Thailand Shopping and nightlife
Shopping in Thailand
Shopping in Thailand is a lively mix of modern malls, bustling markets and small family-run shops. In Bangkok, Chatuchak Weekend Market is a sprawling maze selling everything from clothes and plants to homeware and handmade crafts, while the city's night markets combine shopping with music and street food. Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar and Sunday Walking Street offer a more relaxed northern atmosphere, with stalls selling textiles, local art and snacks. In the south, island markets in places, such as Phuket and Samui provide a blend of beachwear, souvenirs and tropical fruit.
Popular purchases include Thai silk, silver jewellery, spa products, herbal balms, ceramics and beautifully carved wooden items. Many visitors also pick up spices, dried fruit or speciality teas from markets. In Chiang Mai and the northeast, traditional fabrics and handmade crafts make distinctive souvenirs, while Bangkok's modern shopping centres carry international brands alongside Thai designers.
Bargaining is common in markets and smaller shops, and is usually done with a light-hearted approach. Prices in larger stores and shopping malls are generally fixed. It can help to compare a few stalls before buying, especially in tourist areas where prices may vary.
For something different, visitors can browse art galleries, antique shops and craft workshops, many of which support local artisans. Shopping in Thailand comes alive through its colours, scents and friendly exchanges, offering an experience that is just as enjoyable as the items you bring home.
Shopping hours
Daily 10:00 to 22:00 (general).
Daily 18:00 to 23:00 (night markets).
Nightlife in Thailand
Thailand’s nightlife is varied and energetic, ranging from vibrant city clubs to relaxed beach bars and night markets. Bangkok is the main hub, with rooftop bars overlooking the skyline, live-music venues, stylish cocktail lounges and lively districts such as Sukhumvit and Silom. The city’s night markets, including the popular Ratchada Train Market, offer a more laid-back evening of food, shopping and casual drinks.
Chiang Mai has a gentler atmosphere, with small bars, jazz clubs and riverside hangouts that stay lively without feeling overwhelming. In the south, island nightlife takes many forms: Phuket and Koh Samui have busy beach clubs and entertainment areas, while islands like Koh Lanta and Koh Tao lean towards relaxed bars with sunset views and acoustic music.
In smaller towns and coastal communities, evenings are often centred around night markets, local restaurants and outdoor food stalls where visitors can enjoy a slow, easy atmosphere. Whatever the destination, nightlife in Thailand offers a mix of colour, sound and friendly energy, with options that suit both quiet evenings and late-night adventures.
