Popular Markets & Malls to Explore in Thailand for the Shopaholic Traveller

Calling Thailand a popular tourist destination would be an understatement, right? Its enchanting beaches, vibrant nightlife, tantalising spas, and drool-worthy food is enough to make your vacation simply unforgettable. What if we tell you that you could take it up a notch? If you are an unabashed shopaholic, then it is time for you to check out Thailand tour packages. Even if you are a window shopper, this is the perfect holiday spot for you! Let’s heighten your urge to shop till you drop with this dedicated list of popular shopping malls and markets in Thailand.

Shopping in Bangkok

Shopping in Thailand is at its peak in the city of Bangkok. If you are looking for high-street clothing, home decor, and inexpensive accessories, then this is the place for you! Read on to find the best shopping places in Bangkok.

Central World

Set in Pathum Wan, this seven-story complex is every starry-eyed shopper's true delight. Fun fact, this shopping mall in Bangkok happens to be the ninth largest in the world! With such high standards, you are sure to have a gala time buying international brands here. Besides this, there are a plethora of cafes and restaurants in Central World where your famished shopaholic soul can devour mouth-watering food.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

A market that attracts thousands of tourists and locals every Sunday, this one’s truly special. Chatuchak Weekend Market hosts more than 10,000 vendors selling comics, vintage shoes, indigenous spices, quirky accessories, budget-friendly clothing, and many other items. It is open to the public from Friday through Sunday every week, so make sure you plan your itinerary accordingly.

Chinatown

Chinatown has made its place in the heart of most cities across the world. Be it Singapore, New York or Bangkok, its oriental charm is very enigmatic and alluring. You know you have reached Chinatown when huge LED boards and red lanterns are sprawled across the city! When it comes to Chinatown in Bangkok, be ready to have your mind blown by the variety of street food, bars, and temples. For shopping, it would be best to check out every lane with a purpose. Otherwise, you may get lost in the lustre of it all!

MBK Center (Ma Boon Khrong Center)

Every traveller who has raved about shopping in Thailand would recommend you visit MBK Centre at least once. This is mainly because it is a shopping mall that has something for everyone. You would even hear over-the-top shopaholics discussing inexpensive knock-offs available here. It has dedicated floors for clothing, furniture, accessories, and food. Pro Tip - The ground and top floors have a lot of food options, both local and international. Make sure to try some freshly baked goods, piping hot dim sum, and gooey chocolate desserts!

Rot Fai Market, Srinakarin

If collecting memorabilia and vintage items is your thing, then Rot Fair Market is going to make your heart sing! Also known as, Talad Rod Fai Train Night Market, this is an open-air shopping market that Bangkok’s locals are very proud of. It is divided into three main sections, namely, ‘Market Zone’, ‘Warehouse Zone’ and ‘Rod’s Antiques’, where vendors are selling the most unique vintage products.

Asiatique the Riverfront

Do you enjoy buying high-end things at a mall but also love haggling at a night market? Asiatique the Riverfront is the best of both shopping worlds in Bangkok! Situated in Charoenkrung Soi 74-76, this market is home to 1500 boutiques and 40 eateries. Segregated into four sections, you can buy everything from clothing, handicrafts to souvenirs.

Shopping in Phuket

Besides offering breathtaking beaches and divine local delicacies, Phuket is also a shopping hub in Thailand. Explore the following options and make your trip to Phuket a memorable experience.

Phuket Weekend Market

Strategically located along Chao Fa West Road, Phuket Weekend Market is one of the most vibrant shopping complexes in Phuket. Whether you want to buy an exotic animal or take back home out-of-the-box souvenirs, this market has got you covered! Divided into two halves, with one side covered and the other en plein air, you can find stalls selling DVDs, watches, electronics, clothing, bags, and more.

Jungceylon Shopping Mall

Shopping in Downton Patong, Phuket is an experience that every traveller should experience at least once. People who like to buy souvenirs, spices, and home improvement products in the mid-range will appreciate this shopping complex the most. In fact, you can find the best gifts to buy in Thailand at Jungceylon Shopping Mall. The Robinson and Big C are two dedicated buildings where you can get perfumes, make-up products, sportswear, gadgets, etc., at the best prices.

Phuket Walking Street

After exploring the best places to visit in Thailand during the day, it is highly recommended to shop at Phuket Walking Street at night. While some shoppers like to carry a water bottle and some knick-knacks to keep themselves satiated, others like to try out local street food that catches their eyes along the way. If fall in the latter category, then this night market, operating every Sunday between 4 pm to 9 pm, would be a treat for you! When you are done browsing souvenirs and Thai handicrafts, take a leap of faith and try stalls selling squids, pork, and many other types of meat.

Central Festival Phuket

Another mall that would quench your thirst for shopping is Central Festival in Phuket. There are more than 120 stores selling beauty products, electronics, kitchenware, and a range of convenient goods. Pamper yourself with a foot massage or facial at Central Festival and feel as light as a feather while shopping to your heart’s content!

Shopping in Pattaya

Just like Bangkok and Phuket, Pattaya offers a mix of street and high-end shopping for tourists. Folks who love to bargain will be able to bring their A-game on in this city. Here are some of its best markets and malls.

Pattaya Floating Market

A tourist attraction in its own right, Pattaya Floating Market is not only recommended for shopaholics but also for people who love enjoying boat rides. It highlights the riverside way of life, awe-inspiring wooden handicrafts, and delicious food items. Its four sections are north, south, central and northeast, displaying unique Thai traditional items and souvenirs. The ideal time to visit this floating market is in the months between November and March when the climatic conditions are pleasant.

Pattaya Night Bazaar

Nestled in South Pattaya is a night bazaar that you can explore with your friends and family. With 250 stalls sprawled across an air-conditioner shopping area, Pattaya Night Bazaar offers hand-made fabrics, delicate beachwear, and thrifty souvenirs. The best way to enjoy your time at this night bazaar is after chugging a cold alcoholic beverage that gives you enough ammo to haggle with the local vendors!

Central Festival Pattaya

Reputed to be the largest beach-front shopping mall in Asia, Central Festival Pattaya is a must-visit for avid shoppers. Located right opposite Pattaya Night Bazaar, this shopping mall is known for its high-street fashion brands, eyewear, and health and beauty products. This seven-story mall also has a viewing platform to gaze at the mesmerising Pattaya Bay.

Royal Garden Plaza

Royal Garden Plaza was the first shopping mall established in Pattaya, so it holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. The most distinguishing feature of this mall is that it hosts a wax museum called Louis Tussaud's Waxworks. Along with this, it is home to the world-famous Ripley's Believe It or Not! Shopping for clothes in this mall in Thailand would also be a great way to upgrade your wardrobe.

The shopaholic tick inside you is already buzzing, isn’t it? Be it a spendthrift in Thailand on your next vacation and you will surely come back for more.