If you’re a market girlie, Chiang Mai should definitely be on your bucket list. The markets here are genuinely incredible and not to be missed. There’s something for everyone from street food and souvenirs to local craft markets and art or cooking classes. In this guide, we’ll explore the best markets in Chiang Mai, including the popular Chiang Mai night markets, the trendy Jing Jai Market, and my favourite, a hidden gem known as the Coconut Market.
1. Jing Jai Market: A Chic & Eco-Friendly Experience
Jing Jai Market Chiang Mai is one of the city’s most unique markets, known for its organic produce, artisanal goods, and eco-friendly shopping atmosphere. You know those cute local market pictures all over Pinterest? Yeah this is that sort of place. This open-air market is perfect for those who appreciate locally made products and sustainable shopping. On the day that I went, there were even art students offering “pay as you wish” portraits.
What to Expect at Jing Jai Market
- Handmade crafts, jewelry, and home decor
- Organic food stalls and fresh produce
- Live music and (really good) coffee shops
Opening Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM, Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Atsadathorn Road, Chiang Mai
2. Coconut Market: Chiang Mai’s Best Kept Secret
For a unique experience, the Coconut Market Chiang Mai is a hidden gem, literally nestled in coconut trees. It’s a smaller market but it still features a variety of local dishes, as well as coconut-based desserts including coconut ice-cream, coconut pancakes, and coconut shakes. It’s a fantastic place to try authentic street food in Chiang Mai away from the tourist crowds. Not to mention the pretty bamboo bridges that are a great photo opportunity. Honestly, I’m surprised there’s no entrance fee, because you can literally eat your food in bamboo huts over the water.
Highlights of the Coconut Market
- Fresh coconuts and coconut-based desserts
- Local street food vendors serving Northern Thai specialties
- A relaxed atmosphere and pretty scenery
Opening Hours: Friday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai
3. Saturday Night Market: A Bustling Cultural Extravaganza
If you’re coming to Chiang Mai, make sure you come over a weekend because the Saturday (and then Sunday) night markets are unmissable. Controversial, but I would prioritise the Chiang Mai weekend night markets over Chatuchak in Bangkok. The Saturday Night Market Chiang Mai, also known as Wua Lai Walking Street, is a must-visit for those looking for a mix of shopping and entertainment. This market is lined with stalls selling handcrafted goods, souvenirs, and delicious street food.
What to Expect at the Saturday Night Market
- Handmade souvenirs and unique handicrafts
- A wide selection of local street food, from grilled meats to mango sticky rice
- Traditional Thai music and cultural performances
Opening Hours: Every Saturday, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Wualai Road, Chiang Mai
4. Sunday Night Market: Chiang Mai’s Most Famous Market
Yeah so you know how I was saying both the Saturday and Sunday night markets are amazing? Well, the Sunday is definitely the best one (in my opinion anyway). The Sunday Night Market Chiang Mai, or Tha Pae Walking Street, is one of the largest and most popular markets in the city. Stretching from Tha Pae Gate through Ratchadamnoen Road, this market is perfect for those looking to experience Chiang Mai’s vibrant atmosphere. It genuinely took my partner and I hours to finish the entire market, but it was super enjoyable. My only advice is to pace yourself with food, because you’ll want to try little bits of everything.
Must-Try Foods and Best Stalls
- Chiang Mai fried chicken sounds basic, but trust me you absolutely need to try it if you find it.
- Sun dried pork with sticky rice – kind of like a jerky texture, but its so delicious and usually fried up in front of you.
- Handmade clothing, jewelry, and paintings
- Massage stalls for a quick relaxation break
Opening Hours: Every Sunday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Tha Pae Gate to Ratchadamnoen Road
5. Baan Kang Wat: Art Classes at the Artisan Village Market
Baan Kang Wat is a must for all of my fellow creative girls out there. It gives similar vibes to the Jing Jai market, but most stalls offer their own art and craft workshops, including some cooking classes! Baan Kang Wat is a creative community filled with artists, craftspeople, and designers. If you’re looking for something unique, from handmade ceramics to original paintings, this is the perfect spot to explore. The garden setting, cozy cafes, and art workshops make it a delightful place to spend a relaxing afternoon.
What to Expect at Baan Kang Wat
- Art stalls and classes including pottery, painting and keychains
- Less food stalls than other markets, but still a variety of coffee, ice-creams, and sweet treats.
- Handmade ceramics, paintings, and eco-friendly products
- Beautiful garden setting with cozy cafes and art installations
Opening Hours: Open daily, with the liveliest atmosphere on weekends
6. Mae Kha Canal: The Riverside Hidden Gem
Mae Kha Rakaeng is a very small market, but has beautiful lanterns along the canal. One of Chiang Mai’s newest and trendiest markets, located along the beautifully restored Mae Kha Canal. This market has a strong Japanese influence, and is a really pretty walk. It’s a bit more souvenir focused, and we did end up walking to another night market after this one to get some proper food (night markets are everywhere in Chiang Mai). But there’s live music and a great atmosphere, it really felt like a little hidden gem. If you love strolling through night markets with a relaxed vibe and creative atmosphere, this is a must-visit spot.
What to Expect at Mae Kha Rakaeng
- Souvenirs and a few restaurants with Japanese influence
- Live music performances in a scenic riverside setting
- Lanterns and art installations along the canal
Opening Hours: Weekends, late afternoon until late night
7. Other Must-Visit Markets in Chiang Mai
Warorot Market (Kad Luang) – The Local’s Market
- One of the best places to shop in Chiang Mai for fresh produce and local snacks
- Great for experiencing authentic Chiang Mai culture
- Open daily from early morning until evening
Chang Phuak Night Market – The Street Food Paradise
- Famous for the legendary Cowboy Hat Lady’s Khao Kha Moo (braised pork leg)
- A must-visit for food lovers looking for the best street food in Chiang Mai
- Open nightly from 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Malin Plaza – A Student-Friendly Shopping Spot
- Located near Chiang Mai University, perfect for trendy clothes and budget shopping
- Affordable food court with a variety of Thai and international dishes
- Open daily from late afternoon until midnight
Conclusion
Chiang Mai is a market lover’s dream, and these are just a few of my favourite spots I’ll always head to every time I visit. But there are so many amazing local markets to check out, I love using google maps to see what’s near my hotel. Chiang Mai’s markets offer a mix of traditional culture, amazing food, and unique shopping experiences. Whether you’re exploring the famous Chiang Mai night markets or discovering hidden gems like the Coconut Market, there’s always something exciting to see and taste.
I’ve always only ever travelled with cash, which I would say is a must when visiting markets in Chiang Mai. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, delicious street food, or an authentic local experience, Chiang Mai’s markets won’t disappoint!
