Patpong Night Market, Bangkok

Market in Bangkok

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Eric Molina

Located in the heart of Bangkok's Silom district, Patpong Night Market is one of the most famous night markets in Thailand - and one of the most talked about. It's both a shopping destination and an entertainment hotspot, where neon lights, souvenir stalls, and nightclubs collide in a whirlwind of energy. The market is one of the top sights in Bangkok for those curious to see a different side of the city's culture, offering everything from cheap T-shirts and fake designer goods to lively bars and late-night shows.

Though best known for its adult-oriented nightlife, Patpong also offers glimpses of Bangkok's modern-day street culture, with local vendors, food stalls, and music adding to the atmosphere. Whether you come to browse, people-watch, or simply soak up the electric energy, it's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Bangkok for travelers who want to experience the city's wilder edge.

History and Significance of Patpong Night Market
Things to See and Do in Patpong Night Market
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Patpong Night Market
Is Patpong Night Market Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Patpong Night Market
Nearby Attractions to Patpong Night Market

History and Significance of Patpong Night Market

Patpong's story begins in the mid-20th century when the Patpongpanich family, of Chinese-Thai descent, purchased the land in the 1940s and developed it into a small business district. During the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 70s, the area became a leisure hub for U.S. soldiers stationed in Thailand, giving rise to the go-go bars and entertainment venues that would define its reputation. Over time, as tourism in Bangkok boomed, Patpong evolved into a full-fledged night market - a mix of street shopping and nightlife unlike anywhere else in the city.

Today, Patpong remains one of Bangkok’s most iconic entertainment zones, attracting a mix of curious visitors, shoppers, and nightlife enthusiasts. While the area’s reputation is far from family-friendly, its long-standing presence in Bangkok’s social fabric reflects the city’s open, multifaceted character - a blend of commerce, culture, and curiosity that continues to draw travelers from around the world.

Things to See and Do in Patpong Night Market

The market stretches along Patpong Soi 1 and Soi 2, with rows of tightly packed stalls selling everything from leather goods and souvenirs to counterfeit watches and branded clothing. Bargaining is expected here - prices are often inflated, especially for tourists. While some visitors come to shop, many are simply there for the atmosphere: bright lights, the thumping music of nearby bars, and the constant hum of activity.

Patpong’s surrounding area offers plenty of nightlife, from trendy rooftop bars to traditional Thai restaurants hidden on side streets. The famous go-go bars are part of what makes Patpong infamous, but visitors can also find quieter pubs or live music venues tucked among the chaos. For a more laid-back experience, try visiting early in the evening before the crowds and neon signs take over.

This spot is one of the best places to see in Bangkok for travelers wanting to understand the city's more unconventional side. Just be aware that touts will likely approach you with offers for “shows” - many of which come with hidden costs. Staying alert and keeping a sense of humor helps you enjoy the experience without falling for the scams.

How to Get There

Patpong Night Market is located in the Silom area, just a short walk from Bangkok's main transport hubs.

By BTS Skytrain: Take the Silom Line to Sala Daeng Station, exit onto Silom Road, and walk about 5 minutes to Patpong Road.
By MRT Subway: Get off at Silom Station and follow signs toward Patpong - it’s only a few minutes on foot.
By car or taxi: From central Bangkok, the drive takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic . Parking in the area is limited, so public transport is usually the best option.

Practical Tips on Visiting Patpong Night Market

Best time to visit Patpong Night Market: 7:00 PM to midnight, when the market is most active.
Entrance fee: Free to enter, but individual venues and bars may have cover charges.
Opening hours: Roughly 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM, though stalls begin closing earlier on weekdays.
Official website: tourismthailand.org (for general visitor info).
How long to spend: 1-2 hours for shopping and sightseeing.
Accessibility: Busy and crowded; not ideal for wheelchairs or strollers.
Facilities: Nearby hotels, ATMs, and plenty of bars and restaurants.
Photography tip: Be discreet - photography inside bars or of performers is not allowed.
Guided tours: Often visited on walking tours of Bangkok’s nightlife and market scenes.
Nearby food options: Try street vendors along Silom Road for Thai snacks, or head to nearby Convent Road for more local restaurants.

Is Patpong Night Market Worth Visiting?

Patpong Night Market is one of the things to do in Bangkok if you're curious about the city's nightlife culture or simply want to see its most famous entertainment district in action. It's not for everyone - the mix of adult venues and tourist traps can be overwhelming - but it's an undeniable part of Bangkok's identity. For travelers with an open mind and a sense of adventure, a stroll through Patpong offers a memorable, if slightly wild, night out.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

3.7 (18,858)

Patpong Night Market, located between Silom Road and Surawong Road in Bangkok's Silom area, is a compact, bustling evening bazaar of neon-lit stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, imitation branded goods, watches, accessories and some street food; bargaining is expected and can secure much lower prices. The market's lively atmosphere is surrounded by bars, restaurants and nightlife venues (including nearby Muay Thai shows and gay-friendly spots on Silom Soi 2 and Soi 4), so it's better suited to adults than families; it opens around early evening and is more about the vibe and night-time entertainment than a large food market, though popular treats like mango sticky rice are available.

Ankur jain

a month ago

"Patpong Night Market is one of Bangkok’s most popular and energetic street markets, known for its lively atmosphere, bright neon lights, and endlessshopping options. Located in the Silom area, this market offers a mix of local culture, entertainment, and a bustling nightlife vibe that attracts tourists from all over the world. As soon as you enter, you’ll find rows of stalls selling everything from clothes, handbags, shoes, souvenirs, and accessories to electronics and unique handmade items. The variety is huge, and with good bargaining skills, you can get some really great deals. The market is always buzzing with energy, and the surrounding streets are filled with restaurants, bars, and live-music clubs, making it a complete evening destination. The vendors are friendly, though bargaining is almost expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate. The place is a bit crowded, but that is part of its charm. While Patpong is famous for its nightlife, the market section itself feels safe and tourist-friendly, especially if you stay on the main street. It’s a great place to experience Bangkok’s local culture, buy affordable items, and enjoy the vibrant environment. Overall, Patpong Night Market is an exciting and memorable spot for evening shopping and entertainment...."

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bangkokrecomment “Food & Travel TikTok”

2 months ago

"Patpong Night Market opens around 6 PM and is located in Bangkok’s oldest red-light district, between Silom Road and Surawong Road. It’s a small butcolorful night market, surrounded by neon lights, bars, and late-night energy. The market itself is small a few souvenir and clothing stalls, some imitation goods, and a couple of food vendors. Prices are moderate, and the area is more about atmosphere than shopping. I’ve visited this spot several times during my tours through Bangkok, and it’s always interesting for its history and contrast a mix of nightlife, street culture, and entertainment. You’ll also find Muay Thai shows and, a few streets away, gay-friendly nightlife around Silom Soi 2 & Soi 4. That said, I wouldn’t recommend it for families with children, since the market and red-light venues share the same area. If you have time, it’s worth visiting once to see Bangkok’s older nightlife scene, but for food and family-friendly markets, Jodd Fairs or Asiatique are better choices. 📍 Location: Between Silom Rd & Surawong Rdn🕐 Opening Hours: Around 6 PM - midnightn💡 Tip: Come early evening for photos or short videos great spot if you like capturing Bangkok’s nightlife vibe on TikTok or Instagram. Verdict:nInteresting for its history and atmosphere, but less suitable for families. Nice to include during a city tour through Bangkok...."

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C Y

2 months ago

"Small markets where you’ll find cheap ‘luxury’ brands in the middle with food vendors at the far end. Tip: be prepared to bargain hard, don’t beafraid to go for 1/5th of asking price. Family tip: steer clear of hidden side ‘red light’ stalls...."

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FAQs for Visiting Patpong Night Market

Yes, but stay alert for scams and overcharging in bars and souvenir stalls.

Not really - the adult entertainment aspect makes it better suited for adults.

Absolutely. Prices are usually inflated, so haggling is part of the experience.

Yes, Silom and nearby areas have smaller night markets and food stalls for a more relaxed vibe.

Most stalls close by midnight, though bars and clubs stay open later.

Nearby Attractions to Patpong Night Market

Lumphini Park - A green oasis perfect for a morning walk or paddleboat ride.
Silom Complex - A modern shopping center with restaurants and boutiques.
King Power Mahanakhon Skywalk - Bangkok’s highest observation deck with incredible city views.
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple - A vibrant Hindu temple known for its colorful façade.
Asiatique The Riverfront - A family-friendly night market and riverside shopping destination.

The Patpong Night Market appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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