A Thai Chef’s Guide To A Day Trip To Ayutthaya: A Must-Add To Your Itinerary
Ayutthaya, Thailand’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and cuisine. Located just an hour from Bangkok, this historic city offers a perfect blend of stunning ruins, peaceful riverside views, and authentic Thai flavors. As a Thai chef, I believe a day trip to Ayutthaya isn’t complete without indulging in its rich food culture while exploring its iconic landmarks. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Ayutthaya like a local.
1. Start Your Day at Wat Mahathat
Kick off your journey with a visit to the iconic Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots. The peaceful atmosphere and awe-inspiring architecture provide a perfect introduction to Ayutthaya’s historical charm.
Chef’s Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene morning ambiance. Pair this stop with a light breakfast snack—try khanom krok (coconut pancakes) from a local vendor nearby.
2. Discover Ayutthaya’s Iconic Ruins
Continue your exploration by visiting other stunning historical sites:
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet: Known for its three majestic stupas, this temple was once part of the royal palace complex.
- Wat Chaiwatthanaram: A picturesque riverside temple perfect for photos, with its Khmer-style architecture and tranquil surroundings.
Chef’s Tip: Hydrate as you explore—the Thai sun can be intense. Grab a refreshing iced Thai tea or a coconut water from a roadside stall.
3. Savor Ayutthaya’s Famous Boat Noodles for Lunch
Ayutthaya is the birthplace of kuay tiew rua, or boat noodles—a flavorful noodle soup traditionally sold from boats on the river. Today, you’ll find these delicious bowls at land-based eateries with a nod to their heritage.
- Where to Try: Visit the restaurants along the Ayutthaya Floating Market or Rojana Road for authentic boat noodles.
- What to Expect: Small portions of noodles served in a rich, aromatic broth, often topped with tender beef or pork, pork rinds, and herbs.
Chef’s Tip: Order several small bowls to sample different broths and flavors. Pair with a side of crispy fried wontons for the ultimate lunch.
4. Cruise the Chao Phraya River
After lunch, enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the Chao Phraya River, which winds through Ayutthaya. Many tours stop at riverside temples and offer a unique perspective of the city.
- Highlights: Wat Phanan Choeng, famous for its giant golden Buddha statue, and Wat Putthaisawan, known for its serene atmosphere and ancient murals.
Chef’s Tip: Bring along some Thai snacks, like grilled bananas or sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, to enjoy during your boat ride.
5. Indulge in Ayutthaya’s Signature Desserts
Ayutthaya is known for its unique Thai desserts, which make for a sweet midday treat:
- Roti Sai Mai: A popular dessert made of colorful, sweet floss (similar to cotton candy) wrapped in thin, crepe-like sheets.
- Thong Yip and Thong Yod: Traditional golden egg yolk desserts often sold at local markets.
Chef’s Tip: Head to Bang Ian Road or the Ayutthaya Floating Market to find the freshest roti sai mai. Watch the vendors expertly prepare it on-site.
6. Visit Bang Pa-In Royal Palace
On your way back to Bangkok, make a stop at the Bang Pa-In Royal Palace. This beautifully landscaped complex, once a summer retreat for Thai royalty, features a mix of Thai, European, and Chinese architectural styles.
Chef’s Tip: Stroll through the peaceful gardens and reflect on the day while sipping on fresh lemongrass tea from the café near the palace grounds.
7. Wrap Up Your Day with Riverside Dining
End your day with a riverside dinner to soak in the sunset over Ayutthaya’s peaceful waterways. Many restaurants offer traditional Thai dishes with views of the Chao Phraya River.
- Recommended Restaurants:
- Baan Watcharachai: Known for its grilled river prawns and pla sam rod (crispy fish with sweet and sour sauce).
- Sala Ayutthaya Eatery & Bar: Offers a more upscale dining experience with a creative twist on traditional Thai cuisine.
- Must-Try Dish: Ayutthaya’s grilled river prawns are legendary—juicy, smoky, and often paired with a spicy seafood dipping sauce.
Chef’s Tip: Share a variety of dishes, including tom yum goong (spicy prawn soup) and kaeng som (sour curry), to get the full culinary experience.
8. Tips for a Perfect Ayutthaya Day Trip
- Getting There: Ayutthaya is easily accessible from Bangkok by train, car, or minivan. For a unique experience, consider a boat tour from Bangkok to Ayutthaya.
- What to Wear: Comfortable clothing and shoes are essential for exploring. Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Timing: Start your trip early to make the most of your day and avoid the midday heat.
Chef’s Tip: If you’re staying overnight, consider exploring Ayutthaya’s night market for more authentic street food and local crafts.
Ayutthaya is a destination that combines rich history with unforgettable culinary experiences. From its iconic temples to its flavorful boat noodles and sweet desserts, this ancient city has something for everyone. A day trip to Ayutthaya is not just a journey through time—it’s a feast for the senses.
Bon voyage, or as we say in Thai, “Sawadee ka/krub!”
Lastly, I am invited to be on a popular Thai foodie youtube channel, Kia Zaab. Watch here for our day trip fun and even though it’s in Thai, you will find location we visited and ate at on his show note. Have fun watching and please don’t forget to tag @hongthaimee on social media so I could see your smile!
