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!

Top things to see in Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam, is a city steeped in history and culture. Its sprawling ruins and majestic temples reflect the grandeur of a bygone era, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage designation. From towering chedis to ancient Buddha statues, here are the top sites you shouldn’t miss when visiting 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”!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Top things to do in Ayutthaya

Beyond its magnificent temples and ancient ruins, Ayutthaya offers unique experiences that allow visitors to explore its rivers, markets, and cuisine. Here are the top things to do when visiting this fascinating city.

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 in Ayutthaya

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. 

• Grilled Giant River Prawns (Kung Pao Ayutthaya): The city’s signature dish, featuring giant freshwater prawns grilled over charcoal, with sweet and tender meat served alongside a tangy seafood dipping sauce.

• Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Ruea): A famous noodle dish originally sold from boats, made with a rich beef or pork broth, rice noodles, and traditional toppings.

• Roti Sai Mai (Ayutthaya Cotton Candy Roti): A colorful street snack of thin crepes wrapped around sweet, fluffy spun sugar – both fun and delicious.

• Goong Pao with Spicy Dipping Sauce: Charcoal-grilled shrimp with smoky flavor, paired with spicy seafood sauce that balances sour, salty, and hot notes.

• Pla Chon Pao (Grilled Snakehead Fish): Whole snakehead fish stuffed with herbs, salted, and grilled until crispy on the outside and tender inside, served with fresh vegetables.

• Moo Satay (Pork Satay Skewers): Pork skewers marinated in turmeric and coconut milk, grilled to perfection and served with rich peanut sauce.

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 are 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.

• 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.

Getting around Ayutthaya

• Renting a bicycle or motorcycle

• Motorcycle taxi

• Tuk-Tuks

Essential tips for visiting Ayutthaya

To make the most of your visit, here are some essential tips every traveler should know before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Dress appropriately: Ayutthaya’s temples are sacred places, so modest clothing is required. Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. A light scarf or shawl can also come in handy for temple visits.

• Start early to avoid the heat: The sun in Ayutthaya can be intense, especially around midday. Begin your exploration early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

• Bring sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves. Many temple sites have little shade, so protecting yourself from the sun is essential.

• Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it when possible. Exploring ruins involves a lot of walking, and it’s easy to get dehydrated.

• Respect the rules: Do not climb on ancient structures or touch sacred Buddha images. Always show respect in temples by removing shoes before entering prayer halls.

Ayutthaya is more than just an ancient city – it’s a place where history, culture, and local life come together in unforgettable ways. Whether you’re exploring the grand temples, cycling through the ruins, or tasting the city’s famous river prawns, every moment here tells a story of Thailand’s golden past.

Let Hanoi Voyages design your perfect Ayutthaya experience. With tailor-made tours, expert guides, and seamless services, we make sure your journey is not only enriching but also stress-free. Contact us today to start planning your trip to Ayutthaya and beyond!