Budget-Friendly 5-Night Thailand Adventure with Friends

Day 1: Explore Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on April 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Start your day with a traditional Thai breakfast at On Lok Yun, popular for its egg dishes and coffee, located centrally and budget-friendly.
THB50, 1h

9:30am

Visit Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Explore the stunning Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a must-see cultural and historical site in Bangkok. Opens 8:30am-3:30pm.
THB500, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Thip Samai Pad Thai

Enjoy authentic Pad Thai at Thip Samai, famous for one of the best Pad Thai dishes in Bangkok, budget friendly and delightful.
THB80, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Visit Wat Arun located on the riverside, known for its beautiful architecture and riverside views. Open 8:00am-5:30pm.
THB100, 1h

4:00pm

Stroll through Khao San Road

Experience the lively atmosphere of Khao San Road with shops, street food, and friendly crowds, great for casual exploration and socializing.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mango Vegetarian & Vegan

Savor tasty affordable vegetarian dishes perfect after a day of exploring, known for fresh ingredients on Rambuttri Road.
THB150, 1h
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Day 2: Day Trip Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, Thailand on April 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local stall

Grab a quick affordable breakfast from your accommodation or street vendor before heading out early to Ayutthaya.
THB40, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Ayutthaya by train

Take a scenic 1.5-hour train ride from Bangkok to Ayutthaya for a historical day trip exploring ancient ruins.
THB20, 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Ayutthaya Historical Park

Discover UNESCO World Heritage Site ruins including Wat Mahathat and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, key cultural attractions.
THB50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pae Rim Nam

Eat riverside with affordable traditional Thai dishes and great views near Ayutthaya ruins.
THB120, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Bangkok by train

Take the return train to Bangkok to continue your trip comfortably.
THB20, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax or explore local markets

Enjoy Bangkok’s evening ambiance by visiting local markets such as Chatuchak (if weekend) or neighborhood night markets.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Jay Fai (budget permitting) or street food

Try Jay Fai’s famous but pricier street food or stick to local street vendors offering delicious affordable meals.
THB200, 1h
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Day 3: Fly to Chiang Mai & Explore

Chiang Mai, Thailand on April 21, 2025

7:00am

Quick breakfast at Bangkok hotel or nearby cafe

Grab a fast, affordable breakfast early to catch your flight to Chiang Mai.
THB40, 30m

9:00am

Flight to Chiang Mai

Take a budget flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (about 1 hour), check budget airlines like AirAsia or Nok Air.
THB800, 1h

11:00am

Check into budget-friendly hostel

Settle at a popular backpacker hostel such as Deejai Backpackers or Green Tiger Vegetarian House for affordability and social atmosphere.
THB300/night, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Sample the famous Northern Thai dish Khao Soi at a renowned local eatery that’s budget-friendly.
THB60, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang

Explore these iconic temples in the Old City representing Chiang Mai's rich cultural heritage. Open daily 6am-6pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Walk the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Browse crafts, souvenirs, and street snacks at the Night Bazaar, which opens around 5pm and stays lively until late.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Night Bazaar street stalls

Enjoy a variety of inexpensive local foods such as grilled meat skewers, mango sticky rice, or soups.
THB100, 1h
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Day 4: Chiang Mai Adventure

Chiang Mai, Thailand on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ristr8to Coffee

Fuel up with some of Chiang Mai’s finest specialty coffee and light pastries at this award-winning café.
THB120, 1h

9:00am

Visit Doi Suthep Temple

Travel up the mountain to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, offering fantastic city views and spiritual significance. Open 6am-6pm.
THB50, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Huen Phen

Enjoy authentic Northern Thai food in a welcoming, affordable setting near the Old City.
THB150, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Elephant Nature Park (half-day tour)

Book a half-day ethical elephant sanctuary experience focusing on rescue and rehabilitation (advance booking recommended).
THB1500, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sunday Night Walking Street

If it's Sunday, explore this vibrant market for great food and shopping; try local specialties from various stalls.
THB100, 2h
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Day 5: Return to Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on April 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hostel or street vendor

Have a simple and cheap breakfast to prepare for the journey back to Bangkok.
THB40, 30m

9:00am

Flight back to Bangkok

Take your budget flight back to Bangkok to get ready for your journey home or further exploration.
THB800, 1h

11:00am

Check in at budget hotel near airport or city center

Drop off luggage and rest a bit before your last afternoon in Bangkok.
THB400, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Somtum Der

Try tasty, authentic Isaan (Northeastern Thai) salads and dishes close to the city center within a reasonable budget.
THB120, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Jim Thompson House

Explore the traditional Thai-style house and museum dedicated to Thai silk and culture. Open 9am-6pm.
THB200, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Lumphini Park

Spend your afternoon unwinding at Lumphini Park, a green oasis in Bangkok with walking paths and a lake.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Raan Jay Fai (Budget options nearby if needed)

For a final treat, consider the famous street food at Jay Fai or nearby local eateries for affordable Thai cuisine.
THB200, 1h
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