Ayutthaya: Ancient Ruins, River Rides, and Majestic Delights

Discover the ancient wonders of Ayutthaya, Thailand, on a family adventure like no other.

19 July 2023

Ayutthaya, located just north of Bangkok, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip in Thailand. Known for its ancient ruins, the historic city offers a unique blend of history and adventure. Families can explore the ancient temples, rent bicycles to tour the sprawling archaeological park, and enjoy boat rides along the Chao Phraya River, making it a great destination to immerse in cultural experiences while creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Ancient City

  • Start your day marveling at the majestic Wat Mahathat, where the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots will make you go "OMG, nature!"
  • Hop on a tuk-tuk and zip your way to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple that'll transport you back to the time of Ayutthaya's glory. Don't forget your camera to capture the awe-inspiring ruins!
  • -Take a break from the heat and head over to Ayothaya Floating Market for a tasty Thai feast. From pad Thai to mango sticky rice, your taste buds will scream "Sawasdee yum!"
  • After lunch, take a leisurely boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, where you can soak up the scenic views and spot some adorable river otters. Keep your eyes peeled, they're sneaky!
  • Make a stop at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal, where you can meet these gentle giants up close. Feeding them bananas will earn you their trunk-slap of approval!
  • End your day with a magical sunset visit to Wat Chaiwatthanaram. As the sky turns hues of gold and orange, you might even catch a glimpse of ancient spirits whispering tales from the past. Spooky yet enchanting!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Ayutthaya by plane is to fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and then take a taxi or minibus from there. The journey takes around 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

Car

The most convenient way to get to Ayutthaya by car is to hire a taxi or book a private transfer from Bangkok. The journey takes around 1.5 hours depending on traffic. It's best to avoid rush hour if possible.

Train

Ayutthaya has its own train station, so taking the train is a good option. There are regular services from Bangkok which take around 90 minutes. The station is located in the city center, making it convenient to get around.

Boat

Although there are no direct boat services to Ayutthaya, it is possible to take a river cruise from Bangkok to Bang Pa-In and then take a taxi or bus to Ayutthaya. This can be a scenic way to travel and takes around 3-4 hours depending on the cruise.

Bus

There are a number of buses that run from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. The best option is to take a bus from Mo Chit Bus Terminal as they run regularly throughout the day. The journey takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Destination

Ayutthaya

Welcome to the city that'll make you say Ayutthayayayaya! This former royal capital is packed with ancient temples, tasty street food, and a lot of tuk-tuks.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Ayutthaya Adventure: A Romantic Day Trip

Ayutthaya, Thailand is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Experience the ancient temples, explore markets selling handmade crafts, and take a romantic boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. End your day with a couple's massage, followed by a candlelit dinner under the stars.

Ayutthaya Adventure: Temples, Trains, and Tranquility

Ayutthaya, Thailand offers a fantastic family-friendly trip filled with ancient history and cultural experiences. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya Historical Park, where kids can discover impressive temple ruins and learn about the city's fascinating past. Enjoy a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River and indulge in delicious Thai cuisine while creating lasting memories with your loved ones in this enchanting destination.

The Ultimate Ayutthaya Weekend Adventure.

As a tourist in Ayutthaya, one will be immersed in the rich history and culture of Thailand. The city was once a thriving capital filled with stunning temples, palaces, and ruins, which still stand today. Visitors can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site by foot, bike, or boat, discovering the beauty and charm of ancient Siam.

4-Day Ayutthaya Adventure: Temples, Food, Fun!

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient temples, historical sites, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can explore the city's rich culture at a low cost by wandering through its many affordable markets and street food stalls. Budget accommodation and transportation options are available, making this an excellent destination for those seeking a budget-friendly trip to Thailand.