Chiang Mai's Night Markets: Where to Eat and What to Buy?
Two Main Markets, Different Character
Chiang Mai offers two central night markets — one permanent and daily, and one special that happens only once a week and is considered one of the most impressive markets in northern Thailand.
Sunday Walking Street
Takes over the Old City's main street every Sunday evening — kilometers of food stalls, handicrafts, and local art. One of the most attractive markets in all of Thailand, not just Chiang Mai.
Real data · Agoda
Real data · AgodaThe Permanent Night Market (Chiang Mai Night Bazaar)
Open every evening (not just weekends), with a stronger emphasis on shopping (handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs) than food, though there are food stalls too. Less special than the Sunday market, but accessible every day of the week.
What to Buy
Northern handicrafts (textiles, woodwork, silver) are relatively high-quality and original, thanks to the region's strong artisan tradition. Prices are usually fairer than Bangkok for the exact same products.
Food at the Markets
Alongside the handicrafts, both markets also offer a wide range of northern street food — northern sausages (Sai Ua), northern noodles (Khao Soi), and dishes hard to find outside Thailand's northern region.
Timing Tip
The Sunday market opens around 16:00-17:00 and runs until around midnight — worth arriving relatively early to grab the popular stalls before they sell out or get a line.
Food Specific to the North
Both markets offer northern dishes less common in the south — khao soi (curry noodle soup with crispy noodles), northern sausages (sai ua), and northern chili sauce (nam prik num). A good chance to taste regional cuisine that doesn't always make it onto tourist restaurant menus.
One Last Tip
Both markets are walkable from most hotels in the Old City area — no need for a tuk-tuk or taxi if staying centrally, another advantage of compact Chiang Mai compared to big Bangkok.
Another Night Market — Wua Lai
Another weekend market (Saturday evenings) on Wua Lai Road, known especially for silver jewelry — an ancient tradition of the area. Less known to tourists than the Sunday market, more of a local atmosphere.
Haggling at Chiang Mai's Markets
Haggling is acceptable at handicraft and shopping stalls, but less so at food stalls (the price there is already reasonable to begin with). Start an offer gently, around 30-40% less than the initial price, and work up from there with a smile.
Was this guide helpful?