Cycling the Island in Ayutthaya
Part of the Ayutthaya travel guide — see every topic in All Ayutthaya Guides.
The old city of Ayutthaya is flat and fairly compact, so a bicycle is the easiest way to see it. You can ride between the main ruins in a few minutes and stop wherever you like. Bikes are cheap to rent and easy to find. This guide covers where to rent, a simple route, how to stay safe in traffic, and when to ride.
Renting a bike
Many small shops rent bicycles near the train station and near the ferry pier on the island side. You will also find bikes at guesthouses in the old town. A basic city bike with a basket costs very little for a day. Check the brakes, the tyres and the seat before you leave. Ask for a lock, and lock the bike at each stop. Some shops also rent electric bikes and scooters if you want to cover more ground. You may need to leave a passport copy or a small deposit. Shops usually close in the early evening, so ask what time you must bring the bike back.
A simple loop
Start in the middle of the island, where the big sites stand close together. Wat Mahathat and Wat Ratchaburana sit side by side. From there it is a short ride west to Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the open park around it. Continue to the edges of the island for quieter ruins and river views. To reach Wat Chaiwatthanaram on the far bank, cross the river by bridge, or take the bike on a small ferry if one is running. A full loop with stops takes most of a day. Pick up a free map from your guesthouse, or use an offline map app on your phone.
Traffic and safety
Thailand drives on the left. Keep to the left side of the road and watch for motorbikes that pass close. The main roads around the island can be busy with trucks and buses. Use the quieter back streets and park paths when you can. Be careful at large roundabouts and when you turn right across traffic. Walk the bike across very busy junctions if you feel unsure. After dark, many small roads have little light. If you plan to ride in the evening to see the lit-up ruins, use a bike with working lights or ride with a group.
Beating the heat
Ayutthaya is hot all year, and the middle of the day can be very tiring on a bike. The best plan is to ride early, from about 7 am, then rest in the shade or a cafe at midday. Ride again in the late afternoon when the light is soft and the heat drops. Drink often. Shops and drink stalls are easy to find all over the town. Wear a hat and sun cream, and cover your shoulders. In the rainy season, roughly May to October, short heavy showers can arrive in the afternoon. Carry a light rain jacket and a plastic bag for your phone.
Cycling the Island at a glance
| Getting there | Rent near the train station, the ferry pier or your guesthouse |
|---|---|
| Hours | Rental shops open from morning until early evening |
| Cost | A city bike is cheap for a full day; e-bikes cost more |
| Best time | Early morning and late afternoon; November to February |
| Bring | Water, hat, sun cream, a lock and an offline map |