Ayutthaya is one of the most incredible places you can visit from Bangkok. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, it was a thriving trade hub filled with grand palaces, towering Buddha statues, and impressive temples—until the Burmese invasion in the 18th century left it in ruins.
Today, it’s a UNESCO-listed archaeological site where you can walk among ancient stupas and get a glimpse of Thailand’s royal past.
I’ve been to Ayutthaya myself, and trust me, the sheer scale of the ruins is breathtaking. Definitely something you should include in your Bangkok itinerary.
But without a guide, it’s easy to miss the history behind what you’re looking at. That’s why I highly recommend visiting with an expert who can bring the stories of this once-mighty kingdom to life.
To help you plan the perfect trip, I’ve handpicked the best Ayutthaya tours from Bangkok—from private excursions to small-group trips, boat rides, and even tours that stop at local markets. Keep reading to find the one that’s right for you!
➥ Why can you trust my selections? I’ve spent a decade in the travel industry and know how to spot a high-quality tour. But beyond that, I’ve personally visited Ayutthaya on a tour (that I recommend below), so I know what makes a trip here truly special. This list only includes tours that offer great value, expert guides, and unique experiences beyond the ruins.
I usually use Viator and Get Your Guide to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are you in a rush? These are the best tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch |
| TOUR WITH RIVER CRUISE | Ayutthaya Day Tour by Bus with River Cruise |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Ayutthaya Private Full-Day UNESCO |
OUR PICK: The BEST Ayutthaya Tour from Bangkok
The Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch from Bangkok is the tour we joined and we thought it was the perfect one – affordable, comprehensive, and well-organized. This tour brings you 4 different temples in Ayutthaya.
Your adventure begins as you travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned van from Bangkok to Thailand’s former capital city, Ayutthaya. They can either pick you up at your hotel or you can meet your guide at a central meeting point in Bangkok. Alternatively, you can join the tour directly at the site if you’re spending the night in Ayutthaya.
In Ayutthaya, your first stop will be Wat Lokayasutha, home to a massive reclining Buddha stretching 42 meters long. Despite the temple being mostly in ruins, this striking statue remains an important symbol of Ayutthaya’s history and resilience.
Then, you’ll explore the majestic Wat Phra Sri Sanphet (photo in the introduction), once the most important temple in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Its three iconic chedis (stupas) house the ashes of ancient kings, and the site was part of the royal palace complex, making it a significant historical landmark.
You’ll also learn about Buddhist culture as you visit Wat Mahathat, best known for the famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree. This temple was once a key religious center, and its mysterious ruins create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Finally, continue your journey to Wat Chaiwatthanaram, one of Ayutthaya’s most impressive temples. Built in Khmer style and inspired by Angkor Wat, its towering prang (central spire) and symmetrical layout make it one of the most photogenic sites in the city.
The trip wraps up in a local restaurant, where you’ll get a simple but yummy Thai dish of your choice, before being dropped off in Bangkok.
➤ Why is this the best tour? It’s the most comprehensive excursion to Ayutthaya while being extremely affordable. Led by an expert guide, you’ll delve into the history and cultural significance of each temple and location.
It includes access to the most important temples and attractions, along with roundtrip transfers (from either your hotel or a central point in Bangkok, depending on the option selected) and a local lunch a la carte.
It’s not just me saying it! Read what the reviews say:
“Fantastic! Our tour guide was amazing. He shared so much interesting information. Lunch was great, what a beautiful day.’’
GetYourGuide Traveler – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Transfers, a guide, entrance fees, insurance, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Small Group Tour To Ayutthaya from Bangkok
Explore the Kingdom of Siam’s rich history with the UNESCO’s Ayutthaya Historical Park: Full Day Tour from Bangkok. Join up to 8 other travelers and make your way to Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a royal summer retreat with serene ponds.
Discover Wat Mahathat, an ancient temple steeped in Ayutthaya’s history, as you learn all about it from your guide. You’ll also explore the ruins of the historic city, and marvel at Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
Finally, be in awe at the 41-foot bronze Buddha at Vihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit. It’s a hassle-free tour that ensures a personalized experience with convenient transfers.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off from certain areas, a guide, entrance fees, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Ayutthaya Tour from Bangkok with River Cruise
This Ayutthaya Day Tour by Bus with River Cruise from Bangkok is a fabulous option. Your trip starts with a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned van to Ayutthaya. You’ll discover its rich history with a professional guide, visiting iconic temples.
Marvel at Wat Lokayasutharam and its reclining Buddha, and delve into the grandeur of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. Venture into the mystique of Wat Mahathat, where a Buddha’s head is entwined in a tree trunk and roots.
Finally, check out the magnificent Wat Chaiwattanaram, with its Angkor Wat-inspired architecture. Cap off the trip with a delightful boat ride down the Chao Phraya River.
You will pass by iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Dawn and The Grand Palace, and enjoy a delectable lunch onboard. The boat cruise back to Bangkok takes 2 hours.
This tour includes: Transfers by bus and by boat, a guide, entrance fees, water, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Ayutthaya & Floating Market Tour
Uncover Thailand’s convoluted past on this Ayutthaya & Ayothaya Floating Market Day Trip from Bangkok. Start with a guided tour around Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, and then head to Ayothaya’s vibrant floating market.
There you’ll have free time for lunch and a tail-boat ride before continuing your historical discoveries at Ayutthaya. Discover the grandeur of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and marvel at Wat Mahathat’s Buddha head in a tree.
Your expert guide will take you around the site, providing plenty of interesting insights. It’s a day of ancient wonders and cultural immersion, capped with a comfortable return to Bangkok in the evening.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a guide, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Day Trips to Ayutthaya from Bangkok
▶️ Join this Ayutthaya Private Full-Day UNESCO Trip from Bangkok to explore the best of the ancient city with your group. Your guide will lead you around five UNESCO-listed temples and the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.
You’ll visit Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, the famous tree root where a Buddha head is trapped, and the gold treasures of Wat Ratchaburans. Meet the giant reclining Buddha at Wat Lokaya Sutharam and explore relics at the museum.
Finish your trip at Wat Chaiwattanaram, an Angkor Wat-inspired temple, and then embark on the journey back to Bangkok.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, a guide, lunch, bottled water, and insurance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out this Private Excursion to Floating Market and Ayutthaya World Heritage Site. Start your full-day trip with a visit to Maeklong Railway Market, an incredibly popular attraction.
Then, cruise on a longtail boat through the bustling Damnoensaduak Floating Market. Practice your haggling skills, and take a peek into the locals’ daily lives.
Next up on the itinerary is the UNESCO-listed Ayutthaya Site. Explore the ancient capital as your dedicated guide provides commentary and interesting insights. You’ll have a chance to check out most temples, including Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and Wat Lokayasutharam.
This exclusive tour accommodates groups of up to 15, and includes snacks and drinks to keep you going.
This tour includes: Transfers, a guide, entrance fees, a boat tour, insurance, snacks, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Join this Private Excursion to Ayutthaya, UNESCO World Heritage site with Boat Tour. An expert guide will lead your group of 15 to the ancient capital of the Siam Kingdom.
You’ll explore three of the remaining temples of the city, delving into the history and cultural heritage of each. Snap pictures of the most iconic locations, like the Buddha head that lives in a tree root at Wat Mahathat.
The trip also includes a stroll through the local market, and a boat ride around the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Delicious Thai desserts will keep your sugar levels in check!
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, insurance, a boat ride, Thai sweets, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
