7-Day Affordable Adventure in Thailand from Pittsburgh Under $4000

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and transfer to your budget-friendly hotel in the city center.
THB1000, 1h

9:30am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Enjoy traditional Thai breakfast known for its kaya toast and strong coffee; open from 7:00am to 3:00pm.
THB100, 1h

11:00am

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Visit the iconic Grand Palace complex and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a must-see cultural site open 8:30am to 3:30pm.
THB500, 2h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at Thip Samai Pad Thai

Taste authentic Pad Thai at this popular and affordable eatery, open until 11:00pm.
THB120, 1h

3:30pm

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Cross the river to explore Wat Arun, known for its stunning riverside location and unique spires, open until 6:00pm.
THB100, 1h

5:00pm

Khao San Road Walk

Experience the vibrant street life and shops along Khao San Road perfect for souvenirs and street food.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Raan Jay Fai

Dine at the famed street food vendor awarded a Michelin star, known for crab omelette, open until late evening.
THB500, 1h
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Day 2: Ayutthaya Day Trip

Ayutthaya, Thailand on June 2, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Ayutthaya by Train

Take an early train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong Station to Ayutthaya (approx. 1.5 hours).
THB50, 1h30m

8:30am

Breakfast at Pa Lek Restaurant

Enjoy local Thai dishes in the historical city, open from 7:00am.
THB100, 1h

9:30am

Explore Ayutthaya Historical Park

Visit ancient ruins and temples like Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
THB220, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Malakor Kitchen and Cafe

Savor delicious Thai fusion cuisine in a relaxed setting.
THB150, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Bangkok

Train back to Bangkok, rest or stroll around your hotel area.
THB50, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Som Tam Nua

Try famous spicy papaya salad and grilled chicken at this lively restaurant open until 9:30pm.
THB120, 1h
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Day 3: Fly to Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai, Thailand on June 3, 2025

6:30am

Flight to Chiang Mai

Catch an early domestic flight (approx. 1 hour) to Chiang Mai; budget airlines available.
THB800, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at Cat House

A cozy cafe offering Thai and Western breakfast options near the Old City.
THB150, 1h

10:00am

Visit Wat Phra Singh

Explore one of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples, open 6:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 1h

11:30am

Explore Old City and Markets

Wander Chiang Mai’s Old City walls and visit local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Huen Phen

Taste authentic Northern Thai cuisine in a traditional setting; open until 3:00pm.
THB200, 1h

3:00pm

Doi Suthep Temple Visit

Take a short taxi ride to this mountain temple offering panoramic views, open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
THB50, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Enjoy the famous Khao Soi noodle curry dish at a local favorite that’s budget-friendly.
THB70, 1h
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Day 4: Nature & Culture Day

Chiang Mai, Thailand on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ristr8to Lab

Have specialty coffee and breakfast in this award-winning coffee shop.
THB150, 1h

9:30am

Elephant Nature Park Visit

Spend a half-day volunteering or observing rescued elephants ethically; booking required, open 8:00am - 5:00pm.
THB2500, 5h

3:00pm

Rest and relax back at hotel

Take some time to unwind after the morning’s activity.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy riverside dining with a mix of Thai and Western dishes, live music often available.
THB300, 1h
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Day 5: Fly to Phuket Beach

Phuket, Thailand on June 5, 2025

7:00am

Flight to Phuket

Morning flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket (approx. 2 hours), budget airlines recommended.
THB1200, 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at Tamarind Cafe

Relax and enjoy healthy breakfast options in cozy atmosphere near Patong Beach.
THB250, 1h

11:00am

Beach Time at Patong

Spend your afternoon lounging or swimming at the popular Patong Beach.
Free, 4h

3:00pm

Visit Big Buddha Phuket

Take a taxi to see the massive Buddha statue with panoramic views of the island, open dawn to dusk.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at No.9 2nd Restaurant

Enjoy affordable and tasty seafood specialties close to Patong beach.
THB400, 1h
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Day 6: Relax & Explore Phuket

Phuket, Thailand on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Gallery Cafe

Start your day with fresh coffee and a hearty breakfast in Old Phuket Town.
THB200, 1h

9:30am

Old Phuket Town Walk

Explore colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture and quaint cafes open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kopitiam by Wilai

Try local Phuket delicacies in a charming and affordable venue.
THB300, 1h

1:30pm

Boat Trip to Phi Phi Islands (Half-day)

Experience crystal-clear waters and snorkeling, depart early afternoon, return by evening.
THB1500, 4h

7:30pm

Dinner at Blue Elephant Phuket

An upscale option for exquisite Royal Thai cuisine; book in advance; open until 10:00pm.
THB1000, 1h30m
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Day 7: Return to Bangkok & Departure

Bangkok, Thailand on June 7, 2025

7:00am

Flight back to Bangkok

Morning flight from Phuket to Bangkok to connect with international flight to Pittsburgh.
THB1200, 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at hotel or airport

Enjoy a quick breakfast before heading to international departure.
THB200, 1h

11:30am

Transfer to Suvarnabhumi Airport

Arrive early for international flight check-in and shopping.
THB500, 1h
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