A 3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Thailand in November 2023

  1. Day 1: Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace
    10 minutes (2.3 km) from Khao San Road

    A must-see attraction in Thailand, Wat Phra Kaew is one of the most important temples in the country and it houses the famous Emerald Buddha. The Grand Palace, situated next to it is a masterpiece of Thai architecture and craftsmanship and it was the former residence of the King. Visitors should ensure they dress modestly and allocate enough time for the complex.

  2. Day 2: Chatuchak Weekend Market and Wat Arun
    30 minutes (10.4 km) from Khao San Road

    The largest market in Thailand, the Chatuchak Weekend Market offers visitors everything from clothing and jewelry to exotic pets. It's best to arrive early and allocate at least 2-3 hours to properly explore as the area is massive. Next, visit Wat Arun, famed for its stunning ceramic adorned Khmer-style temple structure and intricate ceiling details.

  3. Day 3: Ayutthaya
    1 hour 30 minutes (80 km) from Khao San Road

    For Thailand's history lovers, a trip to the ancient city of Ayutthaya is a must. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is filled with ancient ruins and temples. Make sure to prioritize visits to Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. While in Ayutthaya, it’s also advised to take a relaxing riverboat ride along the Chao Phraya River to see the city from a different perspective.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace (2-3 hours, free)
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market (2-3 hours, free)
  • Wat Arun (2 hours, 100 THB)
  • Ayutthaya Day Trip (6-8 hours, 300-400 THB)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 400-500 THB per person

Useful tips

For those with more time, some other recommended attractions are Khao San Road, Jim Thompson House, and Lumpini Park. Travellers with less time should consider skipping Ayutthaya and instead visiting Chinatown, Asiatique, or the MBK Center in Bangkok.

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