Temples of Ayutthaya from Bangkok. Thailand's Ancient Capital

Ayutthaya from Bankok Day Trip | Thailand's Ancient Capital | UNESCO World Heritage Site — it is all just a short trip from the pulsating streets of Bangkok.

By Travel Guide Spot 🌏

Last updated: May 13, 2025

Just 85 km (53 mi) north of Bangkok lies Ayutthaya Historical Park — one of Thailand’s most significant historical cities — making a visit to Ayutthaya from Bangkok a top day trip on our priority list. Comprising of a population of roughly over 51,000, the city blends many fascinating ruins with modern traditional Thai life. A UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1991) and once the largest city in the world (~1 million residents in 1700) Ayutthaya is a rich blend of Thai, Chinese, Indian, Persian, and Dutch influence.

A Glimpse into History of Ayutthaya

Founded: c.1350, as Siam’s second capital after Sukhothai
Name origin: From Ayodhya, the legendary city of Rama in Hindu mythology
Golden Era: 17th century - was a global trading hub between China, India, and the Malay Archipelago
Decline: In 1767, Ayutthaya was invaded and destroyed by the Burmese army
Legacy: Many ruins of majestic temples, prangs (reliquary towers), and monasteries still remain

Top Highlights of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya Historical Park: A vast area of ruins in the city center, including iconic temples and royal structures.
Prang & Monasteries: Tall Khmer-style towers and sprawling temple complexes built in stone.
Foreign Quarters (outside the island): Former communities of Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, and Chinese traders.

Getting Oriented in Ayutthaya

City Layout:

Ayutthaya sits on an island surrounded by three rivers: Chao Phraya, Lopburi, Pa Sak

Transportation Tips:

The train station is on the east bank. Take a ferry to cross into the old city
U Thong Road circles the island and is useful for navigating

Where to Go:

Northwest corner: Most major temple ruins
Northeast area: Guesthouses, cafés, and nightlife

What is The Best Time to Visit Ayutthaya?

November to March (Recommended): Thailand’s winter season offers the most pleasant temperatures for exploring the temples and ruins.
April to July: Summer months can get extremely hot, with temperatures reaching 35°C coupled with humidity that feel even hotter when exploring the exposed ruins.
July to October: Rainy season sees fewer crowds but does require preparation for wet conditions. Ensure you bring ponchos in addition to umbrellas.

Where To Stay In Ayutthaya

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Basic Travel Tips and Visitor Etiquette

Remember to start early to beat the tour groups from Bangkok.
Visit the lesser-known sites in the morning and return to the major ones in the afternoon after the large crowds leave.
Many of the off-the-beaten-path sites are just as beautiful, more peaceful and are skipped by tour buses.

✅ Is Ayutthaya worth visiting?

Ayutthaya holds significant historical and architectural value that even rivals the famous Angkor Wat.

The site provides insight into Thailand’s old capitals’s past.
Ruins of large temples and stupas remain of the massive city that was suddenly brought to a halt
Visitors should note that some temples are in various states of preservation.

✅ What is the Temple Etiquette in Ayutthaya?

Do not touch Buddha images or temple structures
Avoid positioning yourself higher than Buddha images
Do not point directly at Buddha images
Avoid pointing feet toward Buddha images
Please avoid inappropriate behavior, such as climbing on the Buddha statues.

✅ What is the dress code in Ayutthaya?

While there is no strictly enforced dress code throughout the entire site, modest attire is recommended. Visitors should cover shoulders and knees when entering temple areas. Appropriate clothing includes long shorts, pants, skirts below the knee, and tops that cover the shoulders.
Temple Sites: Generally require knee-length bottoms. Strapless tops, tank tops, wide necks, crop tops, miniskirts, shorts, and low-waist pants are not appropriate for ticketed temples (sarongs are available for rent at most temples)
Temples that charge entry are usually in ruins, so there is no dress code. Working temples tend to not charge any fees, however, there are also often no officials to check that your dress is appropriate. It is advised to follow these customs to show respect for sacred places.

✅ Practical Considerations

Hydration: Bring sufficient water, especially during hot months. Cold drinks are available for purchase outside temples.
Sun and Heat: Bring sufficient sun protection (limited shade available)
Facilities: Most temples charge for toilet facilities, with Bang Pa-In Palace being an exception.
Payment: Cash is the primary payment method at historical sites.
Timing: Start exploring early in the day to avoid afternoon heat.
Additional Sites: Beyond the main complexes, numerous smaller temples are scattered throughout Ayutthaya. A museum housing relics and treasures excavated from the ruins is also available for visitors.
If traveling by boat, prepare for potential traffic delays on return journey

✅ Safety Considerations

Numerous stray dogs, especially during off-season. Although they are generally harmless, avoid walking alone at night.
Be cautious of motorcyclists
Avoid putting valuables in bike baskets.
Female travellers must beware of groping by passing bikes.

✅Water Purchases:

Some shops sell water bottles that are not completely full. Ensure you check before buying; opt for another shop if unsure.

✅Healthcare:

Ayutthaya does hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies readily available ensure you travel to Thailand with travel insurance.

How to Get to Ayutthaya From Bangkok?

By Train

The cheapest and one of the most scenic way to reach Ayutthaya is by train from Bangkok. Trains run roughly every hour from Hua Lamphong Station (or Don Muang Station) and journeys take from 80 minutes to 2 hours.

🚂Train Classes:

Third-class “rapid” train: No air-con, no reserved seat and the most budget-friendly.
Ordinary train: No air-con, but offers reserved seating.
Rapid train: Air-con, and also offers reserved seating.
Special express: Air-con, reserved seating as well as an onboard meal.
Arrival: Ayutthaya Train Station (next to the historical island, across Pa Sak River)

🚂Trains continue past Ayutthaya to:

Northern Regions: Lop Buri, Phitsanulok (for Sukhothai), Lamphun and Chiang Mai
Eastern Regions: Ubon Ratchathani
Northeastern Regions: Nong Khai and Tha Naleng (for Vientiane, Laos)

🚂Options to cross the river after arriving at the train station:

Make use of the nearby pedestrian bridge just south of the station.
Take a local ferry (runs every few minutes, very cheap) — just walk straight from the station down the opposite lane.
Tuk-tuks are available but remember to negotiate a fair price to avoid overpaying.

By Bus

🚌From Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal - (Mo Chit):

First-class air-conditioned buses depart every 20 minutes.
Travel time is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours (allow for traffic and frequent stops along the way).

🚌From Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal:

Take a minibus to Rangsit (northern Bangkok), then transfer to another minibus to Ayutthaya.
Total time: 1.5 to 2 hours.

🚌From Kanchanaburi:

There is a local bus to Suphanburi every 2 hours, and you can expect a 2 hours travel time.
Then transfer to a minibus to Ayutthaya.
Expect a half-day journey from Kanchanaburi.

🚌Ayutthaya’s Local Bus Station:

This is located east of town, serving the northern destinations.
Accessible via songthaew (local shared truck taxis) - ask the locals for the correct route.

By Boat

🚢Consider a river cruise from Bangkok for a more scenic and leisurely arrival. This provides a view into traditional riverside life along the Chao Phraya river that once served as a major trade route.

The cruise boats travel up the Chao Phraya River, often stopping at Ko Kret and then the Bang Pa-In Palace.
No regular schedule as the boats must be booked in advance through a tour operator.
Trips can be a full day or overnight cruise, depending on the package.

By Ride-Hailing

🚗InDrive is of the best ride hailing apps in Thailand and is available in Ayutthaya.

You can negotiate your own fee and is great for groups.
Because Ayutthaya is a popular destination, you should not have a problem getting a return ride to Bangkok

How To Get Around Ayutthaya?

🚲By Bicycle

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Ayutthaya. The archaeological park opens at 07:30 am is bike-friendly, with paved paths and short distances between temple sites—perfect even for casual cyclists.

Rental cost: Very affordable (daily rate)
Condition check: Ensure the bike has: Firm, inflated wheels, a secure, adjustable seat, steady handlebars, a bike lock (usually provided by the better shops)
There’s a reliable bike shop directly opposite the train station.

Where to Rent a bicycle in Ayutthaya?

Soi 2 near most tourist hotels and restaurants is lined with several bike rental shops. Making it easy to compare and choose.
Tour With Thai (TWT) situated near Tony’s Guest House offers bikes in various sizes, including seats for small children. They also rent motorbikes for those short on time.

🛺By Tuk-Tuk

Ayutthaya’s tuk-tuks are larger than Bangkok’s, these types can fit up to 6 people using facing benches.

From the Train Station:

Only official tuk-tuk drivers or the tourist “helpers” are allowed to pick up passengers.
Look for their photo and name on the “Tourist Officials” board. One can find this on the south end of platform.
Prices are based on fixed rates but can sometimes be negotiated for the half-day tours.

Elsewhere Around Town:

You can flag down tuk-tuks from the street
Most drivers have postcards of temples to help with communication. You can show your map or list of destinations - they will usually quote a fixed tour price and wait at each stop.

🛵By Motorbike Taxi (Motorsai)

This is a good option for solo travelers, especially when visiting any of the ruins outside the main city island.

Easy to spot as the riders wear orange hi-vis jackets with large numbers on them.
Cheaper than the tuk-tuks especially at the per hour rate.
There is less room for luggage, however they are perfect for quick temple-hopping.
They are often found on Pridi Banomyong Road and are less common at the station.

⛵By Boat

See Ayutthaya from the water and enjoy the traditional riverside lifestyle. This provides one with a view into the traditional riverside life that evokes the Ayutthaya Kingdom era.

Boates are available from:

Chanthara Kasem National Museum Pier
Pom Phet Pier
Wat Phananchoeng Pier

Boat Options Include:

Longtail boats chartered by route and duration.
Rice barges which are great for groups, offering a relaxed scenic tour.
The popular routes circle the town island and follow the Chao Phraya and the Pa Sak rivers. This offers unique views of the temples and local Thai life.

🎟️ Guided Tours Includes round-trip transport and a guide

Best for time-limited travelers looking for historical insights

Book a Tour

Full Day Tour from Bangkok

Book a Full Day Ayutthaya Historical Park Tour from Bangkok

Pickup and drop-off in Bangkok in an air-conditioned vehicle
Drinking water is provided
Entrance fees cover: Royal Palace, Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Book a full day trip

Guided Day Trip from Bangkok

Book a full Day Ayutthaya Temples Tour with a Boat Tour + Lunch

Enjoy lunch by the river.
Tour covers Bang Pa-In Palace, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Mahathat.
End with a river cruise past ancient ruins before heading back.

Book a full day trip

Information & Ticket Purchases

See our detailed map of Ayutthaya to plan your visits and get familiar with the area

Remember that the map can be used offline while you are there

Fine Arts Department

Entry to the major sites in Ayutthaya Historical Park is managed by the Fine Arts Department. You can purchase:

A single-site ticket
A multi-site ticket for the following sites:
- Wat Chai Watthanaram
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet
- Wat Phra Mahathat
- Wat Ratchaburana
- Wat Phra Ram
- Wat Maheyong

Temples, Ruins And Points of Interest in Ayutthaya

Our guide highlights the important temples and sites in Ayutthaya, some of which you will visit during your Ayutthaya from Bangkok daytrip. We have explored the popular temples and ruins, the less touristy temples and ruins, the museums, markets and foreign settlements.

Popular temples of Ayutthaya on the main island:
- These are the most well-known and visited temples in Ayutthaya, often included in day trips/tours from Bangkok
Then less touristy temples of Ayutthaya on the main island
- These temples are often overlooked by the tourists and guides, but they offer a more peaceful and authentic experience, and are perfect for escaping the crowds
Temples and ruins in the surrounding areas (Off the main island)
- These temples and ruins are located outside the main island of Ayutthaya, and are often less crowded. They offer a glimpse into the history of Ayutthaya as a prosperous trading hub with foreign countries, hence its foreign settlements (Foreign nations were not allowed to set up camp within the city walls)

On The Main island

Viharn Phra Mongkol Bopit

Built: Initially enshrined outside the Grand Palace, later relocated and housed in a Mondop.
Notable for: A large bronze Buddha image. Damaged by fire during the fall of Ayutthaya but renovated. The area once served as Sanam Luang, the royal cremation site.

Wat Phra Mahathat

Built: 1374, during King Borom Rachathirat I’s reign with Khmer influences from Angkor period.
Notable for: Famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots. The site was heavily damaged by the Burmese.
Key Features: Leaning prangs and rows of headless Buddhas. Burmese invaders beheaded many Buddha statues while looting.
Best time to visit: Early or late for fewer crowds.

Phra Chedi Suriyothai

Built: Memorial for Queen Suriyothai, the first heroine in Siamese history.
Notable for: White and gold chedi, set in gardens. Renovated in 1990, revealing ancient relics now displayed at Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

Wat Phra Ram

Built: Circa 1369 by King Ramesuan.
Notable for: Large prang and outbuildings, some in disrepair.
Historical Significance: Built on the royal cremation site of King U-Thong, Ayutthaya’s first king.
Key Features: Stunning views from the prang’s staircases.
Location: Near Wat Phra Si Sanphet, yet attracts fewer tourists.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Built: 1448, within the former royal palace grounds.
Notable for: Three prominent chedis housing remains of kings. Some restored Buddha statues were relocated to Bangkok (including one now in Wat Pho).
Historical Significance: The royal temple for religious ceremonies.
Key Features: Once housed a 16-meter Buddha covered in gold, which was melted down by the Burmese.
Best for: Capturing Ayutthaya’s most recognizable view.
Considered the symbol of Ayutthaya province
Served as inspiration for Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew
Relatively intact despite the 1767 Burmese invasion

Wat Ratchaburana

Built: 1424 by King Borom Rachathirat II.
Notable for: Well-restored prang, murals in the crypt, and golden treasures looted in 1957.
Key Features: Stucco-sculpted Garuda, smaller stupas, and a chance to climb inside the prang for views and exhibits.
Current Status: Some areas closed since January 2020.
Historical Significance: Built on the cremation site of King Borom Rachathirat II’s brothers.

Wat Thammikarat

Built: Before the establishment of Ayutthaya, with later modifications.
Notable for: Large chedi ruins, leaning columns, and a tree growing out of a wall.
Key Features: Reclining Buddha hall (Wihan Phra Phutthasaiyat) with a 12m Buddha image, gold-inlaid feet.
Historical Significance: The Wihan Luang once housed a large bronze Buddha head.

Wat Lokaya Sutharam

Built: Restored temple and monastery.
Notable for: A 42-meter-long reclining Buddha, the largest of its kind on Ayutthaya Historical pPark and survived the Burmese attack.
Key Features: Equal-length toes on the Buddha statue, sometimes draped in orange cloth. Represents Buddha’s passage into nirvana
Best time to visit: Early to avoid crowds, as it’s popular among tour groups.

Wat Suwan Dararam (Modern Temple)

Built: Modern wat constructed during the reign of King Rama I and IV.
Notable for: Beautiful murals depicting daily life and scenes from King Naresuan’s life.
Key Features: Boat-like concave design of the bòht (ordination hall), a late Ayutthaya architectural style.
Atmosphere: A peaceful, active temple with fascinating artwork.

Wat Borom Phuttharam

Built: 1688-1703, during King Phetracha’s reign.
Notable for: Yellow glazed tiles and a major renovation under King Borommakot.
Key Feature: 3 pairs of door panels with mother-of-pearl inlays, now housed at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Benchamabophit, and the Bangkok National Museum.

Old Royal Palace

Notable for: The brick foundations and walls that once made up the royal palace compound of the Ayutthaya kingdom.
Key Features: The Grand Palace in Bangkok was modeled after this site.
Tip: Visit for a short bike ride or a walk from Wat Phra Si Sanphet. It’s open from 8am to 6pm.

Tomb of Sheikh Ahmad Qomi

Notable for: The burial place of Sheikh Ahmad Qomi, a Shiite Muslim who was a key advisor to King Songtham.
Key Features: Alternating Thai and Arabic calligraphy beneath the dome. The tomb serves as a place of worship for both Thai Buddhists and Muslims.

Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit

Built: 15th century, next to Wat Phra Si Sanphet.
Notable for: One of Thailand’s largest bronze Buddha images (12.5m, 17m with the base), coated in gold.
Historical Significance: Damaged by fire and later restored with donations in 1956 from the Burmese Prime Minister as atonement.
Key Features: A must-see in Ayutthaya for its impressive statue and history.

Wat Worachettharam

Notable for: A 42m-long reclining Buddha and a leaning prang.
Key Features: Restored Buddha and a weathered Buddha in front of a bell-shaped stupa.
Historical Significance: Built for King Naresuan’s cremation ceremony, attended by 10,000 monks.

Less Touristy Temples And Ruins On The Main Island

These sites are all part of Ayutthaya’s rich history and provide various experiences ranging from quiet, lesser-known temples to parks and ruins to escape the crowd.

Wat Sangka Thae
Wat Jao Prap and Srinagarindra Park
Wat Jao Prahm
Wat Ubosot
Wat Chedi Yai
Wat Som
Wat Luang Chi Krut
Wat Suwannawas
Wat Plub Pla Chai
Phet Fortress (Pom Phet Fort) (Southeast Island)
- Built in 1350 CE, originally of wood, later rebuilt in brick.
- Notable for historical defensive importance and scenic views of the river. Close to Wat Suwan Dararam and a ferry to Wat Phanan Choeng.
Pratu Khao Pluak Fortress
- Notable for part of Ayutthaya’s old defensive system, now in a state of disrepair.
- Key Features are traces of crenellations where soldiers once stood guard.
- A reminder of the city’s former fortifications.

Temples, Ruins and Points of Interest Off The Main Island

There are also less touristy temples and ruins of Ayutthaya that are a perfect midday break from the crowds. Much of Ayutthaya’s history revolves around trade with other nations, but these nations were not allowed to set up camp inside the city walls. Thus, surrounding Ayutthaya’s waters are plenty of remains from the cultures of foreign countries that once set sail here, such as the settlements of Japan, the Netherlands and Portugal. There is also the interesting Thai-Chinese temple of Wat Phanan Choeng.

Bang Pa In Palace

Built: 17th century by King Prasat Thong, restored in late 1800s by King Rama IV
Notable For: A beautifully landscaped royal retreat that features an eclectic mix of Thai, Chinese, and European architecture set across expansive, manicured gardens.
Key Features:
- Ornate buildings like the Chinese-style Wehart Chamrun, the striped European-style Ho Withun Thasana observatory (1881), and a serene Thai pavilion seemingly floating on water.
- Sprawling 19-hectare grounds perfect for walking and exploring.
- Active royal residences for hosting royalty and VIPs
- Golf cart rentals available
- Accessible via its own train station
- Modest dress is required to enter the palace grounds.
Historical Significance:
- Bang Pa-In Palace was originally established in the 17th century and revived in the 19th century by Kings Rama IV and V, the palace showcases the royal embrace of international influences, particularly under the modernization efforts of Rama V.

Wat Niwet Thamaprawat

Notable For: A striking buttercup-yellow ubosot (ordination hall) that resembles a European Gothic cathedral, uniquely blending Thai and Western religious architecture.
Key Features:
- Located on an island across from Bang Pa-In Palace, accessible via a free monk-operated cable car (donations appreciated).
- Tall spire that doubles as a stupa, containing a sacred Buddha relic.
- Interior features stained-glass windows, gilded decorations, and a church-like ambiance rare in Thai temples.
Historical Significance: This temple reflects the 19th-century cultural exchange during King Rama V’s reign, symbolizing Siam’s openness to Western aesthetics while maintaining Buddhist spiritual functions.

Wat Kudi Dao

Forest reclaiming the site, with imposing walls and a collapsed stupa.
An eerie atmosphere and solitude, offering a unique experience.
Established early, expanded later, and now it is largely forgotten by most tourists.

Wat Phra Ngam

A mid-sized stupa and a toppled ubosot.
The eastern gate, enveloped by bodhi tree roots, is a photographer’s highlight.
Once known as Wat Cha Ram, it sees few visitors.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Built in 1357 and founded by King U Thong.
One of Ayutthaya’s largest and most impressive temples-
A 60m-tall bell-shaped chedi, with views of sculpted gardens, smaller stupas, and stone Buddhas.
King Naresuan added the chedi after a victory over the Burmese in 1593.
Coins for good luck and a climb to the crypt for a closer view of the chedi.
Featured on Thai banknotes
Revived as a monastery in the 1950s with monks residing in elevated wooden houses
Still functions as an active place of worship

Key features:

Huge chedi (stupa) with interior “wishing well”
Main ordination hall housing one of Ayutthaya’s most sacred Buddha images
Giant reclining Buddha statue

King Naresuan Monument (Post Invasion Feature)

A massive statue of King Naresuan on horseback, symbolizing his efforts to free Ayutthaya from Burmese control.
Reliefs depicting his legendary exploits, including wrestling a crocodile.

Wat Chai Wattanaram

A must-see temple across the river from Ayutthaya Island, known for its 35m Khmer-style central prang, climbable pagodas, and Angkor Wat-inspired architecture.
Built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong to honor his mother, it offers stunning sunrise and sunset views, making it one of Ayutthaya’s most photogenic sites.
Featured in Thai media, particularly the drama “Love Destiny”
Don’t miss the eroded reliefs of the Buddha’s life and the panoramic views from the central chedi.

Wat Phutthai Sawan

This atmospheric riverside temple, founded in 1353 by King U Thong, combines ruins and active worship.
Its tall bone-white prang survived the Burmese invasion and glows beautifully at night.
Inside you will find a reclining Buddha, a bat-filled relic vault, and 17th-century murals in the abbot’s residence.

Wat Na Phra Men

Unique for surviving the 1767 Burmese invasion, this temple blends ancient and modern architecture.
Highlights include vaulted ceilings, a black stone Buddha, and a massive bòht (known as an ordination hall) housing a Buddha in royal attire.
It was spared because it served as a Burmese military base.

Wat Phanan Choeng

An active monastery and spiritual center, this temple predates Ayutthaya’s founding and houses a 6m-tall cast bronze Buddha from 1325.
The interior boasts maroon columns, colorful murals, and Dvaravati-era statues.

Wat Phu Khao Thong & Chedi Phu Khao Thong

Built during the 16th-century Burmese occupation, this massive white chedi (“Golden Mountain”) dominates the surrounding rice fields. The Thai upper section was added later.
Climb 79 steps to a mid-level terrace for panoramic countryside views.
Good photo stop with peaceful vibes and a working temple nearby featuring a smiling fat Buddha.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhol (Wat Chao Phraya Thai)

Commissioned by King Naresuan to commemorate his elephant-back victory, this is one of Ayutthaya’s most iconic temples.
It features a huge chedi wrapped in golden cloth, a long, impressive reclining Buddha, and rows of saffron-robed Buddha statues.

Wat Maheyong

Peaceful and less visited, Wat Maheyong (1438) is a meditative retreat rather than a tourist hotspot.
Its most striking feature is a stupa surrounded by elephant sculptures and a walled corridor leading to the chapel.

Wat Phanan Choeng

Dating back to 1324, this vibrant riverside temple houses the towering 19m (57ft)-high Buddha “Luang Po To”, surrounded by 10,800 smaller Buddhas.
Outside, you’ll find Chinese shrines, a mural hall, and a fish-feeding pier along the river.
Local legend claims the Buddha statue shed tears when Burmese forces ransacked the city.
It is a blend of Thai and Chinese spiritual traditions—very lively and photogenic.

Wat Tha Ka Rong

Notable for: A playful, eerie atmosphere with animatronic ghosts, supersized crows, and glowing Buddhas.
Key Features: Numerous statues from Buddhist, Hindu, and animist traditions, plus a weekend floating market nearby.
Atmosphere: More like a carnival than a traditional temple.

St Joseph Church

Founded in 1665 with support from King Narai, this mustard-yellow Romanesque Catholic church was rebuilt in 1891 after its destruction in the 1767 Burmese invasion.
It stands as a peaceful reminder of Ayutthaya’s multicultural heritage.

Museums

Chantharakasem National Museum

Once known as the “palace to the front,” it served as a royal residence for crown princes during the Ayutthaya period and was restored after the city’s fall in 1767.

It is housed within Wang Chan Kasem Palace, originally built for King Naresuan in 1557 and later rebuilt by King Rama IV, this museum showcases Ayutthaya’s royal heritage. The collection includes Buddhist art, pottery, ancient weapons, and original furnishings, though the real highlight is the ornate architecture of the palace buildings themselves. Don’t miss the astronomy tower at the back, it was used by King Rama IV for stargazing.

Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

Ayutthaya’s premier museum, named after King Borommarachathirat II (Chao Sam Phraya), houses a dazzling collection of royal gold, jewellery, votive tablets, and Buddha statues excavated from Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Mahathat. The museum opened in 1961 with a groundbreaking display style focused on archaeological finds.

Highlights include:

Golden treasures from temple crypts
Beautiful teak temple doors
Pottery history exhibit in Building 2
Temporary exhibitions in a wooden pavilion

Million Toy Museum

Step into a nostalgic wonderland at this quirky private museum, packed with thousands of toys from all eras. Expect everything from porcelain elephants and kokeshi dolls to wind-up robots, retro racing cars, and even Shrek figurines. The collection goes beyond toys, showcasing items like ancient pottery and vintage household tools. This is a great stop for families, pop culture fans, and collectors.

Thai Boat Museum

This small but fascinating museum celebrates Thailand’s rich river culture with a display of traditional wooden boats, including miniature models and real vessels still used today. Learn to spot the difference between a spice boat and a sam pan!

Foreign settlements

Dutch Settlement (Baan Hollanda)

Established in 1608 by the Dutch East India Company (VOC), the original Dutch lodge was a two-storey brick trading post destroyed in 1767. Today, the Baan Hollanda center offers a compact but insightful museum on Dutch-Thai relations, with artifacts from the original site, including porcelain and coins. Behind the museum are the excavated lodge foundations and a traditional wooden boatyard. Established with a royal gift from Queen Beatrix to mark 400 years of Dutch-Thai relations.

Japanese Settlement

Situated 1km south of Baan Hollanda. Though no structures remain, the Japanese government funded a peaceful garden and museum complex where a 17th-century Japanese community once stood. This area once housed around 1,500 Japanese traders and Christian exiles.

You can begin with a 15-minute introductory film, then explore exhibitions on Ayutthaya’s foreign diplomacy.
Frangipani-shaded gardens create a tranquil, reflective atmosphere.

Portuguese Settlement

The first Europeans to settle in Ayutthaya (early 1500s), the Portuguese established a large community. The settlement’s highlight is the excavated remains of the 1540 San Petro Church, the first Christian church in Thailand, and a burial ground holding over 200 skeletons.

Skeletal remains of high-ranking settlers are still visible inside the church ruins.
A Thai-style spirit house behind the site includes figures of St. Joseph and St. Paul.
An atmospheric and slightly eerie site that offers a raw glimpse into Ayutthaya’s colonial history.

Food, Nightlife, Markets and Shopping

Markets and Night Markets

The benefit of staying the night in Ayutthaya is that you can experience the local markets and night markets. There are numerous dishes that are unique to Ayutthaya, so be sure to sample the ones you wont find in Bangkok.

Ong Gaan Tolasap / Bang Lan Road Night Market

📍Located at Bang Lan Road near Wat Mahathat

Daily from 16:00 onwards
Vibe: A bustling local night market, popular with residents and tourists alike.

🍽️ What to Expect: Ayutthaya’s largest night market that specializes in street food. it is a vibrant, colorful market full of exotic Thai aromas and flavors. This is the ideal spot for sampling many Thai dishes after exploring the Ayutthaya Historical Park.

Thai curries
Grilled meats
Sausages on sticks
Seafood snacks.

Some stalls offer seating at the west end of the market, but most food is eaten either standing or taken home.

🍜 Don’t Miss:

Ayutthaya-style noodles - Glass noodles with prawns

Hua Ro Market

📍Hosted in front of Chankasem Palace

Local produce, snacks, and home-cooked dishes.
There are 50+ food stalls by the river—cheap, delicious, local Thai food.

Ayutthaya Floating Market

A themed cultural attraction recreating the atmosphere of Ayutthaya’s golden age (1351-1767), with traditional architecture, food, and performances. The market is centered around a pond and divided into 16 zones, each reflecting a district of Ayutthaya.

Live historical shows take place daily (3 shows Mon-Fri; 4 shows on weekends).
Entry includes an optional motorboat ride through the market.

Chao Phrom Market

Ayutthaya’s main local market—Chao Phrom Market is perfect for those seeking an authentic Thai shopping experience.

Browse stalls selling fresh food, affordable clothing, and daily essentials.
Less touristy, it’s ideal for discovering local flavors and some good deals.
Great street food and a peek into the local daily traditional life.

Eat in Ayutthaya

Must-Try local Dishes

Ayutthaya Boat Noodles

Situated near the Telephone Authority / Opp. Sri Nakharin Park (U-Thong Rd)
Served in small bowls—classic pork leg, chicken, and more.

Roti Saimai

Find it at the Junction of U-Thong & Si Sanphet Rd
Ayutthaya’s iconic dessert: cotton candy in a thin flatbread wrap.

Buy Local Handicrafts

Aranyik Knives Ban Ton Pho & Ban Phai Nong (Tambon Tha Chang)

Historic knife-making craft; demos, homestays, and purchases available.

Bamboo Fans 📍Ban Phraek District

Now shaped like Bodhi leaves with gold trim—functional art.

Palm Leaf Fish Mobiles 📍Made by Thai Muslim communities along the Chao Phraya River

Symbolic cradleside décor with over 100 years of tradition.

Palm Leaf Hats 📍Tambon Bang Nang Ra, Amphoe Bang Pahan

Intricately woven OTOP craft, popular with locals and tourists.