About this activity
Editor's Note
I’ve spent two decades watching tour operators chase the next "hidden gem," but let’s be real: sometimes the classics are classics for a reason. While the industry loves to obsess over RevPAR and high-margin luxury transfers, a day trip to Ayutthaya remains the bread and butter of Thai tourism because it actually delivers. It’s easy to get cynical about "organized tours," but unless you want to haggle with a dozen different drivers in the midday heat, a structured lead like this is just smart travel. Most operators just dump you at the ruins, but this itinerary actually gives you a bit of breathing room between the "temple burnout" that happens when you've seen one too many stupas. It’s authentic, a bit sweaty, and perfectly captures why we fell in love with Siam in the first place. Honestly, if you're in Bangkok and don't do this, you're just paying for a hotel room you aren't even using to its full potential.
About the Tour
Step back into the golden age of Siam with a comprehensive journey through the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ayutthaya. This guided excursion takes you from the modern chaos of Bangkok to the serene, stone-carved history of the former capital. You'll explore four distinct temples, each offering a unique glimpse into a vanished empire, before refueling with a traditional local meal.
The Itinerary
Your journey begins in a climate-controlled vehicle (a must-have for the Thai humidity) or by meeting the group directly at the first site.
- Wat Lokayasutha: Your introduction to the site features the massive reclining Buddha. It’s one of the few structures that survived the Burmese invasion relatively intact, and the sheer scale is a wake-up call for the day ahead.
- Wat Phra Sri Sanphet: Located within the old royal palace grounds, this site was once the holiest temple in the city. Its three iconic chedis are the quintessential postcard image of Ayutthaya.
- Wat Mahathat: This is home to the world-famous Buddha head entwined in Bodhi tree roots. It’s a powerful image of nature reclaiming art, but remember to be respectful when taking photos.
- Local Lunch: You’ll take a break at a local Thai restaurant. Don't be shy—ask your guide for recommendations on regional specialties rather than sticking to the standard Pad Thai.
- Wat Chaiwattanaram: We finish at this riverside monument. Its Khmer-style architecture, reminiscent of Angkor Wat, is particularly stunning in the late afternoon light.
Critical Note: New Year’s Eve (Dec 31) Operations
If you are booking for December 31st, please note that the schedule shifts significantly to accommodate the holiday festivities. The industry operates on a strict timeline during the countdown, so double-check your booking to avoid missing your slot.
Ensure you select the correct round during checkout. The boats won't wait for late arrivals!
Highlights
- Explore the ancient Siamese capital of Ayutthaya on a guided tour from Bangkok
- Visit 4 different temples and learn about the fascinating history of the city
- Discover Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which formed the heart of the royal complex
- Wander through the Wat Mahathat, which once house the Buddha's holy relic
- Enjoy an authentic Thai lunch at a local restaurant, featuring local specialties
Know before you go
- Visitors are requested to be dressed appropriately when entering the temples. Please wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. No ripped pants, tight pants, or shorts are allowed
- No luggage or large bags are allowed on the tour. If you have luggage, you may leave it at the activity provider's office near the meeting point
What to bring
Not allowed
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
Starting/pickup location
Depends on the selected option
Bus/coach
(1.5 hours)
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk, Bus tour (45 minutes)
Wat Lokaya Sutha
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk, Bus tour (45 minutes)
Wat Phra Sri Sanphet
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk, Bus tour (45 minutes)
Ayutthaya
Break time, Lunch, Street food (1 hour)
Wat Maha That
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk, Bus tour (45 minutes)
16 drop-off locations:
Silom, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Khlong Toei, Phra Nakhon, Pathum Wan, Sathon, MBK Center, MBK CENTER, Lumphini, Ratchathewi, Bang Rak, Watthana, Pathum Wan District, 444 Phaya Thai Rd, Khwaeng Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand, Samphanthawong, MBK Center See more