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Ayutthaya day trip from Bangkok: An easy escape

Cristal Dyer

3 min read

A monk at the historic ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand

Close, cheap, and loaded with history, Ayutthaya ticks all the right boxes for a day trip. The ancient capital is just a short ride from Bangkok but feels like a world away. Expect giant chedis, crumbling temples, and fewer crowds.

How to get to Ayutthaya from Bangkok

Ayutthaya is just 85 kms north of Bangkok, so getting there is quick and straightforward. There are a few ways to go, depending on your budget and how you like to travel.

Trains depart from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal. The ride takes 1 - 2 hours, with tickets starting at just 20 THB (AU$0.90) for a third-class seat and going up to 600 THB (AU$27) for air-conditioned express services.

Minivans and buses run from the Mochit or Northern Bus Terminal and take around 1.5 hours. Prices range from 150 - 430 THB (AU$7 - AU$20), and most services are air-conditioned with direct drop-offs in Ayutthaya town.

Private cars or taxis are the fastest and most comfortable, taking about 55 - 75 minutes door to door. This is a good option for groups or travellers who want to skip the stations, with round-trip fares ranging from 2,300 - 7,185 THB (AU$100 - AU$330).

Boat cruises are available, but not as common for a day trip. They take 3 - 4 hours one way and are usually included in guided packages that focus on scenic views along the Chao Phraya River.

What to see in Ayutthaya

Wat Mahathat

What is it? This is the temple with the famous Buddha head wrapped in tree roots, often seen on postcards and travel blogs. It’s one of Ayutthaya’s most iconic spots and a must for the photo alone.

Time: 30 - 45 mins

Cost: 80 THB (AU$3.50)

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

What is it? Three massive chedis mark where royal ashes once rested. It was the most important temple in the old capital and still looks the part.

Time: 45 - 60 mins

Cost: 80 THB (AU$3.50)

Wat Chaiwatthanaram

What is it? This temple is a standout for its riverside setting and Khmer-style towers. It’s big, bold, and perfect for sunset.

Time: 45 mins

Cost: 80 THB (AU$3.50)

Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

What is it? Built to celebrate a military win, the chedi here is huge, and yes, you can climb it. Down below, dozens of Buddhas sit in neat rows, draped in yellow robes.

Time: 30 - 45 mins

Cost: 20 THB (AU$0.90)

Wat Ratchaburana

What is it? A royal duel kicked off the story behind this one. The main prang still holds murals, and the crypt underneath is worth ducking into.

Time: 30 mins

Cost: 80 THB (AU$3.50)

Getting around in Ayutthaya for the day

Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to cover ground. A full-day hire costs 1,000 - 1,500 THB (AU$45 - AU$70) and fits up to four people. Bike hire is 50 THB per hour or 200 THB a day (AU$2 - AU$9). Great fun if you're up for it, but the heat can be a bit much. Grab or local taxis run 200 - 400 THB per hour (AU$9 - AU$18). Walking works only if you stick to the central temples.

Guided tours vs going solo

Going solo costs less. Around 500 - 1,500 THB (AU$22 - AU$68) covers entries, tuk-tuk, and snacks. You get to set the pace, but need to sort your own transport and info.

Guided tours from Bangkok cost 1,000 - 3,000 THB (AU$45 - AU$140) per person, or up to 11,000 THB (AU$500) for a group. You get hotel pickup, entry tickets, and a guide who actually explains what you’re looking at.

If it’s your first time, a tour keeps it simple. If you’re good with Google Maps and a bit of sweat, DIY is easier on the wallet.

What to bring with you for a day in Ayutthaya

Covered clothing for temples (no bare shoulders or knees)

Scarf or sarong for quick cover

Sunscreen, hat, sunnies

Reusable water bottle

1,000 THB in cash (small notes help)

Daypack with tissues, sanitiser, and a towel for the inevitable heat

Comfy shoes

Charged phone for directions and snaps

Ready to explore Thailand? Here’s all the basics you need to know before booking your trip.

Written by: Cristal Dyer

Cristal Dyer is a writer for Traveloka with more than a decade of travel writing experience that' has taken her to more than 70 countries. She travels full-time, sharing insider tips on her favourite cities, must-try food spots, and the best travel deals she can find.

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