Being only 1.5hr from Bangkok and so rich in history and architecture, I'm surprised I haven't visited this place before. Ayutthaya is a city in Thailand, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. It was capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and a prosperous international trading port, from 1350 until razed by the Burmese in 1767. The ruins of the old city now form the Ayutthaya Historical Park, an archaeological site that contains palaces, Buddhist temples, monasteries and statues.
Many people do day trip up here but whether visiting as a solo traveller or a couple, I really would recommend you to stay 1 to 2 nights to really enjoy the more tranquil lifestyle thats so different from Bangkok. It nice to able to enjoy the facilities as well if you have checked in into a nice place.
Transport
City Get Around: Grab is easily available all through out Thailand and its cheaper than Tuk Tuk.
Between Cities: There is a train from Bangkok to Ayutthaya but I pre-booked a car for BHT1,600 which takes about 1-1.5hr depending on your Bangkok location.
Accommodation
There are plenty of budget accommodations but only a handful of premium options in Ayutthaya, and they really varies in aesthetics. I have opted for the Sala Ayutthaya. It boasts a magnificent river view at the restaurant and in some of the rooms. My room type is the Deluxe River View Room.
The only downside of this hotel I have that it has no public shower facilities. Therefore if your flight is late and you wanted to enjoy the pool, you cannot have a shower before you go to the airport. Of course unless you have lounge access at the Airport then you will be fine.
Attractions
The main attraction here is really just the Ayutthaya Historic Culture Park which comprises of various sites. You can either get an all-site ticket for BHT220 or pay at each park for BHT50 each. Thai locals have a preferred rate. The ruins are actually all over the cities but the recommended 6 are listed as below. Note 2 of them is really quite far especially in the heat.
Wat Maha That
Wat Ratchaburana
Wat Phra Si Sanphet
Wat Phra Ram
Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Wat Maheyong
Honestly I only did 4 out of 6 and it was plenty. It took about 2-3 hours but mind you I was rushing it because of the heat (36 degree). Most of the sites have umbrellas which you can borrow in case of strong sun and ladies please beware of dresscode.
Restaurant and Nightlife
You don't come to Ayutthaya for the nightlife but there are still plenty of restaurants and live music options to entertain yourself in the evenings.
Sampaonava
This is a boutique riverside restaurant by Sala Ayutthaya. The night I got there they had live local musicians just finishing up. It wasn't busy as it was not in town center, but I do recommend the food there. I very much enjoyed the Grilled Ox Tongue and River Prawns.
Pangrum Thai Dessert
I don't like desserts so I didn't go in. However it looked super cute so maybe worth trying it out.
Pornphen Noodles
This is one of the remaining local restaurants near the hotel as all the ones I checked out were all closed down. It was an surprised find and a decent alternative. I had the mussels pancake and boat noodle. Both were great and they have an english menu as well! The roof also has a sprinkler system to cool it down and even in this heat it was doable.
Ayutthaya Night Market
It is now one of my favourite night markets in Thailand. Although there are some gift shops this is really more a food stall market. Live music and cute seating area over looking the Wat Ratcha Burana ruin. It is truly beautiful. There is even a decent toilet which you can pay a restaurant BHT10 to use in the middle.
Ong Gaan Tolasap Night Market
If you are looking for a more local market this is it. It is only down the block from the other Night Market.
Street Food by Sala Ayutthaya
If you happens to be craving for some street food near the hotel, you can turn right towards the 711 once you leave the hotel. There is a group of street vendors there who are super friendly and helpful on food selection.
Other Options
You will mind more contemporary options in the area opposite Wat Maha That. It nice to wonder around the area at night to see whats available.
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