10 (cheap) things to do in Phitsanulok, Thailand

Phitsanulok, a city in northern Thailand, is often overlooked by travelers. However, it is a convenient stop if you are visiting Sukothai (which you should!) and are arriving by train. While you won’t find huge sights, it does offer an authentic city experience to backpackers who are looking for it. This blog post will cover the top 10 must-see attractions and things to do in Phitsanulok – and good news: none of them are pricey!

If you are looking for another off-the-beaten path city check out Nakhon Ratchasima aka Korat!

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How to get to Phitsanulok?

To reach Phitsanulok, you have a few convenient options. Multiple daily trains leave from Bangkok, including express and rapid services, connecting the two cities. The journey typically takes around 6-7 hours.

Coming from Chiang Mai, you can opt for the same trains going the opposite direction. Additionally, multiple busses / vans run daily and take 6-7 hours from Chiang Mai to Phitsanulok.

Check out up to date schedules and prices on 12go.asia

Wat Wihan Thong Historical Site

Enjoy a walk or jog – they have a nice jogging track – around the historical site. There are multiple ruins scattered across the park. And best of all? Entrance is free! 

Street Art by Thong

Phitsanulok is home to talented street artist Thong. You can find a selection of vibrant murals depicting life in Phitsanulok in a connecting alleyway between Phutthabucha Alley and Paya Suer 1 Alley.

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan, or short, the temple in Phitsanulok, is famous for it’s golden Buddha. It is said to be one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha images.

While the main Buddha is beautiful, I also highly recommend checking out the temple grounds, which in my opinion are nicer than the crowded main temple hall.

Ratchaphruek Second-Hand Clothing Market

If you have any space left in your backpack, the Ratchaphruek Second-Hand Clothing Market is a dream. They offer a wide range of secondhand clothing at incredibly affordable prices. Keep in mind that the market is only open on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evenings.

Phitsanulok Railway Station Night Market

As the sun sets, the area outside of Phitsanulok’s Railway Station transforms into a small but bustling night market. As anywhere in Thailand, you can indulge in delicious street food and soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s also a great place to buy some fresh veggies and fruit as snacks.

Buranathai Buddha Casting Foundry (Cha Thavi)

Visit the Buranathai Buddha Casting Foundry, where traditional techniques are used to create stunning Buddha images. You are welcome to watch skilled artisans at work and learn about the intricate process involved in casting these sacred objects.

It may not seem super inviting, as there are usually no other visitors, but you are very welcome to wander around, read the signs, and if you’re lucky like me, have a chat with some of the workers (through Google Translate).

Walk along the Nan River

Take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Nan River and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The riverfront offers nice views, greenery, and (hopefully) a refreshing breeze. It’s a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

Phitsanulok Clock Tower

A landmark of the city, the Phitsanulok Clock Tower stands tall and proud. Admire its elegant architecture and take a moment to appreciate its historical significance. It’s a popular spot for photos – just don’t get run over.

Chaloem Phrakiat Park – Phitsanulok City Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of Thailand’s 10th largest city at Chaloem Phrakiat Park, a green space perfect for picnics, jogging, or simply relaxing. The park offers a variety of recreational facilities and comes alive with locals in the evening when temperatures cool down a bit.

Café culture

Phitsanulok, like many Thai cities, is home to a growing café culture, with numerous cozy cafes offering delicious coffee, tea, and light snacks. It’s a great way to unwind and recharge while supporting locals. My recommendations are “coffee T” for cheap coffee and tasty croffles or “The Uncle House” run by,, well, a Thai uncle. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to try the coffee at Baan Baan Coffee House, but the vibe is supposed to be really laid back too!

Vegetarian Restaurants in Phitsanulok

If you are vegetarian and looking to eat well in Phitsanulok, I can highly recommend Jay Food restaurants! If you are unfamiliar with Jay Food: They are usually quite unassuming buffet-style places, where everything that is served is vegetarian. You can order rice with a choice of toppings from the buffet, or some a-la-carte dishes. Prices are always incredibly fair and you can easily recognize them by the yellow flags with letters that resemble a “17” on them. 

In Phitsanulok, the Jay Food places I got to try are all located next to each other on Si Thamma Traipidok Road. Search for “Faasai Vegetarian” on Google Maps and pick and choose depending on toppings on offer. 

There is another Jay Food place north of town simply marked as “Jay” at the address “45/4 ถนน พุทธบูชา, Aka Thotsarot, Mueang Phitsanulok District, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand”. Unfortunately, they were closed the day I went there.