Budget-Friendly Thailand Itinerary: Bangkok, Koh Samui, Krabi, Phi Phi & Phuket by Boat

Day 1: Explore Bangkok

Bangkok, Thailand on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jok Prince

Enjoy budget-friendly Thai rice porridge, a favorite local breakfast spot beloved by many. Open from 7am.
THB50, 1h

9:30am

Visit Wat Arun and Wat Pho

Explore Bangkok's iconic riverside temples and see the Reclining Buddha; Wat Arun opens 8am-5:30pm, Wat Pho 8am-6:30pm.
THB100 combined, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Thip Samai Pad Thai

Try Bangkok’s renowned Pad Thai at budget prices in a popular eatery open 5pm-midnight (lunch alternative nearby recommended).
THB70, 1h

2:00pm

Public boat cruise on Chao Phraya River

Take the orange-flag boat for affordable sightseeing of Bangkok’s historic areas and riverside life, running 6am-7pm.
THB15, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Khao San Road

Walk this vibrant backpacker street for affordable eats, budget shopping, and lively atmosphere.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ranee’s Restaurant

Affordable Thai-Italian fusion dishes in a cozy setting near Khao San Road.
THB150, 1h30m

Day 2: Bangkok to Koh Samui

Bangkok to Koh Samui, Thailand on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast local street food

Grab a quick and cheap breakfast like banana pancakes or fresh fruit smoothies.
THB40, 30m

8:00am

Train from Bangkok to Surat Thani

Affordable train ride (send luggage ahead if possible) for scenic and budget travel south; approx. 9-10 hours journey.
THB400, 9h30m

6:00pm

Ferry from Surat Thani to Koh Samui

Catch the evening ferry (about 1.5-2 hours) to the island; last ferries usually depart around 7pm.
THB300, 2h

8:30pm

Check-in budget guesthouse in Koh Samui

Rest at affordable accommodation close to the beach or town center for convenience.
THB400, Overnight

Day 3: Koh Samui Relax & Explore

Koh Samui, Thailand on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Roastery Coffee

Budget-friendly coffee and light breakfast options with a cozy vibe.
THB80, 1h

9:30am

Visit Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem

Explore impressive temples with cultural and scenic value, open daily 8am-6pm, free admission.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Street Food Market in Chaweng

Sample fresh seafood and local dishes at affordable prices in a lively market setting.
THB100, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Silver Beach

Enjoy a beautiful and less crowded beach with free access, great for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Visit Fisherman’s Village

Explore quaint shops, budget-friendly cafes, and street food vendors for a casual dinner option.
Variable, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Shack Bar and Grill

Affordable western and Thai dishes with relaxed atmosphere near Fisherman’s Village.
THB200, 1h30m

Day 4: Koh Samui to Krabi

Koh Samui to Krabi, Thailand on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at guesthouse

Simple and affordable breakfast to start travel day.
THB50, 30m

8:00am

Ferry to Surat Thani then bus to Krabi

Take ferry early, followed by a budget bus for approximately 5-6 hours total travel to Krabi Town.
THB400, 6h

2:00pm

Check-in budget hotel in Krabi Town

Rest and refresh at affordable accommodation near the center for easy access.
THB350, Overnight

3:30pm

Explore Krabi Town Market

Walk local markets, try street food and shop for souvenirs on a budget.
Variable, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ruen Mai

Affordable traditional southern Thai dishes in friendly atmosphere.
THB150, 1h30m

Day 5: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand on July 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local cafe

Grab a quick affordable breakfast before the day trip.
THB50, 30m

8:30am

Boat tour to Phi Phi Islands

Budget-friendly group speedboat tour covering snorkeling, Maya Bay, and viewpoints; tours operate 8am - 5pm.
THB800, 8h

5:30pm

Return to Krabi

Rest at guesthouse or enjoy a casual evening walk along the riverside.
Free, Evening

7:30pm

Dinner at Genius Cafe

Cheap and hearty Thai food in Krabi Town near overnight accommodation.
THB120, 1h

Day 6: Krabi to Phuket & Flight Prep

Krabi to Phuket, Thailand on July 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Start with a simple meal to prepare for travel.
THB50, 30m

8:00am

Boat from Krabi to Phuket

Budget ferry or speedboat ride around 3 hours to Phuket; enjoy scenic Andaman Sea views.
THB350, 3h

12:00pm

Check-in budget hotel in Phuket Town

Stay centrally for easy airport access and last day sightseeing.
THB400, Overnight

1:00pm

Lunch at Chillva Market

Explore street food stalls with an affordable variety of local dishes and snacks.
THB120, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Phuket Old Town

Stroll through colorful streets, markets and local cafes, enjoying budget-friendly exploration till evening.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Suay Restaurant

Affordable yet elevated Thai dishes close to town center, ideal for final meal.
THB200, 1h30m