So, you’ve found yourself in Bangkok, and now you’re thinking about taking a little trip to Ayutthaya. If you like history, you’ll enjoy it. Lucky for you, it’s not too far, and getting from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is easy. Here’s your guide to making the journey, no matter how you like to travel.
Traveling by Train
The train is always a romantic choice, but make sure your fantasy includes unpredictable schedules. But hey, it’s cheap and gets you there.
Head over to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (also known as Bang Sue Grand Station). You can buy your ticket either online or at the station.
Trains run frequently, usually from around 7am until close to midnight, and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
A third-class ticket will set you back a mere 20 baht or so (less than a dollar), which is a steal, assuming you can put up with the hard seats and lack of air conditioning. (Check out our guide on saving money in Thailand for more budget tips.)
Traveling by Bus
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a bus from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. Buses leave from Mo Chit Bus Terminal and can get you there in about two hours if the traffic isn’t too bad.
Tickets are easy to get at the terminal and will cost you around 100 baht (~$3 USD). Buses are a bit more comfortable than trains, but they come with their own set of “charms,” like random stops and the occasional traffic standstill.
Traveling by Minivan
In my opinion, minivan is the way to go. You can catch one of these at Victory Monument or Mo Chit. They leave when full, which can be anywhere from every 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how many other people have decided to join you.
A minivan will cost you about 70 to 100 baht and will get you to Ayutthaya in a little over an hour. Just remember to pack light; these things don’t come with much storage space.
Traveling by Car
Renting a car is for those who enjoy the open road, though this isn’t a common choice.
There are plenty of rental options in Bangkok, and with a trusty GPS (or a strong sense of direction), you can be in Ayutthaya in about an hour and a half.
Driving gives you the freedom to stop whenever you want, take scenic routes, and avoid the masses. Just watch out for tolls and fuel costs, which can add up. And make sure you have an international driver’s license, otherwise you can get in some trouble.
Traveling by Boat
Yes, you can actually take a boat from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. It’s not the fastest way, but it might be the most scenic. Several companies offer luxury cruises and speedboat services that will take you up the Chao Phraya River.
Booking a boat tour usually involves a bit more planning and money, with prices ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 baht (~$40-$82 USD), depending on how fancy you want to get.
The trip can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the stops along the way.
Comparison of Travel Options
Let’s break it down:
- Cost: Trains and buses are the budget options. Minivans are a bit more but still cheap. Renting a car or taking a boat is expensive.
- Time: Minivans and cars are the quickest. Trains and buses take a bit longer. Boats will take the longest.
- Comfort: Boats win for luxury. Cars are next for comfort. Minivans are OK. The others I wouldn’t call comfortable.
- Convenience: Cars offer the most freedom. Minivans and buses are fairly frequent. Trains have a set schedule. Boats require the most planning.
Tips for a Successful Trip to Ayutthaya
- Best Times to Visit: Avoid the scorching heat of April. Cool season (November to February) is best.
- What to Pack: Sunscreen, a hat, and comfy shoes for temple hopping.
- Key Attractions: Wat Mahathat (that famous Buddha head in a tree), Wat Ratchaburana, and the Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre.
- Local Customs: Dress modestly at temples. Don’t break the rules.
- Safety Tips: Stay hydrated.
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it. Getting to Ayutthaya from Bangkok is pretty straightforward, no matter which mode of transport you choose. Enjoy the ride.
