Affordable Two-Week Thailand Adventure: Temples, Elephants, Beaches & Culture

Day 1: Bangkok Temples

Bangkok, Thailand on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Start your day with affordable and authentic Thai breakfast at this local favourite famous for its eggs and coffee.
THB50, 1h

9:30am

Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Explore Bangkok’s must-see landmark, the Grand Palace, and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, open 8:30am to 3:30pm; iconic and breathtaking architecture.
THB500, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pak Khlong Talat street market

Sample affordable street food including mango sticky rice and Thai noodles at this bustling market.
THB100, 1h

2:30pm

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Visit this stunning riverside temple with beautiful Khmer-style spires, open until 6:00pm; enjoy the scenic river views.
THB100, 1.5h

5:30pm

Dinner at Jay Fai

Experience Michelin-starred but affordable street food, famous for its crab omelette; reservation advised but worth the cost.
THB600, 1.5h
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Day 2: More Bangkok Culture

Bangkok, Thailand on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Thip Samai Pad Thai

Enjoy one of the best and most affordable Pad Thai meals in Bangkok at this famed eatery.
THB80, 1h

9:00am

Jim Thompson House Museum

Tour the beautiful traditional Thai teak house and learn about Thai silk and culture; open 9am to 6pm.
THB200, 1.5h

11:00am

Travel to Ayutthaya by train

Take an affordable 1.5-hour train ride to the ancient capital Ayutthaya for historical exploration.
THB20, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pae Krung Kao Restaurant

Traditional Thai food in Ayutthaya at very reasonable prices, try the river prawns or tom yum soup.
THB150, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Ayutthaya Historical Park

Visit UNESCO World Heritage ruins including Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, open until 6pm; rent a bicycle for easy exploration.
THB50, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner street food near Ayutthaya train station

Enjoy the local evening food market with a variety of cheap and tasty dishes.
THB80, 1h
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Day 3: Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai

Ayutthaya to Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 28, 2025

6:00am

Train from Ayutthaya to Bangkok

Catch an early train back to Bangkok to connect with the overnight train to Chiang Mai.
THB20, 1.5h

9:00am

Breakfast in Bangkok near Hua Lamphong Station

Try traditional fresh rice porridge or noodles at a local cafe before your train.
THB60, 1h

1:00pm

Reserve afternoon for local markets or relax

Explore a local market or café near the station to relax before your overnight journey.
Free, 4h

6:00pm

Board overnight train to Chiang Mai

Take the sleeper train for a budget-friendly and scenic trip to Chiang Mai, arriving next morning.
THB850, 12h
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Day 4: Chiang Mai Temples & Culture

Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Arrive in Chiang Mai, breakfast at Khao Soi Khun Yai

Try the iconic northern dish Khao Soi at one of the best local, budget-friendly places.
THB60, 1h

9:30am

Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Take a songthaew or taxi to this famous mountaintop temple with sweeping views; open 6am–6pm.
THB50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at local market - Warorot Market

Taste cheap authentic street food and enjoy people-watching in this bustling market.
THB80, 1h

2:30pm

Elephant Sanctuary Visit (Ethical)

Book a half-day visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary like Elephant Nature Park; book in advance for prices around THB1500 to support humane treatment.
THB1500, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at Dash! Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy affordable northern Thai and international dishes in a charming wooden house setting.
THB250, 1h
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Day 5: Chiang Mai Old City

Chiang Mai, Thailand on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ristr8to Lab

Taste some of Chiang Mai’s best specialty coffee along with light breakfast options.
THB150, 1h

9:30am

Walking tour of Chiang Mai Old City Temples

Self-guided visit to Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh, and others; free or small donation; open throughout the day.
THB30, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Khao Soi Mae Sai

Sample more northern delights with hearty and affordable servings of Khao Soi.
THB70, 1h

2:30pm

Art in Paradise 3D Art Museum

Take fun photos at this interactive 3D art museum; open 9am–9pm.
THB400, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sunday Night Market (walking street)

Enjoy a lively night market atmosphere with affordable local dishes and souvenirs; open 6pm–midnight.
THB100, 2h
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Day 6: Travel to Krabi Beaches

Chiang Mai to Krabi, Thailand on May 31, 2025

6:00am

Flight to Krabi

Take an early budget flight from Chiang Mai to Krabi (1.5h), book in advance for best deals.
THB1200, 1.5h

9:00am

Breakfast near Krabi Airport

Try simple Thai breakfast dishes at a local cafe close to the airport.
THB80, 1h

10:30am

Check-in and relax at Ao Nang Beach

Enjoy the beautiful beach for swimming and lounging, free access.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Lae Lay Grill

Enjoy BBQ seafood with scenic views at reasonable prices.
THB400, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Railay Beach via longtail boat

Short 10-minute boat ride to stunning Railay Beach, ideal for rock climbing and relaxing; boat cost about THB100 each way.
THB100, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner near Ao Nang night market

Affordable street food options including grilled meats and papaya salad in a lively atmosphere.
THB150, 1.5h
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Day 7: Island Hopping Krabi

Krabi, Thailand on June 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local cafe

A light breakfast to prepare for a full day island hopping adventure.
THB80, 1h

8:00am

Four Islands Tour

Book a budget-friendly group tour to visit Phra Nang Cave Beach, Chicken Island, Tup Island and Poda Island; tours usually run 8am–3pm.
THB600, 7h

4:00pm

Return and relax at Ao Nang beach

Unwind after the tour, soak in the sunset and walk along the beach promenade.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Carnivore Steak and Grill

A budget-friendly restaurant offering grilled meats and Thai specials near Ao Nang beach.
THB300, 1.5h
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Day 8: Travel to Phuket

Krabi to Phuket, Thailand on June 2, 2025

9:00am

Bus from Krabi to Phuket

Take a minibus for a 3-hour scenic and affordable trip to Phuket.
THB150, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chillva Market

Try Phuket street food and snacks in this vibrant market open from noon to 9:30pm.
THB100, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Big Buddha Phuket

Visit one of Phuket’s most famous landmarks with panoramic views; free entry, open till sunset.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Kata Beach

Enjoy the evening on the soft sands at one of Phuket’s quieter beaches.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at No.9 2nd Restaurant

Affordable local and seafood dishes with friendly service near Kata Beach.
THB200, 1h
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Day 9: Phuket Island Tour

Phuket, Thailand on June 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Rosdeedee

Popular local spot for Thai breakfast and coffee at good prices.
THB70, 1h

8:30am

Phang Nga Bay boat tour

Join a budget group tour to see stunning limestone karsts, James Bond Island, and caves; tours last around 6-7 hours.
THB700, 7h

4:30pm

Return to Phuket and rest

Relax at your accommodation before dinner.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Suay Restaurant

Enjoy affordable, creative Thai cuisine in a relaxed setting.
THB300, 1.5h
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Day 10: Phuket Leisure & Beach

Phuket, Thailand on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or nearby cafe

Enjoy a relaxing start with fresh tropical fruit and Thai coffee.
THB60, 1h

9:30am

Relax at Freedom Beach

Take a boat or hike to this secluded beach known for its crystal waters and peaceful atmosphere; free entry.
Free, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at a beachside restaurant near Freedom Beach

Savour fresh seafood with a view at budget-friendly prices.
THB200, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Phuket Old Town

Explore colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, street art, and affordable cafés; free walking tour possible.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at One Chun Cafe & Restaurant

Enjoy authentic southern Thai dishes in a budget-friendly environment.
THB150, 1.5h
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Day 11: Travel Back to Bangkok

Phuket to Bangkok, Thailand on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the hotel

Simple breakfast before your flight back to Bangkok.
Included in accommodation, 1h

10:00am

Flight from Phuket to Bangkok

Take a budget flight back to Bangkok for your final days.
THB1200, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch near Suvarnabhumi Airport or city center

Affordable Thai meal at a local food court or street market.
THB120, 1h

2:00pm

Check into accommodation in Bangkok

Choose budget guesthouse or hostel in central area for convenience.
Varies, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Erawan Shrine

Famous Hindu shrine known for vibrant atmosphere and cultural significance; open all day.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Soi 38 Night Food Market

Experience some of Bangkok’s best low-cost street food selections.
THB150, 2h
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Day 12: Bangkok Markets & Relax

Bangkok, Thailand on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Or Tor Kor Market

Premium fresh market with affordable and high-quality fruit and Thai breakfast.
THB80, 1h

9:30am

Day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market (if Saturday or Sunday)

Explore one of the largest markets in the world with bargains on everything from clothes to food.
Free entry, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch from market food stalls

Try coconut ice cream, boat noodles and fried chicken for a cheap, delicious lunch.
THB100, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Lumphini Park

Take a break by the lake or rent a paddle boat for a small fee; open 4:30am to 9pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Thip Samai Pad Thai (repeat favourite)

End your trip with an iconic and budget-friendly Pad Thai meal.
THB80, 1h
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Day 13: Day Trip to Ancient Sites

Bangkok, Thailand on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local cafe

Simple Thai breakfast before heading out to historical sites.
THB60, 1h

8:30am

Day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Railway Market

Take a budget group tour to visit these iconic markets about 1.5 hours from Bangkok, enjoy boat rides and market charm.
THB800, 8h

5:30pm

Return and Dinner near hotel

Enjoy simple street food or a mellow dinner near your accommodation to rest.
THB150, 1h
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Day 14: Last Day Shopping

Bangkok, Thailand on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe

Fuel up for a day of shopping and sightseeing.
THB80, 1h

9:30am

Visit MBK Center and Siam Square

Shop affordable souvenirs and clothes, explore local fashion and bargain for the best deals.
Free entry, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at food court in MBK

Wide variety of budget-friendly Thai dishes with no frills.
THB100, 1h

2:30pm

Relax or visit a massage parlor

Enjoy an affordable Thai massage to rejuvenate after weeks of travel; prices start around THB300 for 1h.
THB300, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Raan Jay Fai or similar

If budget allows, revisit a favourite street food dining experience; booking ahead recommended.
THB600, 1.5h
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Day 15: Departure Day

Bangkok, Thailand on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast near hotel

Light breakfast and final check before departure.
THB60, 1h

9:00am

Head to Suvarnabhumi Airport

Allow enough time for transfer and check-in for your flight home.
THB300 taxi approx., 1h
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