Historical City of Ayutthaya - Unesco Full Day Tour From Bangkok

Bangkok , Thailand

Historical City of Ayutthaya - Unesco Full Day Tour From Bangkok

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About this experience

Step back in time and discover the fascinating world of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This full-day tour takes you on a journey through the heart of Thailand’s rich history, as you explore majestic temple ruins, centuries-old Buddha statues, and the remains of a once-thriving kingdom. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you’ll visit some of the most iconic and photogenic sites within the Ayutthaya Historical Park, while learning about the city’s rise, golden age, and eventual fall.

Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya quickly grew into one of the most powerful and cosmopolitan cities in the world. Merchants from Europe, Persia, China, and Japan all passed through its vibrant streets, and its golden-roofed temples and palaces once rivalled the finest in Asia. This immersive day trip offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning architecture; a must for anyone curious about Thailand’s royal past.

Available options

Small Group Tour

Pickup included

Private Tour

Private tour: Pick up/drop off within Bangkok area<br/>Pickup included

What's included

1 bottle of drinking water per person

Air-conditioned vehicle

English speaking tour guide

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, also known as the Summer Palace, is a palace complex formerly used by the Thai kings.
A number of impressive buildings can be found in the palace complex, built in very different architectural styles, some in classical Thai, some Chinese and some European design.

Stop 2

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon was founded in the second half of the 14th century during the reign of King U Thong, first ruler of Ayutthaya. Highlight of the monastery is its very large imposing prang dominating the area.
century. During the Burmese invasion of 1767 the temple was largely destroyed.

Wat Mahathat, also known as the Monastery of the Great Relic, is believed to have been built around the 14th century and was once residence to the Supreme Patriarch leader of the Thai Buddhist monks.
The most popular tourist attraction of Wat Mahathat is a tree whose roots have grown around the head of the Buddha statue.

This famous temple is situated on the south of Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Its large bronze seated Buddha image or Phra Mongkhon Bophit is one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand with its measures of 9.5 meters across the lap and a height of 12.5 meters. During the fall of Ayutthaya, the building and the image were badly destroyed by fire. The present Vihara and Buddha image have been reconstructed and renovated in the reign of King Rama V.

Used mainly for ceremonies that served to authenticate the king’s spiritual and moral authority, Wat Phra Si Sanphet was the official royal temple. No monks lived here and only people within the royal circle were allowed to enter.
Destroying Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the Royal Palace was a priority of the invading Burmese. They melted down 160 kilos of gold from the Phra Buddha Chai Sri Sanphet image and set fire to everything else.
The distinctive pagodas of Wat Phra Si Sanphet are one of the most famous sights in Ayutthaya.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram was built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong during the later period of Ayutthaya. It was built to commemorate his mother's hometown and to celebrate his coronation. The main prang is surrounded by many lesser prangs and towers in eight directions.
Wat Chaiwatthanaram was a royal monastery. The King and its descendants would perform religious rites here. It was also a cremation site for members of the Royal family.
With its Khmer-style buildings, Wat Chaiwatthanaram is one of the most impressive ancient temples in Ayutthaya.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities for driver & tour guide (not mandatory)

Soda/Pop

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

Wat Mahathat

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

56 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

727 reviews

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656

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

There is a strict dress code to enter Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. Shoulders and ankles need to be covered. No sleeveless shirts, shorts, ripped jeans, tight trousers, leggings, slippers, sandals, or revealing tops, otherwise you won't be allowed in.

Maximum number of participants per group is 10 people.

We only pick up from hotels in a few selected areas in Bangkok: Khao San Road and Siam Square. If you do not stay in a hotel in one of these areas, the meeting point is our office in Chao Khamrop Road in Chinatown. IMPORTANT: The exact meeting/departure time will be informed in a private message via the booking platform the day before before the tour. Departure time/meeting time depends on the number of participants on your travel date. Please carefully check your message the day before.

Bangkok’s traffic is notorious and often extremely congested. As our tours operate on a group basis, we kindly ask everyone to be on time. We can only wait for a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After the 10 minutes grace period, the guide will start with the tour. If you’re unable to make it on time, please inform us before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available day or time slot. Please note that a rescheduling fee will apply.

Meeting point

The meeting point is at our WanderSiam office in Chao Khamrop Road. Chao Khamrop Road is close to Phlapphla Chai 2 Police Station and right next to the Tai Hong Kong Shrine.
(For taxi drivers: สถานีตำรวจนครบาลพลับพลาไชย).

About Bangkok

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dynamic blend of traditional culture and modern urban life. Known for its ornate temples, bustling street markets, and world-class street food, Bangkok offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Top Attractions

Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that served as the royal residence from 1782 to 1925. It is a stunning example of Thai architecture and houses the Emerald Buddha.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 500 THB

Wat Arun

Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning temple located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. It is famous for its beautiful porcelain decorations and the iconic prang (spire).

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours 50 THB

Chatuchak Weekend Market

One of the world's largest markets, Chatuchak Weekend Market offers a vast array of goods, from clothing and accessories to food and antiques.

Shopping/Cultural Half day to full day Varies

Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya River is the lifeblood of Bangkok. Taking a boat tour along the river offers a unique perspective of the city and its many temples and palaces.

Nature/Scenic 1-3 hours Varies

Chatuchak Park

Chatuchak Park is a large and lush urban park that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It is home to a variety of plants, animals, and recreational facilities.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pad Thai

Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp, and a sweet and tangy sauce, garnished with crushed peanuts and lime.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Tom Yum Goong

A spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood.

Som Tum

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Lunch/Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet ripe mango served with sticky rice and coconut milk.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Erawan National Park Kayaking on the Chao Phraya River ATV tours in Hin Lek Fai Spa and massage treatments Boat tours on the Chao Phraya River Visiting temples and parks Visiting temples and historical sites Attending traditional Thai performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the most pleasant time to visit with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's peak tourist season with lively festivals and events.

22°C to 34°C 72°F to 93°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bangkok is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and traffic accidents can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and tuk-tuks.
• Be wary of jet ski rentals and gem shops.

Getting there

By air

Suvarnabhumi Airport • 30 km from city center
Don Mueang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Hua Lamphong Railway Station, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal

By bus

Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Ekamai Bus Terminal, Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and air-conditioned, the MRT is a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Khao San Road Sukhumvit Chinatown (Yaowarat) Silom Banglamphu

Day trips

Ayutthaya

80 km from Bangkok • Full day

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is known for its stunning temples and historical ruins.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

105 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Damnoen Saduak is one of the most famous floating markets in Thailand, offering a unique shopping and dining experience on the water.

Maeklong Railway Market

80 km from Bangkok • Half day to full day

Maeklong Railway Market is a unique market where vendors set up their stalls on the railway tracks, and a train passes through several times a day.

Festivals

Songkran • April 13-15 Loy Krathong • Full moon night in November Vegetarian Festival • September/October (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Use the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway to avoid traffic and get around the city quickly and efficiently.
Haggle and bargain when shopping at markets and street stalls, but do so politely and respectfully.
Try street food, but choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.