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Ayutthaya travel guide
Guide me through Ayutthaya
As you enter the historical city of Ayutthaya, you’ll quickly realize that it is one of the most impressive places in Thailand. Established in 1351, Ayutthaya was once the capital of Thailand and is home to over 400 temples. Unfortunately, the city was destroyed in 1767 by the Burmese, but the remnants still stand as a testament to its glorious past.
To make the most of your visit, I recommend exploring eight must-see temples. While in Ayutthaya, be sure to try the famous Roti Sai Mai, a dish made with eggs, and Kuay Teow Reua, commonly known as boat noodles. You can find these dishes in many restaurants and markets throughout the city.
Not yet sure where to travel after Ayutthaya?
Temple guide to Ayutthaya
Quick Temple Guide
As previously mentioned, Ayutthaya is home to hundreds of temples and ruins. In this guide, I have highlighted the city’s eight most beautiful and unique temples. To avoid the crowds and fully enjoy these temples, it is best to wake up early before sunrise and head to your favorite temple.
Here are the favorites:
- Wat Mahathat (most visited temple, a relic of Buddha embedded in a tree, best to visit late afternoon)
- Wat Yai Chai Mongkon (large stupa, large reclining Buddha, visit the temple gardens behind it)
- Wat Phra Ram (burial site of U-Thong, the founder of Ayutthaya)
- Wat Ratchaburana (well-preserved, Khmer style)
- Wat Phra Sri Sanphet (holiest and most royal, three-in-a-line chedis)
- Wat Chai Watthanaram (Khmer style, 8 chedis)
- Wat Na Phra Men (active monastery, Hindu and Buddhist architecture)
- Chedi Phukhao Thong (all-white temple, best to go for sunrise or sunset, empty in the morning)
Even if you are not interested in ancient temples, I still recommend visiting Wat Mahathat, Wat Yai Chai Mongkon, and Chedi Phu Khao Thong as they are must-see attractions.
More fun activities around Ayutthaya
More Activities
Done with exploring ancient temples? Head 20 minutes south to the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace which features beautifully ornate buildings and gardens surrounded by a large lake.
After visiting all the exhausting attractions in the city, you can take a break and relax in the large Rama Park. Once you have gathered your newfound energy, you can visit the Floating Market or shop at the Chao Phrom Market.
However, it is important to note that there are many people offering elephant rides to tourists in the area. It is not recommended to support or participate in this activity. If you want to interact with elephants, it is better to find good, verified places in other cities across Thailand where you can meet these gentle giants.
Transportation tips for Ayutthaya
Getting Around
There are various transportation options available to get around Ayutthaya. The best option is to rent a scooter, which you can find throughout the city. However, if you are not comfortable with driving in a foreign country, you can also rent bicycles, hire tuk-tuks, or catch a bus.
If you decide to rent a bike, always check the brakes, tires, and locks to ensure your safety. Bicycles are inexpensive and a great way to explore Ayutthaya, but make sure to take into account the distance between temples and the hot, tropical weather. To visit all temples in one day, it can take you anywhere between 4 and 5+ hours of biking, so depending on how long you are staying in the city, you may want to split the temples and take two days to explore them by bicycle.
If you prefer not to drive or ride by yourself, you can rent a tuk-tuk for a day. The driver will take you to all the attractions and wait for you at each one. Be sure to negotiate a fair price with the driver and avoid any city tours they might offer. Instead, insist on visiting the attractions of your choice. Otherwise, they may take you to the most touristy spots and try to make you buy expensive items from their friends.
If you are traveling in a group or have met some travel buddies at your hotel or hostel, you can share a tuk-tuk to split the cost and have some company during your exploration. Buses are not the best choice due to their fixed routes and schedules, but taking a boat tour is another fun way to discover Ayutthaya.