Visit Ayutthaya: Top 8 Fascinating Things To Do & See

Ayutthaya (officially called Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya) was the 2nd capital city of Thailand and one of the must visit places in Thailand. It not only plays an important role for Thais but was also made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Located approximately 70 miles North of Bangkok, it is a great option for a day trip from Bangkok.

Things to do include temples, palaces, markets and local food that you can discover when you visit Ayutthaya.

In this guide, Hanoi Voyages will provide you things to do to enjoy a visit to a city. Follow us!

Things to see in Ayutthaya

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

This is the largest and most significant temple in Ayutthaya, known for its three iconic chedis (stupas) and impressive Buddha images.

This temple was built in the 14th century, a place you should not miss. The attraction lies in the complex of three consecutive huge chedis (stupas) – this is also the signature symbol you will see appearing pretty much everywhere in Ayutthaya. These stupas are actually quite large, and in particular, quite “photogenic”!

Opening hours: 08.00-18.30

Entrance fee: 50 THB

Wat Mahathat

Discover Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head encased in tree roots—a popular photo spot for visitors.

Wat Mahathat is famous for the image of the Buddha’s head in the banyan root, an impressive image and attracts many visitors. However, according to my Ayutthaya travel experience, the other remaining ruins here are also worth visiting, a must-see if you like to take beautiful photos to keep.

Wat Mahathat is a popular tourist attraction. Its signature is the tree root with a Buddha head embedded in it. No one knows exactly how it was made. One idea is that a thief cut off the head of a Buddha image and hid it in the tree without returning. As time passed, the tree grew and covered the head with its roots.

Opening hours: 08.00-18.30

Entrance fee: 50 THB

Wat Ratchaburana

Explore Wat Ratchaburana, known for its impressive prang (Khmer-style tower) and ancient murals. It was built in the 15th century around the tombs of Prince Ai and Prince Yo, brothers who slew each other in an elephant-back duel for the throne. Rare frescoes remain in the crypt, but any portable antiquities were stolen or removed to museums years ago.

Opening hours: 08.00-18.30

Entrance fee: 50 THB

Wat Phra Ram

Visit Wat Phra Ram, a serene temple with a beautiful lake nearby, providing picturesque views. At Wat Phra Ram, a graceful 14th-century building positioned amid reflecting pools, there is a beautiful cloister lined with stone Buddha images, and elephant gates punctuate the old walls. The temple was built in 1369 by King Ramesuan, on the site where his father was cremated.

Opening hours: 08.00-18.30

Entrance fee: 50 THB

Wat Maheyong

When you visit Ayutthaya, you can explore Wat Maheyong. It is located outside the historical park, towards the floating market. Unfortunately, there isn’t much left of it, which perhaps explains why it is not flocked by tourists. If you have taken the Pass and you have a little time to spare, you can always go and have a look.

Wat ChaiWatthanaram

Wat Chai Watthanaram’s construction began in the 17th century and lasted for almost 20 years. This Khmer-style temple located on the river banks features a large central prang, about 35 meters tall, surrounded by several smaller chedis.

This is one of the temples you can easily photograph the best when you visit Ayutthaya

You can climb to the top for a view of the city, especially the view at sunset.

Opening hours: 08.00-18.30

Entrance fee: 50 THB

Things to do in Ayutthaya

Cruise around Ayutthaya Island

You can easily find long-tail boats at the harbor located in the northeast of the island, near the Hua Ro market. You should take the boat in the evening, when the temples are illuminated creating a splendid and wonderful scene. This is one of the best things to do when you visit Ayutthaya.

Visiting floating market

Although it is a tourist market, the floating market still has local and unique features of Thailand. Here, you can see many people wearing traditional Thai clothes, buying, selling and exchanging local items. The highlight of this market is clothing, souvenir shops, local stalls and food. You can enjoy trying the dishes on the boat or on the moored marina. This is one of the best things to do in Ayutthaya.

Top cuisines you must try

When you come to Ayutthaya, don’t miss eating these local dishes. With its rich history as the former capital of Thailand, it offers not only stunning historical sites but also a chance to indulge in some delicious local cuisine.

River Shrimp

This dish will be the highlight of your Ayutthaya trip. When coming to the ancient capital, do not miss the delicious fresh crayfish.

Due to its size and intoxicating taste, that price can be quite high, but it is worth it. You can try them at riverside restaurants in Ayutthaya.

Boat Noodles

A Thai favorite, boat noodles are small bowls of flavorful beef or pork broth with tender meat, rice noodles, and a variety of herbs and spices. They are often served in boats along the river, offering a unique dining experience.

Ayutthaya restaurants

Ruan Thai Kung Pao

The restaurant serves grilled fresh river shrimp, served with delicious seafood sauce, in addition to shrimp, there are many other dishes for you to choose from to satisfy your taste. In addition to delicious food, Ruan Thai Shrimp also has a great space for visitors to enjoy with family.

Address: 1/2 Moo 4, inside Wat Choeng Loei Bang Phun-Bang Pa-in Road, Bang Sai District, Ayutthaya

Opening hours: 10am – 7pm

Grand Chaophraya

Grand Chaophray is located about 5 km from Ayutthaya Golf Club. This is one of those restaurants you must visit if you want to treat yourself to a memorable dinner as it serves great seafood and has a pleasant atmosphere. Food is expensive, but Grand Chaophraya is the place to go if you want to eat delicious seafood while listening to live Thai music.

Address: Bang Pradaeng Subdistrict Bang Pa-in District Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Opening hours: 11am – 10pm.

Kuay Tiew Pak Wan

Kuay Tiew Pak Wan is a noodle restaurant that is very popular with Ayutthaya people. All residents will be happy to guide you there if you ask. The restaurant serves Kuay Tiew, a specialty of Ayutthaya, alongside traditional Thai dishes. Kuay Tiew, or boat noodles, is a savory soup meal with a variety of meats, vegetables and noodles that is a staple when visiting the area.

Address: 48/3 Soi U Thong 4, Hor Rattanachai Subdistrict Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District Ayutthaya

Opening Hours: 8am – 9pm

The best time to visit Ayutthaya

Before you visit Ayutthaya, check everything carefully, especially the weather to choose the best time – the best season for your trip.

• November – January is the best time to visit Ayutthaya in Thailand since this is the only time of the year when the rainfall is considerably lesser, and the weather is ideal.
• Ayutthaya is generally hot and humid all year round including the winter months of December and January.
• June to September is stormy.
• March and May is the hottest time

You should spend one night in the city to start the trip early in the morning and avoid the crowd.

How to get to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is located along the Chao Phraya River in the north of Bangkok around 80 km away. There are many transportation options to get to visit Ayutthaya.

By train

Many trains leave daily from Hua Lamphong to Ayutthaya. Online booking is also available at least 2 hours before departure time

• Ordinary Train: 15 THB
• Rapid Train: 45-65 THB
• Express Train: 165-245 THB
• Special Express Train: 345 THB

By minibus – Van

From Mo Chit bus station north of Bangkok. The bus will take you into Ayutthaya city center to Talad Chao Phrom Market, very close to Ayutthaya Historical Park. The bus will depart every 20-30 minutes.

Business hours:

• Bangkok – Ayutthaya: 06.00-20.00
• Ayutthaya – Bangkok: 04.00-18.00

Fare: 70 THB

By BTS Skytrain Station

Get off at Mo Chit station and take a taxi or motorbike taxi from the station to Mo Chit bus station.

By MRT Underground Train

Get off at Kamphaeng Phet MRT station and take a taxi or motorbike taxi from the station to Mo Chit bus station.

Getting around

• Renting a Bicycle or Motorcycle
• Motorcycle Taxi
• Tuk Tuks

Some tips before going

• Remember to bring comfortable shoes
• Pack sunglasses, water, snacks, and a hat for a comfortable trip