The ancient kingdom of Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's top destinations. Once the largest city in the world, today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with hundreds of crumbling pagodas, stupas, palaces, monasteries, and a giant reclining buddha.
You can reach Ayutthaya in a couple of hours from Bangkok, making it convenient for a day trip. But to best experience the city, stay a few days, explore by bicycle, take a boat trip to see the temples from the river, and spend some time in the modern part of the city too.
By shared minivan, the journey to Ayutthaya takes either 2 or 3 hours depending on the time of day you leave. These are modern air-conditioned minivans which depart throughout the day and cost between $5 - $9 per person one way. By private minivan or taxi, the journey takes 1 - 2 hours. Prices start at around $58 for a car for 3 passengers.
Ayutthaya is 80 kilometers (50 miles) directly north of Bangkok, and connected to the capital by well-maintained highways and expressways. On the journey you’ll see the northern suburbs of Bangkok before heading out into the countryside briefly.
Taking a minivan
Several different companies operate shared minivans on this route. These all have AC and comfortable seating, and tickets are affordable. Bear in mind though, that if you have several big bags, you might be asked to purchase a separate seat. Shared minivans run throughout the day so you can leave pretty much when you want.
Taking a car
If you want to travel in air-conditioned privacy, then you can hire a car and driver to take you to Ayutthaya. There are several vehicle options, from standard and economy cars to SUVs. You can arrange to be collected from your hotel in Bangkok or one of the airports and dropped at a location of your choice in Ayutthaya.
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Second Class Seat Fan train by Thai Railway starting at US$2
15 Km (Air)
MINIVAN: Mama Tour & Travel | Team Holiday | Thai Happy Taxi | Thai Sriram | Taxi Good | Khao San Tara Tour | Glassflower | Win 91 Ayutthaya | Taxi Tour Service | Thailand Limo by Datum | Kim Transfer Thailand | MCC Van
CAR: Team Holiday | Thai Happy Taxi | Taxi Good | Glassflower | Taxi Tour Service | Thailand Limo by Datum | Kim Transfer Thailand | MCC Van
TRAIN: Thai Railway