Why Ayutthaya
Founded in 1350 by King Uthong, Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam for 417 years. At its peak in the 17th century, it was one of the largest cities in the world, a million inhabitants, trading with China, Persia, France, the Netherlands. In 1767 the Burmese army completely razed it. Today, the site has been classified UNESCO since 1991.
Our bias
- Private day, no air-conditioned bus for 40 people. Private van, guide for you alone.
- French speaking, the best guides in Ayutthaya speak polished French and know their country.
- 6 temples, not 12, many tours link 10-12 sites together. We prefer to do 6 of them thoroughly, with time to sit down, observe, ask questions.
- No elephant riding, Ayutthaya has an elephant ride tourist site. We systematically advise against it (unethical living conditions of animals).
What to expect
- Dress code temples: shoulders and knees covered, bare feet inside the buildings. Skirts/shawls available at the entrance to each site.
- Comfortable shoes: the sites are spread over 2-3 km, you walk 500 m to 1 km per site.
- Hat + sunscreen + water: the temples are in the open air, no shade.
- Cash: 1,000-1,500 THB for lunch + donations (not included).
Season advice
The best period is November to February (cool, 25-28°C). March-May is sweltering (40°C at midday). June-October is humid but the temples are photogenic under the stormy sky.
If you have 48 hours in Bangkok and you are hesitating between Ayutthaya and the Grand Palace: do the Grand Palace on the morning of day 1, Ayutthaya on day 2. This is the combo that tells the story of Siam yesterday (Ayutthaya) and today (Bangkok).
Detailed programme
8h30
Pick up from hotel in Bangkok
Pick up by private van, drive north (~1h30, 80km highway).
10h00
Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
“Great Temple of Victory”. 60m white chedi built in 1592 to celebrate victory over the Burmese. Giant reclining Buddha at the foot of the chedi.
10h45
Wat Phra Nan Cheng
Home to Thailand's largest gilded bronze Buddha (19 m). The face of the Buddha is still venerated daily by devotees.
11h30
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
15th-century royal temple, Ayutthaya's equivalent of Bangkok's Wat Phra Kaew. Three chedis in a row which housed the ashes of the kings of Siam.
12h30
Thai lunch (local restaurant)
Floating restaurant on the Chao Phraya River or air-conditioned room, choice depending on the season. Traditional Ayutthayan cuisine.
14h00
Wat Mahathat
THE photo of Ayutthaya: the head of Buddha in sandstone, entwined by the roots of a banyan tree since the Burmese destroyed the city in 1767. Poetic and silent site.
14h45
Wat Lokayasutharam
Huge outdoor reclining Buddha, 42 m long, draped in saffron fabric. Daily floral offerings.
15h30
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
The most photogenic in Ayutthaya, especially in the late afternoon. Inspired by the Khmer architecture of Angkor. The sunset there is spectacular.
16h30
Return to Bangkok
Return journey (~1h30). Arrival at the hotel around 5:30 p.m. (depending on Bangkok traffic).
Included / Not included
Included
- Certified French-speaking guide (all day)
- Private air-conditioned van with driver (or car depending on group)
- Entrance tickets to the 6 temples (THB 380 per person)
- Return transfer from your hotel in Bangkok
- Fresh water on board
- Tailor-made itinerary, you can add/remove a temple
Not included
- Meals (local restaurant en route, 200-400 THB / person)
- Donations at temples (recommended: 20-50 THB/site)
- Elephant ride (we do not recommend it, ethical)
- Guide and driver tips (optional)
Before you go
Good to know
Beat the crowds
Iconic spots like Maya Bay are far calmer early in the day. Our morning departures get you there before the midday ferry rush.
National park fees
Some sites sit inside a national park, so an entrance fee may apply. Check the “Not included” list above so there are no surprises.
Sun & reef care
The tropical sun is strong, bring a hat, sunglasses and plenty of water. Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Thai marine parks.
What to pack
Comfortable shoes, light breathable clothing, water and a small backpack for the day.