Ayutthaya อยุธยา

Ayutthaya stands as one of the most frequently filmed historical sites in Thailand and a proven performer on YouTube. Founded in 1350, this former capital of the Siamese kingdom was once among the largest and most cosmopolitan cities on earth, home to over a million residents and bustling with traders from China, Japan, India, Persia, and Europe. After its destruction by Burmese forces in 1767, the magnificent ruins across over 400 temples earned UNESCO World Heritage status and now sit just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok on an island formed by the confluence of the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak, and Lopburi rivers.

Ayutthaya's position at the confluence of three rivers makes this island city truly unique. Boat tours circling the historic island cost from 200 Baht per person and offer unusual perspectives of temple ruins viewed from the water. The Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, 20 kilometers south at 100 Baht entry, impresses with a striking blend of Thai, Chinese, Gothic, and neoclassical architecture and is still used by the royal family. In the evening, Ayutthaya transforms into a food paradise. The signature dish is Roti Sai Mai, delicate cotton candy threads wrapped in unleavened crepes at 20 to 30 Baht per pack. Roti Sai Mai Abeedeen-Pranom Sangaroon, run by the same family for over 70 years, earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand and reflects Ayutthaya's Muslim community heritage. Boat Noodles, miniature bowls of rich pork broth at 15 to 20 Baht each, originate from the Chinese vendors who once sold from sampans on the rivers. The Bang Lan Road Night Market offers views of illuminated temples alongside duck noodle soup, mango sticky rice, and Khanom Buang crispy crepes for 10 Baht. The Hua Ro Night Market along the river serves grilled river fish from 100 Baht.