▶ Ayutthaya Guide: What to See and How to Get There (2025)

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Updated: June 28, 2025

Ayutthaya is one of the most popular day trips from Bangkok. It’s just 80 km away and one of the most important archaeological sites in Thailand. If you’re into temples, historic ruins, and walking through places full of past glory, you’re going to love it.

In this guide, I share what to see in Ayutthaya, how to get there from Bangkok, how to get around, where to stay, and a few tips to make the most of your visit.

If you don’t have time to read the whole thing, you can book your train or bus ticket from Bangkok here. And if you prefer a more convenient option, I recommend this day-trip —it includes transport, lunch, and a guided visit to the main temples, plus it's super affordable. 🤑

A Bit of History

Ayutthaya was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Siam from the 14th to the 18th century. It became a thriving city with over a million people (which was insane for that time!) and more than 400 temples within its walls. It was a major trade hub in Southeast Asia, exporting wood, ivory, sugar, and silk like crazy.

Everything was going great... until 1767, when the Burmese came and destroyed almost everything. Many Buddha statues were beheaded, and their heads still lie among the ruins today as a reminder of the city’s destruction.

Today, the ruins are part of the Ayutthaya Historical Parkwhich became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

What to See in Ayutthaya

Here are the temples and spots you definitely shouldn’t miss. If you don’t have a lot of time, I’ve marked the top 6 must-sees with asterisks (*), and there’s a map below with all the places pinned:

1. Wat Mahathat *

The most famous temple, known for the Buddha head wrapped in tree roots. According to legend, the tree protected it after the attack. It’s a very iconic image.
💰 Entrance Fee: 80 baht

🙏 Very important: If you take a photo next to the Buddha head, squat down. Standing above a Buddha is considered disrespectful.

2. Wat Ratcha Burana *

One of the biggest and best-preserved temples. It dates back to 1424 and has a crypt decorated with old frescoes.
💰 Entrance Fee: 80 baht

3. Wat Phra Ram

Right next to the old Royal Palace, this temple is often skipped but totally worth a visit. It has a beautiful central prang, surrounded by ruins and a small lake. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot—perfect for a little break.
💰 Entrance Fee: 80 baht

4. Wat Si Sanphet *

One of the most iconic temples. It was the royal temple and is famous for its row of chedis (stupas).
💰 Entrance Fee: 80 baht

5. Viharn Phra Mongkol Bophit *

Right next to the one above, this temple is known for its massive bronze Buddha statue.
💰 Entrance Fee: Free

6. Wat Lokayasutha

Here you’ll find the famous 42-meter-long reclining Buddha. It’s outdoors and free to visit, so it’s definitely worth a quick stop—it’s seriously impressive.
💰 Entrance Fee: Free

7. Wat Chai Watthanaram *

A bit farther from the main temple area, but totally worth it for its Khmer-style architecture that looks a lot like Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The central pagoda is super photogenic. It’s a great spot for sunset photos.
💰 Entrance Fee: 80 baht

8. Wat Phu Khao Thong

This temple is about 4 km from the historic center, but if you’re riding a scooter or bike, it’s a nice extra stop. There’s a big white stupa you can climb for awesome views of the city. Plus, it’s not touristy at all, so it’s usually nice and quiet.
💰 Entrance Fee: 20 baht

9. Wat Yai Chai Mongkol *

Located just outside the historic center, this one’s a great place to start if you get there early. The massive stupas and the views from the top are amazing.
💰 Entrance Fee: 20 baht

10. Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Also known as the Summer Palace, this used to be the royal family’s residence and has beautifully maintained gardens. It’s a bit farther out and makes for a relaxing visit—but if you only have one day, I’d say skip it.
💰 Entrance Fee: 100 baht

👍 Friendly Tip: if you’re planning to visit several temples, it’s worth getting the combo ticket (300 baht). You can buy it at any of the main temples.

✔️ Prices updated as of June 2025.

🎥 Movie trivia: scenes from movies like Kickboxer with Jean-Claude Van Damme were filmed here. I talk more about that in this article on 7 Movies Filmed in Thailand.

Map

❌ Places to Skip in Ayutthaya

Floating Market: even though floating markets are usually pretty cool, the one in Ayutthaya is super touristy. In my opinion, not worth it.
Elephant rides: sadly, Ayutthaya is one of the few places where they still offer elephant rides. Please avoid them. These animals aren’t meant to carry people and they also receive corporal punishment.

How to Get There from Bangkok

There are several ways to get to Ayutthaya, here I summarize the main ones:

1. Driving

Great if you want to go at your own pace. You’ll get there in under an hour, and it’s easy to continue your trip to visit Sukhothai and Chiang Mai.

To rent a car in Thailand, I recommend this website—it’s the one I always use, and I’ve found cars for under 12 euros / 14 USD a day.

2. Train

A cheap and scenic option. It’s the same train that goes from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, and tickets to Ayutthaya start at just €2 in third class. Just a heads-up—those fans are tiny and don’t always work, and the seats are really uncomfortable (see photo below). I’d suggest booking at least second class with A/C.

Trains in Bangkok leave from Bang Sue and Don Mueang stations. The ride takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15. You can check schedules, prices, and book your ticket on this website.

train-third-class-Thailand — Third-class car, look at the tiny fan on the ceiling

3. Minibus

Several companies run between Bangkok and Ayutthaya. They leave from Mochit Station and the Khao San Road area.

The trip takes about 2 hours and costs from €4. You can check the schedule and book your tickethere.

4. Boat

A more scenic option—some people take a boat back to Bangkok. You can book it on the spot once you’re there. Personally, I didn’t do it. I honestly didn't find it very interesting. 😉

5. Day tour to Ayutthaya

The easiest option is joining a guided tour so you don’t miss out on any of the amazing history.

I recommend this day trip—it’s the one I took. It includes transport and lunch.

It’s also super affordable and actually ends up cheaper than going on your own and hiring a guide there. Just so you know, local guides at the park charge around 2,500 baht (about €67).

You can check availability and book it in the form below.

How to Get Around Ayutthaya

The temples aren’t too far apart, but the heat can be brutal. Here are your options:

🚴‍♀️ Bicycle: cheap and eco-friendly, but get ready to sweat like crazy.

🛵 Motorbike: the best option. Starts at 200 baht/day and gives you total freedom.

🛺 Tuk tuk: I don’t usually recommend tuk tuks because of scams, but drivers in Ayutthaya are usually pretty honest. Just be ready to negotiate the price.

⭐ Related articles: 15 Most Common Scams in Thailand and how to avoid them; and How to Rent and Drive a Motorcycle in Thailand.

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

If you want to explore the temples at a slower pace or catch the sunset without rushing, spending the night is a great idea. Plus, it makes it easier to head north afterward.

Here are some options for every budget:

€€€ One Dhatu: stylish and luxurious, with huge rooms with hot tub.
€€€ iuDia: great location, pool to cool off, and a really good breakfast. Best value for money.
€€ Baan Luang: excellent location and has a pool.
€ Niwas: lovely bungalows and budget rooms, plus free bikes.
€ Zleepinezz: central, clean, breakfast included. Offers both dorms and private rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I visit Ayutthaya in one day?

Yes, totally. Even though the site is pretty big (about 289 hectares—that’s like 578 football fields!), the main temples are close together.

People sometimes compare it to Angkor Wat, but just so you know: Ayutthaya isn’t “small,” it’s just that Angkor is enormous. If you plan your day well, you’ll be able to hit the highlights.

That said, I wouldn’t recommend visiting the palace if you’ve only got one day—it’s too far. And if you’re short on time, just focus on the six must-sees I marked with asterisks above.

2. Is Ayutthaya worth visiting?

Definitely. Even if you’ve already seen Angkor Wat, Ayutthaya has a totally different vibe and its own charm. The ruins, the stupas, the tree roots wrapped around statues, and the peaceful atmosphere make it 100% worth a day on your Thailand trip.

Final Thoughts

Ayutthaya is a historical gem that’s super easy to visit from Bangkok. Whether you go on your own or with a tour, it won’t disappoint. Just don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and lots of water!

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘