5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Bangkok, Thailand

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Onthakhan

Start your day with local Thai breakfast dishes like Khao Tom (rice soup) at this local eatery.
Located in the Chatuchak area, accessible by MRT.
THB 40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Wat Phra Kaew & Grand Palace

Explore the stunning Emerald Buddha Temple and the adjacent Grand Palace for a taste of Thailand's royal history.
Take a boat from Tha Chang Pier (10-minute walk from the restaurant).
THB 500, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Thip Samai

Enjoy Bangkok's renowned Pad Thai at one of the city's best street food stalls.
Take a short tuk-tuk ride from the Grand Palace.
THB 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll Through Lumphini Park

Relax by the lakes in this urban park, a perfect spot for people-watching and escaping the city's hustle.
Catch a bus from the nearby road to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Khao San Road Wandering

Explore the backpacker haven of Khao San Road filled with shops, bars, and street food.
Take a bus or walk from Lumphini Park.
Free to explore, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Roti Mataba

Savor delicious roti with curry at this local gem popular among locals.
Walk back to Khao San and find the restaurant close by.
THB 70, 1 hour
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Day 2: Market Madness

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chao Phraya River

Grab a quick breakfast from one of the riverside stalls offering fresh fruit and rice porridge.
Easily accessible by foot if staying nearby.
THB 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Chatuchak Weekend Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the world's largest markets, with endless food stalls and shops.
Take the MRT to Kamphaeng Phet station.
Free to explore, optional purchases., 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chatuchak Market

Sample local dishes such as Khao Kha Moo (stewed pork leg) while exploring the market.
Grab lunch from one of the many food vendors.
THB 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore JJ Green Night Market

Witness the local nightlife and enjoy vintage shopping and food stalls.
Take a short taxi ride or walk from Chatuchak.
Free to explore, optional purchases., 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Break at Your Hotel

Take a short break to rest from the day’s shopping and exploring.
Return to your accommodation via tuk-tuk.
N/A, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Soi Rambuttri

Indulge in a casual dinner at one of the many roadside eateries serving noodles and curries.
A short walk from your hotel or take a tuk-tuk.
THB 100, 1 hour
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Day 3: Wat Adventures

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Breakfast at 7-Eleven

Pick up some quick snacks and drinks for breakfast; great for a budget.
Found everywhere in Bangkok.
THB 40, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Admire the intricate architecture of this riverside temple and its stunning legends.
Take the ferry across the river from Tha Tien Pier.
THB 50, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Wat Pho

Witness the impressive Reclining Buddha and enjoy traditional Thai massage.
Walk back to Tha Tien Pier and head back.
THB 100, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Yai Ya

Enjoy a delicious plate of green curry at this local restaurant nearby Wat Pho.
Just a short walk from the temple.
THB 80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bangkokian Museum

Discover the lesser-known history of Bangkok through various exhibits in this quaint museum.
Take BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin and walk over.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Chinatown

Immerse in the visuals and smells while wandering through the bustling streets of Yaowarat.
From the museum, catch a ferry to Chinatown Pier.
Free to explore, optional purchases., 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at T&K Seafood

Taste fresh seafood dishes at a renowned local spot frequented by both locals and tourists.
Easily walkable within Chinatown.
THB 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Art and Culture

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Go-Ang Kaew

Start the day with a local favorite, Chicken Rice, to fuel your adventures.
Found near your accommodation.
THB 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Explore contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events at this modern hub.
Take the BTS to National Stadium station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at MBK Food Court

Choose from a wide variety of affordable Thai and international dishes in the mall’s food court.
Connected to the art center.
THB 60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Discover Jim Thompson House

Learn about the American silk entrepreneur and his mysterious disappearance while touring his beautiful home.
Walk 10 minutes from MBK.
THB 200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Siam Discovery

Shop for affordable fashion and local designs while enjoying the mall atmosphere.
Walk or take the BTS back to Siam Station.
Free to explore, optional purchases., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Som Tam Nua

Enjoy the famous Papaya Salad with sticky rice at this popular local restaurant.
Located near Siam Discovery.
THB 80, 1 hour
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Day 5: Market and Farewell

Bangkok, Thailand

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast of toast and jam or fruit from your hotel’s included breakfast.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Or Tor Kor Market

Experience one of Bangkok's fresh markets where you can enjoy fresh produce and snacks.
Take the MRT to Kamphaeng Phet station.
Free to explore, optional purchases., 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Or Tor Kor Market

Sample local street food favorites like Som Tum (green papaya salad) to complete your culinary experience.
Enjoy lunch in the market.
THB 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Relax at Erawan Shrine

Reflect at the peaceful Erawan Shrine, famous for its beautiful dances performed by traditional Thai dancers.
Take the MRT back to Siam station.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Terminal 21

Enjoy the unique and quirky shopping experience with each floor themed after different cities worldwide.
Walk to the shopping mall from Erawan Shrine.
Free to explore, optional purchases., 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Grill House

Celebrate your last night in Bangkok with affordable grilled specialties.
Take a tuk-tuk from the mall.
THB 150, 1.5 hours
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