Budget-Friendly Thailand Itinerary: Bangkok, Krabi, and Phuket by Boat

Day 1: Explore Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at On Lok Yun

Enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast with affordable and delicious local dishes like rice porridge and coffee in a vintage ambiance.
THB50, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew

Explore the breathtaking royal complex with stunning architecture and the revered Emerald Buddha, a must-see in Bangkok. Open 8:30am - 3:30pm.
THB500, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Jay Fai

Try budget-friendly street food with a Michelin-starred chef serving famous crab omelets and seafood dishes.
THB150, 1h

2:00pm

Boat ride on the Chao Phraya River

Take a public boat along the river to see Bangkok’s riverside life and temples from the water; affordable and scenic experience.
THB15, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Chinatown

Walk through vibrant street markets and sample various street foods for snacks or early dinner, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Variable, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at T&K Seafood

Enjoy fresh seafood at budget-friendly prices in bustling Chinatown with dishes like grilled prawns and seafood fried rice.
THB200, 1h30m
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Day 2: Bangkok to Krabi Travel

Bangkok to Krabi, Thailand on July 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the hostel or local cafe

Grab a quick and cheap breakfast to fuel up for travel day.
THB50, 30m

8:30am

Travel to Krabi via bus and ferry

Take the budget-friendly combination of a bus from Bangkok to Surat Thani, then a ferry to Krabi, enjoying the scenic coastal route. Expect travel time approx. 10-12 hours.
THB600, 12h

8:30pm

Check-in budget guesthouse in Krabi Town

Rest after the journey in affordable accommodation close to transport and local amenities.
THB300, Overnight
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Day 3: Krabi Island Exploration

Krabi, Thailand on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a local market

Sample traditional Thai street breakfast like Khanom Krok (coconut pancakes) in Krabi town for budget-friendly start.
THB40, 45m

9:00am

Longtail boat tour to nearby islands

Take an affordable longtail boat to explore the Phi Phi Islands or Hong Islands, famous for turquoise water and snorkeling; tours run 9am to 4pm.
THB600, 6h

3:30pm

Relax on Ao Nang Beach

Unwind on the beach close to town with free access and beautiful sunset views.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Carnivore Steak and Grill

Enjoy affordable grilled dishes catering to budget travelers with generous portions.
THB250, 1h30m
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Day 4: More Krabi & Travel to Phuket

Krabi and Phuket, Thailand on July 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Slumber Party Hostel cafe

Affordable breakfast with variety of Thai and Western options near transport hubs.
THB60, 45m

8:00am

Visit Tiger Cave Temple

Climb 1237 steps for stunning views and spiritual experience; open from 8am. Admission is free but donation suggested.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Boat from Krabi to Phuket

Take a local ferry boat from Krabi to Phuket (approx. 2-3 hours), enjoying the scenic Andaman Sea en route.
THB350, 3h

2:30pm

Check-in budget accommodation in Phuket Town

Stay near downtown Phuket to explore sights affordably.
THB400, Overnight

4:00pm

Visit Phuket Old Town

Walk through colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, quaint cafes and street art in the historic old town. Free to explore.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Raya Restaurant

Sample authentic Southern Thai cuisine at affordable prices, a local favorite noted for its tasty curry dishes.
THB200, 1h30m
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Day 5: Flight from Phuket

Phuket, Thailand on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local street stall

Grab quick, affordable breakfast such as roti or noodles to start your day before departure.
THB40, 30m

10:00am

Travel to Phuket International Airport

Take a budget airport bus or shared taxi for easy transfer to airport, avoiding costly private taxis.
THB150, 1h
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