{"id":10976,"date":"2025-08-29T13:55:30","date_gmt":"2025-08-29T09:55:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thrillark.com\/blog\/?p=10976"},"modified":"2026-05-18T13:35:55","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T09:35:55","slug":"floating-markets-near-pattaya-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thrillark.com\/blog\/floating-markets-near-pattaya-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Floating Markets Near Pattaya: A Complete 2026 Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Picture wooden boats gliding along canals, piled high with tropical fruits, sizzling street food, and handmade crafts. This is one of Pattaya\u2019s<\/strong><\/a> most magical experiences: the floating markets<\/strong><\/a>. They\u2019re not just tourist attractions, but living proof of Thai culture<\/strong>. Even today, they remain active social hubs where food, trade, and tradition flow together. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The city\u2019s very own Four-Regions Floating Market<\/strong> brings Thailand\u2019s<\/a> flavors and traditions together in one colorful spot, while nearby provinces offer authentic alternatives for those who want to explore further. Packed with the latest updates for 2026, this guide makes exploring floating markets near Pattaya<\/a> simple, fun, and unforgettable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Top Floating Markets to Visit in Pattaya<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Khlong
Khlong Suan 100-Year Market <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Amphawa
Amphawa Floating Market<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"pattaya
Pattaya Floating Market<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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From Pattaya\u2019s<\/a> own buzzing Four Regions Floating Market to the charming riverside gems just a short trip away, each market unwraps a different layer of Thai culture. Whether you\u2019re after sizzling seafood, Instagram-worthy canals, or a walk through living history, these markets won’t disappoint. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Pattaya Floating Market (Four Regions Market)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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The Pattaya Floating Market<\/strong>, also known as the Four Regions Floating Market<\/strong>, is one of the city\u2019s top attractions and a cultural gem you can\u2019t miss. The concept is designed around Thailand\u2019s four main regions – North, Northeast, Central, and South<\/strong>. The market combines traditions, architecture, and flavors of these regions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located only 15\u201320 minutes from central Pattaya along Sukhumvit Road<\/strong>, it\u2019s easy to reach by taxi, Grab, tuk-tuk, or songthaew<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The star of the show here is the food<\/strong>. Take a stroll along the wooden alleyways or hop on a boat to taste local favorites like steaming boat noodles<\/strong>, sweet and creamy mango sticky rice<\/strong>, and freshly grilled giant prawns<\/strong>. Be prepared to be tempted by each corner of the market. Keep in mind, the boat rides usually wrap up around 6:00 PM<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Go on a shopping spree for souvenirs like handicrafts, Thai silk, and OTOP products<\/strong> (unique \u201cOne Tambon One Product\u201d items). There\u2019s something for every budget. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t miss out on cultural shows and performances<\/strong> to complete the experience. Traditional dance, Thai music, and even Muay Thai<\/strong> staged over the water add energy and authenticity to your visit, making it more than just a shopping stop. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Pattaya Floating Market<\/strong> is open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM<\/strong>. Plan your visit around 9:00\u201311:00 AM <\/strong>to avoid huge crowds and midday sun. Weekends bring the biggest crowds<\/strong>, so if you want to enjoy the lively energy, visit around this time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Amphawa Floating Market (Samut Songkhram)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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If you\u2019re looking for a floating market with an authentic local vibe<\/strong>, the Amphawa Floating Market<\/strong> in Samut Songkhram<\/strong> is the place to be. Unlike the tourist-heavy markets, this one is loved by locals who gather along the riverside. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The highlight of this place? As night falls, you can be part of a magical firefly boat tour<\/strong>, where the trees along the canals light up like fairy lights. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stalls line the canals with sizzling seafood grills<\/strong>, from giant prawns to squid skewers<\/strong>, alongside traditional Thai sweets<\/strong> and refreshing iced drinks<\/strong>. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, making it a dream spot for both foodies and photographers<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not sure when to visit? The best time to visit the Amphawa Floating Market<\/strong> is Friday to Sunday evenings<\/strong>, when the market is at its peak. Reaching Amphawa from Pattaya takes about 3.5 to 4 hours by car<\/strong>, or you can opt for a more relaxed journey by train<\/strong>, followed by a quick local van ride<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Set aside at least half a day<\/strong> to explore the market, with an average budget of about \u0e3f500\u2013\u0e3f800 per person<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Damnoen Saduak Floating Market (Ratchaburi)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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Known for vibrant canals filled with colorful wooden boats, the Damnoen floating market<\/strong> is one of Pattaya\u2019s most iconic places to visit. While it’s often quite tourist-packed, it still remains one of the most photogenic and energetic floating markets<\/strong> in the country, perfect for postcard-worthy photos. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The best time to visit Damnoen Saduak<\/strong> is early in the morning<\/strong>, ideally between 7:00 and 9:00 AM<\/strong>. Arriving early can help you escape the harsh midday heat <\/strong>and take in the vibes before the crowd hits. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ready to explore? You\u2019ve got two options. The first option is paddle boats<\/strong>. They are slow and intimate<\/strong>, ideal for soaking in the details of the markets and shops directly from the vendors. This will cost you around \u0e3f200\u2013300 per person<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Want a faster option? Long-tail boats<\/strong> are available for about \u0e3f400\u2013600 per boat<\/strong>, depending on the route and operator. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many travelers combine their trip by visiting the Maeklong Railway Market<\/strong>, located just 20 minutes away<\/strong>. Here, you can see stalls set up right along the tracks<\/strong>, and vendors quickly pull everything back as a train passes through. Sounds like an experience worth witnessing, right? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting to Damnoen Saduak takes about 3\u20134 hours by car or van <\/strong>from Pattaya, so it\u2019s best planned as a full-day trip<\/strong>. Visit with a budget around \u0e3f700\u2013\u0e3f1,000 per person<\/strong>, including transport, a boat ride, and food. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Khlong Suan 100-Year Market (Chachoengsao)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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Step back in time at Khlong Suan 100-Year Market <\/strong>and experience a bygone era with traditional wooden shop houses, vintage signs, and narrow walkways<\/strong> that seem frozen in time. A visit here feels more like entering a museum than a market. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The flavors at this market reflect the market\u2019s Chinese-Thai heritage<\/strong>. You can expect everything from crispy fried snacks and steamed dumplings to traditional Thai sweets and aromatic noodles<\/strong>. Don\u2019t forget to try the old-style iced coffee or herbal drinks<\/strong>, still served in retro glass bottles<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a culture and history enthusiast<\/strong>? This market is great for those of you who prefer authenticity over crowds. Khlong Suan is all about atmosphere, nostalgia, and simple pleasures<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located about 1.5 to 2 hours from Pattaya by car<\/strong>, it makes for an easy half-day or day trip<\/strong>. The journey feels like a true local adventure as you pass through small towns and green landscapes<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Lanpho Naklua Seafood Market <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

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Lanpho Naklua Seafood Market <\/strong>is an absolute must for seafood lovers<\/strong>. Unlike the other floating markets, this one is all about fresh catches<\/strong>. From live crabs and lobsters to giant prawns and whole fish<\/strong> still flopping on the ice, the market is as authentic as it gets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The best part about Lanpho is that you don’t just buy seafood, you eat it right there<\/strong>. Just pick out your favorite and take it to stalls or restaurants there and get it cooked for a small cost<\/strong>. Pair it with a cold drink, and you\u2019ve got yourself a feast. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Late afternoon<\/strong> is when the market really shines. The day cools down, and the locals gather to shop for dinner. Try out some sunset seafood meal by the water<\/strong>, and you\u2019ll understand why this spot is a local favorite. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While tourists do drop by, the vibe here is far more local than touristy<\/strong>. Prices are fair, the atmosphere is bustling, and the experience is as close as you can get to Pattaya\u2019s authentic side. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Floating Markets Near Pattaya \u2013 2026 Quick Comparison <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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With so many floating markets to choose from, it helps to see the highlights side by side. Here\u2019s a 2026 snapshot table<\/strong> comparing the most popular options, so you can quickly decide which one best fits your travel style, budget, and schedule. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Market<\/td>Province<\/td>Distance from Pattaya<\/td>Best Time<\/td>Open days<\/td>Best For<\/td>Boat Ride<\/td>Family Friendly<\/td>Typical Spend (\u0e3f)<\/td><\/tr>
Pattaya Floating Market<\/td>Chonburi<\/td>In Pattaya<\/td>Morning for calm \/ Evening for shows<\/td>Daily<\/td>Food, culture, shopping<\/td>Yes<\/td>Yes<\/td>\u0e3f300\u2013600<\/td><\/tr>
Amphawa Floating Market<\/td>Samut Songkhram<\/td>3.5\u20134 hrs<\/td>Fri\u2013Sun evenings<\/td>Fri\u2013Sun<\/td>Local vibe, fireflies<\/td>Yes<\/td>Moderate<\/td>\u0e3f500\u2013800<\/td><\/tr>
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market<\/td>Ratchaburi<\/td>~4 hrs<\/td>Early morning<\/td>Daily<\/td>Classic canals, photos<\/td>Yes (Paddle & motor)<\/td>Yes (Busy)<\/td>\u0e3f700\u20131,000<\/td><\/tr>
Khlong Suan 100-Year Market<\/td>Chachoengsao<\/td>1.5\u20132 hrs<\/td>Late morning\u2013afternoon<\/td>Daily<\/td>History,culture
<\/td>		No<\/td>Yes<\/td>\u0e3f300\u2013500<\/td><\/tr>
Lanpho Naklua Seafood Market<\/td>Chonburi<\/td>In Pattaya<\/td>Late afternoon\u2013sunset<\/td>Daily<\/td>Fresh seafood, locals<\/td>No<\/td>Yes<\/td>\u0e3f400\u2013800 (meal)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Choosing the Right Market in Pattaya<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Lanpho
Lanpho Naklua Seafood Market<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Damnoen
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Pattaya Floating Market<\/strong> is the most convenient option if you\u2019re traveling with children<\/strong>. It is right in the city and designed to be family-friendly. Kids can enjoy cultural performances, boat rides, and even feed the fish<\/strong>, while parents shop for souvenirs and sample local dishes<\/strong>. With wide boardwalks, shaded areas, and plenty of seating<\/strong>, the market provides a hassle-free outing that mixes fun with culture. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Love eating? The Amphawa Floating Market<\/strong> is a foodie\u2019s paradise<\/strong>. Think sizzling grilled seafood, steaming bowls of noodles, and quirky Thai snacks<\/strong> you won\u2019t find elsewhere. When the sun goes down, the market comes alive with music, lights, and buzzing crowds<\/strong>. The firefly boats<\/strong> add to the experience and make it more than just a foodie spot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Want to explore more of Pattaya’s best dishes? Read our Foodie\u2019s Guide to Pattaya: Must-Try Dishes, Street Food & Seafood Restaurants<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Damnoen Saduak & Amphawa markets<\/strong> are dream locations for photographers<\/strong>. For iconic floating market shots, Damnoen Saduak<\/strong> is unbeatable. Early morning hours<\/strong> bring vibrant boats piled with tropical fruits and flowers, perfect for capturing Thailand\u2019s postcard side<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In contrast, Amphawa at sunset<\/strong> is all about atmosphere. You can get dreamlike shots <\/strong>of golden light reflecting on the river, glowing lanterns, and candid shots of locals enjoying their evening. Both are visual treats depending on your style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Khlong Suan 100-Year Market<\/strong> feels like stepping into a time capsule. With its century-old wooden shop houses, antique stalls, and traditional Thai-Chinese snacks, the market is ideal for travelers who love heritage and storytelling<\/strong>. It\u2019s less commercialized with great, authentic vibes, making it a hidden gem for history buffs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Out in search of fresh seafood<\/strong>? You already know Lanpho Naklua Seafood Market <\/strong>is your perfect choice. You can browse rows of stalls piled high with varieties of seafood<\/strong>, then take your pick and have it cooked on the spot at nearby kitchens<\/strong>. It\u2019s as authentic as it gets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2026 Practical Travel Information for Your Visit to Floating Markets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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Before you set off to explore Pattaya\u2019s floating markets, it helps to know a few practical details.  From entrance fees and boat rides to payment options, accessibility, and the best season to visit, here\u2019s everything you need to make your 2026 trip smoother<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Weather & Seasonality <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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Floating markets are best enjoyed during the cool and dry seasons of November to February<\/strong>. March to May<\/strong> can be very hot, while June to October<\/strong> brings heavy rains. Nevertheless, visiting during light showers is a unique experience with fewer crowds. Since most markets are outdoors with limited cover<\/strong>, remember to carry a hat, sunscreen, and a rain poncho. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Entrance Fees & Boat Ride Pricing<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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Most floating markets have free entry<\/strong>, but you\u2019ll need to pay for boat rides and shows<\/strong>. At Pattaya Floating Market<\/strong>, expect boat ride tickets to cost around 150\u2013200 THB per person<\/strong>, while Damnoen Saduak\u2019s<\/strong> paddle boats start from 300\u2013400 THB,<\/strong> and long-tail motorboats may go up to 800\u20131,000 THB<\/strong> for private rides. Amphawa and Khlong Suan <\/strong>are generally free to enter, with optional boat tours priced at 50\u2013100 THB<\/strong> per person. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Cash and Digital Payments<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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Always remember to carry cash to small food stalls, boat rides, and old markets<\/strong>. Cash is still king at these places. However, in 2025, many vendors in Pattaya and Amphawa <\/strong>accept PromptPay QR codes<\/strong> or mobile banking apps<\/strong>, making it easier for international travelers with Thai e-wallets<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Facilities <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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Major markets like Pattaya Floating Market and Damnoen Saduak<\/strong> have clean restrooms, ATMs, and shaded seating areas<\/strong> for visitors. If you want to take a break, Amphawa <\/strong>also has plenty of riverside caf\u00e9s <\/strong>for the same. Smaller markets like Khlong Suan<\/strong> have more basic facilities, so it\u2019s a good idea to plan ahead for comfort breaks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. Accessibility<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

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Pattaya Floating Market<\/strong> is the most wheelchair and stroller-friendly<\/strong> market, thanks to its wide boardwalks, ramps, and shaded walkways<\/strong>. Due to their narrow piers, steps, and uneven walkways, <\/strong>markets like Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak <\/strong>can be challenging. So, lightweight strollers are recommended<\/strong> instead of bulky ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How to Get to Pattaya\u2019s Floating Markets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Pattaya's
Rental Cars<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Pattaya's
Shared Minivans<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Getting to the floating markets from Pattaya is easier than you think. Whether you prefer comfortable, budget-friendly, or convenient transportation, there\u2019s an option to suit every travel style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach these markets is to book a taxi or use a ride-hailing service<\/strong> likeBolt or Grab<\/strong>. A one-way trip<\/strong> to nearby markets usually takes 20 to 30 minutes<\/strong>, while longer journeys like Amphawa or Damnoen Saduak<\/strong> can take 3 to 4 hours<\/strong>. Expect a budget of 300\u2013500 THB<\/strong> for local trips and 2,500\u20133,500 THB<\/strong> for longer routes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a budget traveler? Then hop on a shared minivan or bus<\/strong> from Pattaya to Bangkok<\/a>, then connect to local vans<\/strong> heading toward Amphawa, Damnoen Saduak, or Chachoengsao. While cheaper, this option requires some transfers and extra time, costing you around 200\u2013400 THB total<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re confident driving in Thailand, renting a car<\/strong> can be a flexible option. From Pattaya, take Motorway 7<\/strong> toward Bangkok, then connect via Rama II Road<\/strong> for Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak. The travel takes around 3 to 4 hours, <\/strong>costing 150\u2013250 THB<\/strong> each way. Don\u2019t worry about parking<\/strong> because it’s available at most markets. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For hassle-free travel, many operators offer day tours from Pattaya<\/strong> that include hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, market entry, boat rides, and an English-speaking guide<\/strong>. Prices vary from 1,000\u20132,000 THB per person<\/strong>, depending on the itinerary and inclusions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What to Eat & Buy from these Floating Markets<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Pattaya's
Handmade Silk Scarves<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Pad
Pad Thai<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Pattaya's
Boat Noodles<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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One of the biggest joys of visiting floating markets near Pattaya is indulging in the incredible mix of authentic Thai street food, sweet treats, and unique local souvenirs<\/strong>. From sizzling seafood grills to handmade crafts<\/strong>, here\u2019s what you shouldn\u2019t miss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Floating markets are the perfect place to sample traditional flavors served straight from boat kitchens<\/strong>. Dishes like a steaming bowl of boat noodles<\/strong>, a plate of classic pad thai<\/strong>, or crispy khanom krok<\/strong> (coconut pancakes) are items you shouldn\u2019t miss out on. Seafood lovers will find paradise in freshly grilled giant prawns, squid, and crab<\/strong> cooked right by the water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Done with mouth-watering dishes? Well, don\u2019t stop just yet. Save room for something sweet! The all-time favorite mango sticky rice<\/strong> is everywhere, while coconut ice cream<\/strong> served in a coconut shell is both refreshing and Instagram-worthy<\/strong>. Pair it with a glass of Thai iced tea or fresh sugarcane juice, <\/strong>and you have the ultimate foodie experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now that you\u2019re done trying out Thai cuisines, let’s move on to souvenirs and crafts<\/strong>. These floating markets double as treasure troves for shoppers<\/strong>. Look out for Thai silk scarves, wood carvings, handmade jewelry, and OTOP (One Tambon One Product) crafts<\/strong> that make meaningful souvenirs. Each region will offer you its own specialities to take home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photography & Video Tips <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\"Pattaya
Pattaya Floating Market<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Amphawa Floating Market<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Looking to capture the best angles of the floating markets and nearby provinces? From sunrise reflections to vibrant food boats, these markets are packed with picture-perfect moments. Here\u2019s how to get those Instagram-worthy shots while respecting the local customs: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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