Bucket list experience:
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand
Before Bangkok – or Krung Thep – became Thailand’s (then Siam) capital in 1782, Ayutthaya was the Kingdom’s centre of power. As one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities of that time, it drew in merchants from all corners of the globe and grew into a vast empire of grand palaces and gilded temples. That abruptly ended when the Burmese ransacked the city in 1767 and reduced its splendours to rubble.
Today, it stands as a ruined shell of its former past, littered with bricks, dilapidated shrines and crumbling Buddha statues consumed by nature. But wander around these ruins, and you’ll only need a pinch of imagination to envision just how splendid this city once was.
Besides its crumbling temples, Ayutthaya is also a hotbed for contemporary architecture. Many design hotels and restaurants line its riverbanks, with Sala Ayutthaya and Baan Pom Phet as some of its smartest spots for lunch or coffee after sightseeing.
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Destination Guide >Dozens of tour operators arrange day trips from Bangkok, either by minivan or by riverboat (the latter is usually offered as a scenic way to return to Bangkok). Public minivans connect both cities throughout the day, and several trains leave from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station in the morning.
Most of the ancient temples are located within the Ayutthaya Historical Park. To get around, you can hire bicycles for about 100 THB a day. As a less sweat-inducing alternative, a tuk-tuk driver can whisk you between temples for around 1000 THB a day, depending on your bargaining skills.
Given Ayutthaya’s fascinating history, this is one of those places where a good guide can make all the difference. Book ahead with a tour operator or arrange one on-the-spot at the park’s headquarters.
The site is open all year round, though you should avoid the hottest months (April and May) if you can – there’s little shade to be found.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[66.4 miles]
A lovely riverside retreat, away from the hubbub, to immerse in local life along the river. Most of Bangkok’s postcard sights are a 15-minute boat ride away.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[66.7 miles]
A charming, family-run boutique stay in Bangkok’s atmospheric Old Town, with all the mod-cons of a well-appointed five star. Min age 15.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[67.8 miles]
A garden-clad oasis in the heart of Bangkok with a lovely rooftop pool, fitness centre and easy access to the Phloen Chit BTS skytrain station.
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Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[67.8 miles]
Shanghai chic in the heart of Bangkok’s historic Chinatown, close to some of Bangkok’s best street food stalls, makes for an exotic Chinese-infused stay.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Central Thailand, Thailand
From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions, and one of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities.
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Bangkok, Central Thailand, Thailand[50.1 miles]
A laid-back island escape in the Chao Phraya River, within day-trip distance from Bangkok’s city centre.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Throughout human history vast empires have risen and fallen into ruin, their culture and customs lost to the sands of time. Thankfully, some outstanding examples remain. Here’s our round-up of the best.
