Rot Fai Train Night Market
Rot Fai Train Night Market Ratchada is one of Bangkok's most popular night markets — a vibrant mix of vintage stalls, street food, bars and live music. It's known for its retro and antique shops, neon-lit photography spots and casual nightlife atmosphere. The market is a great place for shopping, eating and soaking up local evening culture.
Location
Ratchada Train Night Market (Talad Rot Fai Ratchada), Bangkok, Thailand
Duration
1.5–3 hours (typical visit); stay longer if sampling many stalls or enjoying bars/live music
Best Time to Visit
Evenings (approx. 17:00–01:00). Busiest and most lively Thu–Sun; cooler and more comfortable weather November–February. Visit on weekday evenings for fewer crowds.
Pricing
Free to enter. Costs vary by vendor: street food items typically 40–150 THB, souvenirs and clothing 100–1,000+ THB depending on item and bargaining. Expect to spend ~300–1,500 THB for a solid evening (food, drinks, small purchases). ATMs and card acceptance are limited; carry cash.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Wide variety of street food — local favourites like grilled seafood, pad thai, mango sticky rice, and quirky snacks
Large selection of vintage and retro items: antiques, vinyl records, classic toys and retro fashion
Neon-lit lanes and photogenic backdrops great for night photography
Open-air bars and live music stages for a relaxed nightlife vibe
Affordable shopping with room for bargaining on many stalls
Itinerary
Arrive and grab street food for an early dinner
Start with small plates to try different vendors — grilled skewers, seafood or papaya salad. Bring cash for most stalls.
Browse stalls — vintage items, clothes and souvenirs
Hunt for unique retro finds. Prices are often negotiable; be friendly when bargaining.
Enjoy drinks and live music
Head to one of the open-air bars or seating areas; live bands play most nights, especially on weekends.
Late-night snacks and final shopping
Try desserts like mango sticky rice or fried treats before leaving. Check operating hours of transport for your return.
Safety Requirements
Watch personal belongings — busy markets attract pickpockets
Be cautious when trying very spicy or unfamiliar street food if you have a sensitive stomach
Use bottled water and avoid ice in drinks if unsure of source
Stay aware of traffic and motorcycles near market entrances
Carry a copy of your ID/passport when required and emergency contact numbers
Tips
Bring cash in small denominations; some vendors do not accept cards
Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and get the best photo spots
Bargain politely — start ~20–30% below the asking price for non-food items
Try a variety of street food in small portions to taste more vendors
Use the MRT (Thailand Cultural Centre) or taxis/Grab for the easiest access — tell the driver 'Talad Rot Fai Ratchada'
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven walking surfaces
Keep a portable phone charger — great for photos and hailing transport at night
