Old Siam Ayutthaya Temples Tour Review: Is it Worth it?

Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering if a day trip to Ayutthaya is worth squeezing into your itinerary? Perhaps you’re looking at ‘The Old Siam Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch’ specifically? Very well, I recently took that exact tour, and I’m here to give you, like your friend, a totally honest rundown of my experience, good and, you know, the bits that could’ve been a bit better.

What is ‘The Old Siam Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour’ Anyway?

This tour, by Old Siam, basically is promoted as an intimate way to experience the majestic temples and history of Ayutthaya, Thailand’s former capital. The appeal, so I thought, very much was the ‘small group’ aspect. As somebody who isn’t overly fond of feeling herded around in a giant group, the idea of a more personalized experience really had its draw. And too, it includes lunch, which honestly, that just takes the decision of, like, ‘where are we eating?’ out of the equation, you know? So, that’s a definite win for the indecisive traveler!

First Impressions and Pick-Up: A Pretty Smooth Start

The day began, it did, with a pick-up from my hotel in Bangkok. Right on time. The mini-van seemed to be comfortable and air-conditioned. So very important in the Thai heat! We made our way to the first destination. This is where, as a matter of fact, I started chatting with my fellow travelers. As it turns out, a really nice mix of people from all over. Small talk can often be very tiring. So, too, the vibe seemed to be good. This gives you a sense this will be a pleasant day.

Exploring the Ancient Wonders: Temples Visited and Their Stories

The tour covered a good handful of Ayutthaya’s iconic temples. I recall that we visited Wat Yai Chaimongkol, very renowned for its massive chedi. After that we went to Wat Phra Sri Sanphet. This, as I understand, once stood as the holiest temple on the site of the old Royal Palace. Each temple basically had its own distinct charm and historical significance. And certainly, the guide did provide some decent explanations about their histories. But perhaps just a bit too quickly for my taste. I wish he would have allowed time for further reflection.

The Guide: Knowledgeable, if a Bit Rushed

Our guide appeared to be well-informed about Ayutthaya’s history and architecture. However, it did at times, that it seemed like he had a fixed script he was trying to get through, which felt just a bit impersonal. Like, it would have been great if, you know, he’d paused every now and then to ask if we had any questions, or simply let us wander around to absorb things just a little more. But, by the way, I completely got that he needed to keep us to schedule. Still, some time would have been lovely!

Lunch: A Satisfying Taste of Thailand

Lunch actually was at a riverside restaurant, and honestly, it’s something of a highlight. A selection of various local Thai dishes! It gave a really great opportunity to, you know, sample some authentic flavors. There’s no need to say how this pleased me, given my own great enjoyment for local foods. It definitely seemed like they catered to everyone’s tastes. So there basically was something for all the group to enjoy. The setting as well created some nice surroundings in which we could chill and savor what we’d been fortunate to sample.

Crowd Control: How “Small” Is Small?

This is a pretty significant point: when they say “small group,” they, like, still mean a fairly sizable group! There may be around 12-14 people on our tour. Which, while it may not be the biggest group imaginable, it wasn’t exactly what I’d had in my mind regarding “small group” either. So too, it’s something to keep in mind if you specifically are seeking a super intimate, almost private experience.

Value for Money: Is the Tour Worth the Cost?

Considering what is included. Like the transportation, entrance fees to all the temple sites and lunch. Also the guidance you receive all day. This tour, I reckon, offered pretty reasonable value. It certainly saves a fair amount of time and the worry associated with organizing all the travel by yourself. So I figure you’ll enjoy a hassle free experience from the start. Still, if, like you’re on a super tight budget. Potentially you’ll get away with doing the same experience independently just a little bit cheaper. Although you’ll lose time doing this. It just relies on your priorities.

What Could Have Been Better? Areas for Improvement

A slightly slower pace would have increased my overall enjoyment very, very greatly. Also, very potentially. More time spent exploring each temple a little bit more in-depth too! Additionally, while the guide really did have extensive knowledge. It could’ve made all the difference by ensuring a greater feeling that visitors are very fully catered to.

Final Verdict: Who Is This Tour For?

All things considered, ‘The Old Siam Ayutthaya Temples Small Group Tour with Lunch’ is that it offers a very solid way for individuals to see Ayutthaya’s incredible sights for those who maybe don’t feel totally up for going it completely alone, very or who might prefer all logistics looked after. If your dream entails something really intimate with individual guidance you might want to, in a way, explore other alternatives; however, you may just like to join this very popular tour. I’d strongly consider advising anyone planning their inaugural day of trips. Because I am aware of the relative comfort I got myself. As well as an affordable cost, also the experience should still offer something great, yet also remember one’s considerations for its disadvantages such as those regarding possible overcrowding.

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