Asiatique The Riverfront: Bangkok’s Stylish Night Market by the River
When the sun sets in Bangkok and the city lights begin to flicker to life, there’s one place that perfectly combines shopping, dining, and a relaxed riverside vibe: Asiatique The Riverfront.
Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this open-air market and lifestyle complex blends the charm of a traditional night bazaar with the polish of a modern shopping center. Housed in renovated warehouses that once belonged to a European trading company, Asiatique is where Bangkok’s past meets its cosmopolitan present.
What to Expect
Asiatique isn’t just a market — it’s an experience. With over 1,500 boutiques and 40 restaurants, you’ll find everything from handmade crafts and trendy clothing to souvenirs, jewelry, and home décor. But it’s not just about shopping.
Stroll along the wide promenade by the river, ride the Asiatique Sky ferris wheel for panoramic views, or catch a traditional Thai puppet show or the energetic Muay Thai Live performance. The complex is especially magical at night, with twinkling lights, street performers, and a cool breeze from the river.
How to Get There
Getting to Asiatique is part of the fun. The most scenic and efficient way is by boat. Just take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin Station, walk down to Sathorn Pier, and hop on the free shuttle boat provided by Asiatique. Boats run every 15–20 minutes from late afternoon until around 11 PM. It’s a short, breezy ride that drops you off right at the entrance.
Alternatively, you can take a Grab or taxi directly, but be aware: traffic around the riverside can be heavy in the evening.
When to Go
Asiatique opens in the late afternoon, but it truly comes to life after 6 PM, when the lights come on, the temperature drops, and the crowds arrive. It’s a perfect spot for an early dinner, a casual evening walk, or just a break from the intensity of Bangkok’s street life.
What to Eat
The dining options here are fantastic. You’ll find everything from street food-style snacks like grilled squid and mango sticky rice to full-service restaurants offering Thai, Japanese, seafood, and international cuisine. Many restaurants have outdoor seating overlooking the river — ideal for sunset.
Tips for Visiting
- Bring cash, although many vendors now accept cards.
- Plan to spend 2–3 hours here to fully enjoy the market, food, and atmosphere.
- The ferris wheel costs around 400–500 THB for adults — a fun way to see the city skyline.
- It’s family-friendly, clean, and easy to navigate — very different from Bangkok’s more chaotic markets.