THINGS TO DO

AYUTTHAYA HISTORICAL PARK
This park is home to a plethora of ancient ruins and artwork dating as far back as the 14th century and built by the different Kings that once ruled Ayutthaya. Wat Phra Sri Sanpet, Wat Phra Ram, Wat Phanan Choeng, Wat Chai Wattanaram and Wat Phra Mahatat are some of the temples you have to visit. To relive the ancient days of Ayutthaya, hire a bike and take in the full splendour of the temples in your own time.

BANG PA-IN SUMMER PALACE
The Summer Palace is built in several different architectural styles and was used by King Rama IV as his summer hideaway. Today, it is occasionally used by the current monarchs, Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit, for holding receptions and banquets.

AYUTTHAYA HISTORICAL STUDY CENTRE MUSUEM
To learn about Ayutthaya's complex history in brief, (and indeed to cool off from the heat), visit the history centre on the second floor of this building which recently enjoyed a facelift.
Rochana Road (near Ayutthaya Rajabhat Institute)
+66 (0) 35 245 123


CHAO SAM PHRAYA NATIONAL MUSEUM
The museum is located opposite the Tourism Authority of Thailand and it's the second largest museum in Thailand. The collections of ancient artefacts are impressive, from Buddha images and priceless jewellery to carved panels and religious objects dating back to the Ayutthaya period.
Open daily except Mondays and Tuesdays from 9am - 4pm
Tel: +66 (0) 3524 1587

DELISH DROPS-IN

Ayutthaya attracts Bangkokians who not only come for their cultural fix but also for the prawns. Its strategic location in which it is surrounded by three rivers (The Chao Phraya, the Pasak and the Lopburi Rivers) offered not only geographical and economic advantages, but also gastronomic advantages. There was an abundant supply of fish but the most famous are the river prawns.

PAE KRUNG KAO (แพกรุง เก่า)
This floating restaurant is one of the city's most famous for its grilled prawns or fried with garlic which you can enjoy alongside the pleasant view of Pasak River. Decked out with local bric-a-brac, it's a casual dining experience which is also easy on the pocket.
Moo 2, U-Thong Rd
Tel +66 (0) 35 241 555, (0) 35 243 455

YANG DIEW (ยางเดี่ยว)
It's best to let a local guide accompany you if you plan to visit this place as there are no signs to let you know that you've arrived save from a large rubber tree. Located near Chumpon Nigayaram Ratcha Wiharn Temple and next to the river, the restaurant's specialties include grilled prawns (350-600 baht depending on size) and whisker sheatfish stir-fried in garlic and pepper.
Near Bang Pa-in Palace
+66 (0) 35 261 135, +66 (0) 81 910 4048
Open daily 10:30am - 19:30pm

HOW TO GET THERE

Ayutthaya is approximately an hour's drive away from Bangkok

CHECK-IN AT

RANGSIT VILLAS

Pak Ta is a quiet little village in the ancient Thai capital of Ayutthaya and this two-room luxury B&B is its star. Situated by the banks of the Pa Sak River, it's the ideal escape from the bustling city and the perfect microcosm of Ayutthaya in its truest form. Rangsit Villas has two rooms beautifully done up in the contemporary Thai style. Guests have a kitchenette to share or they can order local fare from the staff. To really mingle with the locals, explore your surroundings on a bike provided by the management.

IUDIA

Check-in at the newly opened Iudea to complete the ultimate juxtaposition of the old meets the new. This modern, tasteful bed & breakfast face the Ayutthaya World Heritage Park, offering guests sweeping views of the ruins. Enjoy in-house activities such as lessons on meditating, antiques and traditional Thai music.
http://www.iudia.com