---
title: "Ayutthaya"
description: "Cycle through the temple ruins of Siam's ancient capital, an easy day trip from Bangkok."
url: https://bestofthailand.org/guide/ayutthaya
locale: en
---

# Ayutthaya

Cycle through the temple ruins of Siam's ancient capital, an easy day trip from Bangkok.

![Ayutthaya](https://bestofthailand.org/images/guide-ayutthaya.jpg)

For four centuries Ayutthaya was one of Asia's greatest cities. Today its brick prangs and serene Buddha images form a UNESCO-listed historical park best explored by bicycle. Highlights include Wat Mahathat's tree-wrapped Buddha head, the three chedis of Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and sunset at Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Trains from Bangkok take around 90 minutes.

## Keep reading

**[Bangkok](https://bestofthailand.org/guide/bangkok)** — The complete guide to Thailand's capital: where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

**[Chiang Mai](https://bestofthailand.org/guide/chiang-mai)** — Temples, mountains and night markets in Thailand's laid-back northern capital.

**[Phuket](https://bestofthailand.org/guide/phuket)** — Thailand's biggest island: beach-by-beach guide, old town charm and island-hopping bases.