MestoGo - Thailand

Day Trip Itinerary: Bangkok to Ayutthaya

This day trip itinerary from Bangkok to Ayutthaya offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Below is a structured plan to help you maximize your experience in Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand.

Morning: Journey to Ayutthaya

  • Departure from Bangkok: Start your day early by taking a train from Hua Lamphong Railway Station or Bang Sue Grand Station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs around 50-330 THB depending on the class of service chosen[2][4].
  • Arrival in Ayutthaya: Upon arrival, consider hiring a tuk-tuk for the day to navigate between the various historical sites easily. A tuk-tuk rental typically costs between 300-500 THB[2].

Mid-Morning: Explore Ayutthaya Historical Park

  • Ayutthaya Historical Park: Begin your exploration at this UNESCO World Heritage site, which features numerous temples and ruins. Key highlights include:

    • Wat Mahathat: Famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
    • Wat Chaiwatthanaram: Known for its stunning Khmer-style architecture.

    Spend about 2-3 hours wandering through the park to appreciate its historical significance and beautiful ruins[1][3].

Lunch: Riverside Dining

  • Lunch Options: After your morning exploration, enjoy lunch at one of the riverside restaurants along the Chao Phraya River. You can savor local dishes such as Pad Thai or fresh seafood while enjoying scenic views[1][2].

Afternoon: Boat Tour and Additional Temples

  • Ayutthaya Boat Tour: Post-lunch, take a relaxing boat tour around the island to view temples from the water. This unique perspective allows you to see sites like Wat Phanan Choeng, which features a massive seated Buddha statue[1][3].

  • Additional Temples:

    • Wat Phanan Choeng: Visit this temple to see the impressive seated Buddha statue.
    • Wat Ratchaburana: Explore this temple known for its beautiful prang (tower) and ancient relics.

Evening: Return to Bangkok

  • Departure from Ayutthaya: After a full day of exploration, head back to the train station for your return trip to Bangkok.

  • Dinner in Bangkok: Once back in Bangkok, consider dining at a rooftop restaurant such as Vertigo and Moon Bar at Banyan Tree Hotel for stunning city views and a memorable end to your day[1].

Tips for Your Trip

  • Start Early: To make the most of your day, aim to leave Bangkok by 7 AM.
  • Dress Appropriately: Since you'll be visiting temples, wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring water with you as it can get hot during the day.