Things To Do
in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is a historic province in central Thailand that preserves the remains of the ancient Siamese capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city enchants with temple ruins, grand stupas, and crumbling prangs set along the winding Chao Phraya River. Visitors explore on bicycle or tuk-tuk, weaving between lacquered boats, markets, and riverside cafes.
Even with its tranquility, Ayutthaya offers rich culture, photography opportunities, and a glimpse into Thailand's regal past.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at Wat Mahathat, one of Ayutthaya's most iconic temples, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots. Wander through the well-preserved ruins, taking in the architectural beauty and rich history that surrounds you. Capture stunning photographs of the ancient structures bathed in the soft morning light.
After a delicious Thai lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple known for its impressive chedis. Explore the complex and learn about the significance of this site in the context of Ayutthaya's royal heritage. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Viharn Phra Mongkol Bophit, home to a large bronze Buddha statue.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the Chao Phraya River. Find a cozy spot at a riverside café to savor traditional Thai dishes while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Wrap up your day with a boat ride that offers a unique perspective of the illuminated temples along the river.
Start your day at the Ayutthaya Floating Market, where you can experience local culture and cuisine while browsing through vibrant stalls. Sample authentic Thai street food such as boat noodles and fresh fruit, all prepared right before your eyes. Interact with local vendors and artisans, learning about their crafts and traditions.
After enjoying the market, visit the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum to delve deeper into Ayutthaya's rich history. The museum houses artifacts from the ancient city, providing context to the temples and ruins you've seen earlier. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and appreciating the craftsmanship of historical pieces.
In the evening, return to the market for a night bazaar experience, where the atmosphere is buzzing with energy. Enjoy live music and cultural performances while tasting a variety of delicious Thai dishes. This lively environment is perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕️Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites and UNESCO heritage
- Relatively affordable travel experience
- Compact and bike-friendly, easy to explore
- Nightlife is quiet compared with Bangkok
- Heat can be intense in peak summer
- Limited luxury and high-end dining options
- "สวัสดีครับ / สวัสดีค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณครับ / ขอบคุณค่ะ" - Thank you (male/female)
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the restroom?
- "ช่วยด้วย" - Help
- "พูดอังกฤษได้ไหม" - Do you speak English?
- "ราคาเท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
- "ฉันหิว" - I am hungry.
- "ฉันไม่กินเนื้อ" - I don’t eat meat.
Places to Visit in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic temple with the Buddha head entwined in centuries-old tree roots surrounded by ruins, ideal for dramatic portraiture and close-up details.
Impressive three remaining chedis and expansive temple grounds offering sweeping angles for wide shots.
Sunset photography hotspot along the river with a symmetrical Khmer-style prang and reflective water scenes.
Multiple elevated and riverside vantage points provide panoramic shots of ruins, stupa silhouettes, and stonework set against the sky.
Food in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small bowls of rich, spicy broth with pork or beef, often crowded into tiny eateries along canal banks; best enjoyed as a quick, flavorful bite.
Must-Try!
Hot-and-sour prawn soup with lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal; widely available at markets and riverside stalls.
Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and peanuts; a Thai staple found across night markets.
Shredded green papaya with chili, lime, palm sugar, and peanuts; refreshing and spicy, great with grilled meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Popular floating stalls offering boat noodles, grilled fish, and traditional Thai snacks; operate seasonally and on weekends.
Bustling local market near the riverside with fresh produce, grilled skewers, and Thai ready-to-eat dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered; remove shoes where required; speak softly and move respectfully in sacred spaces.
A wai (hand gesture) is polite when greeting; avoid touching heads or pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; round up small amounts for guides, drivers, and waitstaff; most places in Ayutthaya still operate on cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry conditions from March to May; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and schedule outdoor temple visits for early mornings or late afternoons.
June to October brings humidity and frequent showers; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof bag for gear, plan indoor temple museums during heavy rain.
Nov to Feb offers cooler, more comfortable temperatures ideal for long temple walks and photography; mornings can be misty with pleasant days.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya at Night
Hiking in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking and wildlife viewing about 2–3 hours from Ayutthaya; various trails of easy to moderate difficulty.
Forest and nature trails with waterfalls and viewpoints within a short drive from Ayutthaya; suitable for half-day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya by plane.
Bangkok’s domestic and regional hub; about 60–90 minutes by road from Ayutthaya on a clear day.
Bangkok’s main international gateway; longer transfer but smoother international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Thai families and Buddhist communities; a mix of students and workers.
Domestic and international visitors; growing presence of long- and short-term expats who visit for culture and photography.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region; fans can watch local bouts or train at small gyms in nearby towns.
Common local pastime; matches and friendly games are frequently played and watched in cafés and small stadiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Thai dishes can be adjusted to vegetarian by requesting tofu or vegetables; look for curries without fish sauce and request no shrimp paste; ask for egg-based options like fried rice with vegetables.