Ayutthaya Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture in Ayutthaya, Thailand with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historic city located in the Chao Phraya Basin, in Central Thailand. Founded in 1350, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam for over 400 years before it was destroyed by invading Burmese armies in the mid-18th century. Today, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for its rich history, cultural significance, and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Ayutthaya

If you’re planning a trip to Ayutthaya, here are the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ayutthaya Historical Park
  • Chao Sam Phraya Museum
  • Million Toy Museum
  • Ayutthaya Elephant Palace
  • Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
  • Wat Mahathat
  • Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Natural Attractions of Ayutthaya: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bang Pa-in Royal Palace
  • Khlong Suan Market
  • Chao Phraya River
  • Ayutthaya Elephant Camp
  • Wat Phanan Choeng
  • Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the city’s history and natural beauty. Here are the top hiking/biking routes to check out:

  • Along the Ayutthaya Riverside (15km)
  • Ayutthaya Loop (29km)
  • Ayutthaya Heritage Route (12km)
  • Ayutthaya Exploration (50km)

Best Things to Do in Ayutthaya: Activities and Tours

  • Boat tour along the Chao Phraya River
  • Bike tour of Ayutthaya’s temples and historical sites
  • Elephant ride through the city
  • Thai cooking lesson
  • Thai massage and spa treatments
  • Traditional puppet show

Week-Long Itinerary for Ayutthaya

Day 1: Arrival and exploration of Ayutthaya Historical Park Day 2: Visit Bang Pa-in Royal Palace and Wat Phanan Choeng temple Day 3: Bike tour of Ayutthaya’s temples and historical sites Day 4: Boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and visit Wat Chaiwatthanaram Day 5: Thai cooking lesson and traditional puppet show Day 6: Elephant ride through the city and spa treatments Day 7: Departure from Ayutthaya

Food and Drink Scene of Ayutthaya

No trip to Ayutthaya is complete without trying local dishes and beverages. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khao soi noodles
  • Pad Thai
  • Som tam (papaya salad)
  • Tom Yum Soup
  • Massaman Curry

Local Beverages

  • Thai iced tea
  • Coconut water
  • Chang beer
  • Mekhong whiskey

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Ayutthaya to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the city:

  • Ayothaya Hotel
  • Krungsri River Hotel
  • Old Palace Resort
  • Green Hostel
  • Tony’s Place Beds and Breakfast
  • Baan Are Gong Riverside Homestay

What to Buy in Ayutthaya: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Here are the top things to buy in Ayutthaya:

  • Handmade ceramics and pottery
  • Thai silk items
  • Thai spices and dried fruits
  • Local snacks and sweets
  • Traditional Thai clothing and accessories

Local Culture and Customs of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya has a rich and vibrant culture that revolves around Buddhism, local traditions, and festivals. Here are some of the local customs and cultural practices to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Remove shoes before entering temples and homes.
  • Show respect for the Buddhist monks and nuns.
  • Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects.
  • Learn some basic Thai phrases to communicate with locals.

Best Time to Visit Ayutthaya

The best time to visit Ayutthaya is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry, and the skies are clear. The city can get quite hot and humid from March to May, while the rainy season lasts from June to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ayutthaya

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Learn some basic Thai phrases.
  • Bargain when shopping in markets and stalls.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

Don’t:

  • Dress inappropriately or revealingly.
  • Touch anyone’s head, as it is considered as the most sacred part of the body.
  • Disrespect Thai royalty or religious symbols.
  • Point your feet at people or sacred objects.
  • Use your left hand when giving or receiving anything.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a relatively safe city, and violent crimes are rare. However, visitors should still take some precautions to ensure their safety, like:

  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated or dark areas.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and during transportation.
  • Use registered taxis or transportation services.
  • Be aware of scams, like fake tickets or tour packages.
  • Wear a helmet when renting a bike or motorcycle.

Health in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a generally healthy place to visit, with no major health risks or disease outbreaks. However, visitors should take some basic precautions to stay healthy, like:

  • Drink bottled or filtered water.
  • Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn or heatstroke.
  • Practice safe sex and use condoms.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any health problems.

Getting to Ayutthaya: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ayutthaya is located about 80 km north of Bangkok, and there are several transportation options to reach the city:

Airports Near Ayutthaya

The closest airport to Ayutthaya is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is about 76 km away. There are several transport options from the airport, including private taxis, shared vans, or airport buses.

Bus Stations Near Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya has two main bus terminals, the Old Bus Terminal, and the New Bus Terminal. Both terminals offer regular bus services to and from Bangkok and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Ayutthaya by train, taxi, or car. There is a direct train service from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, and taxis or cars can be rented from Bangkok or nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a relatively small city and easy to navigate, with many transportation options available:

  • Tuk-tuks: These three-wheeled vehicles are the most popular mode of transportation, and it’s best to negotiate the price before getting on.
  • Bikes and motorbikes: Many shops and rental services offer bikes or motorbikes for hire, which can be a fun and efficient way to explore the city.
  • Songthaews: These are shared taxis that operate on fixed routes, and they are a cheap way to move around the city.
  • Private cars or taxis: Visitors can also hire private cars or taxis for a more comfortable and customized experience.

Where to Go Next from Ayutthaya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some time to spare, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to explore from Ayutthaya, including:

  • Lopburi: A historic city known for its monkey population and ancient ruins.
  • Sukhothai: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning temples and palaces.
  • Khao Yai National Park: A popular nature reserve with diverse wildlife and scenic waterfalls.
  • Bangkok: Thailand’s bustling capital city, known for its food, nightlife, and cultural landmarks.

Conclusion

Ayutthaya is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. With our comprehensive travel guide, you’ll know everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Ayutthaya.

Map of Ayutthaya Map of Ayutthaya Wat Phra Si Sanphet Wat Phra Si Sanphet Headless Buddha statues, Wat Mahathat Headless Buddha statues, Wat Mahathat Wiharn at Wat Thammikarat Wiharn at Wat Thammikarat Phra Chedi Suriyothai Phra Chedi Suriyothai Wat Chaiwatthanaram Wat Chaiwatthanaram Chedi at Wat Phu Khao Thong Chedi at Wat Phu Khao Thong Ayothaya Floating Market Ayothaya Floating Market