Bangkok to Ayutthaya: How to Get There via Train, Minibus, & Tour

Pssst… here’s a kicker, did you know that the cheapest ticket from Bangkok to Ayutthaya is only 15 baht?!

If you’re planning a trip to the UNESCO Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical Park, and feeling overwhelmed by the Bangkok transportation system, believe me, I sure was too.

But we’ve got you covered! This guide will have all the information you need to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya via train, minibus, or tour. Make navigating the confusing Bangkok transportation system a breeze.

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A Bit About Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya was once the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai, another historical city in Northern Thailand. The ruins of Ayutthaya are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous Southeast Asian landmark, so it’s a popular tourist destination for history buffs.

Ayutthaya Distance from Bangkok

Ayutthaya is an ancient capital city located about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok.

Taking a private car is the shortest route at around 1 hour, and the slowest train takes no more than 2.5 hours.

Click here to go to the exact Google Maps location of the Historical Park.

How can I go to Ayutthaya from Bangkok?

There are four ways to get to Ayutthaya from the Thai Capital:

• Tour (Easiest way if you’re short on time or going for a day trip
• Train (Most Recommended & Cheapest Way)
• Minivan
• Taxi (Most Expensive)

We will get into all the options below.

1. Tours to Ayutthaya

Let’s face it. Historical sites are always better with a knowledgeable guide. I mean, do you really know what that brick building you’re looking at is all about?

A bewildering labyrinth of temples, Ayutthaya stretches 289 hectares. Navigating this scope of architecture is a quest even with the help of maps, but it is certainly worth going. It’s one of the best-preserved historical sites in Thailand (up there with Sukhothai Historical Park).

Booking an Ayutthaya Sightseeing Day Trip from Bangkok is the ideal way to explore this ancient city and its most renowned temples. With an English-speaking guide accompanying you, you can rest assured that you’ll hit all the must-see sites and learn about all the history that makes this place so extraordinary.

The best part? You no longer have to worry about transportation, for this tour picks you up and drops you off with an AC minivan right to your hotel in Bangkok – all for just a few extra dollars!

Start your morning discovering magnificent ruins before eating a delicious lunch. Later, take in the breathtaking views of temples as you meander down the Chao Phraya River on a river cruise. To complete your journey, a comfortable minivan will transport you safely back to Bangkok.

I recommend this Ayutthaya Sightseeing Day Trip in particular as it has a 4/5 star rating from over 1,430 reviews. Check one of the reviews below:

2. Train Travel From Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Although train travel can be a tad intimidating, cumbersome, and uncomfortable sometimes, it is the most convenient method to get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya. Fortunately, this specific journey is surprisingly effortless and inexpensive!

Which Train Stations in Bangkok have the right trains?

Hua Lumphong Railway Station

In early 2023, many train routes have already moved from the original Hua Lumphong Station in central downtown Bangkok to the new terminal. At least for now, the ordinary local trains still start from here. All these trains only cost 15 baht.

Click here to go to the exact Google Maps location of this station.

Krung Thepp Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bansue Grand Station)

If you want to take any rapid, express, or special express service trains, your journey will begin at Bansue Grand Station – a sort of inconvenient terminal north of the city to get to.

You can either attempt to figure out the city bus routes that lead there or board the MRT Blue Line with its hassle-free underground path straight into Bansue Junction.

Tip! (True as of Feb 2023), Hua Lumphong Station offers a free shuttle to Bansue Terminal between 4:30 am – 11 pm. Plan for the shuttle to add at least 30 minutes to your commute.

Click here to go to the exact Google Maps location of this station.

Railway Station outside Bansue Junction

Although the Bansue Grand Station and this Railway Station appear to be at the same location, this station is actually outside in front of the new terminal. This station is much older than its modern counterpart; instead of a sleek building, here you will find only small vendors and a shaded area – (“AKA the peasant class” station).

Note: All the ordinary, cheap trains initiating at Lumphong Terminal will stop here – not within the new Terminal facility.

Click here to go to the exact Google Maps location of this station.

Train Options/Timetable

There are at least 23 trains that leave daily connecting the two stations. Here’s a quick review of the existing railway schedule, which occurs daily.

Cheap Ordinary Trains that Start from Lumphong Terminal

All other Trains that Start from Bansue Grand Station

Unfortunately, I don’t have a good summary of which rapid, express and special express trains run between the stations. Here are some photos of the board taken from outside the station that may go to Ayutthaya.

There are a lot of them, so you’ll never wait too long for them. It’s just the price difference can be quite extreme.

Note the train info so you know where to go. (Sorry it’s so hard to read.)

How To Buy A Train Ticket

Some of the nicer trains may be booked here on 12Go Asia, the southeast Asia transport aggregator. This is an excellent site if you don’t want to waste time going in person to check the timetable beforehand.

Head to your local train station and purchase third-class tickets at the counter. This ticket type does not have reservations, so if you choose this method, arrive early!

Train Ticket Prices

The price of the Ordinary train is only 15 baht, which may be even less expensive than what it costs you to board the public transportation just to reach the station.

The cheapest trains inside the Bansue Grand Station start at 20 baht and go upwards of 350 baht for the faster trains.

Consider This! I met a couple who said they opted for an “express train,” which was faster but not much more comfortable.

Ayutthaya Train Arrival Station

The railway station in Ayutthaya is not exactly near the temples. But other transportation options like Tuk-tuk tours and bicycle and scooter rentals are all conveniently available just outside the station.

Renting a bicycle can cost as little as 80 Baht, while a scooter rental starts from 300 Baht for 24 hours.

Click here to go to the exact Google Maps location of this station.

3. Minivan Travel From Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Regular bus transportation isn’t available between the historical city of Ayutthaya from Bangkok- however, you can hop on a minivan.

Thailand’s minivans, which hold around a dozen people, are an alternative between buses and taxis. They are usually air-conditioned and faster than the train, taking just over an hour.

Departing from Mo Chit Bus Station (Northern Bus Terminal), minivans cost way more than the train, at around 150 baht per seat. You can actually reserve tickets ahead of time on 12Go Asia.

4. Taxi Travel From Bangkok to Ayutthaya

If you’re looking to taxi to Ayutthaya, you may as well take a private Ayutthaya tour if you are looking to avoid the uncomfortable ride altogether. This one includes a stop at the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace.

If you are hailing a cab off the street, note that cabs are usually metered in Bangkok unless you negotiate a price beforehand. Taking a taxi or private car will only take about an hour, depending on where you are in the city and the traffic jam situation.

How Do I go Back from Ayutthaya to Bangkok?

Same options. All tours that started in Bangkok will bring you back to the city. The best way to go back from Ayutthaya to Bangkok is still by train. Here is the timetable for all the trains back to Bangkok from Ayutthaya.

And Beyond? If you’re looking for anywhere else the train may go, here is a full list of the train timetable for everywhere else it runs to:

• Lopburi
• Phitsanulok
• Chiang Mai
• Pak Chong for Khao Yai National Park

Where to Stay in Ayutthaya

Don’t settle for anything less than the best – Sala Ayutthaya

Book a welcome to the oasis, Sala Ayutthaya, an intimate boutique hotel on the banks of the Chao Phraya River that overlooks the famous Wat Phutthaisawan, placing guests at the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed destination.

With just 27 rooms and suites, a stunning rooftop terrace, a big pool, and an exquisite riverside restaurant, Sala Ayutthaya offers a personalized and luxurious experience. Book a deluxe room with river and temple views and a hot tub for the ultimate indulgence.

Traditional Design by River Side – Phuttal Residence

Indulge in a peaceful and idyllic getaway with a booking at Phuttal Residence, where you’ll experience exceptional comfort and service surrounded by serene gardens overlooking the river. Their spacious rooms are traditionally designed, with comfortable beds to ensure a great night’s sleep. Whether enjoying their delightful breakfast or taking a tour by the river, their attentive staff goes above and beyond.

Outstanding Value Private Room – Momento House

Book a stay at Momento Hotel and enjoy the perfect combination of value, comfort, and great service. Here, guests enjoy a prime location near the train station and lively night market. With spacious rooms and new facilities, experience great value for money and exceptional comfort, and breakfast is included.

Final Thoughts: How to Get from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Of course, going on a tour on an Ayutthaya day trip is always an option. But in conclusion, if you want to go on your own, the train is the cheapest option between Bangkok and Ayutthaya.

The minivan provides an affordable alternative that is more comfortable and faster, but more expensive, which you can book on 12Go Asia beforehand. Finally, if you are willing to pay up for a taxi, it’s the quickest option and perfect if you just want to get there as fast as possible.