Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, once the proud capital of the Kingdom of Siam, is now a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture lovers alike. Wandering through the mind-bogglingly intricate, centuries-old Ayutthaya temples is a true delight. Meanwhile, the city’s peaceful riverside setting adds to its sense of quiet calm. Bangkok may be pretty close, but Ayutthaya feels like an entirely different world.
Why visit Ayutthaya?
Just an hour from the unstoppable juggernaut of modern Bangkok lies the peaceful and charming riverside town of Ayutthaya. It’s the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the Thai capital, and just a short train ride away.
While the pace of life is slower, Ayutthaya is no less awe-inspiring than its neighbour. Instead of towering skyscrapers, let your jaw drop at the centuries-old temple ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital of the Kingdom of Siam.
But it’s not all ancient history and dusty ruins. Ayutthaya is a thriving town with a lively nightlife, bustling night markets, relaxed riverside bars and restaurants, plus a wealth of cultural experiences. And thanks to its compact size, nothing is more than a short tuk-tuk or bicycle ride away. Perfect!
Top things to do in Ayutthaya:
- Explore Wat Mahathat – and keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots
- Take a sunset cruise around Ayutthaya’s rivers, offering unique views of the ancient ruins
- Visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet: the most important temple of the ancient kingdom
- Cycle between the temple ruins for a more relaxed experience of Ayutthaya Historical Park
Old Siam is calling…
Considering its proximity to the Thai capital, there’s no excuse not to stop by and pay your respects to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, even if it’s just for a day trip. However, rushing through Ayutthaya would be a mistake. This charming city is the perfect place to spend a few days: even if much of your time is spent enjoying sundowners by the riverside.
Whether you’re looking for a quick tour of the main sights or to base yourself here for a few days of relaxation, our team can easily craft the ideal itinerary for you. Ayutthaya offers an excellent range of accommodation and dining options to suit all budgets – and we know them all! Let us be your local guide and plan the perfect trip.
Travel Tips
- Rent a bike and explore Ayutthaya temples at your own speed
- Relax after your excursions with a sunset boat cruise
- Get to the more popular temples as early as possible to avoid the crowds
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