Step into the lost kingdom of Ayutthaya, where towering temple ruins and timeless Buddha images reveal the grandeur of ancient Siam.
Set off on a fascinating journey to Ayutthaya Historical Park and explore ancient Buddha images, towering prangs, and some of Thailand’s most iconic temple ruins. This full-day tour takes you back in time to the former capital of Siam, once celebrated for its wealth, grandeur, and international influence.
Founded in 1350, the Kingdom of Ayutthaya flourished for more than four centuries and grew into the heart of Siam (the former name of Thailand). The city welcomed merchants from across the world—Chinese, Indians, Japanese, and Persians, later followed by Portuguese, Spaniards, Dutch, British, and French—who established bustling settlements just beyond the city walls.
At its height, Ayutthaya boasted over a million inhabitants, and French envoys of King Louis XIV even compared its size and prosperity to Paris. The kingdom met a tragic end in 1767, when invading Burmese forces burned the city to the ground, forcing its people to flee.
Today, the atmospheric ruins of Ayutthaya still echo the grandeur of its golden age. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, the temples and monuments stand as a powerful reminder of a once-magnificent kingdom that shaped the history and culture of Thailand.
During this full-day excursion, you’ll visit the following highlights:
- Bang Pa-In Summer Palace
Located 20 km south of Ayutthaya, this elegant riverside retreat was used by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Its landscaped gardens and eclectic mix of European and Oriental architecture reflect the king’s fascination with Western styles.
- Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon
A striking temple just outside the historical center, known for its 60-meter-high bell-shaped chedi and serene Reclining Buddha.
- Wat Mahathat
One of the most important temples of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. It's famous for the iconic Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Banyan tree; one of the most photographed sights in the city.
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet
This royal temple once formed part of the ancient Grand Palace complex and hosted some of Ayutthaya’s most important royal ceremonies.
- Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit
Located next to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, this temple houses one of Thailand’s largest bronze Buddha statues, beautifully gilded and deeply revered.
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Often considered one of the most impressive temple ruins in Ayutthaya. Its design is inspired by Khmer architecture, symbolizing the structure of the universe in Hindu-Buddhist cosmology.
After a full day of exploration and cultural discovery, we make our way back to Bangkok, filled with new impressions and a deeper understanding of Thailand’s rich heritage.
Important notes:
- There is a strict dress code to enter Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. Shoulders and ankles need to be covered. No sleeveless shirts, shorts, ripped jeans, tight trousers, leggings, slippers, sandals, or revealing tops, otherwise you won't be allowed in.
- Entrance fees (THB 360 per person) are not included in the tour price and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.
Pick up/Meeting point:
We provide hotel pick-up only from accommodations located on/near Khao San Road and on Siam Square.
If you are not an actual guest at one of the hotels in our pick-up area, the designated meeting point will be our office on Chao Khamrop Road in Chinatown. Our office in Chinatown is just a short 5-minute walk from Wat Mangkon MRT (metro) station.
For the exact location of our WanderSiam office on Google Maps, please click HERE.
+4
190 Comments
5
Una gita fuori porta con Wan
Our tour guide, Wan, was amazing and super kind. She knew a lot of interesting insights together with the history of this beautiful country. Money well invested 🙂 consiglio
5
Amazing Solo Experience: Summer Palace & Ancient Ayutthaya
I had an incredible tour with Tony! I ended up booking the Tour to the Summer Palace and Ayutthaya last minute, and they were able to accommodate me even though I was the only one! Which meant I got a VVIP (very VIP) tour 😉 My guide was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly! Any questions I had he had answers. The driver was very kind as well. Even though I was by myself I felt safe, and was able to take my time visiting all the locations. Tony even took AAALLLL the pictures and videos I wanted to get. I also enjoyed getting a couple moments to walk through the Ancient City and take it all in myself. I went on a weekend which was special because I got to catch some locals dressed in traditional wear at the last temple. It was a special trip and I would recommend it to anyone wanting to explore the Grand Palace and Ayutthaya.
5
Marvelous Siam!
My family and I greatly enjoyed our day tour to Ayutthaya. We visited the Summer Palace along with several ultra impressive temple sites of great historical value. Our guide Wan was knowledgeable and patient in her explanatory approach. Highly recommended !
5
Great last tour!
I booked this tour last minute, and was surprised to be the only one, having a private driver and a personal tour guide! I felt so special. They arrived even few minutes early to pick me up. The driver was always ready to bring us to the next destination, and cooling down in the AC in between was just great! Everything I came back to the car, a cooled bottle of water was waiting for me.
Sunday, my tour guide, had lots of knowledge. You just had to ask! I enjoyed his company and the little insights he gave and activities he suggested. He always knew the best spots to take a photo and was present.
5
Great way to see a lot of Ayutthaya
We really enjoyed our day out. It was well organised and our guide Meow shared history, stories and answered all our questions along the way. It was hot walking around but the bus was air conditioned and there were places to buy water/drinks at each stop. Would definitely recommend this trip!