We recommend staying along Sukhumvit and within walking distance of the sky train (BTS). In our humble opinion, Thong Lor is the best area to stay within Bangkok – there are many delicious restaurants along Sukhumvit 55 and the entire area isn’t as touristy as Asoke.

For the best value hotel in Thong Lor, the Ariva Ivy is our top choice. For convenience, The Somerset is our primary pick.  

From Thong Lor, the Khlong Toei Market is ~30 minutes away. Take the sky train and get off at Asoke BTS, followed by walking a short distance to the Sukhumvit MRT station.

The best time to visit Khlong Toei Market in Bangkok depends on your preferences and what you’re looking to experience. Here are a few factors to consider when deciding the best time for your visit:

1. Early Morning: If you want to witness the bustling activity and vibrant atmosphere of a traditional fresh food market, consider visiting in the early morning. This is when the market is at its busiest, with vendors setting up their stalls, fresh produce being delivered, and locals doing their shopping. Arriving between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM can give you an immersive experience of the market’s lively ambiance.

2. Late Evening: If you’re interested in observing the wholesale side of the market and want to see the trade in full swing, visiting in the late evening can be a good option. The wholesale market section starts operating around 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM, and this is when you’ll find a vast array of products being traded in larger quantities. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the market’s behind-the-scenes activity and the bustling trade that supplies fresh food to businesses across the city.

3. Weekdays: Khlong Toei Market can be busier on weekends, as many locals come to shop for their groceries. If you prefer a less crowded experience, visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning, might be a better choice. You’ll have more space to move around, interact with vendors, and explore the market at a leisurely pace.

4. Avoid Major Public Holidays: It’s worth noting that during major public holidays and festivals, the market can be more crowded than usual, as people stock up on food items for celebrations. If you prefer a quieter visit, it’s advisable to avoid these peak holiday periods.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Khlong Toei Market depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience. Whether you choose the early morning or late evening, visiting on a weekday can provide a more relaxed and authentic market experience.

Insider Tip: Be sure to check Thai government’s meteorological website for accurate weather forecasts.

The Khlong Toei Market’s operating hours are as follows:

1. Fresh Market Section: The fresh market section of Khlong Toei Market typically starts its operations in the early morning, around 4:00 AM or 5:00 AM, and remains open until late afternoon. This section is particularly active in the early hours when vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, and other food items.

2. Wholesale Market Section: The wholesale market section, primarily catering to restaurant owners, retailers, and bulk buyers, generally operates during late evening hours, typically starting around 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM and continuing into the early morning hours of the following day.

At the Khlong Toei Market in Bangkok, you can find a wide variety of goods and products. The market is known for its extensive selection of fresh food items, but it also offers other items for sale. Below are some things you can buy at the Khlong Toei Market:

1. Fresh Produce: Khlong Toei Market is renowned for its assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables. You can find a wide range of locally grown produce, including tropical fruits like mangoes, durian, and dragon fruit, as well as vegetables, herbs, and spices.

2. Seafood: The market is a great place to purchase fresh seafood. You’ll find an abundance of fish, prawns, crabs, squid, and other seafood varieties caught locally or imported from different regions. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore Thailand’s rich seafood offerings.

3. Meat and Poultry: Khlong Toei Market is home to numerous meat and poultry vendors. You can find a selection of beef, pork, chicken, and other meats. From whole cuts to sliced portions and even offal, there is a wide range of options to choose from.

4. Cooking Ingredients and Spices: If you’re looking for ingredients to enhance your culinary adventures, the market offers an array of herbs, spices, sauces, and condiments. You can find Thai curry pastes, chili sauces, shrimp paste, aromatic herbs like lemongrass and galangal, and much more.

5. Snacks and Street Food: Khlong Toei Market is not just a place for raw ingredients but also offers ready-to-eat snacks and street food. You can indulge in a variety of Thai street food delicacies like grilled skewers, fried snacks, fresh fruit juices, and traditional sweets.

6. Kitchenware and Household Items: Besides food, the market has vendors selling kitchenware, utensils, and household items. You can find items like knives, cutting boards, utensils, pots, pans, and other kitchen essentials.

It’s worth noting that the availability of certain items may vary depending on the season and daily offerings. Exploring the market will allow you to discover the diverse range of products available and experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of Bangkok’s most bustling markets.

In the evening, head over to one of the sky bars / restaurants along the Chao Praya River and watch the sunset over Wat Arun – it’s a must-see while in BKK.