Excursion Ayutthaya - a world heritage site tour at Bangkok

This full-day excursion offers a visit to one of Thailand's most majestic historical sites, included on UNESCO's World Heritage list since 1991. Begin your outing with a 90-minute drive north to Ayutthaya, considered one of Thailand's major attractions. Then, enjoy visiting the following highlights:

Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

En route to Ayutthaya wall, make a visit at the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. The palace comprises a collection of buildings of various ages and various architectural styles surrounded by a lake. Built in the 17th century and left unoccupied when Bangkok became the capital, the palace gained importance again in 1851 when King Mongkut restored it and resumed residence there. Enjoy a visit and marvel at the richly decorated turn-of-the-century European aristocratic style, interspersed with whimsical Thai touches.

Ayutthaya Historical Park

Continue drive to the ruined city of Ayutthaya was once the ancient capital of Siam for four centuries and in its heyday was said to be more beautiful than either London or Paris. Located on a 2.5-mile (four kilometre) island at the confluence of three rivers, Ayutthaya was once encircled by a seven-mile (11-kilometre) wall. After the destruction of the city by the Burmese in 1767, a new dynasty was established and the capital was moved to Thonburi. Today, much of the ancient fabled city is contained within a Historical Park, where archaeological studies are still carried out.

While many of the buildings are in ruins, those drawn to relics of the past still find a visit to the remaining temple compounds and numerous structures awe-inspiring and a memorable experience. Begin the historical park tour with a noteworthy visit at the spectacular Wat Chai Wattanram, reminiscent of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy lunch at the Krungsri River Hotel (or similar).

Wat Na Phra Meru

Another good example of typical Ayutthaya-style temple, it was not destroyed by the Burmese. Constructed during the late 14th- and early 15th-centuries, the name suggests it was a royal cremation site. Of special note are the Buddha images - one fully decorated in regal attire and the other of black stone.

Following your visit, re-join your coach for the trip back to Bangkok and the ship.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking, for approximately 1 mile (1.6 km), with about 50 steps to climb. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Anticipate hot and humid weather. Wear comfortable shoes and light-weight clothing; however, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted and guests must dress modestly. Shoes must be removed to enter the buildings visited. We suggest you wear slip-on shoes and bring a pair of socks for comfort. Order of sites may vary and traffic can affect the tour duration. The drive between the pier and Ayutthaya is approximately 90 minutes in each direction.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ruins of Temple Compounds and Structures, Wat Chai Wattanram, Wat Na Phra Meru Temple, Buddha Images, Bang Pa-In Summer Palace

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