly clothing, souvenirs, and even tailor shops where you can get custom-made outfits at good prices.
Tip: When compared to outdoor markets, these prices are already pretty good. But don’t be afraid to bargain politely. Most sellers are willing to give small discounts, especially if you buy multiple items.
3. Jomtien Night Market
Set right along the beachfront is the Jomtien Night Market. This market is a great choice for visitors who prefer enjoying a more laid-back, relaxing evening.
While soaking up the ocean view, sample a variety of cuisine options like seafood skewers, fresh smoothies, and traditional pad Thai.
You’ll also find stalls selling beachwear, handmade goods, and casual souvenirs, making it a great stop after a day on the sand.
Tip: If you want to experience the perfect seaside experience, time your visit around sunset and take a stroll along Jomtien Beach.
4. Pattaya Floating Market
Pattaya’s Floating Market is one of the unique attractions in the city, offering a cultural twist of shopping and dining. Spread across canals, you can find vendors selling goods from traditional wooden boats.
Food lovers can enjoy Thai sweets, noodle dishes, and refreshing coconut ice cream, while shoppers can browse handicrafts and locally made products.
That’s not it! The highlight of the experience is the cultural shows, including dance, music, and even fire performances. The visitors get a taste of Thai tradition.
Tip: If you want to have a comfortable time exploring the market, it’s ideal to visit by early evening. This way, you can avoid large crowds.
5. Soi Buakhao Market
Soi Buakhao Market is where you need to go if you want a less touristy and more authentic atmosphere.
The market is famous among locals for its cheap street eats, Thai BBQ, and hearty curries. And the best part? It’s very pocket-friendly. This is a place where people go shopping for everyday deals, electronics, and clothing rather than keepsakes.
While the market may not have big performances, the nearby local bar scene adds to the fun. Just head straight to it when you want a change of scene from the crowded stalls.
Tip: Visit in the evening, grab dinner, then mix it with Soi Buakhao’s nightlife for a truly local experience.
If you are looking to go beyond these popular spots, a couple of smaller markets are worth a visit. With plenty of cheap eats and quick snacks, Rung Ruang Market is a local favorite, especially for those staying nearby. For seafood lovers, the Naklua Fish Market is a must. Here you’ll find freshly caught seafood sold at bargain prices, which you can either take home to cook or have grilled on the spot.
Must-Try Foods in Pattaya Night Markets
| Category | Must-Try Items | Why Try It? |
| Seafood | Grilled prawns Crab Squid | They are freshly cooked over charcoal, packed with flavor, and usually cheaper than restaurants. |
| Thai Street Food | Pad Thai Satay skewers Som tam (papaya salad) Fried insects | These dishes have classic Thai flavor and are great for both first-timers and food explorers. |
| Desserts | Mango sticky rice Crispy roti Coconut ice cream | They are sweet and refreshing, and the perfect way to cool down after spicy dishes. |
| Drinks | Thai iced tea Fruit smoothies Local beers | They are affordable, refreshing, and ideal for when you stroll through the lively markets. |
Shopping at Pattaya Night Markets
Night markets are the perfect place to pick up souvenirs that capture the essence of Thailand. Loved for their comfort and style, you can find handmade crafts, quirky trinkets, and the ever-popular elephant pants. Why not take a piece of Pattaya back home to your friends and family? These souvenirs are quite affordable, so that’s a bonus.
From trendy outfits to casual beachwear, the market overflows with clothes, bags, shoes, and accessories at bargain prices. Most of the stalls sell similar items, so don’t be shy; take a walk around the market and compare prices before buying.
The real fun lies in the bargaining culture. Vendors expect it, so you can often score a great deal with a friendly smile.
Keep an eye out for vendors offering teas, spices, herbs, and packaged foods so you can bring a little bit of Thailand home with you. If you ever miss Pattaya, you can easily relive the flavors of your trip. Coconut chips, dried fruits, and spice mixes are pretty popular with travelers.
Here’s a tip. While bargaining is a common practice in most markets, it is important to be polite to the vendors. Start the offer at 50% of the asking price, smile, and enjoy the process. Remember, it’s not just about saving a few baht. The point is to get a taste of the local culture.
The Pulse of Pattaya Nights
In addition to being a hub for shopping and food, Pattaya’s night markets are buzzing with entertainment. Live music, street performers, and cultural shows create a lively backdrop as you explore. From local musicians strumming guitars to traditional Thai dances, there’s always something happening that adds to the festive vibe.
Apart from the performances, these markets are true social hubs. People from all over the world, both locals and tourists alike, come here to unwind, eat, and enjoy the evening. Families on walks, couples sharing street food, and groups of friends hanging out make the markets one of the most social ways to experience Pattaya’s community spirit.
Are you a photographer? Then these markets will make for a great shot. The glowing food stalls, colorful lights, and bustling crowds offer endless photo opportunities. Wide-angle shots showcase the buzz of the market, while close-ups of sizzling skewers or bright desserts can make a great Instagram-worthy picture. While taking pictures, make sure you do not block walkways.
Practical Tips for First-Time Travelers
1. Best Time to Visit:
If you don’t plan on missing out on Pattaya’s food varieties and want to avoid waiting in long lines, it is best to visit early in the evening.
If you enjoy being part of lively crowds and entertainment-filled atmospheres, you’ll have a better time later at night when the crowds are high.
2. How to Get Around:
If you’re looking for cheap options that will get you around Pattaya easily, then opt for baht buses. They are shared pickup trucks that cost around 10–20 THB per ride. Make sure to discuss the price before your journey to make sure you’re comfortable with how much you’re paying.
Worried about safety and scams? If you want direct drop-offs, apps like Grab and Bolt are convenient and safe options. The prices are mentioned in the app beforehand, so you can determine whether it’s too expensive, and you can avoid uncomfortable negotiations.
For solo travelers covering short distances, motorbike taxis are the quickest option, but always confirm the fare before hopping on.
3. Budgeting:
Pattaya’s night markets are very budget-friendly. Expect to pay 50–100 THB for most street food dishes, 30–50 THB for smoothies or Thai iced tea, and 200–500 THB for clothes, accessories, or souvenirs. It is best to carry cash while visiting, as some vendors still accept only cash.
Not sure whether it’s alright to bargain? Most vendors enjoy bargaining with tourists. There is a higher chance for you to get discounts if you get friendly with the shopkeepers. Don’t forget to keep it respectful.
4. Safety and Etiquette:
Pattaya’s streets are generally safe. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, right? While in crowds, keep your valuables in your front pocket or carry them in a crossbody bag. In order to stay safe from pickpockets, it is best to carry small amounts of cash that you will need for small purchases.
When it comes to etiquette, a smile goes a long way in Thailand. The more polite you are to someone, the smoother your trip gets. In Thailand, losing face or embarrassing someone is considered rude and unacceptable.
Planning to visit temples or family-friendly locations? Remember to pack clothes that aren’t overly revealing. If you are unsure about the hygiene of street food stalls, stick to shops with longer lines. Longer lines are often a sign of fresh, tasty food.
Night Market Itinerary Suggestion
Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple 3-day itinerary that will help you explore Pattaya’s night markets at the right pace.
Day 1 – Jomtien Night Market – Beachside Flavors & Relaxed Vibes
Start your night market expedition with a relaxed evening at the Jomtien Night Market. Set right along the beach, enjoy fresh seafood skewers, smoothies, or classic Pad Thai while enjoying the sea breeze.
After dinner, enjoy a laid-back stroll on the beach and slowly ease into Pattaya’s night scene.
Day 2: Thepprasit Night Market – Pattaya’s Must-Visit Night Spot
On your second evening, dive right into the unbeatable energy of Thepprasit Night Market. This is one of Pattaya’s popular weekend markets. Here you’ll find everything from grilled seafood and Thai desserts to fashion stalls, souvenirs, and live performances.
Arrive early in the evening to try out a wide range of food varieties and avoid large crowds, but stay late to enjoy the lively music and entertainment.
Day 3: Pattaya Floating Market – A Cultural & Shopping Experience
Wrap up your market-hopping adventure with a visit to the Pattaya Floating Market. The market is set along canals with vendors selling food and handicrafts from traditional boats.
Try out coconut ice cream, Thai sweets, and noodle dishes while shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs. The cultural shows, dances, and even fire performances are not to be missed. They showcase Thai traditions.
This market is great for families or travelers who want a more unique, cultural experience.
If you’re planning to spend more time in the city, you might also enjoy exploring beyond the night markets. For a mix of beaches, culture, and nightlife, check out our Pattaya 3-Day Itinerary: Beaches, Culture & Nightlife, which pairs well with this night market experience.
Bringing together food, shopping, and entertainment in one lively setting, Pattaya’s night markets are a must for any traveler. Don’t stop at one because each market has its own feature that sets it apart from the others. And if you’d like a hassle-free way to explore, you can simply book your experiences with Thrillark for an even smoother trip.
FAQs About Pattaya’s Night Markets
1. Which are the most popular night markets in Pattaya?
The most popular picks include Thepprasit Night Market, Pattaya Night Bazaar, and Jomtien Beach Night Market.
2. What time are these night markets open?
Most night markets begin around 5–6 PM and stay lively until midnight. Some, like Thepprasit, may close earlier, around 10 PM.
3. What types of food and products can I find?
From grilled seafood, Thai noodles, and spicy salads to desserts like mango sticky rice, roti, and coconut ice cream, these markets offer diverse selections. Shoppers can find everything from clothing and accessories to handicrafts, herbs, and local snacks.
4. Is bargaining okay at Pattaya’s night markets?
Yes! Bargaining is part of the culture there. Vendors expect it. You’ll often walk away with a better deal if you negotiate respectfully and have a smile.
5. Are the night markets safe for tourists?
Generally, yes. These vibrant markets attract both locals and visitors. Still, staying alert and keeping your valuables secure is smart, especially in crowded spots.
6. Which market is best if I want more than just shopping?
For a cultural twist, the Pattaya Floating Market offers food, shopping, and live cultural shows – all from boats on canals. It’s family-friendly, and early evenings are an ideal visiting time.
7. Any tips on getting around to these markets?
The easiest options are baht buses (songthaews), Grab rides, or motorbike taxis. Each option has a different comfort level, so choose based on your personal preference.
