Things To Do
in Samut Songkhram

Samut Songkhram is a charming coastal province located just southwest of Bangkok, known for its vibrant riverside culture and traditional markets. The area is famous for the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors sell their goods directly on the train tracks. Visitors can also explore the serene Amphawa Floating Market, which showcases the culinary delights of the region.

With its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, Samut Songkhram offers a unique glimpse into the life along Thailand's canals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Markets and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Maeklong Railway Market, where you can witness the unique spectacle of vendors clearing their stalls as a train passes through.

afternoon
:

Head to the Amphawa Floating Market for lunch, where you can sample local dishes from vendors on boats, then take a boat tour to explore the nearby canals.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to Wat Bang Kung, a temple surrounded by banyan trees, and enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning at the Khlong Khone Mangrove Forest, where you can take a peaceful kayak trip through the mangroves.

afternoon
:

Visit the Samut Songkhram Provincial Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by lunch at a nearby local eatery.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset stroll along the riverfront and dine at a riverside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Local meal$2
Coffee$1
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$3
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$20
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Beautiful natural scenery with canals and mangroves.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less convenient.
  • Language barrier with some locals.
  • "สวัสดี" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!
  • "อร่อยมาก" - Very delicious
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Samut Songkhram

Visit one of these nice places.

Maeklong Railway Market

Capture the unique moment when the train passes through the market, surrounded by vibrant stalls.

Amphawa Floating Market

The colorful boats and lively atmosphere provide perfect backdrops for lively photographs.

Wat Bang Kung

The temple's stunning architecture entwined with nature creates a picturesque setting.

Culinary Guide

Food in Samut Songkhram

Samut Songkhram is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of fresh seafood and local specialties that reflect the province's riverside culture.

Samut Songkhram Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pla Pao

Grilled fish stuffed with herbs, often served with spicy dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Khao Chae

Rice soaked in jasmine-scented water, served with a variety of side dishes.

Som Tum

Spicy papaya salad, a refreshing dish perfect for the hot climate.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Amphawa Floating Market

A bustling market where vendors sell food from boats; a must-visit for local delicacies.

Maeklong Railway Market

Offers fresh produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals right on the train tracks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Samut Songkhram experiences a tropical climate, characterized by three main seasons: the dry season from November to February, which is cooler and drier; the hot season from March to May, where temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F); and the rainy season from June to October, marked by heavy rainfall and humidity. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Dress modestly and avoid physical contact with monks, especially women.

Wai Greeting

Use the traditional 'wai' greeting when meeting locals, involving a slight bow with palms together.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Safety Guide

Safety

Samut Songkhram is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded markets and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas. Always use reputable transportation services when traveling around.

Tipping in Samut Songkhram

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; ensure you have small bills, as change may not always be available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - February)

Cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring markets.

Hot Season (March - May)

Very hot temperatures; stay hydrated and plan indoor visits during peak heat.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rain showers; some attractions may be less accessible, but the landscapes are lush.

Festive Periods

The local festivals, especially during Loy Krathong, offer unique cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Samut Songkhram at Night

The nightlife in Samut Songkhram is laid-back compared to larger Thai cities, with a focus on local bars and quiet riverside dining. Evening markets and food stalls come alive after sunset, providing a lively atmosphere. For a unique experience, consider joining a boat tour on the river to enjoy the night views and local seafood delicacies.

Hiking in Samut Songkhram

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Yoi Mountain

Located about 30 km away, this mountain offers trails with varying difficulty levels and scenic views.

Sai Yok National Park

A bit further away, this park features trails through lush forests and stunning waterfalls, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Samut Songkhram by plane.

Don Mueang International Airport

Located about 90 km from Samut Songkhram, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Samut Songkhram is relatively walkable, especially in market areas like Maeklong and Amphawa. Sidewalks are available, but may vary in quality; caution is advised when walking along busy roads. The compact nature of the town allows for easy exploration on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Locals

The majority of residents are ethnic Thai, with a strong cultural connection to their riverside heritage.

Chinese Community

A significant Chinese population resides in the area, contributing to the local cuisine and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Traditional Thai boxing is popular, with local gyms offering classes and events.

Football

Football is widely played and followed, with local teams engaging in community matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Samut Songkhram is generally light compared to Bangkok, making it easier to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes local buses and tuk-tuks, which can be convenient for short distances. However, during market days, congestion can occur near popular spots.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Samut Songkhram.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians; always ask for no fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Some dishes may contain soy sauce; inquire about ingredients when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Samut Songkhram include small hospitals and clinics, with basic services available. For more serious conditions, traveling to nearby Bangkok is advisable, where larger hospitals offer advanced medical care. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide