The ancient city of Ayutthaya, the second ancient capital of Thailand is known for its expansive ruins and temple complexes.   In our opinion, a day trip to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not on the level of Bagan or Angkor Wat as some have suggested…yet it is a lovely place with tons to see and explore.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a memorable short trip from Bangkok – a day trip to Ayutthaya is a great idea!  And we cover all the things to do in Ayutthaya in a day.  However, our recommendation is to stay for a few days and not rush it.  

In this post, we share the perfect day trip to Ayutthaya.  And if you choose to stay a bit longer we lay out our 2 day itinerary with everything you need to know to get the most out of your visit.

Map of Ayutthaya

To help you visualize where to go in Ayutthaya we created this interactive map so that you can follow along.

Ayutthaya History

Ayutthaya was established in 1351 as the second capital of Siam (Thailand).  By the 1700s (about 300 years ago) it became one of the biggest centers for trade between the East and West, with over a million people living there.  

As one of the biggest cities in the world (at that time) Ayutthaya thrived for centuries because it was located on three rivers that led to the sea. This made it easy to trade and hard for enemies to attack. In addition, during that time, Ayutthaya had about 400 temples and 3 palaces.

Tragically in 1767, the Burmese army invaded and destroyed Ayutthaya after a long siege. They burned most of the city, including its art, books, and historical records. Only the stone buildings, like palaces and monasteries, survived. These ruins are what we see in Ayutthaya today.

Getting to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

A day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is a reasonable 1 -2 hour journey.  The easiest way to get tickets is through 12go.com.  Here’s how you can get there:

1. By Train
   From Bangkok, there are trains that go to Ayutthaya from various stations including the KTW – Krung Thep Aphiwat (Central Terminal) station.  If you are going on a day trip to Ayutthaya, catch the Rapid No. 111 from Krung Thep Aphiwat as it only takes 1 hour and 7 minutes to get to Ayutthaya on it.  

Third-class tickets are affordable, however the train is quite basic.
Cost: ~$3 USD

2. By MiniBus
   Minibuses from Mo Chit Terminal run frequently and provide a comfortable ride. The journey typically takes 1.5–2 hours.
   Cost: ~$4- $10
   
3. Grab or other Rideshare
   Ideal for families or groups, this option provides the most flexibility.
   Cost: ~$30 USD one way (Grab)
   
4. By River Cruise
   A leisurely but scenic option, boat trips from Bangkok offer a unique perspective on the Chao Phraya River and can be a great day trip to Ayutthaya.
   Cost: Varies widely, starting at ~$30 USD per person

Getting Around Ayutthaya

Exploring this ancient city is half the adventure. However, if you are on a day trip to Ayutthaya, we highly recommend that you either get a scooter or a dedicated Tuk Tuk. Depending on your pace and preference, you can choose from:

• Bicycles
  Many guesthouses and shops offer bike rentals (ours offered bicycles for free), allowing you to explore the ruins at your own pace.  You can rent a bike next to the train station here.

Cost: ~$2-$4/day

• Tuk-tuks
  A classic Thai experience, tuk-tuks are readily available and can take you between temples.
  Tip: Negotiate a rate for the entire day.
  
• Motorbikes or Scooters
  For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike offers greater flexibility.  You can rent a scooter next to the train station here.

Cost: ~$3-$9/day

• Walking
  While walking is possible for some sites, the distances between major temples make it less practical.

Day Trip to Ayutthaya – Itinerary

For your day trip to Ayutthaya we suggest you start out early out of Bangkok.  There are 4 ways to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok as listed above.  If you can swing it, we highly recommend taking a Grab (or other ride share) from your accommodations in Bangkok.  

Our cost was $30 USD  door to door in an electric car to boot.  This way you will be picked up at your hotel and dropped off at the first Wat before the crowds start forming at the ticket desk.

Day Trip Itinerary – What to See in Ayutthaya in 1 Day

The top things to do in Ayutthaya are arranged here based on the best time of day to visit each temple.  Here is the order and list of where to go in Ayutthaya:

• Arrive in Ayutthaya and grab a coffee or a drink to go from Coffee Old City
• Walk across the street to Wat Mahathat (get here early to beat the crowds and immediately walk over to the Buddha head in the tree as this place gets busy)
• Walk across the street to Wat Ratchaburana
• Head over to Wat Phra Ram
• Walk over to Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Have lunch at the air conditioned  Walk in Cafe and try the Prawn Noodles.  There is also a vegetarian menu which can be made vegan.
• Head over to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon (the distance is 4.3 km).  If you have time visit the giant ancient Buddha at Wat Phanan Choeng (another 2.2 km)
• Make your way over to Wat Phra Si Sanphet
• Head over to Wat Lokayasutharam (prior to going, check if the Reclining Buddha has been fully renovated – if not we do not recommend this visit).  If you have time stop in at Wat Worachettharam next door.
• For sunset around 17:00, head over to Wat Chaiwatthanaram.  Anticipate to spend at least an hour here as this is a very large area and the light at sunset is fantastic.  
• Either head back to Bangkok or have dinner at the stylish  Baan Pomphet and enjoy the view of the Chao Phraya river while you dine on grilled river prawns among other delicacies.  If you want more of a budget dinner then consider Mae Pranee Boat Noodle or if you are vegetarian or vegan head over to the Walk in Cafe.

PRO TIP: At your first Wat, purchase the 220 Bhat day pass to all 6 Wats, instead of paying 50 Bhat per visit.

Things to do in Ayutthaya – 2 Day Itinerary

Our suggestion is to arrive in Ayutthaya early to mid morning so that you can leave your bags at your accommodation and head out to some of the temples before lunch.  Keep in mind that the city does get pretty hot, so it is important to take it easy throughout the day – especially if you are biking.

Day 1 Itinerary – Ancient City of Ayutthaya

• Head over to Wat Phra Si Sanphet to catch the early morning light.
• Grab a coffee or a drink at Coffee Old City,
• Make your way (4.3 km) to Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
• Head towards the water (another 2.2 km) to see the large ancient Buddha at Wat Phanan Choeng
• Have lunch at Mae Pranee Boat Noodle or if you want a break from the heat go to Walk in Cafe (it is air conditioned)
• Head back to your hotel to relax and refresh!
• At around 3:30 pm head over to Wat Chaiwatthanaram and rent a costume (if that interests you) at one of the many costume rental shops in front of the temple.
• Head into Wat Chaiwatthanaram and spend the afternoon there.  The official closing time is 6:30 pm, however you can walk over to the river wall at that time and watch the temple lit up by flood lights.  You will need to leave no later than 7:00 pm (the unofficial closing time).
• Have dinner at the Baan Pomphet or one of the recommended restaurants below.

Day 2 Itinerary – Ancient City of Ayutthaya

• Start as the sun is rising over Ayutthaya (6:30 am) and visit Wat Lokayasutharam.  Even if the reclining Buddha is under construction, you will still want to see it.  
• Walk over to the lesser known “next door” Wat Worachettharam and see the sun rise over the large Buddha there.
• At 8:00 am head over to  Wat Mahathat to be one of the first people to see the Buddha Head entwined in the trees and make sure to see the rest of the sights.
• Walk across the street to Wat Ratchaburana
• Grab a coffee or a drink at Coffee Old City, or an early lunch if you are hungry.
• Stroll the Ancient Historical Park before lunch and pop into Wat Phra Ram if you have time.
• Lunch at Walk in Cafe or any of the other recommendations below.
• Head back to your hotel to relax in the heat of the day.
• In the afternoon head back out to see the unmissable murals of Wat Phutthaisawan.  
• Have dinner and some drinks  at the River Bar Ayutthaya.

Ancient City of Ayutthaya Temples

Below are some essential stops to include in your itinerary.  Please note that many of the temples charge 50 baht (about 1.40 USD) as an entry fee and hours for most of the temples are between 8:00 am – 6:00, although there are some exceptions listed below.

Wat Mahathat

Perhaps the most famous temple in Ayutthaya, Wat Mahathat is most known for the Buddha head entwined within the roots of a Bodhi tree. Throughout the centuries the roots of the tree encircled the face of the Buddha but never covered it. This is definitely one of the top things to do in Ayutthaya – therefore come early to avoid the lineups!

This area is monitored by security and you are not allowed to take a picture standing with the Buddha head below you.  There is a place to sit in front of the tree.

The actual temple was built in the 14th century and was one of the most important in the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Although the main prang is now missing its top portion due to collapses over the centuries, the remaining structure is still impressive.  

Opening hours are 8:00 am – 6:00 pm with a 50 Baht entrance fee.

Best Time: Early morning.  As this is one of the biggest attractions in the park, busloads of people arrive here all trying to take a picture with the Buddha head.  Therefore beat the crowds and make this your first stop.

Otherwise, you can come at any time.  This temple has quite a few trees and therefore provides shade throughout the hot day.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

A former royal temple, its three chedis are a signature feature of Ayutthaya’s skyline. This site once housed a massive golden Buddha. Unfortunately, it was looted during the Burmese invasion. If you are an early riser and want to get in prior to the opening hours of 8:00 am, there is a small opening on the north side of the wall to sneak in – we just followed a monk.

Opening hours are 8:00 am – 6:00 pm with a 50 Baht entrance fee.

Best Time: Early morning for cooler temperatures and soft lighting.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Positioned by the Chao Phraya River, this temple has Khmer-inspired architecture (think Angkor Wat – grand and ornate). Its central prang and surrounding chedis are strikingly well-preserved.  

This is a very large property that takes time to fully appreciate.  It is our favorite Ayutthaya temple due to it’s grandeur and how well it is preserved.  The light in the evening is spectacular, so make this your last stop of the day.  

Although the grounds officially close at 6:30 pm, to experience the temple in a totally different light, head over to the river at that time and watch the temple grounds be illuminated by flood lights.  The final call to shoo everyone out is at 7:00 pm

Best Time: Sunset offers stunning views and fewer visitors.

Opening hours are 8:00 am – 6:30 pm with a 50 Baht entrance fee.

Pro Tip: Shops around the Wat rent period costumes for fun photographs in and around the temple.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

This unique temple complex is a working monastery, located slightly out of town, known for its towering chedi surrounded by seated Buddhas,  a serene reclining Buddha facing east and numerous Buddha statues throughout the property. The lush gardens around the temple are perfect for a relaxed visit.

Opening hours are 8:00 am – 5:00 pm with a 20 Baht entrance fee.

Best Time: Early morning for best light

Pro Tip: Climb the chedi for panoramic views of Ayutthaya.

Wat Lokayasutharam

This temple is home to a massive 42-meter-long reclining Buddha, one of the largest in Thailand.  Unfortunately during our visit, the Buddha was under construction, so we got to see it with many supporting rods sticking out of it which did not make for great pictures.  In addition, the bricks that one sees in most of the pictures of the Buddha have now been plastered over with you guessed it – white plaster.

Best time: Sunrise or early morning

Open 24 hours a day with no entrance fee.

Pro Tip: Combine this visit with nearby Wat Worachettharam – the large Buddha inside the building on the grounds is quite beautiful, especially through the plain wooden frames that have been constructed in the building (which has no roof).

Wat Ratchaburana

Famous for its well-preserved crypt and intricate stucco work, this site is perfect for history lovers, because in 1424 AD, two brothers fought to the death for the throne of Ayutthaya. Their younger brother became king and built Wat Ratchaburana to honor them, complete with pagodas dedicated to each.

Explore the grounds and find large Buddha heads dotting the landscape. Leafy trees provide welcome shade. And don’t miss the stunning view of the central prang framed by the doorway of a ruined building near the entrance.

Best Time: Anytime in the morning or afternoon as the leafy trees provide great shade.

Opening hours are 8:00 am – 6:30 pm with a 50 Baht entrance fee.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Ayutthaya Temples

While the major places draw the crowds, there are Ayutthaya temples that are off the beaten path or not as famous that are also worth exploring:

Wat Worachettharam 

Built in 1593 this temple is rarely visited by tourists, however in the morning as the sun is rising it is quite impressive.  While the temple was damaged during the Burmese invasion of 1767, ongoing restoration efforts are reviving its former glory.  The prang, though roofless and windowless, houses a large Buddha statue that locals like to visit and pray to.  

Best time: Sunrise or early morning

Open 24 hours a day with no fee.

Wat Phra Ram

Wat Phra Ram was built in 1369 by King Ramesuan to honor his father. It has a tall Khmer-style tower and shows early Ayutthayan architecture. The temple sits next to a peaceful pond called Bueng Phra Ram, making it a great spot for relaxing and taking photos. It’s close to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, so it is an easy add on to a day trip to Ayutthaya.

Best time: Sunrise or sunset.

Open 8:00 am – 6:30 pm with a 50 Baht entrance fee.

Wat Phutthaisawan

Situated by the river, this is a centuries-old complex with a large white, multi tiered chedi and rows of golden Buddha statues & temple ruins.

In addition, this temple has ancient (yet quite faded) murals from the 1600s  which are located  in different structures throughout the property.  In one of the chedi’s there is a large Buddha footprint with gold accents, a relic and behind the relic a reclining Buddha worth seeing.  This temple is often overlooked by western tourists, so you may have it all to yourself. 

Best Time: Sunrise for the soft light, however sunset is also pretty.

Open 8:00 am – 5:30 pm with no fee.

Wat Phanan Choeng

This temple is also built right on the river.  It is known for its enormous golden Buddha statue which is 19 meters tall and was built in 1334 AD.  This temple and Buddha predates the city’s founding and remains an active place of worship.

Best Time: Any time as the Buddha is inside the temple. However early morning is better for cooler temperatures and soft lighting along the river.

Opening hours are weekdays 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and 7:00 am – 5:30 pm on the weekends.  Entry fee is 20 Baht.

Pro Tip: Combine this temple visit with Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

From budget hostels to luxurious boutique hotels, Ayutthaya has accommodation options to suit every traveler:

Budget:

Baan Penny Ayutthaya is a quiet accommodation with a row of bungalows offering air conditioning, good WIFI, a flat screen TV and private bathrooms with hot water. The hosts are very helpful and the bicycles are free.  Prices start at $27 USD per night.

Mid-Range:

Baan Thai House combines traditional Thai design with modern comforts.  3 star hotel starting at $53 USD per night.

Luxury:
Baan Pomphet is a stylish riverside 4 star resort with nice views and a good restaurant.  Prices start at $120 USD per night.

Where to Eat in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya offers an excellent mix of local street food and sit-down restaurants. Please note that very few restaurants have air conditioning.

Modern Options
The Walk in Cafe  has Thai and some Western dishes with great coffee and smoothie drinks.  Try the noodles with prawns or the black spaghetti with shrimp.  Some of the vegetarian menu dishes can be made vegan.  This restaurant has air conditioning. Very reasonable prices.

Coffee Old City has a mix of traditional Thai dishes along with croissant sandwiches and more Western fare.  Try the cashew chicken and the espresso orange for something completely different. Vegan options are available.  This restaurant has air conditioning. Reasonable prices.

Mae Pranee Boat Noodle a local favorite. This restaurant is all about the meats – beef and pork with noodles are recommended along with the Tom Yum Soup.  However, keep in mind that along with the meats you will be getting some liver, intestines and tripe.  Very reasonable prices.

Riverside Dining

Baan Pomphet serves fresh seafood dishes with a view of the river in an upscale restaurant.  Try the grilled river prawns and boiled freshwater snails in red curry soup.  Good wine options are available.

River Bar Ayutthaya has amazing Thai food and exotic drinks.  Try the grilled river prawns or the home made pizza.  Prices are reasonable.

The Summer House is a chill riverside café with a garden terrace which is lovely at sunset.  Dishes are fusion Thai staples & French pastries along with good coffee.  Favorites include the Tom Yum Kung Spaghetti.  Prices are on the higher end.

Street Food
Try the famous roti sai mai, a sweet treat made of spun sugar wrapped in thin pancakes.

Best Time to Visit the Ancient City of Ayutthaya

The ideal time to explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya is between November and February, when the weather is cooler, however during the heat of the day in December we were still sweating profusely. The months of March to May can be even more sweltering, while June to October sees sporadic rains but fewer crowds.

Practical Tips

• Dress appropriately for temple visits (cover shoulders and knees for both men and women).
• Bring water and sunscreen, as much of your day will be spent outdoors.
• Grab a coconut throughout the day to replenish the lost electrolytes due to sweating.
• Start early to beat the heat and avoid crowds.
• Consider hiring a guide or downloading an audio tour app for historical context (VoiceMap is pretty good).

Wrap Up – Day Trip to Ayutthaya

With its fascinating history and beautiful architecture a day trip to Ayutthaya or an extended stay gives us a unique window into Thailand’s past.  We really enjoyed strolling through the ancient city of Ayutthaya.  However, for us, the absolute highlight was Wat Chaiwatthanaram at sunset – a must visit!

We hope that our guide has given you insights into all the great things to do in Ayutthaya, at which time, where to stay and eat.  If you have any questions please do reach out in the comments and we will do our best to answer them so that your day trip to Ayutthaya – or longer – is a fantastic adventure.