Ayutthaya Travel Information

Ayutthaya, the ancient city still alive in Mr.Hotsia's eyes

When talking about Ayutthaya, many people probably think of an ancient city full of temples and ruins of a great former kingdom. But for me, Mr.Hotsia, visiting Ayutthaya is not just about walking around old ruins and ending there. It's about experiencing a lifestyle intertwined with history, food, travel, and stories that I have personally encountered in the field.

Ayutthaya in the Eyes of Thais and Foreigners

Ayutthaya is one of the most popular destinations for foreign tourists who visit throughout the year. But if you ask many Thais, I have noticed that Thai people are not very fond of this type of travel. Maybe because we are familiar with temples since childhood, and if we have a short holiday, many tend to choose between the sea or mountains instead. However, recently, I have seen more Thai people becoming interested in Ayutthaya, especially after the emergence of Ayothaya Floating Market, which quickly became a rising star of the province (for those interested, you can seeAyothaya Floating Marketwhich I have reviewed).

Starting the Day in Ayutthaya: Temples and the Old City Surrounded by Water

Ayutthaya is an ancient city located on an island surrounded by three rivers: the Pasak River to the east, the Chao Phraya River to the west, and the Noi River to the south. The atmosphere of the old city surrounded by rivers feels like being inside a strong natural fortress that is not easy to destroy (I myself have readTwin Dragons Fighting in All Directionsand got quite into it, haha).

If anyone wants to visit Ayutthaya, Mr.Hotsia recommends waking up early because the sun is very strong during the day. If you get up early, I guarantee that touring the temples will be more enjoyable and comfortable. I usually spend the first two hours after waking cycling or driving around the old city island, stopping to take photos of prangs, major temples, and temples that remain beautifully intact, such asWat Na Phra Meruwhich is the last temple that survived the burning during the Ayutthaya period.

Ayothaya Floating Market and Khlong Sarabua Floating Market: Two Floating Markets Increasingly Popular Among Thais

During the day, I often stop by Ayothaya Floating Market, which is currently the most popular floating market. It's so crowded that people almost have to squeeze to walk. Ayothaya Floating Market stands out by recreating the atmosphere of an old traditional floating market with boats paddling around, shops decorated in a retro style, and cultural performances to watch (you can read the full review atAyothaya Floating Market)

Another floating market I have visited and want to recommend isKhlong Sarabua Floating Marketwhich focuses on student performances, adding a unique charm to this market. Khlong Sarabua Floating Market is not very large but has a warm atmosphere and is suitable for learning about the local community lifestyle.

Ayutthaya Boat Noodles: A Must-Try Local Specialty

If you come to Ayutthaya and don't try boat noodles, you are seriously missing out! I, Mr.Hotsia, have tried many shops, but the most impressive isPa Lek's Boat Noodleslocated next to the Telephone Organization. If you ask locals which shop is the best, this one is among the top answers. I have tasted it myself; it's truly delicious. The noodles are chewy and soft, the broth is rich, and the traditional flavor is hard to find in Bangkok.

There is also a giant meatball shop in the market that I have tried. The taste was a bit too sweet, but if you like this style of meatballs, it's worth a try (read the giant meatball shop review)

Tonight in Ayutthaya: Khao Tom Ta Tuy… Pak Ma

When evening comes, Mr.Hotsia recommends sitting down to enjoy the lively atmosphere atKhao Tom Ta Tuy… Pak MaThis place is not just about eating plain rice soup; the atmosphere and the owner's conversations will make you happy and leave a lasting impression. It's tasting food while listening to stories full of humor and sincerity, like discovering Ayutthaya from a new perspective.

Ayutthaya and the “Frog Car” Symbol of City Travel

Another thing I really like is the “Frog Car,” a unique mode of transportation in Ayutthaya. Unlike other provinces that have tuk-tuks or red cars, Ayutthaya's Frog Cars have shapes and colors resembling frogs. Some have bright and varied patterns, making them look like frogs hopping along the streets, adding color and charm to this ancient city (for those interested, I have written separately aboutAmazing Frog Cars of Ayutthaya)

Travel and Accommodation in Ayutthaya

For traveling to Ayutthaya, I have tried many ways, including train, private car, and van. But my favorite is arriving and then renting a bicycle or motorcycle to ride around the city because it allows stopping anywhere you like.

Regarding accommodation, I have stayed at Promsuk Hotel, a new hotel in a government property building in the heart of the old city. It is clean, has WiFi, and is reasonably priced. It's also convenient for traveling to temples and floating markets. I recommend booking accommodation in advance through Agoda to get good prices and avoid worries about full rooms before traveling (click here to book hotels in Ayutthaya).

Districts and Tourist Attractions Around Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is not just the old city itself. Outlying districts such as Tha Ruea, Nakhon Luang, Bang Sai, Bang Ban, Bang Pa-in, and several others also have interesting temples and tourist spots. I have visited and collected photos and information many times. If friends want to explore the entire province, I now have complete information on temples, schools, and community lifestyles in each district, allowing for a deep and unique Ayutthaya experience.

Summary of Impressions from Mr.Hotsia

Ayutthaya is not just an ancient city full of historical ruins but a living city with an interesting community lifestyle, growing floating markets, outstanding local food, and small things like the Frog Car that have become the city's symbol. I, Mr.Hotsia, invite everyone to visit Ayutthaya with intention, travel slowly, and experience the sincerity found in every corner of this city. You will find that its antiquity does not make it boring at all.

If you want to follow my focused stories about traveling in Ayutthaya, Mr.Hotsia, you can continue reading atMr.Hotsia On Tour Chanchainet Travel Joyfully in Ayutthayawhere I take you to explore boat noodles and many other great spots in this province.