Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam until its defeat in 1767, is located just north of Bangkok. 

Ayutthaya is all about history. The ruins of the old capital still stand on a defensible island in the Chao Phraya River, easily traveled by bicycle, motorbike, or hired tuk-tuk.

Because of its proximity to Bangkok and its history, Ayutthaya is one of the cheapest and most exciting day-trips that you can take from Bangkok.

<img src="https://lbconvert.travel.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/62cda-img.jpg) and depart every hour or so. The journey is slow and leisurely, taking about two hours through the countryside with several stops along the way.

There is no reserved seating and tickets are on a first-come first-served basis. Arrive early to ensure a window seat for the best views and experience!

The train station is directly at the river. It’s quite simple to cross on the three-baht ferry to Ayutthaya Island, where the historical park is located.

<img src="https://lbconvert.travel.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/b7d5b-img.jpg-$2.00) for a day. Bike rental almost always includes a map with the top sites highlighted and a suggested route to follow. Ayutthaya Island is small, and it’s not difficult bike around. It can get very hot in Ayutthaya though, so bring a hat and sunblock! Stay hydrated! Bottles of cold water is available nearly everywhere, sold by vendors on the road side.

There is some traffic, so please remember that

cars in Thailand drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Tuk-Tuk

Ayutthaya’s fleet of iconic and unique tuk-tuks look markedly different from those in Bangkok. They curved front has been compared to everything from a Japanese samurai helmet to Darth Vader.

You can find tuk-tuk drivers waiting almost anywhere in Ayutthaya. You can hire a driver for the day for around 300-500 baht ($10-$15).

<img src="https://lbconvert.travel.blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/3540b-img.jpg), but on holidays admission is free. Admission goes towards upkeep and maintaining the historical park.

Buddha statue against ancient temple ruins, Ayutthaya, Thailand

The most famous thing at Wat Mahathat is the head of a Buddha image that has been overgrown by the roots of a sacred tree. This is a holy site, and some Thai Buddhists will make offerings and prayers here.

Just next to Wat Mahathat is Wat Ratchaburana, which contains a royal crypt you can climb down into. Inside the crypt, look for the remains of the beautiful fresco paintings on the walls.

temple and palace ruins in Thailand

If you’ve got an extra day in Bangkok, or if you live in the city and want to spend a day out in the country, don’t miss Ayutthaya. It’s cheap, quick, and easy to get to; definitely a site worth visiting!

VIDEO: Day Trip to Ayutthaya

Learn more about Ayutthaya and 9 other great day trips outside of Bangkok in our e-book, available on Amazon for only $0.99!

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