DAY TRIP GUIDE
Ayutthaya travel guide: Thailand’s ancient capital
Crumbling red-brick temples, a Buddha head wrapped in tree roots and 400 years of royal history, just 80 km from Bangkok.
From 1350 to 1767, Ayutthaya was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam and one of the richest cities in the world. After it was destroyed by the Burmese army, its ruins were left standing on an island in the river. Today the Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most people visit on a day trip from Bangkok, but staying a night lets you see the temples lit up after dark and enjoy the quieter mornings.
On this page: Quick facts · Top temples · Nightlife · Shopping · Getting there · Getting around · One-day plan · FAQ
Quick facts
| Quick facts | |
|---|---|
| Distance from Bangkok | About 80 km (1.5 hours) |
| How long | 1 full day, or 2 days to go slowly |
| Temple entry | Most major temples charge about 50 THB each |
| Getting around | Bicycle, tuk-tuk hire or a guided tour |
| Best time | Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat |
| Dress code | Shoulders and knees covered |
Top temples and things to do in Ayutthaya
These temples are all on or near the old city island and can be seen in one day by bike or tuk-tuk.
1. Wat Mahathat
Founded in 1374, the Temple of the Great Relic was once Ayutthaya’s spiritual heart. It’s famous for the stone Buddha head held in the roots of a banyan tree, one of the most photographed sights in Thailand.
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00am–6:00pm
- Entry: About 50 THB
Our tip: When you take a photo with the Buddha head, crouch so your head is lower than the Buddha’s. It’s a sign of respect.
2. Wat Phra Si Sanphet
The royal temple inside the old palace grounds, with three tall bell-shaped chedis that hold the ashes of Ayutthaya kings. It’s the image you’ll see on most postcards.
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00am–6:00pm
- Entry: About 50 THB
3. Wat Lokayasutharam
An outdoor 42-metre reclining Buddha, usually draped in saffron cloth, lying among the ruins. It’s free to visit and rarely crowded.
- Entry: Free
4. Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Built in 1630 in Khmer style, this riverside temple is the most impressive at sunset. Its central prang is surrounded by eight smaller towers.
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00am–6:00pm
- Entry: About 50 THB
Our tip: Stay for sunset, then take a tuk-tuk back to town.
5. Wat Phu Khao Thong
The Golden Mount is a huge white chedi in the fields north-west of the city. Climb to the terrace for views over the countryside.
- Entry: Free
6. Cycling the old city
The island is flat and the temples are spread out, so renting a bicycle is the best way to explore at your own pace. Shops near the train station rent bikes for about 50–100 THB a day, and guided half-day bike tours are available.
Prices and opening hours were checked in 2025–26 and change often. Please confirm with the official site before you go. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Affiliate Disclosure.
Nightlife in Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is quiet after dark, but evenings are lovely, with lit-up ruins, riverside dinners and a few relaxed bars.
Temples lit up at night
Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Several major ruins are floodlit in the evening and look magical from outside. A tuk-tuk tour is an easy way to see them.
Good to know: Check opening times locally; some temples can be visited until 9:00pm.
Riverside restaurants
Along the Chao Phraya and Pa Sak rivers
Dinner by the water is the classic Ayutthaya evening. Try river prawns, a local speciality.
Backpacker bars
Naresuan Road, near Chao Phrom Market
A short strip of laid-back bars and cafés popular with travellers.
Shopping in Ayutthaya
Shopping here is all about markets and local food.
Bang Lan Night Market
Near Wat Mahathat
An evening food market where you can try roti sai mai, Ayutthaya’s famous candy-floss crepes.
Good to know: Usually open daily from late afternoon.
Chao Phrom Market
Near the ferry pier
A busy local market for fresh food, clothes and everyday items.
Ayothaya Floating Market
Near the Elephant Village
A tourist-style floating market with boat rides, snacks and souvenirs. Fun for families.
Getting to Ayutthaya from Bangkok
- Train: from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central or Hua Lamphong station, about 1.5–2 hours. Cheap and scenic.
- Minivan: from Mo Chit bus terminal, about 1.5 hours.
- Taxi or Grab: about 1–1.5 hours; useful if you’re a group.
- Day tour: the easiest option, often including a river cruise back to Bangkok.
Getting around
Rent a bicycle, or hire a tuk-tuk for a few hours (agree a price for a set list of temples first, typically around 200–300 THB per hour). Walking between temples in the heat isn’t recommended.
A one-day Ayutthaya plan
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Morning | Train from Bangkok, rent a bike, Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana |
| Midday | Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Lokayasutharam, then lunch (try the boat noodles) |
| Afternoon | Wat Phu Khao Thong, then Wat Chaiwatthanaram for sunset |
| Evening | Night market by the river, or train back to Bangkok |
Frequently asked questions
Is one day enough for Ayutthaya?
Yes, one day covers the main temples. Stay overnight if you want to see them lit up at night and visit more relaxed temples the next morning.
Is there a combined ticket?
There has been a combined ticket for six major temples at around 220 THB. Ask at the first temple you visit, as availability changes.
What should I wear?
Light clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, a hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Bring water; there’s little shade.
