Ayutthaya from Bangkok: Planning a Day or a Night Among the Ruins
What Ayutthaya actually is
Ayutthaya was an ancient capital of the Siamese kingdom, an important center for centuries until it was destroyed in the eighteenth century. What remains are red-brick ruins, Buddha statues and towers, and the site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It is one of the most impressive days you can do from Bangkok, with no flight and no complicated logistics. And if you are choosing temples right now, we have a list of temples worth seeing.
How to get there from Bangkok
You can go by train, bus, minivan, private car with a driver or an organized tour. The trip takes roughly one to two hours, depending on the option and the traffic. Check ahead which station you leave from and at what times, because they change.
For hiring a car and driver or other options, see the guide to getting around Thailand.
How to get around the sites
The sites are spread out, and the heat can be draining. Your options: rental bicycles, a pleasant way to go in the cooler hours; a tuk-tuk with a driver for a few hours; and a boat tour around the city island. If you choose a tuk-tuk, agree on the route and the price beforehand. More on that in the bargaining guide.
Walking suits only a small area. Plan breaks in the shade and cold water.
When to go and what to see
The best time is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is beautiful and the heat is easier. Well-known spots are Wat Mahathat, with its Buddha head wrapped in tree roots, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram on the riverbank, which is a good choice for sunset.
The dress code is the same as at any active temple: shoulders and knees covered. At some sites enforcement varies, but it is better to be prepared.
One day, or a night
One day is enough to see the essentials, but a night lets you see the ruins at sunset and in the morning. You can also add a visit to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace on the way back if you have time. If you decide to stay, here are a few hotels in the city.
If you continue north, you can fit Ayutthaya on the way to Sukhothai or Chiang Mai, as shown in our guide to lesser-known destinations.
Real data ยท Agoda
Real data ยท Agoda
Real data ยท AgodaQuick summary
Leave early, choose a bike or a tuk-tuk, wear covering clothes and drink water. And if this is part of a full trip, start with the Ayutthaya destination page and the Bangkok destination page.
Was this guide helpful?