5-Day Adventure: Ayutthaya, Thai Temples & Cuisine

Experience ancient culture and beauty in Ayutthaya, Thailand.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Temple-Hopping

  • Check into the cozy Ayutthaya Garden River Home, situated right by the river with stunning views of the city.
  • Rent a bicycle, the most common mode of transportation in Ayutthaya, and explore the ancient temples scattered throughout the city.
  • Visit Wat Yai Chai Mongkol to climb the steep staircases for panoramic views of Ayutthaya and to see the giant reclining Buddha statue.
  • Head to Wat Phra Si Sanphet to marvel at the three towering chedis, once the grandest and most beautiful temples in Ayutthaya.
Day 2

Arts and Culture

  • Enjoy breakfast on the outdoor terrace at the hotel with views of the Chao Phraya River.
  • Visit the Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Take a tuk-tuk ride to the Ayutthaya Floating Market to see the unique Thai-style boats selling local food, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
  • Stop by the Chao Sam Phraya Museum to admire the intricate artwork and sculptures depicting Thai mythology and history.
Day 3

Food Tour

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Khao Tom Pla Kimpo, a popular local spot famous for its fish porridge and crispy pork.
  • Visit the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal to see the gentle giants up close and enjoy an elephant ride through the lush greenery.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with some colorful and delicious roti sai mai, a Thai candy floss dessert, at Roti Sai Mai Pratoochompu.
  • End the day with a seafood feast at Baan Suan Phlu, a riverside restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
Day 4

Adventurous Ayutthaya

  • Embark on an action-packed day filled with adventure and adrenaline at The Park Adventure Land, a thrilling amusement park with ziplining, ATV rides, and a giant water slide.
  • Enjoy a scenic boat ride and see Ayutthaya's famous temples from a different perspective.
  • Have a traditional Thai massage to soothe your muscles and rejuvenate your body.
  • Dine at Ayutthaya Boat Noodle, a popular restaurant serving small bowls of flavorful noodles and savory soup.
Day 5

Final Day in Ayutthaya

  • Take a morning stroll through the quaint and peaceful Ayutthaya Historical Park, admiring the ancient ruins and serene atmosphere.
  • Stop by Wat Lokayasutharam to see the impressive 42-meter-long reclining Buddha statue.
  • Relax and unwind at the hotel's beautiful garden, reading a book or simply enjoying the view.
  • Depart from Ayutthaya with unforgettable memories of this ancient and charming city.

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.

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