Planning a family trip to Bangkok doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and smart choices, you can experience the best of Thailand’s vibrant capital while keeping costs under control. This comprehensive guide about What to Do in Bangkok for 3 Days with Family on a Budget will show you how to spend three unforgettable days in Bangkok with your family on a budget of approximately $100 per person per day.
Day 1: Temples, Culture, and River Adventures
Morning: The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
Start your Bangkok adventure at the city’s most iconic landmark: the Grand Palace. This magnificent complex is the single most visited tourist attraction in Thailand, and for good reason. The scale and beauty of the buildings are simply breathtaking, with seemingly endless temples adorned in gold and intricately designed structures around every corner.
Important tip: The Grand Palace has strict dress code requirements. Visitors must cover their knees and shoulders. If you arrive without appropriate clothing, don’t worry – there are numerous vendors right outside selling affordable cover-ups, pants, and shirts for around 100-200 baht. This is actually a great opportunity to pick up the famous Thai elephant pants that make comfortable souvenirs.
Budget: Entry to the Grand Palace costs approximately 500 baht per adult, with reduced rates for children.
Late Morning: Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Just a short walk from the Grand Palace, you’ll find Wat Pho, home to the massive reclining Buddha statue. This golden giant is incredibly impressive and difficult to capture in photos due to its enormous size. The temple complex itself is beautiful and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling Grand Palace.
Cash reminder: Most temples and many restaurants in Bangkok still operate on a cash basis, so make sure to withdraw enough Thai baht for the day. Many visitors find they go through cash faster than expected.
Budget: Entry fee is around 200 baht per adult.
Afternoon: River Boat Ride
Cool down from the Bangkok heat by hopping on one of the public boats along the Chao Phraya River. The orange flag boats (Bangkok’s Chao Phraya Express Boat system) are the most affordable option and offer an authentic local experience. These boats are incredibly efficient, pulling up to piers, unloading passengers, loading new ones, and departing within seconds.
The river ride provides fantastic views of Bangkok’s skyline and historic sites along the waterfront. It’s also one of the fastest ways to navigate the city while avoiding traffic.
Budget: Orange flag boat rides cost around 15-20 baht per person, making this one of the most affordable transportation options in the city.
Lunch: ICONSIAM Food Court
For a comfortable lunch break with air conditioning, head to ICONSIAM, one of Bangkok’s impressive shopping malls. While the mall features luxury brands, the food court offers affordable and delicious Thai cuisine in a beautiful, colorful setting.
This is what some travelers call “street food light” – authentic Thai flavors in a more comfortable, family-friendly environment. You’ll find a wide variety of options including pad thai, noodle soups, fried chicken, and traditional Thai desserts.
Budget: Expect to spend around 150-200 baht per person for a satisfying meal.
Late Afternoon: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Take another boat across the river to visit Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. Despite its name, this temple is actually most beautiful at sunset when the evening light creates a magical atmosphere. The temple’s distinctive spires and riverside location make it one of Bangkok’s most photogenic spots.
Evening: Riverside Relaxation
End your first day by finding a spot along the river to watch the sunset. Many riverside areas offer beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere to reflect on your day of exploration.
Day 1 Total Budget: Approximately $80-100 per person including transportation, admission fees, meals, and incidentals.
Day 2: Markets, Parks, and Local Life
Morning: Lumphini Park
Begin your second day with a peaceful walk through Lumphini Park, Bangkok’s premier green space right in the city center. This massive park offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle, with palm trees, ponds, and plenty of shade.
One of the park’s unique features is its population of monitor lizards – large reptiles that roam freely throughout the park. While they look intimidating, they’re generally harmless if left alone. Kids will be fascinated by these prehistoric-looking creatures.
Budget: Free admission.
Late Morning to Afternoon: Chatuchak Weekend Market
If you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is an absolute must-visit. This is Bangkok’s largest market and arguably one of the biggest markets in the world, with thousands of stalls selling everything imaginable.
The market can be overwhelming due to its size and the sheer number of options, but that’s part of its charm. You can truly find anything here – from clothing and accessories to home decor, street food, and unique souvenirs.
Shopping tips:
- Haggling is expected. Initial prices are often 3-4 times the actual selling price.
- Stay polite but firm when negotiating.
- Bring cash, as most vendors don’t accept cards.
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Food at Chatuchak: The market offers incredible street food options. Try local specialties like grilled octopus with spicy chutney, northern Thai sausages (sai ua), fresh coconut water, and various grilled meats.
Budget: Budget around 500-1,000 baht per person for shopping and food, depending on your purchases.
Afternoon: MBK Center
When you need a break from the heat and crowds, head to MBK Center. Unlike many Bangkok malls that focus on luxury goods, MBK caters to regular shoppers with normal prices. The mall features electronics, clothing, accessories, and an excellent food court.
The food court offers a huge variety of Thai dishes at reasonable prices. Try shaved ice desserts with longan fruit and jellies – they’re refreshing and not overly sweet, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
Budget: Meals at the food court cost around 80-150 baht per person.
Evening: Night Markets and Street Life
Bangkok comes alive at night, with numerous night markets throughout the city. These markets offer a more relaxed atmosphere than daytime shopping, with cooler temperatures and vibrant energy.
Explore the various food stalls, try local snacks, and soak in the atmosphere. This is also a great time to let kids experience the excitement of Thai street culture in a safe, family-friendly environment.
Day 2 Total Budget: Approximately $60-90 per person.
Day 3: Chinatown and Cultural Experiences
Morning: Recovery and Relaxation
Take the morning slowly and enjoy breakfast at your accommodation. Bangkok can be exhausting, especially for families with children, so don’t feel pressured to rush every morning.
Afternoon: Chinatown (Yaowarat)
Bangkok’s Chinatown is a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and smells. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by street food vendors, gold shops, fruit sellers, and restaurants setting up for the day.
What to try in Chinatown:
- Grilled sausages on sticks (around 15 baht)
- Fresh jackfruit (tastes like a tropical Starburst candy)
- Grilled bananas
- Various Chinese-Thai fusion dishes
- Fresh fruit from street vendors
The Sampeng Market in Chinatown is cramped but fascinating, filled with tourist goods, clothing, and snacks. It’s less overwhelming than Chatuchak and offers good deals on souvenirs.
Budget: Plan for around 200-400 baht per person for snacks and exploration.
Late Afternoon: Riverside Walk
Take a stroll along the riverside areas near Chinatown. You might encounter cultural celebrations, street performances, or simply enjoy the views of the Chao Phraya River.
Evening: Sunset Views
End your Bangkok adventure by finding a rooftop bar or riverside location to watch the sunset. Many locations offer spectacular views without requiring expensive purchases – a simple drink or snack often suffices.
Dinner: Local Restaurant
For your final dinner, seek out a local restaurant away from tourist areas. Some of the best Thai curry and authentic dishes can be found in neighborhood restaurants where locals eat. These places typically offer incredible food at a fraction of tourist area prices.
Day 3 Total Budget: Approximately $50-80 per person.
Family-Friendly Tips for Bangkok
Transportation
- BTS Skytrain and MRT (Types of trains that operate in Bangkok): Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned. Children often ride free or at reduced rates.
- Grab Taxies: Affordable for families. Grab (like Uber App) ensures fair pricing.
- Tuk-tuks: Fun for kids but agree on the price before starting your journey.
- River boats: An adventure in itself and very affordable.
Accommodation
Budget-friendly family hotels in Bangkok typically cost $40-60 per night. Look for properties near BTS stations for easy transportation. Many mid-range hotels include breakfast, which can significantly reduce daily food costs.
Food Safety
- Eat at busy stalls where food is cooked fresh
- Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere
- Street food is generally safe and delicious
- Food courts in malls offer familiar options for picky eaters
Weather Considerations
Bangkok is hot and humid year-round. Plan for:
- Morning activities at outdoor sites
- Afternoon breaks in air-conditioned malls or hotels
- Evening exploration when temperatures drop
- Plenty of water and sun protection
Money-Saving Strategies
- Use public transportation instead of taxis when possible
- Eat street food and food courts rather than restaurants in tourist areas
- Visit free attractions like parks and riverside areas
- Shop at local markets for souvenirs instead of mall shops
- Stay hydrated with 7-Eleven drinks (cheap and everywhere)
- Book accommodation with breakfast included
- Use ATMs wisely – withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees
Three-Day Budget Breakdown
Per Person Estimate:
- Accommodation: $40-60 per night ($120-180 total for 3 nights)
- Food: $20-30 per day ($60-90 total)
- Attractions: $15-25 per day ($45-75 total)
- Transportation: $10-15 per day ($30-45 total)
- Shopping/Souvenirs: $30-50 total
- Miscellaneous: $20-30 total
Total per person: $305-470 for three days
Family of four: $1,220-1,880 for three days
This budget allows for comfortable travel with some flexibility for treats and unexpected expenses.
What Makes Bangkok Special for Families
Bangkok offers a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern convenience. You can explore 200-year-old temples in the morning and enjoy air-conditioned shopping malls in the afternoon. The city’s efficient public transportation makes it easy to navigate with children, and Thai people are generally welcoming and helpful to families.
The food scene alone makes Bangkok worth visiting – from street food stalls to high-end restaurants, the variety and affordability are unmatched. Kids can be adventurous with new flavors while parents can find familiar options when needed.
The city’s markets, parks, and cultural sites provide educational opportunities for children while remaining engaging and fun. The presence of monitor lizards in parks, the excitement of river boats, and the energy of night markets create memories that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
Bangkok is one of the most family-friendly budget destinations in Asia. With proper planning, you can experience world-class attractions, incredible food, and authentic cultural experiences without overspending. The key is balancing tourist sites with local experiences, using public transportation, and eating where locals eat.
The city’s combination of old and new, fast and slow, creates an environment where families can find their own pace. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, shopping at massive markets, or simply enjoying pad thai on a street corner, Bangkok offers something special for every family member.
Remember that some of the best experiences in Bangkok are free or nearly free – watching boats on the river, exploring parks, wandering through markets, and observing daily life in this vibrant city. With a budget of around $100 per person per day, you can enjoy a comfortable, memorable family vacation in one of Asia’s most exciting cities.
Start planning your Bangkok adventure today, and prepare for three days of discovery, delicious food, and family bonding in the Land of Smiles.
