Here’s a complete guide with insider tips on what to do in Ayutthaya and how to get to this historical city with UNESCO World Heritage.
Table of Contents:
Having visited Ayutthaya more than six times, I’m excited to share my top picks with you!
How to Get There: From Bangkok to Ayutthaya
Getting from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is an adventure in itself…
1. By Train: A Glimpse into the Past
I get on board with tickets at just 20 THB. This ancient mode of transport has served travellers in Thailand for over a century already.
There’re plenty of seats on the train, but it could get very crowded on your way back to Bangkok (be prepared to stand all the way)
For those not in the best health or traveling with children, this might not be the best option.
2. By Bus or Minivan: The Middle Ground
Catching a minivan from Mo Chit Station (near BTS Mo Chit) could be another option. It can cost up to 400 THB per person depending on the schedule.
3. By Taxi: Comfort at a Price
For a more comfortable ride, you could hire a private taxi or rent your own car, costing around 1,400 THB for a trip.
It’s ideal for those preferring ease and willing to spend a bit more.
I recommend booking in advance for the best options.
What to do in Ayutthaya: 15 Must-Visit Destinations
Ayutthaya is the ancient capital of Thailand. It offers a journey back in time with its stunning temples and ruins, alongside modern-day pleasures like quaint cafes, markets, and restaurants…
Here’s my top pick on what to do in Ayutthaya, ensuring you make the most of your trip…
Discover Temples and Historical Ruins
Some temples (called ‘Wat’ in Thai) are still partly standing. You can go up their stairs and see the beautiful views.
1. Visit “Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon” – The Monument of Victory
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon is a gorgeous temple in Ayutthaya. It was built a long time ago during King Ramathibodi I’s rule. This temple celebrates King Naresuan’s important victory over Burma, now known as Myanmar.
- Ticket Price: 20 THB
- Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm
- Location: View Map
2. Explore “Wat Chaiwatthanaram” – The Royal Temple
Wat Chaiwatthanaram is in the Ayutthaya Historical Park. King Prasat Thong built it in 1630.
Also, it’s where many royal family members are buried, making it even more interesting and rich in history. I also went there in the middle school field trip (you can tell it’s very long ago already).
- Ticket Price: 50 THB
- Opening Hours: N/A
- Location: View Map
3. Discover “Bang Pa-In Royal Palace”
Bang Pa-In Royal Palace felt like stepping way back into history.
This old summer spot for kings, started by King Prasat Thong, is now open for people to explore its beautifully kept gardens.
It mixes Thai and European building styles, showing the different ways Thai culture has changed over time.
- Ticket Price: 30 THB, Golf-cart rental 400 THB
- Open Hours: 8am – 4pm
- Location: View Map
4. Admire “Wat Ratchaburana” – The Heart of Ayutthaya’s Spirituality
Wat Ratchaburana, started by King Borommarachathirat II in memory of his brothers.
You can climb up the ruins and enjoy the fantastic sights up there.
There’re 3 cute cafes right across from this temple. They give a great view and are peaceful spots to chill and feel the old-world atmosphere. – Detailed reviews in the next section.
- Ticket Price: N/A
- Opening Hours: N/A
- Location: View Map
5. Witness “Wat Phra Sri Sanphet” – The Grand Palace of Ayutthaya
Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is a very important temple among the many. It was built only for the kings, right inside the royal palace area.
This temple was central to many big royal events in its era. It also holds the ashes of almost all the Ayutthaya kings, making it as special as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok’s Grand Palace.
- Ticket Price: 20 THB
- Opening Hours: N/A
- Location: View Map
Cafe Hopping with Stunning Views Across the Temple
6. Sip Coffee with Stunning Temple View from “Busaba Cafe & Bake Lab”
Right across from Wat Ratchaburana, you’ll find Busaba Cafe & Bake Lab. I suggest going up to the second floor for an amazing, clear view of Wat Ratchaburana.
It’s the ideal spot to sip on a cool tea or coffee before you take your time visiting the temple.
- Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm
- Location: View Map
7. Sit & Chill at “BORAN Cafe and Restaurant”
BORAN Cafe and Restaurant is the best spot (out of 3 cafes) across Wat Ratchaburana, with the most impressive view and the most convenience option in my opinion, considering the quality of service and air condition.
Choosing a seat at the front of the cafe in a day with cooler weather can let you fully enjoy the stunning view and the laid-back vibe too.
It’s a perfect place for enjoying a cold coffee on a warm evening.
- Opening Hours: 8am – 9pm
- Location: View Map
8. Get Sweet Treats at “Prang View Cafe”
This cafe, with its minimalist, clean, white decor, sits right across from Wat Ratchaburana, named for the stunning view of the temple’s prang it provides.
A standout on the menu is the “Silk Thread Coffee.” This is hot coffee poured over fresh milk, topped with fine silk threads that melt into the drink, making it both beautiful and tasty. The drinks and desserts here aren’t just good to eat but also look so great you’ll want to take pictures of them.
- Opening Hours: 9am – 8pm
- Location: View Location
Market Walks Adventure in Ayutthaya
9. Ayutthaya Floating Market
This floating market is designed to bring back the old splendor of Ayutthaya, giving visitors a feel of the ancient city.
Even though it’s not an old market from the past, it’s packed with the spirit of Ayutthaya’s history.
I strongly suggest trying a palm juice (‘Namtan Sod’) from any of the local shops there. – trust me it’s really good
- Ticket Price: 200 THB (Free boat and performance)
- Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm
- Location: View Map
10. Gong Kong Market
This spot is ideal for a visit on your way back from Ayutthaya to Bangkok. It serves local food at local prices, and the vendors wear traditional farmer outfits, making it feel like stepping back in time.
It’s a small but warm place, with a mix of tasty savory and sweet snacks, plus local crafts that are great for gifts. On weekends, you might see local seniors singing Thai old songs, which adds a lovely touch to the market’s cozy vibe.
- Opening Hours: Thursday – Sunday, 9am – 4pm
- Location: View Map
Discover Must-Visit Restaurants in Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is famous for its “River Prawns” and “Boat Noodles,” so you definitely need to try these dishes. Here are my favorite restaurants that I always go to when I’m in Ayutthaya:
11. Dinner in a Wooden Restaurant by the River at “Baan Mai Rim Nam”
This restaurant by the river gives you a laid-back place to eat with beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River.
It’s like eating in a classic wooden house, which fits its name that means ‘Wooden House by the River.’
It focuses on Thai food, offering fresh seafood like deep-fried sea bass with fish sauce, jungle curry with fish, grilled river prawns, fried prawns with tamarind sauce, and steamed seafood in lemon sauce.
- Opening Hours: 10:30am – 10:00pm
- Location: View on Map
12. Try Various Style of Boat Noodles at “Ros Jo Boat Noodles”
Regarded by many, myself included, as the top place for boat noodles in Ayutthaya. This restaurant offers its noodles in small bowls, which lets you sample different tastes and kinds of noodles.
I make it a point to visit this restaurant every time I’m in Ayutthaya.
- Opening Hours: 7.30am – 9pm
- Location: View Map
13. Dinner at “Sala Ayutthaya”
This cafe and hotel is known for its famous instagram-able photo spot, a famous brick walls.
If you’re thinking about staying the night, this place would be an excellent choice for accommodation.
- Opening Hours: Please check with the hotel
- Location: View Map
Sweet Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings
14. Buy “A Silk Thread Roti”
After eating, you might want to try some Silk Thread Roti, a tasty snack available from a line of stalls. They all provide a great experience, serving these fresh and hot.
It’s best to eat them right away to enjoy their full freshness and taste. If you’re considering taking some home as gifts, they’ll stay good for about 1-2 days.
- Opening Hours: 6pm – 8pm (but it could sold out at 7pm)
- Location: View Map
15. Having Gelato at “Scoop Me Up Gelato Parlor (City Center)”
After a super hot day of exploring the city, this is the perfect way to end your day with a gelato in a lively white-red theme shop.
This place lets you try every flavor of gelato they have – and trust me, you’re going to want to try them all!
Their signature flavor is Yogurt Lychee Rose. It’s as amazing as it sounds and a must-try for sure!
In addition to ice-cream, they’ve got some pasta and pizza on the menu too.
- Opening Hours: 10am – 9pm
- Location: View Map
How to Navigate
The 3 Commuting Options in Ayutthaya
On my own journey in Ayutthaya, I discovered several methods to dive deep into the city’s rich history and lively culture. Here’s my transportation choices:
- Biking Around: It’d cost around 300 THB. Feeling the breeze and moving freely among the ancient ruins was magical. (Only recommended on Winter: November – January, else you’re going to soak with sweats)
- Using Grab: I found the Grab app incredibly handy. It’s a lifeline when you’re out of energy after a day of exploring.
- Day-long Tuk-Tuk Hire: Nothing beats the charm of cruising in a tuk-tuk. I negotiated with a friendly driver for a day rate of about 500 – 1,000 THB, which was totally worth it for the convenience and the stories he shared.
- Get a local guide with a car: The best way to commute in Ayutthaya by far is to ask for a local guide with a car to drive there with you.
Embracing Local Guidance
For those preferring a structured exploration including transportation to Ayutthaya, I recommend using 1-day local guide services who can enrich your tour with historical insights and hidden gems not found in guidebooks.
Summary
I urge everyone to experience Ayutthaya firsthand—ride along its ancient paths, listen to the stories of its stones, and enjoy the local food.
If you find a hidden corner or a story untold, I’d love to hear about it. Happy exploring!
PS. For a seamless and unforgettable trip to Thailand, reach out to me on Fiverr—I’d love to help you plan your perfect adventure!
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