Ayutthaya Customizable Private Tour from Bangkok

A private, air-conditioned car for 10 hours from Bangkok to Ayutthaya, built around whichever three or four sites the traveller picks from a list of thirteen: Wat Mahathat, Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Na Phramen, the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, Wat Suwan Dararam, St Joseph’s Church, the Elephant Kraal Pavilion, Wat Phu Khao Thong and the Portuguese Settlement. Departure is flexible between 7 and 10am, and the chosen stops get confirmed with the operator ahead of the day.

This differs from the group bike tours around Ayutthaya on three counts: it’s private, up to 9 people in one vehicle rather than a shared group; the itinerary is chosen rather than fixed; and entrance fees are not built into the price: Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Mahathat are all paid on arrival if selected.

An English-speaking driver is included as standard; a separate tour guide can be added for an extra fee, useful for travellers who want commentary rather than independent exploration. Food, drinks and personal expenses are on the traveller’s own budget.

Watch out: temple entrance fees aren’t included. Budget separately for whichever of the four named sites end up on the chosen itinerary.

Insider Tip: picking sites that sit close together on the historical island cuts driving time and leaves more of the day for the ruins themselves.