Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 54 travelers

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Thailand

  1. Day 1: Bangkok
    20 minutes (9.5 km) from Suvarnabhumi Airport

    Visit Wat Phra Kaew in the morning for a glimpse of the Emerald Buddha. In the afternoon, head to the Grand Palace to marvel at the opulence of the former residence of the Thai king. In the evening, explore Khao San Road for street food and shopping.

  2. Day 2: Ayutthaya
    <
    2 hours (80 km) from Bangkok

    Visit the ancient temples of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, explore Wat Mahathat for the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots. In the afternoon, visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram for its impressive Khmer-style architecture. In the evening, experience a traditional Thai massage.

  3. Day 3: Chiang Mai
    1 hour 10 minutes (700 km) from Ayutthaya

    Visit Doi Suthep, a mountain temple with stunning views of Chiang Mai. In the afternoon, check out the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar for souvenirs and street food. In the evening, experience a Khantoke dinner and cultural show.

  4. Day 4: Chiang Rai
    3 hours (190 km) from Chiang Mai

    Visit the stunning Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple. In the afternoon, explore the Baan Dam Museum for a unique collection of art and artifacts. In the evening, check out the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar for local handicrafts and street food.

  5. Day 5: Koh Samui
    2 hours 10 minutes (678 km) from Chiang Rai

    Relax on the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui. In the morning, visit the Big Buddha temple for stunning views of the island. In the afternoon, explore the Fisherman's Village for shopping and local cuisine. In the evening, experience a beachside BBQ.

  6. Day 6: Krabi
    2 hours 25 minutes (198 km) from Koh Samui

    Visit Railay Beach for its stunning limestone cliffs and clear waters. In the afternoon, explore the Tiger Cave Temple for breathtaking views and a challenging climb. In the evening, experience a seafood feast at a local night market.

  7. Day 7: Phuket
    2 hours (108 km) from Krabi

    Visit the Big Buddha for stunning views of the island. In the afternoon, explore the Old Town for its Sino-Portuguese architecture and unique shops. In the evening, experience the famous Bangla Road nightlife.

Recommendations

Other attractions to consider include the Maeklong Railway Market, Erawan National Park, and the Elephant Nature Park. For a side trip, consider visiting the beautiful island of Koh Phi Phi. To maximize your fun, try local street food and take public transportation. Don't forget to negotiate prices at markets!

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Wat Phra Kaew (2 hours, free)
  • Grand Palace (2 hours, ฿500)
  • Wat Mahathat (1 hour, ฿50)
  • Wat Chaiwatthanaram (1 hour, ฿50)
  • Doi Suthep (2 hours, ฿50)
  • Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (2 hours, free)
  • Khantoke dinner and cultural show (3 hours, ฿400)
  • Wat Rong Khun (1 hour, ฿50)
  • Baan Dam Museum (1 hour, ฿80)
  • Chiang Rai Night Bazaar (2 hours, free)
  • Big Buddha (1 hour, free)
  • Fisherman's Village (2 hours, free)
  • Beachside BBQ (2 hours, ฿300)
  • Railay Beach (2 hours, free)
  • Tiger Cave Temple (2 hours, free)
  • Seafood feast at a local night market (2 hours, ฿200)
  • Big Buddha Phuket (1 hour, free)
  • Old Town Phuket (2 hours, free)
  • Bangla Road nightlife (3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: ฿1780 ($55 USD)
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version