1900 8248
booking@flycorp.vn
Ayutthaya, a stunning ancient city established in the 14th century, was once one of the world’s largest metropolises and earned the nickname "Venice of the East" due to its beauty and prosperity. Despite being almost completely destroyed in the 18th-century Siamese-Burmese wars, Ayutthaya's ruins still offer a glimpse into its glorious past. Here’s your full guide for a one-day trip to Ayutthaya, ideal for your upcoming visit to Thailand.
Ayutthaya is located about 85 km north of Bangkok, making it an easy day trip from the capital. To start your journey, you’ll first need to get to Bangkok, which is well-connected internationally. With Bangkok as a major transit hub, you’ll find it convenient to book a flight to Thailand, landing at either Suvarnabhumi International Airport or Don Muang International Airport (for budget airlines). Once in Bangkok, there are several options for reaching Ayutthaya. Depending on your budget, there are multiple ways to get there—by taxi, train, bus, or renting a private vehicle.
Taxi: For the most convenience and fastest travel time, taxis cost approximately 1,000 baht (~730,000 VND). You may negotiate a round-trip fare, including sightseeing in Ayutthaya and a return to Bangkok, for around 2,500-3,000 baht (~1,800,000-2,200,000 VND).
Train: Departing from Hualamphong station, the train ride takes about 2-2.5 hours with fares between 25-300 baht (18,000-220,000 VND) based on the class. This slower journey is ideal if you’d like to enjoy scenic views and experience Thailand’s railway system. Once you arrive, a short ferry ride costing about 4 baht (~3,000 VND) will take you into the main area of Ayutthaya.
Bus: Buses leave from Mo Chit station with a travel time of about 90 minutes. Ticket prices range from 50-100 baht (36,000-73,000 VND).
Private Car Rental: If you’re traveling in a group with a set itinerary, consider renting a private car. Most rentals include a driver and cover fuel and toll fees for a day’s use.
Many visitors opt for day tours, which offer the ease of transportation, meals, and an English-speaking guide to explain the historical significance of each stop. Various options are available:
Bus and Boat Day Tour: This includes a scenic river cruise to view prominent sites along the riverbanks.
Bus Tour with Lunch: This allows ample time for temple visits without a river cruise.
Ayutthaya and Summer Palace Tour: Includes guided exploration of Ayutthaya along with a visit to the Summer Palace.
Alternatively, consider a private tour where you can tailor the itinerary to your liking, including transportation, a guide, meals, and the flexibility to visit all desired sites.
Ayutthaya is home to some of Thailand’s most impressive and historically significant temples. Each site holds its own story, showcasing the architectural brilliance of ancient Siam and giving travelers a chance to walk through history.
One of the most famous temples in Ayutthaya, Wat Mahathat is known for its iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. This captivating image has become a symbol of Ayutthaya, attracting tourists and photographers from around the world. Wat Mahathat was built in the 14th century and once housed important Buddhist relics. Walking through its ruins, you’ll notice intricate details and stone carvings, remnants of the temple’s past glory.
The iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Banyan tree at Wat Maha That in Ayutthaya is one of the most photographed and famous images of Thailand. This stunning sight, located at the entrance of the temple, has become symbolic of Thailand’s ancient beauty and spiritual heritage. When you think of the country, this captivating photograph often comes to mind—capturing both the natural and historical significance of the ruins.
This temple was the most important within the royal palace grounds and served as a model for Bangkok's famous Wat Phra Kaew. Known for its three towering chedis, or stupas, which contain the ashes of Ayutthaya’s kings, Wat Phra Si Sanphet is an impressive sight, especially at sunset when the golden hues of the ruins glow under the fading light. This sacred place offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
Wat Ratchaburana stands out for its intricately decorated prang, or tower, which is adorned with stucco reliefs and images of mythical creatures. Built in memory of two royal brothers who died fighting each other for the throne, Wat Ratchaburana is both beautiful and poignant. The crypt, accessible to visitors, contains remarkable murals and is believed to have once held gold and other treasures. Exploring this temple feels like discovering a hidden piece of Thai history.
This large temple complex is known for its towering stupa, which can be climbed for panoramic views of Ayutthaya. Built in the 14th century to commemorate a military victory, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon features rows of Buddha statues draped in saffron robes, creating a striking contrast against the red brick. It’s also a working monastery, so you may see monks and locals offering their prayers, adding to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Located along the Chao Phraya River, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of Ayutthaya’s most picturesque temples, particularly at dusk when the ruins are beautifully illuminated. The temple’s layout symbolizes Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist cosmology, and the surrounding prangs represent lesser mountains. This temple is perfect for those interested in architectural design and is often less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful exploration.
Ayutthaya is not only a land of ancient temples and stunning heritage but also a true culinary paradise where the traditional flavors of Thailand come alive. From river prawns dripping in rich sauces to hearty boat noodles and delightful street food treats, Ayutthaya offers a variety of dishes that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s dive into some of Ayutthaya’s must-try foods that will make your visit all the more unforgettable!
Where to find it: Riverside restaurants in Ayutthaya
The giant river prawns are one of Ayutthaya’s iconic dishes and a must-try for seafood lovers. These colossal prawns are grilled to a golden hue, their shell turning crispy while sealing in the juicy, tender flesh. What sets them apart is the rich, creamy head fat, which bursts with flavor and pairs beautifully with the spicy Thai dipping sauce. Although this delicacy can be a bit pricey, its unique taste and memorable texture make it worth every baht.
Where to find it: Boat Noodle Krung Kao and street food stalls
This flavorful noodle dish is not only delicious but also steeped in history. Originally served from small boats in Ayutthaya’s waterways, these noodles come in tiny bowls filled with a savory broth, tender beef slices, pork blood, and fragrant herbs. You can choose various toppings to customize the bowl to your taste. The small portion size encourages diners to savor multiple bowls, allowing you to explore a range of flavors with every serving.
Where to find it: U Thong Road
This delightful treat features thin, crispy roti wraps filled with colorful, fluffy candy floss. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Roti Sai Mai isn’t just a tasty dessert; it’s also a fun street food experience. Vendors often let you make your own wraps, adding a playful touch to your culinary adventure in Ayutthaya. The soft cotton candy contrasts perfectly with the thin, slightly crunchy roti, making for a satisfying, sugary snack.
Where to find it: Malakor Thai Restaurant
A comforting and aromatic coconut-based soup, Tom Kha Kai is a medley of tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of lime for freshness. This dish is mildly spicy yet rich, featuring an irresistible balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors, rounded off with fragrant lemongrass and galangal. It’s perfect for those seeking a lighter, aromatic Thai soup that delivers deep flavors without overwhelming heat.
Where to find it: Wat Yai restaurant
Tom Yum is a worldwide favorite, but tasting it in Ayutthaya offers a different experience, where the traditional flavors shine with an authentic twist. Made with plump shrimp, tender crab meat, and fresh herbs, Tom Yum combines the zest of lime, the heat of chili, and the aroma of lemongrass. This dish is a must-try for those who crave a complex, spicy, and invigorating soup.
Where to find it: Local food stalls
While Pad Thai is a staple in Thailand, sampling it in Ayutthaya brings a unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else. Stir-fried noodles with a mixture of eggs, tofu, shrimp, and Thai seasonings create an unforgettable harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory tastes. A squeeze of lime adds freshness, making it the perfect quick and delicious meal to enjoy while exploring the city’s historic sites.
Riverboat Tour Around Ayutthaya: Hop on a long-tail boat from the pier in northeastern Ayutthaya and explore the illuminated temples along the banks in the evening.
Elephant Rides: A unique activity that offers a view of the ancient ruins from atop a majestic elephant.
Floating Market: Though tourist-oriented, Ayutthaya’s floating market offers traditional attire, souvenirs, and local cuisine served from boats or at waterfront stalls.
Bring a hat, umbrella, and water, as you’ll likely be moving between various sites under the sun.
Wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, to enter temples respectfully.
The best time to visit Ayutthaya is between November and February for cooler weather. March to May can be extremely hot, while June to September brings the rainy season.
With a day trip to Ayutthaya, you’ll immerse yourself in the captivating history, rich culture, and local flavors of one of Thailand’s most historically significant cities. Book a flight and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
