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Ayutthaya Historical Park

  • Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand

Last updated: 25 June, 2023

Before Bangkok – or Krung Thep – became Thailand’s (then Siam) capital in 1782, Ayutthaya was the Kingdom’s centre of power. As one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities of that time, it drew in merchants from all corners of the globe and grew into a vast empire of grand palaces and gilded temples. That abruptly ended when the Burmese ransacked the city in 1767 and reduced its splendours to rubble.

Today, it stands as a ruined shell of its former past, littered with bricks, dilapidated shrines and crumbling Buddha statues consumed by nature. But wander around these ruins, and you’ll only need a pinch of imagination to envision just how splendid this city once was.

While you’re there

Besides its crumbling temples, Ayutthaya is also a hotbed for contemporary architecture. Many design hotels and restaurants line its riverbanks, with Sala Ayutthaya and Baan Pom Phet as some of its smartest spots for lunch or coffee after sightseeing.

Logistics

Price from: £3
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Dozens of tour operators arrange day trips from Bangkok, either by minivan or by riverboat (the latter is usually offered as a scenic way to return to Bangkok). Public minivans connect both cities throughout the day, and several trains leave from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station in the morning.

Most of the ancient temples are located within the Ayutthaya Historical Park. To get around, you can hire bicycles for about 100 THB a day. As a less sweat-inducing alternative, a tuk-tuk driver can whisk you between temples for around 1000 THB a day, depending on your bargaining skills.

Given Ayutthaya’s fascinating history, this is one of those places where a good guide can make all the difference. Book ahead with a tour operator or arrange one on-the-spot at the park’s headquarters.

When to do it

The site is open all year round, though you should avoid the hottest months (April and May) if you can – there’s little shade to be found.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Bangkok

• Join this cultural day trip to UNESCO World Heritage Site Ayutthaya, once Asia’s most magnificent capital. • Say goodbye to long, stressful bus journeys on this convenient small-group guided tour. • See Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, the summer home of Thai kings, and explore the ruins of ancient Ayutthaya. • Visit iconic sites, including Wat Mahathat, Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkol • Learn about Thai Buddhism as you tour Ayutthaya’s ancient temples (wats) • Experience unique itineraries crafted alongside famous travel bloggers and local guides • Hop aboard two-way transfers from Bangkok hotels within selected areas or National Stadium Station. • Enjoy a TripGuru Signature experience: curated, solo travel-friendly, and in small groups. • Last-minute booking is available for the meeting point option

Price $35

Min age 0

Rating 4.59 / 5 [921 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Bangkok

Visit the old capital and ancient home of the Siamese kings on a full-day, private tour starting from your hotel in Bangkok. A personal guide introduces you to the ancient capital of Siam, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and Bang Pa In, the summer palace. All entrance fees and lunch are covered included and after the tour a transfer back to your hotel.

Price THB 4,400

Min age 0

Rating 4.82 / 5 [304 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Bangkok

Travelers interested in Thai culture and history, as well as Buddhism & Thai Local Dance will love this day tour or afternoon tours, Where now you can experience world heritage site with heritage 100’s years boat. - Visit some of Ayutthaya’s MUST-see sights, including temples, palaces, and enormous Buddha statues by Bus - A lifetime boating experience with traditional Thai dance is included in our memorable trip - Do not forget to take some of the nice picture at our 100’s Year old boat. A picture with Thai Umbrella could be an Instagram sensation - You can order your food while you are in the bus, we have veg, non veg or fruits options available to select. Even you can order some drink of your choice when you arrive at Ayutthaya - We do provide you an option to dress in Traditional Thai Dress in case you want to experience ancient Ayutthaya Kingdom back in time - Hop aboard two-way transfers from our Meeting Point at Hilton Garden Inn Bangkok Silom or Novotel Hotel Ploenchit

Price THB 1,301

Min age 0

Rating 4.46 / 5 [271 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Bangkok

This private tour from Bangkok features the best of Ayutthaya attractions with an emphasis on the local culture, history and Thai arts with expert local guides who provide the exceptional insight and connection to the local people and culture. Tour include pick up from hotel in Bangkok at 08:00 or​ 09:00​ a.m. and drop off service. Explore the famous historical temples which built since the late 14th century, including Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the ancient palace and chapel and Wiharn Mongkolbophit (Assembly hall). Optional lunch at the local restaurant. Taste the famous dessert of Ayutthaya "Roti Saimai" and shopping at the local market. Enjoy your private small boat tour, view the famous historical sites including historical temples. Return to your hotel in Bangkok by private air​ conditioned​ vehicle. Important note : * Please advise the full names of all travelers as passport at time of booking (in case of Insurance).

Price THB 4,900

Min age 0

Rating 4.98 / 5 [252 ratings]

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  • Bangkok

What if there was a way to experience Ancient city of Ayutthaya away from the big tourist busses and audio guides? Well, you are in luck because this is the private day trip you are looking for! Meet your local guide in Bangkok and embark on a Ancient city of Ayutthaya journey where you'll get to discover this unique attraction. Yes, get ready to experience Ayutthaya's Ancient City from an authentic perspective with its highlights, the ins and outs, stories and cultural facts. And don't forget to check out Wat Pra Srisanpetch temple, a must-see while exploring with your local guide. Withlocals The Ultimate Ancient city of Ayutthaya Private Day Trip™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local products and prevent overtourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Price €226

Min age 0

Rating 4.96 / 5 [125 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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