While one may not be able to shop in floating markets as one can in Bangkok, Malaysia's own thoroughfares are not so easily outdone by its neighbours. Offering holidaymakers the chance to stock up on affordable souvenirs and every variety of consumer ware imaginable, the bustling and colourful street markets of Malaysia are not only recreational highlights but cultural landmarks in their own right. Here are some not-to-miss market hotspots to hit during a trip to Malaysia.

Wakaf Che Yeh Pasar Malam in Kelantan | img via pixabay

The Penang Night Market stands out as a unique market in Malaysia, as it defies categorisation. With its varying atmospheres of sophistication and edginess, it is a shopping haven situated on the picturesque Batu Ferringhi beachfront in Penang. This night market is surrounded by beach bars where live acts take centre stage, and visitors based at Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang or any other hotel in Penang Georgetown will find themselves wandering into this night market after sundown. The Penang Night Market offers a wide variety of items, including tasteful souvenirs, local food, clothing, and fresh clams. However, it's the knock-off t-shirts and Rolexes that truly make this shopping experience unforgettable.

Occupying pride of place in Malacca's Chinatown, the Jonker Walk Night Market is a foodie's dream come true as the best things to buy at this charming after dark marketplace is culinary delights. This night market is considered the perfect venue to wine and dine on a weekday or weekend evening, and some of the main reasons locals and tourists head to the Jonker Walk Night Market is to savour its Peranakan popiah dishes and chicken rice balls. The Cendol sold by local vendors at the venue are also to die for while fans of Japanese cuisine will also find Nyonya curry takoyaki and other fusion dishes that combine the best of disparate culinary worlds.

Located on Gaya Street in Sabah, the Sunday Market in Kota Kinabalu has the honour of being one of the country's biggest flea markets. Teeming with shoppers from sun-up to sundown, this colourful flea market is a bargain hunter's dream come true. Tourists in search of Batik clothing and sarongs will find that they can also pick up fresh anchovies and breakfast meals at this market where potted plants are also sold.

If you're on the lookout for an authentically Malay market encounter, then look no further than Kelantan's Wakaf Che Yeh Pasar Malam. This thriving night market in the heart of Kota Bahru is another market where one can bag many a bargain as even items on sale are cheaper at Wakaf Che Yeh Pasar Malam than they are in other markets. Known as the best place to purchase the specialty fabric known as Kain Pasang, which are used to make traditional Malay clothing, the venue is also ideal for those looking to purchase Thai food or denims.

When it comes to the busiest and the largest markets in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur, you cannot go wrong with the Central Market. Considered an art and crafts thoroughfare more than anything, the Central Market is where tourists can purchase stunning works of embroidery, impressionist paintings and other handicrafts. With a rich history that dates back 120 years, the market was declared a Heritage Site by Malaysia's National Heritage Department.

While it may not be Penang's biggest market, this Georgetown pop-up market is the lifeline of the local artistic community. This market serves as both a communal hub as well as a great place to buy unique works of art, and visitors can grab a picnic lunch and marvel at the creative work on display at this marketplace while sipping on homemade ginger ale.