Asiatique : The Riverfront - Nomadays

Thailand

Asiatique : The Riverfront

Asiatique The Riverfront is a must-visit commercial zone in Bangkok, the legendary "City of Angels," particularly during your vacation. Here's an overview of this essential area.

Asiatique The Riverfront: One of Bangkok's most spectacular night markets

Bangkok's urban life is inseparable from its markets. Located on Charoen Krung Road, along the Chao Phraya River, Asiatique The Riverfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll. This vibrant shopping and dining center is frequented by numerous tourists who come to enjoy its open-air night market and refined restaurants.

Situated 9 km south of downtown, Asiatique The Riverfront caters to your shopping and entertainment needs in Thailand's capital.

History of the market

The Asiatique Riverfront complex was launched recently in April 2012. A century ago, this area was mainly port facilities, warehouses for goods, and storage buildings where sailors kept provisions. The port was managed by the East Asiatic Company, a Danish company involved in trade with Siam. After World War II, the port closed, and the buildings deteriorated over time.

In 2011, Asiatique Riverfront underwent a revitalization when real estate giant Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi proposed to renovate it into a multifunctional commercial park, integrating retail, dining, and recreational areas. The former port area was transformed into a sprawling open-air market.

Today

The number of restaurants, cafes, and luxury boutiques here is countless. If you're looking to shop during your stay in Bangkok, Asiatique The Riverfront is the perfect place to indulge yourself.

Stroll through Asiatique The Riverfront Market

Welcome to Asiatique, one of the capital's most renowned night markets! Its shopping arcade glows brightly at night, with vendors displaying colorful storefronts. Everything is bought and sold here at a wide range of prices, from toys and decor accessories to Apple computers and street food, a Thai classic.

The commercial area comprises four different districts: the Waterfront District, Chareon Krung District, Town Square District, and Factory District. Each has its own unique attractions.

The Waterfront District offers incredible sea views. Watching the boats come and go is an attraction in itself, combined with the gastronomic pleasures from upscale restaurants and cafes along the Chao Phraya River.

The Chareon Krung District is a treasure trove for craft enthusiasts. Here, you can hunt for jewelry, handbags, and traditional fabrics as gifts.

In the Factory District, ready-to-wear clothing and high-tech products flood the shops. Fashionistas will find plenty to suit their tastes, though at a price. Chic restaurants abound in this district, offering Italian, Thai, or Chinese cuisine.

The Town Square District is dotted with street food stalls offering affordable dishes and potent drinks. A concert hall hosts festive events at certain times of the year.

Asiatique boasts two major attractions that make it one of Bangkok's best destinations for children. Firstly, it houses the Calypso Cabaret and Joe Louis Theatre, the city's two most famous theaters.

To add excitement to your stroll, take a ride on the Asiatic Sky, a giant Ferris wheel that spins at thrilling speeds, offering passengers a unique view of Bangkok from the top. Fun fact: This Ferris wheel is the tallest in Thailand.

Things to know before you go

Opening hours

The market opens daily from 4 PM until midnight.

How to get there?

Getting to Asiatique The Riverfront is quite convenient. You can take bus line 15 from Siam Center, which stops directly outside the shopping center, or use the shuttle boat that picks up passengers at Sathorn Pier, just a few minutes from Saphan Taksin BTS station. Due to heavy traffic, it's advisable to avoid public buses and opt for the train or boat instead.