20-Day Budget-Friendly Bangkok Exploration Under $700

Day 1: Central Bangkok Introduction

Bangkok, Thailand on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Enjoy a traditional Bangkok breakfast of Thai coffee and egg toast at this historic diner open from 6:00am to 2:00pm, perfect for an affordable and hearty start.
THB50, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit the Grand Palace

Explore Bangkok’s most famous landmark with its stunning architecture and royal history. Open daily from 8:30am to 3:30pm; budget to spend approximately 2 hours here.
THB500, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Mey Luang

Taste authentic Thai street food in a local setting, offering dishes like pad thai and som tam at reasonable prices; open 10:00am-8:00pm.
THB80, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Wat Pho

Visit the famed Temple of the Reclining Buddha, open from 8:00am to 6:30pm. Its cultural significance and beautiful murals are must-sees in Bangkok.
THB200, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk around Sanam Luang Park

Relax at this nearby park before the evening, great for people-watching and enjoying local ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Jok Prince

Enjoy a filling bowl of Thai rice porridge, an affordable and beloved comfort food spot open until 11:30pm.
THB60, 1h0m
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Day 2: Riverside & Cultural Day

Bangkok, Thailand on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Khao Tom Pla Thao-Wa

Start early with savory fish rice soup, affordable and authentic, open from 6:00am to 12:00pm.
THB50, 0h30m

9:00am

Take a Chao Phraya River Boat Tour

A scenic and inexpensive river taxi ride (approx 1 hour) passing historical landmarks, with boats running from 6:00am to 7:30pm.
THB15, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Wat Arun

Stunning temple known as the Temple of Dawn, open 8:00am to 5:30pm, perfect after your boat tour.
THB100, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Mae Varee Mango Sticky Rice

Savor some of the best mango sticky rice in Bangkok, open 9:00am to 8:00pm, a great treat in hot weather.
THB60, 0h45m

1:30pm

Explore Museum of Siam

Engaging interactive exhibits on Thai culture and history; open from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
THB100, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk around the Pak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)

Experience the vibrant flower market, a peaceful yet colorful place in the late afternoon. Open 24 hours with more activity in the morning and evening.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Thipsamai Pad Thai

Famous for some of Bangkok’s best pad thai, open from 5:00pm to midnight, offering value and taste.
THB80, 1h0m
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Day 3: Local Neighborhood Exploration

Bangkok, Thailand on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Charoen Saeng Silom Market

A bustling market offering cheap, authentic Thai breakfast options from 6:00am to 11:00am.
THB40, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Jim Thompson House

Discover traditional Thai architecture and Thai silk heritage, open 9:00am to 6:00pm. Guided tours last approx. 1 hour.
THB200, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)

Modern art exhibitions and cultural events. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00am to 9:00pm. Free entry.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Rod Dee Ded

Popular local spot for boat noodles, affordable and flavorful, open from 10:00am to 8:00pm.
THB60, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Lumphini Park

Relax and picnic at Bangkok’s large green space, ideal for a late afternoon stroll or renting a paddle boat. Open 4:30am to 9:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Somboon Seafood

Famous for curry crab and authentic seafood in a casual setting open from 10:00am to 10:00pm. Budget-conscious options available.
THB150, 1h0m
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Day 4: Markets & Shopping

Bangkok, Thailand on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Mont Nom Sod

Enjoy fresh milk toast and Thai-style coffee, a budget-friendly breakfast option open 7:00am to 3:00pm.
THB40, 0h30m

9:00am

Explore Chatuchak Weekend Market

Although a weekend market (open Saturday-Sunday 9:00am-6:00pm), if your schedule fits weekends, enjoy bargain hunting at Bangkok’s largest market.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Or Tor Kor Market

Just next to Chatuchak, enjoy fresh fruits and street food in one of the best fresh markets, open 6:00am to 7:00pm.
THB80, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

One of Southeast Asia’s largest aquariums open 10:00am to 8:00pm; a great way to cool down and see marine life.
THB400, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Benjakiti Park

A beautiful urban park surrounding a lake, perfect for an evening bike ride or walk. Open 4:30am to 9:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Raan Jay Fai

Enjoy some street food elevated by Michelin-starred cook Jay Fai. Expect moderate pricing but an unforgettable experience, open till 9:00pm.
THB200, 1h0m
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Day 5: Day Off & Local Exploration

Bangkok, Thailand on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local street vendor

Keep costs low by enjoying a simple breakfast nearby; try fresh tropical fruit or local pastries.
THB30, 0h30m

10:00am

Explore local neighborhood by foot or rent a bicycle

Discover hidden cafes, street art, and laid-back vibes at your own pace. Many neighborhoods have free public art installations.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at a local market food stall

Taste local fare such as khao man gai (chicken rice) or noodle soup for under 60 THB.
THB60, 1h0m

3:00pm

Rest or visit a free temple nearby

Look for nearby lesser-known temples that do not charge admission to enjoy calm surroundings and learn about local Buddhist culture.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at street food stalls on Sukhumvit Soi 38

A great spot for inexpensive and delicious street food; open from 6:00pm to midnight.
THB70, 1h0m
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