Amazing Ayutthaya

the city of Ayutthaya is steeped in history and they have done a fantastic job of restoring and preserving the remnants of this ancient kingdom. Most people are flying through Bangkok and I would strongly urge you to consider adding a night in this wonderful city about an hour north of Bangkok. It is easily reachable by shared minivan or bus leaving from Mochit bus terminal in Bangkok or the train station at Hua Lamphong. Once in Ayutthaya, spend the afternoon doing a boat tour of the temples along the canals, followed by a nice sunset view while on the water. End your day at the local night market or a restaurant specializing in Ayutthaya's famous giant river prawns.

There are plenty of homestays, guesthouses, and boutique resorts within the moat that are all very close to the parks and temples that you will want to visit first thing in the morning before it gets too hot out. If you are up before the temples open you can still walk around the 2 main parks and see amazing ruins while finding coffee and street food stalls for some joke or curry. If looking for a place to stay I recommend looking inside of the "island" area of the main city that is surrounded by the river, the eastern side of the island will offer the best options for nightlife and density of restaurants, access to shops, more of a city feel, etc.. the north, west and south sides will have more quiet boutique resort and family friendly guest style accommodations but also relatively close to the night markets and restaurants. Negotiate with a Tuk Tuk in the morning for a few hours of time or there are posted signs around the parks with prices listed to go to the various temples. The map below will list specific restaurants/places to stay/parks/and temples that we have visited to help you plan your trip. A day trip from Bangkok is also possible but an overnight trip as stated above would really give you the best chance for less crowds, better weather, and the most beautiful views/photos.