A small group, and two hours on the canal

About this experience

LJ Tour keeps this small: nine guests at most in an air-conditioned van, or a private option for your own group. The guide meets you at Exit 3 of MRT Hua Lamphong with an "LJ BIZ" sign. After about 80 minutes on the road and a photo stop in Samut Songkhram you reach Maeklong Railway Market, where the guide walks you through a street food tasting before the train comes through.

Then it's half an hour to Damnoen Saduak and about two hours there, twice what the coach tours give you. Tell the guide whether you want a motor boat or a paddle boat; both are covered, along with entry, parking and expressway fees. Along the way come Thai snacks, coconut desserts and mango sticky rice among them. Don't expect a sit-down meal: the "brunch" is tastings and snacks, and extra meals and drinks are on you.

The listing is refreshingly frank. It warns that both markets are busy and touristy, with inflated prices, and that traffic can make you miss the train at Maeklong. Hotel pickup is only on the private option; the small group meets at Hua Lamphong and drops off there or at Ratchathewi.

• Nine guests at most, in a van rather than a coach
• About two hours at the floating market
• Your choice of a motor or paddle boat, fees paid
• Street food tasting at Maeklong Railway Market
• Thai snacks: coconut desserts and mango sticky rice

How the day runs

1. MorningMeet at Hua Lamphong

   Exit 3 of MRT Hua Lamphong. Look for the guide with the "LJ BIZ" sign.

2. About 80 minDrive to Samut Songkhram

   With a short photo stop before the train market.

3. Train timeMaeklong Railway Market

   Street food tasting on the tracks, then the train creeping through the stalls.

4. About 30 minOn to Damnoen Saduak

   A short drive west to the canal.

5. About 2 hThe floating market

   Your boat, motor or paddle, through the market and canals, with snacks along the way.

6. About 80 minBack to Bangkok

   Drop-off at Hua Lamphong or Ratchathewi.

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Ask for the paddle boat if you want quiet and photos, the motor boat if you want to reach the side canals.
• Eat a light breakfast. The tastings start at Maeklong and keep coming.
• Hua Lamphong is on the MRT Blue Line, easy from Silom, Sukhumvit and Chinatown.
• Mention any food allergy before you book: the listing says the trip is not suitable for them.
• If you are four or more, price the private option. It adds hotel pickup.

Read next:

• Is it worth it?
• Hours & best time

Frequently asked questions

Compare with

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