Ayutthaya Day Tours
Plan the perfect Ayutthaya Day Tour! Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site, must-see ancient temples (Wat Mahathat, Wat Chaiwatthanaram), and the best ways to get there from Bangkok (train, minivan, or guided tour). Maximize your visit with our expert tips for a truly unforgettable experience.
Ayutthaya
Discovering Ancient Siam: Why an Ayutthaya Day Tour is Essential
The historic city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a captivating glimpse into the former glory of the Siamese Kingdom. Located just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, it serves as the perfect escape for history buffs and culture seekers. A well-planned Ayutthaya Day Tour allows you to trade the hustle of the capital for the serene atmosphere of ancient, crumbling temples and majestic Buddha statues.
Must-See Palace, Temples and Historical Sites in Ayutthaya
To make the most of your Ayutthaya day trip, prioritize these ancient wonders:
Summer Palace
Bang Pa-In Royal Palace (The Summer Palace) Located just outside the main city island; this beautiful palace served as a summer residence for Thai kings. It's famous for its fascinating mix of Thai, Chinese, and European architectural styles. Highlight: The elegant Aisawan Dhiphya-Asana Pavilion, a Thai-style structure set in the middle of a pond, is considered the most beautiful building on the grounds.
Wat Mahathat
Often considered the spiritual center of the early Ayutthaya Period, this is perhaps the most iconic and photographed ruin. Highlight: The famous Buddha head entwined within the roots of a banyan tree. This site is a must-see for its historical significance and unique photo opportunity. While the massive central prang (Khmer-style tower) has collapsed, the site remains one of the most important in the historical park.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
This was the largest and most important temple within the grounds of the Royal Palace and was used exclusively by the Ayutthaya kings for royal ceremonies. Highlight: The three prominent, restored Ceylonese-style chedis (pagodas) stand as one of the most recognizable landmarks of the historical park. These pagodas enshrined the ashes of three Ayutthayan kings.
Wihan Phramongkhon Bophit
Wiharn Phra Mongkhon Bophit (also sometimes called Wat Mongkhon Bophit) is one of the most revered and essential places to visit in Ayutthaya, Thailand. It stands as a powerful symbol of the city's historical and spiritual resilience.
Wat Lokayasutharam
Wat Lokayasutharam (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) is a significant and easily accessible historical site in Ayutthaya, famous for its massive open-air Buddha statue. The main draw is the colossal brick and stucco statue of the Reclining Buddha. Size: measures approximately 42 meters (138 feet) long and 8 meters high.
Wat Phraram
Wat Phra Ram is a historical temple located in the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Ayutthaya, Thailand..The temple is situated on the city island in Ayutthaya, on Naresuan Road. It is located opposite the entrances to the Mong Khon Bophit Pantheon and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. A large pond, which is now a public park, is located behind the temple.
Wat Ratchaburana
Wat Ratchaburana is one of the most historically significant and impressive temple ruins in the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Wat Ratchaburana was built by King Borommarachathirat II in 1424 on the cremation site of his two elder brothers, Princes Ai and Yo, who famously killed each other in a duel for the vacant throne.
Wat Thammikarat
Wat Thammikarat, located in Ayutthaya, is a fascinating historical site that combines active worship with ancient ruins.This historic temple complex is one of the most versatile and unique in Ayutthaya. It features original ruins alongside an active monastery, making it a blend of the ancient and the present-day.
Wat Na Phra Meru
Wat Na Phra Meru (full name Wat Na Phra Meru Rachikaram) is one of the most significant and well-preserved temples in Ayutthaya, Thailand, famous for being the only temple that survived the Burmese destruction of the city in 1767, as the invading army used it as a military base. The main hall (Ubosot) houses the magnificent principal Buddha image,
Wat Yai Chaimongkon
Wat Yai Chaimongkon one of Ayutthaya's most magnificent and well-preserved historical temples, is a must-see for visitor. Wat Yai Chaimongkon is famous for its towering structures and peaceful atmosphere, offering a deep glimpse into the kingdom's history and Buddhist heritage. The temple's most striking feature is its enormous principal chedi (stupa), built by King Naresuan the Great in 1592 to commemorate his victory over the Burmese crown prince in a battle on elephant back.
Wat Phanan Choeng
Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan is a truly spectacular and historically important temple located in Ayutthaya. It is one of the sites located off the main historical island, situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The temple is notable because it was built in 1324 A.D., which is 26 years before King U-Thong founded the city of Ayutthaya in 1350. This makes it a significant historical gem that predates the kingdom itself.
Wat Phutthai Sawan
Wat Phutthaisawan is a historically significant and beautiful temple located on the south bank of the Chao Phraya River in Ayutthaya. Unlike many of the more fragmented ruins, this temple complex has both ancient and modern sections and is still an active place of worship.The temple's principal prang (Khmer-style spire) is clearly visible across the river from the inner city area and is one of the oldest structures on the site, dating back to the reign of King U-Thong (1351–1369), the founder of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
The Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of the most stunning and essential historical sites to visit in Ayutthaya. It is renowned for its beautiful, preserved architecture and picturesque riverside location. This temple was constructed in the 17th century by King Prasat Thong and was a royal temple where the king and his family worshipped. Though it was ravaged during the Burmese invasion in 1767, it has been meticulously restored and is now one of the most iconic landmarks of Ayutthaya.
Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan
Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan is a beautiful and historically significant temple in Ayutthaya that offers a serene and less crowded experience compared to some of the main historical park ruins.The temple is situated right on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, making it a fantastic stop for those exploring Ayutthaya by river boat. Its location provides a beautiful, clear view across the river to the Phra Sri Suriyothai Chedi (the all-white stupa on the city island).
Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
The museum was established specifically to house the priceless treasures excavated from the crypts of Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Mahathat, and it is named after King Borommatrailokanat's son, Chao Sam Phraya. It is considered a premier institution for understanding the wealth and artistic skill of the ancient capital. The museum's most prized collection features extraordinary royal gold artifacts, including crowns, jewelry, royal regalia.
Best Ayutthaya Day Tour from Bangkok
Ayutthaya Day Tour
FAQ for Your Ayutthaya Day Tour
Is one day enough for Ayutthaya?
Yes, one full day is enough to comfortably see the major sites of the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Or joint with Ayutthaya Day Tour from Bangkok
What is the best way to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?
The train offers a scenic, budget-friendly journey, while a minivan is the fastest; an organized Ayutthaya day tour is the most hassle-free.
How much does a tuk-tuk cost in Ayutthaya?
Hiring a private tuk-tuk for 3-4 hours to see the main temples typically costs between $600 \text{ THB}$ and $800 \text{ THB}$ (negotiable).
Do I need a tour guide for the Ayutthaya day trip?
No, a guide is not essential, as signs are in English. However, a guide on a private tour can provide deeper historical context.
What are the opening hours for the temples?
Most major temples are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Wat Chaiwatthanaram sunset views are popular right before closing.
What is the famous Buddha head temple called?
The famous Buddha head in the tree roots is located at Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya.
Are there any other attractions besides the temples?
Yes, you can also visit the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace (often included in guided tours) and the floating market.
Can I cycle around Ayutthaya?
Absolutely! Bicycle rental is highly recommended and is the best way to explore the core area on your Ayutthaya bike tour.
How far is Ayutthaya from Bangkok?
Ayutthaya is approximately 85 kilometers north of Bangkok.
How far is Ayutthaya from Bangkok?
Ayutthaya is approximately 85 kilometers north of Bangkok.
Which tour is best for a day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?
Recommend to this Ayutthaya One Day Tour - Travel from Bangkok to Ayutthaya by air-conditioned coach (faster). Spend the morning visiting 3-4 major temples (Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Bang Pa-In Summer Palace). Return to Bangkok via a luxury river cruise on the Chao Phraya River, featuring a Thai/International buffet lunch and afternoon tea.
What should I wear for an Ayutthaya cruise tour?
Wear comfortable, light clothing for the hot weather. Since you will visit sacred temples, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered (a light shawl or sarong is perfect for covering up at the sites).
What should I eat in Ayutthaya?
Don't miss the city's famous Kuay Tiew Reua (Boat Noodles) and the local dessert, Roti Sai Mai (sweet cotton candy).