A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical Park is an archaeological site, which contains the remains of historical structures such as temples, palaces, and Buddha statues.

Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to the grandeur of the ancient city of Ayutthaya, the second capital of Siam. The park is home to the ruins of numerous temples, palaces, and statues, each with its own unique history and architectural style. /n The park is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the past through its preserved structures and artifacts. The park also offers guided tours, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the site.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical Park is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

The Night Market in Ayutthaya is a bustling hub of activity where visitors can sample local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and experience the vibrant local culture. It's a great place to try street food and see the city come alive after dark.

Ayutthaya's night market is a vibrant hub of food, shopping, and local culture. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with vendors selling a wide array of goods, from fresh produce and local dishes to handmade crafts and clothing. The market is a feast for the senses, with the aroma of cooking food filling the air, the sound of lively chatter, and the sight of colorful stalls lining the streets. /n Foodies will be in heaven at the night market, where you can sample a variety of Thai street food. Try the pad thai, a stir-fried noodle dish, or the mango sticky rice, a sweet dessert. There are also plenty of vegetarian options available. For shopaholics, the market offers a wide range of goods, from handmade crafts and clothing to souvenirs and antiques. It's a great place to buy unique gifts and mementos of your trip. The night market is not just a place to eat and shop, but also a place to immerse yourself in the local culture. You'll see locals going about their evening routines, and have the chance to interact with them. It's a truly authentic Thai experience that you won't want to miss.

Ayutthaya's night market is a vibrant hub of food, shopping, and local culture.

Thai massage is a traditional healing system combining acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures. In Ayutthaya, you can find numerous massage parlors offering this service, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Thai massage is a traditional therapeutic practice that originated in India and was later brought to Thailand. It is a unique combination of acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures. This form of massage is known for its healing and rejuvenating properties. /n In Ayutthaya, there are numerous places where you can experience a Thai massage. The therapists are well-trained and the ambiance of the massage centers is designed to provide you with the utmost relaxation. Whether you're tired after a long day of sightseeing or just want to experience Thai culture, a Thai massage is something you should definitely try.

Experience the traditional Thai massage therapy for relaxation and rejuvenation.

A collection of beautiful buildings in various architectural styles, used as a summer dwelling by the Siamese royalty.

The Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, also known as the Summer Palace, is a must-visit attraction in Ayutthaya, Thailand. The palace complex is a stunning blend of Thai and European architectural styles, with ornate buildings set amidst beautifully manicured gardens. The palace was originally built in the 17th century, but most of the present buildings were constructed under King Rama V in the late 19th century. /n The palace complex includes several noteworthy buildings, such as the Wehart Chamrunt (Heavenly Light), a Chinese-style royal palace and throne room, and the Warophat Phiman, a neo-Gothic castle. The palace grounds also feature a large pond with a Thai-style pavilion in the center, which was used by the king and his court for relaxation and entertainment. The Bang Pa-In Royal Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Thailand's royal family.

A stunning royal palace complex with a mix of Thai and European architecture.

A traditional Thai floating market offering a variety of goods and food, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Ayothaya Floating Market is a vibrant attraction in Ayutthaya, Thailand. This bustling market offers a unique shopping and dining experience, with vendors selling a variety of goods from their boats along the waterways. /n Visitors can browse through a wide range of local products, from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market is also a great place to sample traditional Thai food, with many vendors serving up delicious dishes right from their boats. In addition to shopping and dining, the market often hosts cultural performances, providing a glimpse into local traditions and customs. Whether you're looking to pick up some unique souvenirs, enjoy a tasty meal, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere, Ayothaya Floating Market is a must-visit attraction in Ayutthaya.

A vibrant market offering a unique shopping and dining experience on the water.

A hands-on experience of Thai culinary arts where you learn to prepare and cook traditional Thai dishes.

Thai Cooking Class in Ayutthaya offers a unique cultural experience. Here, you'll learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes, using local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The class is usually conducted by local chefs who are passionate about their cuisine and are eager to share their knowledge. /n The class typically begins with a trip to a local market where you'll learn about the various ingredients used in Thai cooking. You'll then return to the kitchen where you'll learn to prepare a variety of dishes, including popular Thai curries, stir-fries, and desserts. The class is hands-on, meaning you'll be doing the cooking under the guidance of the chef. At the end of the class, you'll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor by sitting down to a meal of the dishes you've prepared. This is a great way to learn about Thai culture and cuisine, and you'll leave with the skills to prepare these dishes at home.

Experience the authentic Thai cuisine in a Thai Cooking Class in Ayutthaya. Learn to prepare traditional dishes.

A sanctuary for retired and rescued elephants where visitors can learn about and interact with these magnificent creatures.

The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal is a sanctuary for elephants located in the historical city of Ayutthaya, Thailand. This place is not just an attraction, but a home for these majestic creatures. Here, visitors get a chance to interact with elephants, feed them, and even ride them under the supervision of trained professionals. /n The Royal Kraal is also a part of this establishment, which is a traditional enclosure used for keeping elephants. This place is deeply rooted in Thai culture and history, as elephants have been an integral part of it for centuries. The staff at the Elephant Palace are dedicated to the care and preservation of these animals, making it a must-visit for animal lovers and those interested in Thai culture.

A unique experience to interact with elephants in their natural habitat.

Discover the ancient city of Ayutthaya, Thailand, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in history and culture. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, Ayutthaya is home to magnificent ruins of temples, palaces, and Buddha statues, reflecting its past grandeur. Explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park, visit the iconic Wat Chaiwatthanaram, and marvel at the Buddha head entwined in tree roots at Wat Mahathat. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and savor authentic Thai cuisine. Ayutthaya, just an hour's drive from Bangkok, offers a fascinating glimpse into Thailand's rich heritage, making it a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Night Market

Thai massage

Start your day with a visit to the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient ruins of temples, palaces, and Buddha statues, and learn about the rich history of the Ayutthaya Kingdom.

Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant. Try some of the local specialties like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, or Green Curry.

After lunch, take a relaxing boat tour around the island city of Ayutthaya. You'll get to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

For dinner, indulge in some street food at the Night Market. Try some of the local delicacies like Mango Sticky Rice, Satay, or Fried Insects if you're feeling adventurous.

End your day with a traditional Thai massage. It's the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

Exploring the Ancient City

Bang Pa-In Royal Palace

Ayothaya Floating Market

Thai Cooking Class

Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal

Start your second day with a visit to the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace. This beautiful complex features a mix of Thai, Chinese, and Gothic architecture.

Have lunch at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy the fresh seafood and the beautiful view of the river.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Ayothaya Floating Market. Here, you can buy local products, souvenirs, and try more delicious Thai food.

For dinner, try a local restaurant that offers a traditional Thai Cooking Class. You can learn how to make your favorite Thai dishes and then enjoy them for dinner.

End your trip with a visit to the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal. Here, you can learn about the importance of elephants in Thai culture and even get to feed them.

Experiencing the Local Culture

UTC+7

Ayutthaya is a relatively small city, and many of the main historical sites are within a short distance of each other. Renting a bicycle is a popular way to get around, and rentals are available throughout the city.

For those who prefer a faster mode of transport, motorbikes are also available for rent. This can be a good option for visiting sites that are further afield, but be aware that you will need an international driving permit.

A songthaew is a type of passenger vehicle in Thailand adapted from a pick-up or a larger truck and used as a share taxi. They operate on fixed routes around Ayutthaya, and are a cheap and efficient way to get around.

Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled motorized vehicles that are commonly used for short trips around the city. They are more expensive than songthaews, but can be more convenient as they can take you directly to your destination.

There are several rivers and canals that run through Ayutthaya, and taking a boat can be a scenic and enjoyable way to get around. There are public ferries as well as private boat tours available.

Taxis are available in Ayutthaya, although they are less common than in larger cities like Bangkok. They can be a good option for longer trips or if you have a lot of luggage.

Ridesharing services, such as Grab, are available in Ayutthaya. This can be a convenient option as you can book and pay for your ride using the app, and it can be cheaper than a taxi.

Ayutthaya is on the main north-south train line, and the train station is located east of the island. Trains can be a good option for getting to and from Ayutthaya, but are less useful for getting around the city itself.

There are local buses that operate in Ayutthaya, although they can be less convenient than other forms of transport as they operate on fixed routes and schedules. However, they can be a cheap way to get around.

A popular sweet treat in Ayutthaya, Roti Sai Mai is a thin, crepe-like pancake rolled up with strands of spun sugar, often flavored with pandan.

Roti Sai Mai

Originally sold from boats on the canals of Ayutthaya, these small bowls of noodles come in a rich, dark broth flavored with soy, sugar, and spices, and are typically topped with pork or beef.

Boat Noodles

A famous Thai soup, Tom Yum Goong is a hot and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili. It's a must-try in Ayutthaya.

Tom Yum Goong

A classic Thai dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish typically made with shrimp, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, peanuts, and lime. It's a common street food in Ayutthaya.

Pad Thai

Originating from Northeast Thailand, Som Tam is a spicy green papaya salad made with tomatoes, long beans, chili, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts. It's a refreshing dish to try in Ayutthaya.

Som Tam

A beloved dessert in Ayutthaya, Mango Sticky Rice is made with glutinous rice, fresh mango slices, and a sweet coconut sauce.

Mango Sticky Rice

A popular Thai dish, Green Curry is made with green curry paste, coconut milk, meat, and vegetables. It's a flavorful dish to try in Ayutthaya.

Green Curry

Originating from Southern Thailand, Massaman Curry is a rich, slightly sweet curry made with meat, potatoes, and peanuts. It's a hearty dish to try in Ayutthaya.

Massaman Curry

A traditional Thai iced tea, Cha Yen is a sweet and creamy drink made with black tea, sugar, and condensed milk. It's a refreshing drink to try in Ayutthaya.

Cha Yen

A Northern Thai dish, Khao Soi is a creamy coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles. It's a unique dish to try in Ayutthaya.

Khao Soi

A traditional Thai dessert, Kanom Krok is a coconut rice pancake that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's a sweet treat to try in Ayutthaya.

Kanom Krok

A popular Thai beer, Singha is a pale lager that's a perfect accompaniment to spicy Thai dishes. It's a must-try in Ayutthaya.

Singha Beer

New Year's Day

Day off for New Year's Day

Makha Bucha

Chakri Day

Songkran

Labor Day

Coronation Day

Bridge Public Holiday

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

Visakha Bucha

Queen Suthida's Birthday

Day off for Queen Suthida's Birthday

Day off for Visakha Bucha

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday

Buddhist Lent Day

The Queen's Birthday

Day off for The Queen's Birthday

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol

Chulalongkorn Day

King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day

Constitution Day

Substitute Holiday for Constitution Day

New Year's Eve

Day off for Makha Bucha

Chakri Day observed

Songkran Observed

Coronation Day observed

Day off for Buddhist Lent Day

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday observed

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol observed

A complex of royal buildings used by the Thai kings as a summer dwelling.

The tallest stupa in the world, located in the town of Nakhon Pathom.

Phra Pathom Chedi

Famous floating market in Ratchaburi, offering a glimpse of traditional Thai culture.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

City known for the Bridge over the River Kwai and several World War II museums.

Kanchanaburi

Thailand's capital, known for its bustling street life and cultural landmarks.

Bangkok

City on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast known for its beaches.

Pattaya

A seaside resort city with long beaches, night markets and golf courses.

Hua Hin

Chiang Mai

Khao Sok National Park

Koh Samui

Krabi

Phi Phi Islands

Phuket

Ayutthaya Buddha head trapped in bodhi tree roots

Ayutthaya is located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, making it a popular day trip from the capital.

The city was the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya from 1350 to 1767, and is known for its historical ruins.

The official language is Thai, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Ayutthaya is hot year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 79°F (26°C) to 95°F (35°C). The hottest months are April and May, while the coolest are December and January.

The rainy season runs from May to October. If you're visiting during this time, be prepared for sudden showers.

Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so respect for the historical sites is expected. Do not climb on the ruins.

Dress modestly when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered.

The city is relatively safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Street food is a big part of Thai culture. Try local specialties like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.

Tuk-tuks are a common form of transportation in Ayutthaya. Always agree on a price before starting your journey.

Ayutthaya is known for its night markets, where you can find a variety of food, clothes, and souvenirs.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

Ayutthaya is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), which is 7 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+7).

Electricity in Thailand is 220 Volts, with a frequency of 50 Hz. The plug types are A, B, C, and O, so you may need a travel adapter.

Healthcare facilities in Ayutthaya are adequate for minor illnesses and injuries, but for serious conditions, it's recommended to go to Bangkok.

The emergency number in Thailand is 1669 for medical, 199 for police, and 199 for fire.

It's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple.

Bargaining is common in markets, but do it respectfully and with a smile.

Respect for the Thai Royal Family is deeply ingrained in Thai culture. Criticism of the monarchy is illegal and can result in severe penalties.

January is a great time to visit Ayutthaya, as it's the coolest month with less rainfall.

February is still relatively cool and dry, making it a good time for outdoor activities.

March starts the hot season, with temperatures rising but still bearable for sightseeing.

April is the hottest month, so be prepared for high temperatures and occasional showers.

May marks the beginning of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers.

June is a wet month with high humidity, but the lush greenery makes it worth the visit.

July is in the middle of the rainy season, so expect frequent showers and high humidity.

August is similar to July, with high humidity and frequent showers, but the greenery is at its peak.

September is the wettest month, so be prepared for heavy showers and high humidity.

October sees the end of the rainy season, with less rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures.

November is a great time to visit, as the weather is cooler and drier, making it perfect for sightseeing.

December is one of the best months to visit, with cool temperatures and less rainfall.

Ayutthaya, Thailand experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which means the weather can be quite unpredictable. However, there are general patterns that can guide you when planning your visit.

The city experiences three main seasons: the cool season (November to February), the hot season (March to June), and the rainy season (July to October). 

The cool season is the most comfortable time to visit Ayutthaya, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). It's the perfect time for sightseeing and exploring the city's historical sites. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

The hot season can be quite intense, with temperatures soaring up to 104°F (40°C). If you're not used to such heat, it might be best to avoid this period. However, if you do visit during this time, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

The rainy season sees heavy rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). While this might sound off-putting, it's actually a great time to see Ayutthaya's landscapes at their most lush and vibrant. Just be sure to pack a good raincoat and waterproof shoes.

Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly in Ayutthaya, so always be prepared for sudden showers or changes in temperature.

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2-Day Relaxing Adventure in Ayutthaya, Thailand - Family Itinerary

About Ayutthaya, Thailand