5-Day Budget-Friendly Thailand Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jay Fai

Enjoy a famous street food breakfast with affordable and delicious crab omelette to start your Thailand adventure.
THB300, 1h

9:30am

Visit Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Explore the resplendent historic Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple, a must-see Bangkok landmark, open 8:30am to 3:30pm.
THB500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Thip Samai (Pad Thai)

Indulge in some of Bangkok’s best Pad Thai, a flavorful and cheap local favourite.
THB80, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Wat Arun

Cross the river and visit Wat Arun temple, noted for its stunning riverside location and architecture, open 8:00am - 6:00pm.
THB100, 1h

3:00pm

Boat ride on Chao Phraya River

Take an affordable public boat ride to see the city from the water and experience local life.
THB15, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)

Explore street food stalls for affordably priced seafood and traditional Thai desserts in vibrant Chinatown.
THB150, 1.5h
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Day 2: Historical Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand on July 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Grab a quick meal before the day trip to Ayutthaya ancient city.
THB100, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Ayutthaya by train

Catch an affordable morning train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong station to Ayutthaya (approx 1.5 hours).
THB50, 1.5h

10:00am

Explore Ayutthaya historical park

Cycle around ruins of temples dating back to the 14th century. Open 8:00am - 6:00pm.
THB50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Malakor Kitchen and Cafe

Eat traditional Thai dishes with a local touch at this well-priced and popular spot in Ayutthaya.
THB150, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram

See this scenic riverside temple complex, perfect for sunset photos, open until 6:00pm.
THB50, 1.5h

5:00pm

Return to Bangkok by train

Take an evening train back to save costs and avoid night travel hassles.
THB50, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Khao Gaeng Rang Nam

Enjoy budget-friendly authentic Thai curry dishes in the heart of Bangkok.
THB80, 1h
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Day 3: Chiang Mai Culture

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 12, 2025

6:00am

Flight to Chiang Mai

Take an early budget domestic flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, approx 1 hour.
THB1000, 1h

7:30am

Breakfast at Cat House Cafe

Relax and try local coffee and Thai breakfast dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
THB150, 1h

9:00am

Visit Doi Suthep Temple

Ascend to Chiang Mai’s iconic mountain temple, open 6:00am - 6:00pm, offering panoramic city views.
THB30, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Taste northern Thai specialty Khao Soi at this local favorite known for authenticity and low prices.
THB60, 1h

1:00pm

Explore Old City Temples

Walk around ancient temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh that highlight Chiang Mai’s heritage.
Free to THB40, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Preview this popular market for souvenirs, handicrafts, and street snacks. Best from 5:00pm onwards.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Night Bazaar Food Stalls

Sample a variety of cheap and delicious street food dishes like grilled meats and sticky rice with mango.
THB120, 1.5h
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Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Chiang Mai, Thailand on July 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Rustic & Blue

Start with hearty breakfast options and fresh coffee in a stylish cafe.
THB200, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Elephant Nature Park

Spend the day at this ethical elephant sanctuary caring for rescued elephants; pre-booking required. Open 8:00am - 5:00pm.
THB2600, 7h

5:30pm

Relax at hotel or explore local markets

Unwind after a long day or visit Chiang Mai’s smaller markets for local snacks.
Free to THB100, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pun Pun Organic Vegetarian Restaurant

Dine affordably on fresh organic vegetarian dishes in a peaceful setting.
THB200, 1.5h
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Day 5: Back to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on July 14, 2025

7:00am

Morning flight to Bangkok

Fly back to Bangkok to complete your trip, saving time over bus or train travel.
THB1000, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Enjoy traditional Thai breakfast and coffee at this historic Bangkok cafe.
THB100, 1h

10:00am

Shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market

If your trip aligns with a weekend, explore the huge market for unique souvenirs and tasty street food (Weekends 9:00am - 6:00pm).
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Chatuchak Market Food Courts

Try a variety of local dishes at budget-friendly prices right inside the market.
THB80, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Jim Thompson House

Tour the famous silk merchant’s traditional Thai house and museum, open 9:00am - 6:00pm.
THB200, 1.5h

6:00pm

Farewell dinner at Supanniga Eating Room

Enjoy a memorable final dinner with upscale yet affordable traditional Thai flavors.
THB700, 2h
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