Ayutthaya, Thailand: Family Fun, Ancient Ruins, and Delights

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

19 July 2023

Ayutthaya, Thailand offers a captivating and family-friendly experience steeped in rich history and cultural charm. Explore the ancient ruins of temples and palaces, as kids will be engulfed in awe at the majestic structures and vibrant stories behind them. The city also boasts a scenic boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding Ayutthaya Historical Park, making it an unforgettable destination for an enriching and enjoyable family trip.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Ancient Ruins and Local Delights

  • Begin your day at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, where you'll find mysterious temple ruins and enchanting Buddha statues.
  • Hop on a boat tour along Chao Phraya River to marvel at the majestic temples scattered along its banks.
  • Don't miss Ayutthaya Floating Market, where you can savor exotic fruits, crispy fried insects (if you dare), and lip-smacking Pad Thai.
  • Get a taste of Ayutthaya's rich history at Ayothaya Floating Pavilion, a unique cultural village showcasing traditional performances and ancient crafts.
  • Wind down your day with a relaxing Thai massage at one of the many spas in town, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and zen-like.
Day 2

Bike, Boat, and Blissful Nature

  • Rent a bike and pedal through the serene streets of Ayutthaya, discovering hidden gems and local markets along the way.
  • Take a boat trip to Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a dazzling architectural wonderland with European, Thai, and Chinese influences.
  • Unleash your inner adventurer at Ayutthaya Elephant Village, where you can interact with gentle giants and even go for an unforgettable elephant ride.
  • Indulge in a delightful riverside picnic lunch, complete with tasty Thai delicacies and refreshing tropical juices.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Ayutthaya's Ayurvedic Garden, learning about traditional medicine and enjoying the fragrant herbal aromas.
Day 3

Temples, Art, and Foodie Heaven

  • Visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, a magnificent temple with towering stupas and an iconic reclining Buddha statue.
  • Embrace your artistic side at Ayutthaya Art Center, immersed in vibrant exhibitions showcasing local talent and cultural heritage.
  • Savor the flavors of Ayutthaya at Roti Sai Mai Bu Heng, a legendary eatery serving delectable Roti Sai Mai, a sweet cotton candy wrapped in a thin pancake.
  • Discover the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal, witnessing incredible elephant performances and demonstrations.
  • End your incredible Ayutthaya adventure with a memorable dinner cruise along the river, savoring Thai cuisine and enjoying mesmerizing sunset views.

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 Adventures: A 3-Day Budget Getaway

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site located just north of Bangkok and is a great budget-friendly destination. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the former capital of Thailand, experience the local culture and cuisine, and take cheap transportation options such as tuk-tuks or bicycles. Affordable guesthouses and hostels are also available for those on a tight budget.

Ayutthaya Adventure: History, Food & Scenery

Discover the fascinating province of Ayutthaya as you explore ancient ruins, magnificent temples and scenic landscapes. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you sample the delicious street food and shop at the local markets. Enjoy affordable accommodations and transportation on a limited budget as you experience the wonders of Thailand's rich history and picturesque scenery.

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.

5-Day Adventure: Ayutthaya, Thai Temples & Cuisine

Ayutthaya is a historic city located 80km north of Bangkok, and is home to ancient temples, palaces and ruins that were built during the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Tourists can explore the ruins of the ancient city by foot, bicycle, or through a guided tour. The city also offers a vibrant night market, local cuisine, and river cruises along the Chao Phraya River.