Ayutthaya Day Trip from Bangkok – Complete Guide to Ancient Temples

Wondering if Ayutthaya is worth visiting during your Thailand trip? I was wondering the same thing – until I finally went. And let me tell you: it’s absolutely worth it.

This is one of those places that stays in your head for a long time – not just because of the ruins and temples, but because of the atmosphere that reminds you how rich this country’s history was.

Ayutthaya was once one of the largest and most important cities in Southeast Asia. Today it’s a peaceful place full of ruined temples and sacred tranquility, just an hour’s train ride from Bangkok.

In this Ayutthaya day trip guide, I’ll show you:

• what to see in Ayutthaya in one day
• how to get there from Bangkok (including the best train options)
• and where to stop for delicious food (because let’s face it, food is always an important part of the itinerary).

Ready? Let’s go!

Ayutthaya Day Trip – Introduction with Soul

Ayutthaya is one of those places that stays in your memory for a long time.

Founded in the 14th century by King U Thong, for over 400 years it was the capital of the mighty Kingdom of Siam – and one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia.

In its heyday, it was bustling with life: over a million people lived here, and merchants from China, Japan, India and Europe settled in international districts, trading silk, porcelain, and spices.

Today it’s a peaceful, green place – full of temple ruins, brick stupas and Buddha heads embraced by tree roots.

Destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century, it disappeared from maps for a long time. But what survived is hugely impressive – and allows a glimpse into the times when Ayutthaya was one of the most important cities in this part of the world.

Ayutthaya – What to See? One-Day Sightseeing Plan

Ayutthaya sightseeing requires good planning – if you’re planning a trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, it’s worth preparing a list of places you want to see beforehand.

There are really quite a few temples here – in its heyday, there were over four hundred!

Today, around 40 ruins and complexes remain that still make a huge impression – both in terms of history and architecture.

But let’s be honest: you can’t see everything in one day. Each temple has its own character, different atmosphere, and sometimes… a complete lack of tourists, which also does the trick.

Below you’ll find the places I visited myself and that stuck in my memory the most. It’s the perfect route for a one-day walk or bike ride if you want to feel the atmosphere of Ayutthaya without rushing.

Attractions Map

Wat Ratchaburana – Royal History and Hidden Treasure

This was my first temple of the day – and what a start! Wat Ratchaburana not only looks spectacular, but also hides one of the most fascinating stories in Ayutthaya.

It was built in 1424 on the initiative of King Borommarachathirat II, exactly at the cremation site of his two brothers, who… died in a fratricidal fight for the throne. Sounds like a TV series plot, but this really happened.

The temple was a place of prayer and royal burials, and its tall prang (tower) dominates the area and you can even go inside.

Inside there are beautiful wall paintings (partially preserved) and a burial chamber where treasure was once discovered – golden artifacts and relics.

It’s the perfect place to start sightseeing – it’s less crowded than others and really impressive.

Wat Mahathat – Buddha Head Embraced by a Tree

Wat Mahathat is one of those temples you see in photos before you even go to Thailand – the Buddha head wrapped in tree roots is an absolute icon of Ayutthaya.

But this place has much more to offer than just an Instagram shot.

Built in the 14th century (around 1374) by King Borommarach I, the temple was once the main religious center of Ayutthaya and for centuries played an important role in the city’s life – both spiritual and social.

Today it’s one of the most popular and visited places, but despite the crowds, it has something magical about it. Crumbling walls, collapsing prangs and silence among the ruins make it easy to stop here and… just be.

And that famous Buddha head grown into the tree – I’d seen dozens of photos, but in real life it makes an even bigger impression. Mysterious, peaceful, as if nature and spirituality merged into one.

Admission costs 50 baht, but it’s really worth it. This place is the essence of Ayutthaya – beautiful, symbolic and full of history.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet – Royal Elegance in Ruin

If I had to point out the most majestic ruins in Ayutthaya, it would undoubtedly be Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

Three impressive chedi (burial towers) rising from the red earth look as if time stopped for them – despite the destruction, they still exude royal tranquility.

It was once the most important temple on royal grounds, accessible only to the royal family. Here ceremonies were held, here the ashes of rulers were kept.

Moreover – this temple served as inspiration for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, so its significance is really hard to overestimate.

Although mainly a brick memory remains, its form still enchants – regular galleries, geometric layout, monumental space. Walking here in the morning, I felt like I could hear the echo of ancient ceremonies.

It’s one of those places where you stop not just to take a photo – but to feel that you’re part of something bigger.

Wat Mongkhon Bophit – 55-foot of Spiritual Silence

Just a few steps from the royal ruins of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, you’ll find a place that still pulses with spiritual life – Wat Mongkhon Bophit.

This is where one of the largest Buddha statues in all of Thailand is located – a monumental, over 55-foot figure made of gilded bronze, which has been attracting both believers and travelers for centuries.

The statue was created in the 16th century and has been through a lot – it was damaged by storms and fire, and its reconstruction was a real challenge. But looking at this sculpture today, it’s hard to believe it survived so many trials.

Inside there’s peace and the light scent of incense, and the gilded Buddha makes an incredible impression – not only with its size, but also with its aura of concentration and silence.

It’s worth going in, even for a moment, to sit and breathe. It’s a beautiful reminder that Ayutthaya is not just the past, but also living spirituality.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram – Sunset with a View of Ancient Power

I saved Wat Chaiwatthanaram for the end of my one-day Ayutthaya route – and it was a bullseye. This temple has something fairytale-like about it, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.

Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong, it was meant to be a place of contemplation and prayer for his family. And indeed – the entire complex emanates peace, but also power.

The main prang (Khmer-style tower) is 115-foot high and looks almost like from an ancient civilization movie set.

The temple layout resembles Angkor Wat – not coincidentally, because Ayutthaya rulers modeled themselves on Khmer architecture to emphasize their power.

This place also has romance in it – sunset over the Chao Phraya, reflecting in the water, makes the entire complex look magical. Simply put: it’s the perfect place to end the day.

How to Get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

By Train – the Best Option for Ayutthaya Day Trip

The most convenient (and most atmospheric!) way to get to Ayutthaya is by train. It’s not only a cheap option, but also a great opportunity to peek into everyday life outside the city.

Trains depart mainly from the new Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (formerly Bang Sue Grand Station), but you’ll still find a few services from the old Hua Lamphong.

Ticket prices (one way):

• third class (no AC): 20-45 THB
• second class (no AC): 65-185 THB
• second class with air conditioning: 245-345 THB
• first class with AC and sleeper (rare): 886-1060 THB

Travel time: approx. 1.5-2 hours

Tip: Be there at least 30 minutes early to calmly buy a ticket and find your car.

It’s a simple route, but gives great satisfaction – especially if you want to see Thailand not just from the luxury hotels side

By Bus from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

If you’re not a train fan, you can also choose the bus – it’s an equally popular option, though usually a bit slower.

Buses to Ayutthaya depart from Mo Chit (Northern Bus Terminal) and arrive at the local bus station in Ayutthaya.

Travel time: approx. 2-3 hours (depending on traffic) Ticket price: 85-190 THB (depending on type – regular, air-conditioned, express)

You don’t need to book tickets far in advance – just show up at the station, buy a ticket and wait for the next service.

Although if you’re traveling on weekends or during season, it’s better to arrive a bit earlier to avoid crowds.

By Taxi or Car

You can also get to Ayutthaya by taxi or rental car – this is an option for those who value comfort and independence.

Taxi from Bangkok one way costs about 900-1100 THB.

You can also hire a driver for the whole day (e.g. through apps like Grab or local agencies), which is more expensive, but gives a lot of flexibility.

If you’re traveling in a group or want to sightsee without time pressure – this might be a good option.

However, I chose the train and was very satisfied – cheap, atmospheric and with views of Thai landscapes.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Ayutthaya

The best time to visit Ayutthaya is November-February – the dry and “cooler” season, meaning… around 77°F to 86°F, which in Thailand is considered ideal sightseeing conditions.

This is when the weather is most favorable for walking around temples, and rainfall is minimal. You’ll also catch interesting local festivals – like Loy Krathong in November, which adds magical atmosphere.

I visited Ayutthaya in December and it was really pleasant – sunny, dry, but I admit there were more tourists than I expected.

From March to May it gets really hot (often above 95°F), and June-October is the rainy season – lush greenery maybe, but frequent downpours can ruin sightseeing.

One-day Ayutthaya Itinerary – My Tested Route

Morning (9:00-12:00):

• Wat Ratchaburana – start sightseeing
• Wat Mahathat – famous Buddha head in tree
• Lunglek Boat Noodles – lunch

Afternoon (12:00-17:00):

• Wat Phra Si Sanphet – royal chedi
• Wat Mongkhon Bophit – giant Buddha statue
• Wat Chaiwatthanaram – sunset over the river

Evening (17:00-19:00):

• Ban Mai Rim Nam – dinner with a view
• Return by train to Bangkok

Where to Eat in Ayutthaya

Lunglek Boat Noodles – Bowl of Flavor Opposite the Temple

Wondering where to eat something local between one temple and another? I recommend Lunglek Boat Noodles – a small, unpretentious eatery right across from Wat Ratchaburana.

This is where I tried the classic Thai boat noodle soup – thick, aromatic pork-based broth with thin slices of meat and rice noodles.

Portions are small, but intense in flavor – perfect for a quick stop in the middle of the day.

The place has its charm – plastic chairs, bowls steaming on wooden counter and the smell of spices floating in the air. Zero tourist pretension, pure heart of Thailand.

Ban Mai Rim Nam – with River View and Curry Bowl

If you’re in the mood for something quieter and with a water view, visit Ban Mai Rim Nam – a restaurant located right on the bank of the Chao Phraya River.

It’s the perfect place to slow down after intensive temple sightseeing.

The menu is dominated by fresh seafood, classic Thai curries (I went for sweet and sour – awesome!) and cooling coconut juices that save lives when heat pours from the sky.

The atmosphere? Totally relaxing – bamboo tables, gentle sound of water and silence broken only by cicadas.

It’s one of those places where you want to stay a bit longer – not just for the food, but also for the view and peace.

Ayutthaya Day Trip – Is It Worth It?

Yes, absolutely yes. An Ayutthaya day trip is not only possible, but also an incredibly satisfying experience.

When I got on the train in Bangkok in the morning, I only had a vague idea of what awaited me.

When I returned in the evening, I felt like I had traveled through time – from 14th-century power, through Burmese destruction, to today’s peaceful charm of tree-embraced ruins.

This place has something magical about it. Maybe it’s the way light filters through leaves and falls on old bricks. Maybe it’s the silence that lets you hear the echo of the past.

Or maybe just the fact that each temple tells a different story – about brothers fighting for the throne, about kings building for commemoration, about faith surviving destruction.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, Ayutthaya is a must-see point on the map – perfect for a day trip from Bangkok, but equally tempting to stay longer.

Which of these places is already on your dream list?

Save this guide and share it with other history and adventure lovers. And if you’ve already been to Ayutthaya – write in the comments which place made the biggest impression on you!

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