An Ayutthaya river cruise is a classic full day out from Bangkok: travel north by coach to the old royal capital, explore its temple ruins with a guide, then cruise back down the Chao Phraya River on the Grand Pearl with a buffet lunch. It is a comfortable way to combine Ayutthaya, Bang Pa-In and the River of Kings in one day.
Updated October 2026 by the Phuket Dream Company team (TAT licensed).
Ayutthaya river cruise highlights
- Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of Siam for over four centuries.
- Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit and the reclining Buddha at Wat Lokayasutharam.
- Wat Mahathat, known for the Buddha head entwined in tree roots.
- Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, depending on the day’s programme.
- Afternoon cruise on the Grand Pearl with buffet lunch, passing Koh Kret, the Royal Barges area, Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.
Itinerary
- Around 07:15: meet at River City Shopping Complex pier, Si Phraya, next to the Royal Orchid Sheraton (or book a pickup from your hotel; see the transfer rates below).
- 07:30: depart Bangkok by air-conditioned coach.
- Morning: guided visit of Ayutthaya’s main temples, including Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet with Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, and Wat Lokayasutharam’s 42-metre reclining Buddha.
- Midday: board the Grand Pearl at Wat Chong Lom pier in Nonthaburi; buffet lunch with Thai and Western dishes.
- Afternoon: cruise past Koh Kret and the Mon community, Thammasat University, Siriraj Hospital, the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.
- Around 16:00: arrive back at River City pier.
Timings are approximate and may change with tide, traffic and weather.
What to wear and bring
- Temple dress: shoulders and knees covered. Long trousers or a long skirt and a T-shirt with sleeves work well.
- Comfortable walking shoes; the ruins involve a fair amount of walking in the sun.
- Hat, sunscreen and water.
- Your passport or a copy, and your booking confirmation.
Tips
- Ayutthaya is hot from March to May; this is a long day, so pace yourself.
- Sit on the right-hand side of the boat on the way back for views of the Grand Palace and Wat Arun as you approach the city.
- Alcoholic drinks are not included and can be bought on board.
FAQ
Does the coach go out and the boat come back?
Yes. You travel to Ayutthaya by coach in the morning and return to Bangkok by river cruise in the afternoon.
Is hotel pickup included?
No, the ticket price starts at River City pier. Pickup can be added from central Bangkok areas at the rates shown below.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch on board is included, with soft drinks and water.
Is there a guide?
Yes, an English-speaking guide accompanies the tour.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, child rates apply to ages 4 to 10, though the day is long for very young children.
Can I book a hotel in Ayutthaya instead?
Yes. If you would rather stay overnight in Ayutthaya, ask the team on WhatsApp and they can suggest options.
How to book
Book online on this page. Our team confirms availability and stays in touch with you on WhatsApp (+66 95 038 5535).
- INCLUDE: Soft drinks, water, lunch, certified tour guide, and life insurance.
- EXCLUDE: Hotel pick-up transfer, personal shopping, and alcohol.
Full Day Tour Bangkok – Ayutthaya – Bangkok (Round trip)
“Visit Thailand World Heritage
Departure from: Bangkok
*This price is from 1 November 2024 – 31 October 2025*
Ticket Price – No Pickup transfer
Program |
Regular Price |
Promotion Price |
Adult |
|
2,099.-THB |
Child (4-10 year) |
|
1,399.-THB |
Price for Pick up Transfer (Area 1.)
| Area 1. | Time | Price/Person |
| Sukhumvit Soi 1 to Sukhumvit Soi 30, Pratunman, Pratumwan, Silom, Sathorn |
06.00-07.00 |
350.-THB |
Price for Pick up Transfer (Area 2.)
| Area 2. | Time | Price/Person |
| Out Area |
06.00-07.00 |
500.-THB |
