7-Day Adventure and Foodie Itinerary in Thailand on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arriving in Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand

9:00AM

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Start your adventure by exploring the massive Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you can find local foods and goods at incredibly low prices.
Take the BTS to Mo Chit Station.
THB 0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Or Tor Kor Market

Indulge in local Thai dish 'Som Tum' (green papaya salad) or grilled chicken from one of the stalls at this market known for fresh ingredients.
Walk 10 minutes from Chatuchak.
THB 60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Grand Palace

Explore the stunning architecture and history of the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha, a must-see in Bangkok.
Take the riverboat from Phra Athit pier.
THB 500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Street Food Dinner at Yaowarat

Savour the vibrant street food scene in Chinatown, sampling dishes like BBQ squid and mango sticky rice.
Take the MRT to Hua Lamphong Station.
THB 150, 2 hours
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Day 2: Kanchanaburi's Nature

Kanchanaburi, Thailand

7:30AM

Travel to Kanchanaburi

Take an early minibus from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi to make the most of your day in this beautiful region.
Minibus from Ekkamai Bus Station.
THB 100, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Erawan National Park

Hike through Erawan National Park and take a refreshing dip in its stunning emerald pools.
Take a local songthaew from Kanchanaburi.
THB 300, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a simple Thai curry with rice at a nearby local eatery within the park.
Nearby Erawan Park.
THB 80, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Kanchanaburi

Head back to the town and relax in the evening.
Take a local songthaew back.
THB 70, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant

Try some fresh fish with jasmine rice as you enjoy the serene river views.
Walk to the riverside area.
THB 180, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: History in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand

8:00AM

Travel to Ayutthaya

Early train from Kanchanaburi to Ayutthaya to visit the ancient ruins.
Train from Kanchanaburi Train Station.
THB 200, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Ayutthaya Historical Park

Explore the historical park and marvel at the impressive temple ruins and Buddha statues.
Cycle or rent a scooter near the park entrance.
THB 50, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Roti Sai Mai

Enjoy the unique cotton candy pancakes, a specialty of Ayutthaya.
5-minute walk from the park.
THB 40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Try Riverboat Tour

End the day with a scenic riverboat tour around the old city for stunning views of the temples.
Book a local boat tour.
THB 300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Savour tom yum soup and a refreshing drink to end your Ayutthaya visit.
Walk from the river tour to a local spot.
THB 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Sukhothai Ruins

Sukhothai, Thailand

8:00AM

Travel to Sukhothai

Catch a bus over to Sukhothai to explore Thailand's first capital.
Bus from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai.
THB 250, 4 hours

12:00PM

Check-in and Lunch

Find local accommodation and refuel with a hearty pad thai from a nearby vendor.
Walk to a nearby food stall.
THB 70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Sukhothai Historical Park

Pedal through Sukhothai Historical Park to take in its stunning ancient architecture and serene ambiance.
Rent a bike near the entrance.
THB 50, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Relish in a delicious green curry served with rice at this popular spot.
Cycle to a nearby eatery.
THB 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Exploring Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand

8:00AM

Travel to Chiang Mai

Take a bus from Sukhothai to Chiang Mai to continue your adventure.
Bus from Sukhothai Bus Station.
THB 200, 5 hours

1:00PM

Arrive and Lunch at a Local Café

Recharge with khao soi, a delicious coconut curry noodle dish, at a local café.
Nearby your accommodation.
THB 100, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Doi Suthep Temple

Climb up to Doi Suthep Temple to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and a glimpse into local culture.
Take a songthaew to the temple.
THB 30, 2 hours

6:00PM

Night Bazaar Dinner

Explore the bustling Night Bazaar and try various street food options like grilled meats and noodles.
Walk from your accommodation.
THB 150, 2 hours
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Day 6: Nature Escape in Pai

Pai, Thailand

8:00AM

Travel to Pai

Catch a local bus from Chiang Mai to Pai for a journey through scenic mountains.
Bus from Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station.
THB 150, 3 hours

11:30AM

Check-in and Brunch

Settle in at your accommodation, then grab a brunch of fresh mango sticky rice.
Nearby your place.
THB 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Pai Canyon

Hike through the stunning Pai Canyon and take in its beautiful vistas.
Rent a scooter to reach the canyon.
THB 300, 3 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Hot Springs

Unwind at the natural hot springs in the area, an ideal spot to relax your tired muscles.
Continue on your scooter.
THB 200, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a vegan feast or classic Thai dishes before heading back to your accommodation.
Return to Pai town centre.
THB 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Last Day in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand

8:00AM

Travel back to Chiang Mai

Head back to Chiang Mai by bus for your final day.
Bus from Pai to Chiang Mai.
THB 150, 3 hours

11:30AM

Explore Old City Temples

Spend your day visiting the beautiful temples situated in Chiang Mai's Old City.
Walk or rent a bicycle.
THB 0, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Savour a fresh spring roll and coconut smoothie at a popular café.
Close to the Old City.
THB 80, 1 hour

4:30PM

Last-minute Shopping at Nimmanhaemin

Visit Nimmanhaemin Road for unique souvenirs and local handcrafted goods.
Take a tuk-tuk from the Old City.
THB 50, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at a Rooftop Bar

Enjoy a farewell dinner with sunset views while relishing dishes like larb and pad see ew.
Head to a nearby rooftop location.
THB 300, 2 hours
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