BANGKOK: JOIN TOUR – Ayutthaya Go by BUS Return by Cruise (LUNCH on Cruise)

Exploring Ayutthaya, Thailand’s former royal capital, is an adventure packed into a full-day tour that begins early from Bangkok. For around $86 per person, you get a mix of guided temple visits, a relaxed river cruise, and a tasty buffet lunch while floating past some of Bangkok’s most iconic sights. With a duration of approximately 8.5 hours, this tour offers a neat way to see a UNESCO World Heritage Site without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we love about this tour is the small group setting, which makes the experience more personal and less commercialized, and the all-inclusive admission fees that save you from scrambling for tickets. The lunch served on the cruise is a highlight, not just for convenience but because it’s a chance to enjoy a variety of food while soaking up riverside views. One possible drawback? The guide’s commentary may be a bit garrulous for some, especially if you’re expecting a more laid-back vibe.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out that combines history, scenery, and good food without the hassle of organizing transport or meals themselves. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy guided tours and small groups that foster a more intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• All-inclusive pricing means no surprises with entrance fees or meals.
• Comfortable transport on a luxury air-conditioned coach makes the early start more bearable.
• Guided commentary provides context and stories that bring the ruins to life.
• Lunch on the boat offers a relaxing break with a buffet of international and Thai dishes.
• Scenic river cruise enhances the experience with beautiful views of Bangkok’s riverside landmarks.
• Small group size ensures a more personal and engaging atmosphere.

Visiting Ayutthaya: A Journey Through Time

When we think of Ayutthaya, images of ancient temples and relics come to mind. This tour makes that picture a reality, all packed into one day. Starting early at 6:30 am from the River City Bangkok, you’ll board a luxury coach with an English-speaking guide. The early departure is worth it—by 9 am, you’re stepping into the UNESCO World Heritage Site, ready to explore the ruins that speak to Thailand’s glorious past.

The Temples and Ruins

Your first stop is the Wat Maha-That, once the royal monastery and residence for the highest monks. Here, you’ll see the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots—a perfect shot and a symbol of Ayutthaya’s resilience. Next, the Wat Phrasri-Sanphet was once a residential palace, and its grand structure offers a sense of the royal lifestyle. The Wihan Phramongkhon-Bophit houses a massive bronze Buddha, which originally stood outside but is now safely indoors, preserving its historic charm.

Then, there’s the Reclining Buddha at Wat Lokaya-Sutharam. Measuring 42 meters long, this massive white Buddha offers a fantastic photo opportunity. Even though it’s old, it’s in perfect condition, with its cheerful face radiating calm and happiness—an instant reminder of the spiritual tone of Ayutthaya.

The Guided Experience

While the itinerary covers the key temples, the value lies in the insightful narration from your guide. We appreciated the way the guide shared stories behind each monument, giving context beyond just the visual spectacle. This helps you connect more deeply with the site’s history and significance.

Lunch and River Cruise

Around 1:15 pm, you’ll board the Grand Pearl Cruise at Wat Chong Lom Pier in Nonthaburi. The buffet lunch on board is quite a surprise—offering both oriental and western cuisines that satisfy a variety of tastes. The reviewer Hervé even praised the quality of the meal, mentioning it was better than expected.

As the boat heads towards Bangkok, you’ll relax and take in the scenic views along the Chao Phraya River. Coffee and refreshments are served around 3 pm, giving you a chance to wind down and enjoy sights like the Royal Barges House, Thammasart University, and the Temple of Dawn. The colorful river scenery and historic landmarks make this cruise a peaceful conclusion to a busy day of sightseeing.

Disembarkation and Return

The tour concludes at the River City Shopping Complex Pier around 4 pm, followed by a transfer back to your hotel in an air-conditioned van. This seamless end ensures you don’t worry about navigating the busy streets of Bangkok after a full day.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

• Transport & Timing: The tour kicks off with a luxury coach ride from Bangkok at 6:30 am, arriving in Ayutthaya by 9 am. The early start helps beat the crowds and heat, but it does mean an early wake-up for some.
• Group Size & Guide: With a maximum of 11 travelers, you’re likely to get a more personalized experience. The guide’s narration adds context but may be a bit overenthusiastic about tips, according to one review.
• Cost & Value: At $85.90, the tour covers transportation, admission fees, lunch, and the cruise—an all-in-one package that makes organizing a day trip much simpler. For travelers who value convenience and a guided experience, this is quite a good deal.

Authenticity and Experience

While the tour offers a structured itinerary, it does include some authentic moments. The temples you visit are genuine relics of Thailand’s history, not just tourist traps. The scenic river cruise adds a peaceful, almost meditative element, and the buffet lunch provides a taste of both Thai and international cuisine—surprisingly good based on the reviews.

One reviewer appreciated the delicious food, which can often be a hit-or-miss part of group tours. The small group size fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing questions and conversations that bring more depth to your understanding of the sites.

Considerations Before Booking

• The guide’s personality may not suit everyone; some found her “a bit gonflant” (annoying), especially regarding tips.
• The early start might be challenging if you’re not a morning person, but it does give you more time to explore.
• The cruise back is a leisurely 3-hour ride, perfect for unwinding, but if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike boat rides, this could be a consideration.
• The price is reasonable, but remember it’s a packaged experience—if you prefer independent travel, this might feel a bit scripted.

Who This Tour is Best For

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Ayutthaya without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided narration that adds context to ancient ruins, and if you appreciate a relaxing river cruise with picturesque views. Food lovers will enjoy the buffet lunch, especially since Hervé found it surprisingly good quality.

However, if you prefer a more flexible, unstructured experience, or dislike early mornings and guided tours, you may find this package a bit restrictive. The small group size makes it better for those who prefer a more intimate setting rather than large, impersonal tours.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation by luxury coach, all admission fees to temples and palace, a buffet lunch on the cruise, and refreshments including coffee.

How long is the entire tour?
The total time is approximately 8.5 hours, starting early in the morning at 6:30 am and returning around 4 pm.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the itinerary is straightforward. However, be prepared for walking at the temples and a boat cruise, which might not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for temple visits—cover shoulders and knees is respectful. Also, bring sunscreen and a hat for the outdoor temple stops.

Is the boat cruise comfortable?
Yes, the cruise is a scenic, leisurely ride with a buffet lunch, but if you are sensitive to boats, it’s worth noting it lasts around 3 hours.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a packaged tour, customization isn’t typically offered. You can, however, request specific questions or ask for additional information during the guide’s narration.

What about drinks at lunch?
The tour provides refreshments and coffee, but alcohol isn’t included and may not be available on board.

How do I get from my hotel to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at River City Bangkok, which is accessible via public transportation, though the tour includes a transfer from the pier back to your hotel.

Is this tour offered on a flexible schedule?
The tour runs at a set time, starting at 6:30 am and ending around 4 pm, with no options indicated for later start times.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-organized, all-in-one package to visit Ayutthaya’s highlights and enjoy a scenic cruise with a delicious buffet lunch. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience, appreciate small groups, and prefer not to worry about logistics. The inclusion of food and admission fees adds value, making it a hassle-free way to explore one of Thailand’s most storied sites. If you’re looking for a balanced adventure combining history, scenery, and good food, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for an early start and a guided format—ideal for travelers who want a structured yet authentic glimpse into Thailand’s past.