7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Bangkok & Pattaya

Day 1: Tuesday, February 20 - Exploring Bangkok

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Grand Palace, a magnificent complex that showcases Thai architectural brilliance. Explore the various temples within the palace grounds, including Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Afternoon: Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River, admiring the stunning city skyline and passing by iconic landmarks like Wat Arun and the floating market. Indulge in delicious street food along the way.

Evening: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Khao San Road. Discover cheap souvenirs, enjoy live music, and sample local delicacies from the street stalls.

  • Grand Palace: Estimated cost - 500 THB, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Chao Phraya River Boat Tour: Estimated cost - 100 THB, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Khao San Road: Estimated cost - 200 THB, Time spent - Evening

Day 2: Wednesday, February 21 - Temples and Markets

Morning: Visit Wat Pho, known for its massive reclining Buddha statue. Explore the temple grounds and experience a traditional Thai massage at the renowned massage school within the complex.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Chatuchak Weekend Market, offering a wide range of clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and delicious street food. Bargain for the best prices.

Evening: Enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of Patpong Night Market. Shop for affordable fashion, accessories, and try some local street food.

  • Wat Pho: Estimated cost - 100 THB, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Chatuchak Weekend Market: Estimated cost - Free entry, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Patpong Night Market: Estimated cost - 200 THB, Time spent - Evening

Day 3: Thursday, February 22 - Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Morning: Take a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, marvel at the ancient temples and ruins, and learn about the rich history of the region.

Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, taking in the picturesque views and savoring a traditional Thai lunch on board.

Evening: Return to Bangkok and experience the vibrant nightlife at Asiatique The Riverfront. Enjoy the illuminated Ferris wheel, street performances, and a variety of dining options.

  • Ayutthaya Day Trip: Estimated cost - 800 THB, Time spent - Full day
  • Chao Phraya River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - 500 THB, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Asiatique The Riverfront: Estimated cost - Free entry, Time spent - Evening

Day 4: Friday, February 23 - Pattaya Beach Escape

Morning: Travel from Bangkok to Pattaya and spend the morning relaxing on Pattaya Beach. Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy beach activities like jet skiing or banana boat rides.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Walking Street in Pattaya, known for its nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. Take in the lively atmosphere and enjoy a variety of international and local cuisines.

Evening: Witness the stunning Tiffany Cabaret Show, a dazzling performance featuring extravagant costumes, music, and dance. Experience the renowned ladyboy culture in Thailand.

  • Pattaya Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Morning
  • Walking Street: Estimated cost - Free entry, Time spent - Afternoon
  • Tiffany Cabaret Show: Estimated cost - 600 THB, Time spent - Evening

Day 5: Saturday, February 24 - Island Hopping in Pattaya

Morning: Embark on an island-hopping tour from Pattaya to explore nearby islands. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the clear turquoise waters of Coral Island and Koh Larn.

Afternoon: Discover the beautiful tropical gardens and animals at the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden. Witness Thai cultural shows, elephant shows, and explore the various themed gardens.

Evening: Visit the Sanctuary of Truth, a magnificent wooden temple showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. Take in the intricate details and enjoy the sunset views overlooking the ocean.

  • Island Hopping Tour: Estimated cost - 1,000 THB, Time spent - Full day
  • Nong Nooch Tropical Garden: Estimated cost - 500 THB, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Sanctuary of Truth: Estimated cost - 500 THB, Time spent - Evening

Day 6: Sunday, February 25 - Pattaya Adventure

Morning: Experience the thrill of adrenaline at the Flight of the Gibbon zipline adventure park. Soar through the treetops, enjoying panoramic views of the jungle and wildlife below.

Afternoon: Visit the Upside Down Pattaya, a unique upside-down house filled with interactive optical illusions and photo opportunities. Have fun posing for gravity-defying pictures.

Evening: Enjoy the beautiful sunset views at Pattaya Viewpoint. Capture memorable photos of Pattaya's skyline stretching across the bay.

  • Flight of the Gibbon: Estimated cost - 2,000 THB, Time spent - Morning
  • Upside Down Pattaya: Estimated cost - 300 THB, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Pattaya Viewpoint: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Day 7: Monday, February 26 - Departure

Morning: Take one last stroll around Pattaya's beach promenade, savoring the ocean views and reflecting on your memorable trip.

Afternoon: Depart from Pattaya and head back to Bangkok. Take some time for last-minute shopping and try street food specialties.

Evening: Catch your flight back home with incredible memories of your Bangkok and Pattaya adventure.

  • Pattaya Beach Promenade: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Morning
  • Last-minute Shopping in Bangkok: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Afternoon

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Bangkok, be sure to visit the lesser-known gem of Wat Saket, also known as the Golden Mount. Climb the stairs to the top of the hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city and soak in the tranquility of the temple complex.

In Pattaya, head to Jomtien Beach for a quieter and more relaxed beach experience away from the crowds. Enjoy water sports activities, dine at beachside restaurants, and unwind by the sea.

0