Unearth the Ancient Wonders of Ayutthaya, Thailand

Discover the wonders of Ayutthaya, where family adventures flourish amidst ancient temples and cultural treasures.

19 July 2023

Ayutthaya, Thailand offers a perfect blend of ancient history and family-friendly activities. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical Park, where you can marvel at the impressive ruins of temples and palaces. Enjoy a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, visit the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal, and delight in the Elephant Stay program, where you can interact with and learn about these gentle giants.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Ancient Temples and Marveling at History

  • Start your Ayutthaya adventure at Wat Phra Mahathat, where a head encased in a tree trunk awaits your curious gaze.
  • Don't miss Wat Ratburana, where you can climb up its bell-shaped tower for panoramic views of the ancient city.
  • Experience the serenity of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, reflected in the cool waters that surround its exquisite architecture.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the riverside, exploring the ruins at your own pace and getting lost in the timeless beauty.
  • Indulge in a delicious Thai dinner at Roti Sai Mai Chaiyaphum, where fluffy pancakes are served with sweet cotton candy fillings.
Day 2

Floating Markets and Elephant Encounters

  • Rise with the sun and head to the lively Ayutthaya Floating Market, where aromatic Thai dishes mingle with colorful trinkets.
  • Wander through the Elephantstay, where you can feed, bathe, and even sleep next to these gentle giants.
  • Immerse yourself in the history of Ayutthaya at the Chao Sam Phraya Museum, with its impressive collection of artifacts.
  • Seek out the hidden gems of Ayutthaya by exploring lesser-known temples like Wat Phu Khao Thong and Wat Na Phra Men.
  • End the day with a dinner at Tony's Place, a family-friendly restaurant serving up mouthwatering Thai and international cuisine.
Day 3

River Cruises and Ayutthaya by Night

  • Embark on a scenic river cruise along the Chao Phraya River, savoring the breathtaking views of Ayutthaya's riverside temples.
  • Visit the Ayothaya Floating Market, where you can hop on a traditional long-tail boat and explore the bustling waterways.
  • Stroll through the Ayutthaya Night Bazaar, illuminated with vibrant lights and offering an array of local handicrafts and street food.
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at Baan Kao Nha, a charming riverside restaurant where traditional Thai flavors take center stage.
  • Take a walk along the enchanting Ayutthaya Historical Park, watching the ancient temples glow in the moonlight.
Day 4

Nature Retreat and Cultural Delights

  • Escape the city and venture to Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal, where you can witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Wat Phanan Choeng, home to a towering 19-meter-high seated Buddha statue.
  • Treat your taste buds to a feast at Ban U Thong Restaurant, renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine and warm hospitality.
  • Explore the Ayutthaya Historical Study Center, where interactive exhibits immerse you in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Bid farewell to Ayutthaya with a traditional Thai massage, rejuvenating both body and soul.

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

A Budget-Friendly Adventure: 5 Days in Ayutthaya

Visiting Ayutthaya on a tight budget is entirely possible, with plenty of affordable accommodations, street food vendors, and free attractions to explore. From admiring the UNESCO World Heritage temples to taking a leisurely boat ride on the river, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the local culture without breaking the bank. Don't forget to bargain for souvenirs at the night markets and try the famous boat noodles for a delicious and cheap meal.

Ayutthaya: Ancient Ruins, River Rides, and Majestic Delights

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.

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.

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.