Like Our Photography?
Please check out our Thai-inspired gifts.
Ayutthaya: 17 Awesome Things To Do

Just a short journey from Bangkok, this ancient capital transports you back in time with its impressive array of temple ruins, giant Buddha statues, and crumbling palaces, all set against the backdrop of a bustling modern city. As an offbeat travel destination, Ayutthaya offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
Name (Thai): พระนครศรีอยุธยา
Full Name: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Population: 458,788 (2023)
Recommended Tour: View Price ->
North of Known is reader-supported. We may be compensated if you purchase through any affiliate links on this site. Thank you for supporting us.
Ayutthaya is ideal for:
It isn’t ideal for:
Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam, was once one of the world’s greatest cities. Founded in 1351 by King U-Thong, it grew from a small trading post to a bustling metropolis that dazzled foreign visitors with its gilded temples and bustling canals. At its peak in the 17th and 18th centuries, Ayutthaya was home to over a million people, making it one of the largest urban centers in the world at the time.
The city’s strategic location on an island surrounded by three rivers made it a natural hub for trade. Merchants from across Asia and as far as Europe flocked to Ayutthaya, bringing with them a diverse mix of cultures, religions, and ideas. This cosmopolitan atmosphere is reflected in the city’s architecture, which blends Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.
Ayutthaya’s golden age came to a brutal end in 1767 when Burmese forces sacked the city after a long siege. The invaders looted its treasures, melted down its golden Buddhas, and left much of the city in ruins. Though it never regained its former glory, Ayutthaya’s legacy lives on in the impressive ruins that dot the modern city. Today, these ancient temples and palaces offer visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of old Siam and the enduring spirit of Thai culture.
We’ve visited Ayutthaya several times, and can say without a doubt that Wat Mahathat is always at the top of our must-see list. The star attraction here is undoubtedly the famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree. It’s an iconic image that you’ve probably seen in travel magazines or on Instagram, but trust us, seeing it in person is a whole different experience. The first time we stumbled upon it, we were awestruck by how the tree has grown around the stone head, creating this surreal fusion of nature and art. It’s a powerful reminder of how time changes everything, yet some things endure. We always spend a good chunk of time here, trying to capture the perfect photo and simply marveling at this unique spectacle.
But Wat Mahathat is so much more than just the Buddha head. The central prang, though collapsed, still hints at its former grandeur. In particular, we love exploring the nooks and crannies of the site, discovering hidden Buddha statues and intricate stucco reliefs. The rows of headless Buddha statues are somewhat haunting yet beautiful, especially in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon. With every visit, we discover something new, whether it’s a detail that we hadn’t noticed before or a different perspective on the ruins.
Please check out our Thai-inspired gifts.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet is a grand testament to the former glory of the Ayutthaya kingdom – you’ll be struck by the sheer scale and majesty of the site. Those three towering chedis, standing in a row like silent sentinels, never fail to take our breath away. They’re massive, graceful, and somehow both imposing and serene at the same time. We love to walk around them, watching how the light plays off their weathered surfaces. The symmetry and architectural precision always amazes us, especially when we consider that they were built centuries ago.
What really sets Wat Phra Si Sanphet apart for us is its royal history. This wasn’t just any temple – it was the holiest site in the ancient capital and part of the grand palace complex. Walking these grounds, we can almost imagine the elaborate royal ceremonies that once took place here. The foundations of the old ordination hall, where kings were ordained as monks, always gives us goosebumps. It’s humbling to think of the generations of Siamese royalty who worshipped here, and the priceless Buddha image covered in gold that once stood in the main hall. Even though much of the original splendor is gone, there’s still an undeniable sense of importance and reverence that hangs in the air.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon’s central prang is a massive chedi that towers over everything else. It’s incredibly well-preserved, and when you hike to the top, you’ll get a view over the surrounding countryside. What we really enjoyed about this temple, though, was the history behind this place. It was built back in the 14th century by King U Thong, the founder of Ayutthaya. But it really came into its own under King Naresuan in the late 16th century. He expanded the temple after a major victory over the Burmese, and it became this symbol of Ayutthaya’s resilience.
After exploring Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, head down the road to Wat Phanan Choeng. This temple enshrines an absolutely massive gilded Buddha image that’ll make your jaw drop. It’s called Luang Pho Tho, and it’s seriously impressive – 19 meters high and dating back to 1324, even before Ayutthaya was founded as the capital. Legend has it that when the Burmese were sacking the city in 1767, this Buddha shed tears.
Unlike the more popular temples that are often bustling with tourists, Wat Kudi Dao is wonderfully quiet. It was just us, the ancient ruins, and the whisper of the wind through the trees. There’s something special about exploring a historical site all on your own, letting your imagination run wild as you picture what life might have been like centuries ago. We spent an hour there, climbing over crumbling walls, peering into shadowy chambers, and admiring the weathered Buddha statues without another soul in sight.
Built in the Ayutthaya period, possibly as early as the 14th century, Wat Kudi Dao is believed to have been an important royal temple. The name “Kudi Dao” means “star dormitory,” which some say refers to the temple’s use as an astronomical observation post. As we wandered through the ruins, we could see traces of its former grandeur – the remnants of a large prang, the outlines of what must have been ornate halls, and fragments of stucco decorations. It’s not as well-preserved as some of Ayutthaya’s more famous sites, but that’s part of its charm. There’s a sense of discovery here, a feeling that you’re piecing together the puzzle of history with your own eyes.
If you’re a photography enthusiast like us, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is an absolute must-visit. The symmetry of the temple’s central prang surrounded by smaller chedis creates this incredible, almost ethereal scenery that’s practically begging to be photographed. We spent a couple hours there, trying to capture every angle and detail. What really struck us was how the light changed as the sun began to set, transforming the warm sandstone into a canvas of reds and oranges. It’s no wonder this is considered one of the most photogenic spots in all of Ayutthaya.
What makes Wat Chaiwatthanaram even more ideal for photographic moments is the opportunity to step back in time, quite literally. We saw plenty of visitors donning traditional Thai costumes rented from nearby vendors. While er didn’t dress up ourselves, watching others pose in their colorful silk outfits against the backdrop of the ancient temple was like seeing history come to life. It created this beautiful contrast between the old and the new, the permanent and the fleeting. If you’re into creating unique, memorable photos, this is definitely the place to do it.
When we first laid eyes on Wat Phukhao Thong, we were stunned by the massive chedi that dominated the landscape – it’s unlike anything else in the city. It’s this towering, white structure that seems to reach endlessly into the sky, with a unique square base that transitions into a rounded top. As we learned, this unusual design is no accident – it’s a blend of Thai and Burmese architectural styles, reflecting the complex history of this place. Climbing to the top was a bit of a workout, but the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside was absolutely worth it.
The history of Wat Phukhao Thong is just as fascinating as its appearance. It turns out the temple was originally built by the Burmese King Bayinnaung in 1569 to commemorate his victory over Ayutthaya. But the story doesn’t end there – when the Siamese regained control, King Naresuan had the chedi redesigned and expanded. It’s like this physical representation of the back-and-forth struggle between these two powerful kingdoms.
Wat Phutthaisawan’s central chedi, stands as a testament to the site’s long and storied history. This chedi, with its graceful Sri Lankan-style bell shape, dates back to the 14th century and is believed to have been built by King U Thong, the founder of Ayutthaya. The chedi is surrounded by the ruins of ancient halls and smaller chedis, creating this incredible juxtaposition with the more modern structures that have been built around it. It’s like walking through different eras of Thai history all at once.
The history of Wat Phutthaisawan itself is fascinating. Legend has it that King U Thong built this temple on the spot where he first camped when he arrived in the area that would become Ayutthaya. It predates the founding of the city itself, making it one of the oldest temples in the region. The temple has seen its fair share of history, from the glory days of the kingdom to its fall and eventual restoration. Today, it’s still an active temple, with monks going about their daily routines amidst the ancient ruins.
As a semi-active temple, Wat Thammikarat has a unique vibe where ancient history mingles with present-day worship. The first thing that caught our eyes were the massive lion statues that guard the temple’s stupas. These aren’t your typical temple guardians – they’re fierce, weathered, and enormous. We later learned that these lions, or ‘singha’, are believed to have been built during the reign of King Naresuan in the late 16th century. Standing next to them, we felt dwarfed by their size and the weight of history they represent.
But the real surprise at Wat Thammikarat came when we spotted the roosters. Yes, roosters! Scattered around the temple grounds are these quirky chicken statues, some of them quite large. It turns out they’re not just random decorations – they’re tied to a local legend about a rooster that crowed to warn the ancient city of an approaching Burmese army. The story goes that the king was so grateful, he ordered these statues to be built in honor of the bird. Whether it’s true or not, it adds this charming, almost whimsical touch to the temple.
When we started exploring Wat Ratchaburana, we were honestly surprised by how grand it was, especially compared to its more famous neighbor, Wat Mahathat. The temple’s central prang is massive and incredibly well-preserved, towering over everything else. As we walked around, we couldn’t help but be impressed by the intricate stucco work and the remaining frescoes inside the prang. It’s amazing how much has survived after all these centuries.
What really fascinated us about Wat Ratchaburana, though, was its dramatic history. It was built in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II on the cremation site of his two elder brothers. These brothers had fought to the death in a duel for the throne, and the king, who was the youngest, ended up taking the crown instead. In the 1950s, looters broke into the crypt and stole many artifacts, but what they left behind was still incredible. The remnants of these treasures are now held in the nearby Chao Sam Phraya Museum, which you can easily visit afterward.
Wat Lokkayasutha is incredibly minimalistic – there’s no ornate architecture or grand structures here. But what it lacks in complexity, it more than makes up for with its massive reclining Buddha. This thing is huge. Stretching out for a whopping 42 meters, it’s easily one of the largest Buddha images we’ve seen in Thailand. As we stood there, trying to take in its sheer scale, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe.
The history of Wat Lokkayasutha is a bit of a mystery. It’s believed to date back to the Ayutthaya period, possibly around the 14th or 15th century, but not much is known about its origins or original purpose. The reclining Buddha itself is thought to have been built in the 16th century. Unlike some of the more popular temples, this place often has fewer visitors, which allows for a more contemplative experience.
If you’re anything like us, you might hit a point in Ayutthaya where you start feeling a bit “ruined out.” Don’t get us wrong, the ancient sites are incredible, but sometimes you want to see something that’s still alive and kicking. That’s where Wat Na Phra Men comes in. This place is a breath of fresh air – an ancient temple that’s still very much active and in use. There’s an energy here that you just don’t get from the abandoned sites.
Wat Na Phra Men houses a massive Buddha image that’ll stop you in your tracks. It’s an ancient image that’s got a story to tell. This temple has been around since the late Ayutthaya period, and it’s one of the few that survived the Burmese invasion in 1767. While most of Ayutthaya was reduced to rubble, this place stood strong. The Buddha image you see today is believed to date back to that time, making it a rare survivor of a turbulent past.
When visiting Ayutthaya, always make sure to pack with a dress code in mind. While strolling around the modern town, you can dress pretty casually, but when it comes to exploring the ancient temples and ruins, it’s a different story.
We’ve learned to wear clothes that cover our shoulders and knees out of respect for these sacred sites. Usually, we’ll opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like the Airism collection from Uniqlo. If it’s really hot, we’ll also bring a travel umbrella with us to help block the Thai sun.
Comfortable sandals are a must for us, as there’s a lot of walking involved, and the ground can be uneven in the ruins. Additionally, for the active temples around Ayutthaya, you’ll need to take off your shoes frequently, so we recommend sandals over close-toe shoes for practical reasons.
Check out this pocketable powerhouse!
If you plan on spending more than one day in Ayutthaya, then visiting the Royal Elephant Kraal Village is a must. It’s not just another elephant camp – it’s a place where you can genuinely connect with these majestic creatures in a responsible and ethical environment. What’s really special is that you can observe the elephants from a respectful distance, without any riding or unnatural performances. The village also offers a unique glimpse into the historical relationship between elephants and Thai culture.
In 2024, the village celebrated the birth of elephant twins (a boy and a girl), which is incredibly rare! It was a major event in the conservation world, and it was heartwarming to see the twins thriving in this caring environment.
Roti sai mai like nothing else you’ve ever tasted – imagine delicate, paper-thin crepes wrapped around colorful, fluffy strands of spun sugar. The first time we tried it, we were amazed by the perfect balance of textures: the slightly chewy roti contrasting with the melt-in-your-mouth sweetness of the sai mai. It’s not overpoweringly sweet, and the subtle flavors – sometimes rosewater, sometimes pandan – add an exotic touch that keeps us coming back for more.
Now, if you’re going to try roti sai mai in Ayutthaya, there’s no better place than Roti Sai Mai Abeedeen-Pranom Sangaroon. This family-run shop has been perfecting the art of roti sai mai for generations, and believe us, it shows. The first time we visited, we enjoyed watching them make the roti – stretching the dough until it’s almost transparent, then cooking it to golden perfection on a hot griddle. Their sai mai is always fresh and delicious – it never disappoints.
If you’re looking for an authentic slice of local life in Ayutthaya, you’ve got to check out the Ong Gaan Tolasap Night Market. Unlike the touristy weekend market, this one’s buzzing every night with locals going about their evening routines. Around 6 pm, the food stalls at the far end of the market come alive. That’s where we found some of the most wallet-friendly meals of our trip.
From sizzling street food to fresh fruits and snacks, it’s a feast for the senses. Plus, rubbing shoulders with the locals gave us a much better feel for the city than any guidebook ever could.
After exploring some temples, you have to try the pork satay at หมูสะเต๊ะเฮียแกละ. This place has been perfecting its recipe for over 100 years and has earned Michelin recognition several years in a row. Their satay is simply delicious—grilled over charcoal for that perfect smoky flavor, with meat that’s both tender and juicy. In our humble opinion, it’s the best pork satay in Thailand.
Additionally, the peanut sauce that accompanies the satay really elevates the taste. Overall, the combination of tradition and “oishii” flavors, makes it a great spot for anyone that loves BBQ.
If you take the train to Ayutthaya, head across the street to Ya Chit Hoi Tod – it’s worth a visit for its centuries-old stir-fried mussels recipe. Located in a modest shophouse, this eatery has built a reputation for perfectly cooked mussels that are crispy on the outside yet not overly greasy, with an abundance of fresh mussels in every tasty bite. It was definitely one of our best meals.
The prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent value dish for the money. Additionally, the family that runs the place is exceptionally friendly, adding a welcoming touch to the experience.
Originating in the canals of Ayutthaya during the kingdom’s heyday, boat noodles were once served from longtail boats to hungry traders and locals. Today, they offer a taste of history in every spoonful. The rich, dark broth, typically beef or pork-based, is a complex symphony of spices, with notes of cinnamon, star anise, and garlic. Tender meat, springy rice noodles, and crisp bean sprouts provide a satisfying contrast of textures. The addition of pork blood gives the soup its characteristic thickness and depth, while a sprinkle of fried pork rinds adds crunchiness.
For those interested in trying a bowl, head over to Pa Lek, which is Michelin-rated and near the historical park. Our favorite bowl however, came from this shop: ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือในคลอง อยุธยา.
There are several ways to get to Ayutthaya, each with its own advantages:
Train: This is our favorite and most recommended option for travelers coming from Bangkok. We love taking the train because it’s not only affordable but also offers a scenic and comfortable journey. The ride from Bangkok’s Aphiwat Central Terminal takes about 1.5 hours, and you get to see some of the Thai countryside along the way. View our train guide here ->
Bus: If you’re on a tight budget, buses are a cheap option. They leave regularly from most provincial terminals around Thailand. While not as comfortable as the train, we’ve found them reliable for overnight trips. This is the best option if you’re not coming from Bangkok.
Minivan: These are faster than buses and leave from various points in neighboring provinces. We’ve used them when we need a bit more flexibility in departure times, but be prepared for a slightly cramped ride. The drivers also have a tendency to speed as well.
Private Taxi: This is the most comfortable and flexible option, but also the priciest. Since it’s door-to-door service, it can be a relief after a long flight into Bangkok.
Self-Drive: If you’re comfortable driving in Thailand, renting a car gives you the most freedom. There’s also an ample amount of parking around Ayutthaya, so driving here is pretty easy.
Quick Tip: Use 12Go to book your transportation. It’ll save you time and money.
Ayutthaya offers a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. During our visits, we’ve tried most of them, and here’s what we’ve found:
Frog Tuk-tuks: These unique three-wheeled vehicles are ubiquitous and can be a fun way to get around for short trips. However, be prepared to negotiate the fare before jumping in.
Songthaews: These converted pickup trucks serve as shared taxis and follow set routes. They’re cheap but can be slow and crowded.
Bicycle: Many guesthouses and shops rent out bicycles for around 60 baht a day. While it’s economical, we don’t recommend this option anymore.
Boats: A scenic way to see some of the temples, especially those along the Chao Phraya River.
Organized Tours: Various companies offer guided tours by minivan or boat, which can be convenient if you prefer a structured itinerary.
Car Rental: Available, but navigating Ayutthaya’s busy streets can be challenging for those unfamiliar with Thai driving.
Motorbike Rental: This is my top recommendation for getting around Ayutthaya.
From our experience, renting a motorbike is hands-down the best way to explore Ayutthaya. You can typically rent one for 250-400 baht per day, which we find to be excellent value. The freedom and flexibility it offers are unparalleled – you can easily zip between temple sites, explore off-the-beaten-path areas, and cover much more ground than you would on foot or bicycle.
While we used to recommend bicycles as an eco-friendly option, we’ve changed our stance on this over the years. Ayutthaya’s roads can get quite busy with cars and trucks, and there aren’t dedicated bicycle lanes. Additionally, we’ve seen too many tourists struggling in the heat or looking uncomfortable in heavy traffic. For 60 baht a day, it might seem tempting, but in our opinion, it’s not worth the risk or discomfort.
The best time to visit Ayutthaya largely depends on what you’re looking for in your trip, but generally, the cool season from November to February is ideal. During these months, the weather is more comfortable, with lower humidity and temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). This makes exploring the vast historical park and its numerous temples much more pleasant. Plus, the clear skies provide perfect conditions for those Instagram-worthy shots of Ayutthaya’s iconic Buddha heads and ancient prangs. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so you might encounter more crowds and higher prices for accommodations.
If you don’t mind the heat and want to experience something truly special, consider visiting during Songkran (Thai New Year) in mid-April. Yes, it’s the hottest time of the year, with temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F), but the water festival celebrations are unforgettable.
Alternatively, the rainy season from June to October offers its own charm. The temples and ruins look beautiful when the lush greenery is at its peak. Just be prepared for sudden downpours and be willing to have a flexible itinerary.
During our time in Ayutthaya, we’ve come to firmly believe that staying as close to the Historical Park as possible is the way to go. It’s not just about convenience – though that’s a big plus – it’s about immersing yourself in the atmosphere of this ancient city. We love waking up early and being able to stroll to the temples before the crowds and heat set in.
In this central area, we’ve found a fantastic range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style. On the high end, there are some beautiful boutique hotels that offer a taste of luxury with a Thai twist. For mid-range budgets, there are plenty of comfortable guesthouses and small hotels that offer great value. And for budget travelers or backpackers, we’ve heard about some really cool hostels in the area.
What we love most about staying in this central area is that you’re not just close to the historical sites, but you’re also within easy reach of great restaurants, night markets, and the vibrant life of modern Ayutthaya. Trust us, after a long day of temple-hopping in the heat, you’ll appreciate being able to quickly get back to your room for a shower before heading out for the evening.
As a couple that’s traveled extensively throughout Thailand, we can confidently say that Ayutthaya is a safe destination for tourists. During our visits, we’ve always felt secure wandering through the historical park, exploring the night markets, and interacting with locals. The city has a relaxed, small-town atmosphere despite its historical significance, and the people are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. We’ve never encountered any serious issues with crime or felt threatened, even when exploring less touristy areas or traveling alone at night.
That being said, it’s always wise to exercise common-sense precautions, just as you would in any unfamiliar place. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Our Travel Insurance: Safety Wing ->
Ayutthaya is renowned primarily for its historical significance, which earned it a place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s UNESCO status recognizes its immense cultural importance, showcasing well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, and ancient structures that provide a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history and architectural heritage. As a visitor, you can explore these archaeological wonders, marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of its Buddhist art and architecture, and appreciate the city’s role in shaping Thailand’s cultural identity over centuries.
As a married couple who has visited Ayutthaya multiple times, we find it absolutely worth visiting. The laid-back atmosphere of the city combined with the warmth of the locals creates a welcoming environment that makes each visit enjoyable. Beyond the ruins, Ayutthaya offers excellent culinary experiences with its delicious local cuisine, from street food stalls to quaint riverside restaurants that serve giant grilled prawns. Overall, Ayutthaya provides a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and culinary delights, making it a destination we love returning to.
No, Ayutthaya is quite expansive, and walking around the entire city isn’t practical. The city is dotted with numerous temples, ruins, and historical landmarks spread out over a considerable area, making it more suitable for exploring by motorbike, tuk-tuk, or car.
If you just want to see the main sites inside the historical park like Wat Mahathat, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram, then one day is enough. However, if you want to explore the sites outside of the park like Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, then we highly recommend at least spending at least two days in Ayutthaya.
Ayutthaya was considered the largest city in the world during the 17th century. Founded in 1351, it quickly grew into a major trading hub due to its strategic location between China, India, and the Malay Archipelago. By the mid-1600s, Ayutthaya had become a cosmopolitan metropolis, bustling with merchants and diplomats from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The city’s impressive infrastructure, including grand palaces, temples, and a complex canal system, further cemented its status as a global center of commerce and culture.
At its peak, Ayutthaya was home to an estimated one million residents, surpassing contemporaneous cities like Paris and London in both size and splendor.
Did you know that… when you purchase something through one of our links, we earn a small fee. However, you still pay the exact same amount. It’s a win-win that helps us produce new content.
Never travel abroad without protection. SafetyWing is there when you need them.
Simplify your international transactions with a smart financial tool like Wise.
Keep your cell phone bill from being as much as your plane ticket with Maya.
Check out Get Your Guide to discover the best activities all over Thailand!
We always use 12Go to get the best deals on buses, trains, and car rentals.
Make it impossible for hackers to see your data on any network with NordVPN.

Get access to 1,200+ locations across the country.

Welcome to North of Known! We’re Alan and May, a married couple who have embraced digital nomadism while calling Bangkok, Thailand, our current home base. Over the past 7 years, our shared passion for exploration and adventure has fueled our journey across the globe. Join us as we continue to embark on our nomadic adventures, sharing our insights, discoveries, and travel tales along the way.