Bangkok is one of the best cities in the world for budget travelers. With $50/day or less, you can eat amazing food, explore stunning temples, and experience the chaos and charm of Thailand's capital. Here's how.
💰 Daily Budget Breakdown
Day 1: Temples & Old Town
Start your Bangkok adventure with the city's most iconic sights.
Morning
- Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew – Bangkok's #1 attraction. Arrive at 8:30 AM to beat crowds. (500 THB / ~$15 – worth the splurge)
- Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees (or rent clothes there)
Midday
- Wat Pho – Home of the giant Reclining Buddha. (200 THB / ~$6)
- Get a traditional Thai massage here – 30 min for 260 THB (~$8)
Afternoon
- Cross the river by ferry (5 THB) to Wat Arun (100 THB / ~$3)
- Climb the central prang for amazing views
Evening
- Walk along Khaosan Road for the backpacker vibe
- Street food dinner: Pad Thai (40-60 THB), mango sticky rice (50 THB)
Day 2: Markets & Chatuchak
Dive into Bangkok's legendary market culture.
Morning (Weekend Only)
- Chatuchak Weekend Market – One of the world's largest markets. 15,000+ stalls!
- Take BTS to Mo Chit station (free to enter)
- Go early (9-10 AM) to beat the heat and crowds
Afternoon
- Cool off at Or Tor Kor Market (next to Chatuchak) – Bangkok's best food market
- Try exotic fruits, coconut ice cream, and fresh juices
Evening
- Head to Asiatique – riverside night market (free entry)
- Or visit Rot Fai Train Market for a more local vibe (Fri-Sun only)
💡 Not Weekend? Replace Chatuchak with MBK Center (huge mall with bargain floors) or explore Chinatown (Yaowarat).
Day 3: Floating Market & Chill
Morning
- Take a day trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
- Go with a tour (~800 THB / $24 including transport) or by public bus (~50 THB but complicated)
- Arrive early (7-8 AM) for the most authentic experience
Afternoon
- Return to Bangkok and rest at your hostel
- Get a Thai massage (300-400 THB / $9-12 for 1 hour)
Evening
- Rooftop drinks – Octave Rooftop (happy hour 5-7 PM, cocktails from 200 THB)
- Or street food crawl in Chinatown (Yaowarat) – best at night!
Best Cheap Eats in Bangkok
Bangkok street food is legendary – and incredibly cheap.
Pad Thai
40-60 THB ($1.20-1.80)
Best at Thip Samai (50 THB)Street Curry
50-80 THB ($1.50-2.40)
Look for "khao gang" stallsMoo Ping
10 THB each (~$0.30)
Grilled pork skewersMango Sticky Rice
50-80 THB ($1.50-2.40)
Mae Varee near BTS Thong LoBoat Noodles
15-20 THB ($0.50)
Tiny bowls, order many!Thai Iced Tea
25-35 THB ($0.75-1)
Available everywhereWhere to Stay
Bangkok has incredible hostels and budget hotels. Here are our top picks:
Lub d Bangkok Siam
✨ Rooftop pool, near BTS Siam
NapPark Hostel
✨ Best location on Khao San Road
ibis Bangkok Riverside
✨ River views, free shuttle boat
💡 Prices are approximate and may vary. Check partner sites for current rates.
Money-Saving Tips
Use the BTS & MRT
Avoid taxis/Grab in traffic. Get a Rabbit card for easy travel.
Eat Street Food
Restaurants charge 3-5x more. Look for busy stalls with locals.
Refill Water
Bring a reusable bottle. 7-Eleven has 1L bottles for 7 THB.
Free Temples
Many temples are free. Save splurges for Grand Palace & Wat Pho.
Cheap Massages
Skip tourist areas. Local shops charge 200-300 THB/hour.
Bargain Smart
Markets expect bargaining. Start at 50% and meet in the middle.
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