14-Day Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary in Thailand and Malaysia on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Visit the Grand Palace

Start your adventure by marveling at the stunning architecture and rich history of the Grand Palace.
Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Tha Chang Pier (C20).
THB500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Wat Pho

Next, walk to Wat Pho to see the impressive Reclining Buddha and perhaps enjoy a traditional Thai massage.
A short 10-minute walk from the Grand Palace.
THB200, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Thip Samai

Savour the best Pad Thai in Bangkok at the renowned Thip Samai.
A quick 20-minute walk from Wat Pho.
THB100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Jim Thompson House

Discover the silk legacy of Jim Thompson while exploring his traditional Thai house.
Take a bus or Grab for about 30 minutes.
THB200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Chatuchak Weekend Market

Wander through the largest market in Thailand, discovering artisan crafts and street food.
Take the BTS to Mo Chit Station.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Jay Fai

Taste the famous street food at Jay Fai, known for her fiery cooking skills.
Grab to the restaurant from the market.
THB600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Enjoy traditional Thai breakfast with toast and coffee at this iconic café.
Take a Grab to the café.
THB80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Wat Arun

Cross the river to visit Wat Arun, known for its stunning skyline and intricate architecture.
Take the boat across the river.
THB50, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Flower Market

Time to stroll through the vibrant flower market, a visual delight that showcases beautiful blooms.
Walk back to the mainland for a few minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Raan Jay Fai

Grab some delicious local seafood dishes at this hidden gem.
If you missed it yesterday, take a Grab.
THB300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Khao San Road

Explore the backpacking hub with its lively atmosphere and numerous shops.
Take a bus or Grab to Khao San Road.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Khao San Road

Enjoy street food for dinner; try a mix of local delicacies.
Stroll along Khao San Road.
THB200, 1 hour
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Day 3: Historical Day Trip

Ayutthaya, Thailand

7:00AM

Travel to Ayutthaya

Take a bus from Mo Chit Bus Station to the ancient city of Ayutthaya.
Buses leave approximately every 30 mins.
THB100, 1.5 hours

9:00AM

Explore the Ruins

Rent a bicycle and start exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites scattered around the city.
Bike rentals available nearby.
THB40, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a local meal at one of the many cafés near the historical sites.
Bike to nearby cafés.
THB120, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Wat Mahathat

See the iconic Buddha head embedded in tree roots at Wat Mahathat.
Continue biking to the temple.
THB50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Finish your trip with a visit to this stunning riverside temple featured in many photos.
Bike to the temple in about 30 mins.
THB50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Bangkok

Take the bus back to Bangkok for a relaxing evening.
Bus returns to Mo Chit Station regularly.
THB100, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Grab dinner at a local spot near your accommodation.
Walk to any local eatery.
THB150, 1 hour
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Day 4: Beach Fun in Pattaya

Pattaya, Thailand

7:00AM

Travel to Pattaya

Catch an early morning bus to Pattaya for fun and relaxation.
Buses regularly depart from Ekkamai Station.
THB150, 2 hours

9:00AM

Check-in at Accommodation

Check into your budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse in Pattaya.
Walking distance from the bus station.
THB600 (2 nights), 30 mins

10:30AM

Visit Pattaya Beach

Spend the day soaking up the sun on the lively Pattaya Beach.
Just a short walk from your accommodation.
Free, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Beachfront Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing lunch with a view; try the seafood here.
Eating at any beachfront restaurant.
THB300, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Walking Street

Take a stroll along Walking Street, famous for lively nightlife and shops.
Walk or grab a bike taxi to the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Try out local Thai dishes at an affordable joint on Walking Street.
Find a nearby eatery.
THB200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxing Pattaya

Pattaya, Thailand

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Guesthouse

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.
Included in your stay.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Sanctuary of Truth

Explore this magnificent all-wood temple adorned with intricate carvings.
Grab a taxi from your accommodation.
THB500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Temple Café

Enjoy a light meal at the café located at the temple.
On site.
THB150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Coral Island (Koh Larn)

Take a boat trip to the island known for its beautiful beaches.
Buy tickets from Bali Hai Pier.
THB300 (round trip), 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Seafood Restaurant

Savour some fresh grilled seafood at a well-rated local restaurant.
Grab or walk to the nearest eatery.
THB350, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Explore Phuket

Phuket, Thailand

8:00AM

Travel to Phuket

Catch an early flight from Bangkok to Phuket to enjoy the beaches.
Book flights via budget airlines.
THB1500, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle into your budget hotel or hostel in Phuket.
Take a taxi from the airport.
THB600 (2 nights), 30 mins

11:00AM

Relax on Patong Beach

Enjoy the famous Patong Beach, perfect for relaxing and water sports.
Grab a beach chair and settle in.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a Beachfront Café

Delight in fresh seafood while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Stroll along the beach to find a café.
THB250, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Bangla Road

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bangla Road, known for nightlife and entertainment.
Easily walk to Bangla Road.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at a Thai Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine at a popular restaurant in Patong.
Walk back from Bangla Road.
THB300, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Phuket Relaxation

Phuket, Thailand

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast included in your stay.
Enjoy your complimentary meal.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Big Buddha

Explore the iconic Big Buddha statue and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
Use a Grab taxi to the site.
MYR20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Chalong

Discover small local eateries and enjoy a budget-friendly meal.
Walk or grab to the nearby restaurants.
MYR50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Karon Beach

Enjoy a quieter atmosphere at Karon Beach, perfect for unwinding.
Take a taxi or Grab to the beach.
Free, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at an Oceanview Restaurant

Dine with a stunning seaside view while enjoying the sunset.
Find a nearby oceanview restaurant.
THB400, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Cultural Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

8:00AM

Travel to Kuala Lumpur

Catch a budget flight to Kuala Lumpur from Phuket.
Look for budget airlines like AirAsia.
MYR100, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Check-in at Accommodation

Check into a budget hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
Grab to your accommodation.
MYR80 (2 nights), 30 mins

11:00AM

Petronas Towers Visit

Visit the iconic Petronas Towers and perhaps enjoy shopping in the nearby Suria KLCC mall.
Use the MRT to KLCC station.
MYR80, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Jalan Alor Night Market

Feast on diverse street food options at this famous food street.
Take Grab to Jalan Alor.
MYR40, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Bukit Bintang

Stroll through Bukit Bintang, known for shopping, entertainment and culture.
A short walk from Jalan Alor.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Art Kent

A gallery that features local works and is in the heart of KL.
Take a short Grab or walk.
MYR10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Try Nasi Kandar or local favourites at a cheap eatery.
Find a local restaurant within Bukit Bintang.
MYR30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: More Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a local Malaysian breakfast.
Breakfast is included.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Batu Caves Visit

Marvel at the limestone cave temples and the large statue of Lord Murugan.
Take a train from KL Sentral.
MYR20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Grab a traditional Malaysian dish nearby.
Walk to nearby eateries.
MYR40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Islamic Arts Museum

A remarkable collection showcasing Islamic art from around the world.
Grab to the museum.
MYR14, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at KLCC Park

Take a stroll in the park with views of the Petronas Towers.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Street Food Dinner at Jalan Alor

Go back for some more street food delights for dinner.
Grab back to Jalan Alor.
MYR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Historic George Town

George Town, Malaysia

8:00AM

Travel to George Town

Take a budget flight to Penang from Kuala Lumpur.
Book an early flight.
MYR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check-In at Guesthouse

Check into a charming guesthouse in the historical district.
Walking distance from the airport.
MYR80 (2 nights), 30 mins

10:30AM

Explore Street Art

Discover the famous street art of George Town by walking its streets.
Start from Armenian Street.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Teksen Restaurant

Indulge in local cuisine at this well-loved restaurant.
Walk over from the street art area.
MYR50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Penang Peranakan Mansion

Explore the history of the Peranakan culture through this charming museum.
A short walk from the restaurant.
MYR20, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Penang Hill

Take the funicular train up Penang Hill for stunning views of the city.
Grab to the train station.
MYR30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hawker Centre

Feast on a variety of dishes at a popular hawker centre.
Head back down and grab a meal at the nearest centre.
MYR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Island Getaway - Langkawi

Langkawi, Malaysia

8:00AM

Travel to Langkawi

Catch a budget flight to Langkawi for some well-deserved beach time.
Book flights through local airlines.
MYR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Check-in at Beachside Resort

Settle into your budget beach resort and relax.
Grab or walk from the airport.
MYR120 (2 nights), 30 mins

11:00AM

Relax on Pantai Cenang Beach

Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing on this famous beach.
Walking distance from your resort.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Chill

Enjoy a refreshing lunch at a beachfront café.
Just a short walk along the beach.
MYR50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Langkawi Sky Bridge

Experience stunning views from this famous bridge spanning across the sky.
Take a taxi or Grab to part of the cable car.
MYR30, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Wonderland Food Court

Delight in a variety of local dishes at this popular food court.
Grab back to the food court.
MYR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Adventure Awaits in Langkawi

Langkawi, Malaysia

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Have a hearty breakfast to kickstart your adventurous day.
Enjoy your included breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Island Hopping Tour

Embark on an island-hopping tour to explore nearby islands and enjoy swimming.
Book with local tour operators the day before.
MYR100, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch on the Tour

Pack a light lunch or eat locally during your tour.
Part of tour package.
MYR30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Explore mangrove forests and wildlife by boat.
Continue your tour.
MYR50, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to the Resort

Chill by the beach and enjoy some downtime.
Head back via the tour operator.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Beach Bar

End the day with a relaxing dinner while indulging in fresh seafood.
Walking distance from your resort.
MYR80, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Highlands Retreat

Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

8:00AM

Travel to Cameron Highlands

Take a bus to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur, enjoying the scenic route.
Buses are available at Terminal Sentral.
MYR40, 4 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Guesthouse

Arrive and check into a budget guesthouse amidst the tea fields.
Grab or walk to your accommodation.
MYR60 (2 nights), 30 mins

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Café

Enjoy a light lunch at a local café known for its tea.
Walking distance from your guesthouse.
MYR30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tea Plantation Visit

Explore the lush landscapes of the famous tea plantations.
Grab to Boh Tea Plantation.
MYR20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Strawberry Farm Tour

Try your hand at strawberry picking at a local farm.
Short distance from the tea plantation.
MYR15, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Dining Room

Dine with a view over the tea fields at this quaint restaurant.
Walk back to the dining venue.
MYR60, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Farewell to Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

8:00AM

Travel Back to Kuala Lumpur

Catch a bus back from Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur.
Book your tickets at the bus station.
MYR40, 4 hours

12:00PM

Last Shopping in KL

Do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs at local markets.
Visit Petaling Street.
Variable, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Petaling Street

Savour more local delicacies at a food stall.
Eat at a local hawker stall.
MYR20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at KLCC Park

Unwind at KLCC Park before your journey home.
Take a short Grab or walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Food Court

Enjoy your final meal in Malaysia at a local food court.
Walk to the nearby food court.
MYR30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Departure from Kuala Lumpur

Finish your trip at Kuala Lumpur Airport, taking back memories of your adventure.
Grab from the food court to the airport.
MYR70, 1 hour
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