tour bangkok to siem reap

FLASH SALE💥   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Bangkok to Siem Reap Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Bangkok and then finish in Siem Reap. Trips from Bangkok to Siem Reap are most popular in December, with the most tours doing this route then.

20 Bangkok to Siem Reap tour packages with 115 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Amazing Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam 18 days

"The whole tour was well planned & well run. Each country had its highlights - too many to mention, but all a delightful experience." Cheryl, traveled in December 2023

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

"What an amazing tour! I thought this tour was really well organised with a good mix between cultural experiences, beach destinations and time for chilling out." Dearbhla, traveled in May 2023

Southeast Asia Discovery 19 Days

"The accommodations were consistently excellent, offering comfort and a sense of place in each location." Brittany, traveled in May 2021

Journeys: Discover Southeast Asia National Geographic Journeys

"Channy shared his extensive knowledge and warm, outgoing heart with us." Jennifer, traveled in June 2018

Private Tour: 21 Days Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia Cultural Tours -15 Days/14 Nights

"The attention to detail was first class- everything worked really well. They found great guides and drivers for each place." Peter, traveled in September 2023

Glimpse Of Indochina In 15 Days Thailand- Vietnam- Cambodia

"An amazing tour and trip of a lifetime! would do again!" Thu, traveled in January 2020

21 days Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

• Coach / Bus

Thailand and the Temples of Angkor (15 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

9-Day Thailand & Cambodia

Unforgetable Thailand Laos Vietnam & Cambodia 21Days/20nights

Discover Thailand & Cambodian Civilization 13 Days - Private Tour

Adventure Tour Thailand, Laos and Cambodia 21 Days/20 Nights

Classic Journeys Thailand & Cambodia 12 Days - Private Tour

15 Days Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam Odyssey Tour (private guide & driver）

• €85 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Bangkok to Siem Reap Tours

It’s truly amazing tour, well organised from pickup, drop off, guides and places to go it’s well thought. The location of hotel was well thought if any free time there’s always something for us it can be dining, walking, sight seeing etc. or chilling by the hotel pool. Our tour representative “Ha Nguyen” she is fantastic through the 18 days tour. So happy with all her help always at the end when needed. I’m so please we did this journey of our life time. I would definitely recommend it to our family and friends. Again many thanks for the wonderful experiences with less stress.

Thailand and Vietnam were absolutely amazing! The tours were so much fun and were filled with loads of activities. You really get to experience the culture of the country! Lorna was our group leader in Vietnam, she was absolutely amazing and both her overall and cultural knowledge were great.

The entire experience was amazing!!

• Cambodia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Family from Bangkok to Siem Reap (13)
• In-depth Cultural from Bangkok to Siem Reap (12)

Discover TourRadar

• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• Kruger Park Safaris
• Pokhara Pokhara Personalized tours
• Norte Grande January 2025 tours
• Australian Outback y tours
• Greek Islands July 2024 tours
• 15 Days in Czech Republic Germany Switzerland Italy Austria Hungary Slovakia

Sample BANGKOK-SIEM REAP Itineraries: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Days

Bangkok and Siem Reap are two of the most popular destinations in the Southeast Asian region. Both are world-famous for magnificent ancient temples, vibrant cultural heritage, and warm, hospitable people. The best part, they’re easily accessible from each other by air and by land.

The two great cities are 8-10 hours apart, depending on traffic and including the visa stops on both sides of the border. You can travel by plane, by bus, or a combination of train and bus/car. For more detailed information about traveling overland, read this: Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus or Train .

In a nutshell, the most efficient, most comfortable overland way is by direct bus. Giant Ibis Bus is the most reputable company operating this route. You can search for buses or reserve a seat here: Bangkok-Siem Reap Bus .

This post features several Bangkok-Siem Reap and Siem Reap-Bangkok itineraries. If you’re visiting just one city, you might want to visit these travel guides instead:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Bangkok Itineraries
• Siem Reap Travel Guide

Anyway, here are the sample itineraries. Please note that the budget estimates at the end of each itinerary are bloated in order to cover other incidental costs. As we always say, it’s better to overestimate than under.

We’re using the currencies that are used in respective city. For Bangkok, we use the Thai Baht. For Siem Reap, the US dollar.

Feel free to tweak these itineraries according to your flight schedule, taste, and whatnot.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Bangkok-Siem Reap Itinerary: 4 Days

Duration: 4 days, 3 nights Stops: Bangkok and Siem Reap Entry point: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Exit point: Siem Reap Airport

Day 2: BANGKOK TEMPLES 06:00am – Wake up call 07:00am – Walk to S2 Sala Daeng BTS Station 07:15am – Take BTS to S6 Saphan Taksin Station, ฿25 07:30am – Walk to Sathorn Pier 07:40am – Board Chao Phraya Express Boat, ฿15 08:00am – Get off at N8 Tha Thien Pier 08:10am – Take the boat to the other side of the river, ฿3 08:20am – Explore Wat Arun, ฿50 09:20am – Take the boat to the other side, ฿3 09:30am – Walk to Wat Pho 09:40am – Wat Pho, ฿100 11:00am – Lunch, ฿100 12:00pm – Walk to Grand Palace 12:30pm – Grand Palace, ฿500 02:30pm – Walk to N9 Tha Chang Pier 02:40pm – Ferry to N10 Siriraj Pier, ฿15 02:50pm – Walk to Sirijaj Museum 03:10pm – Siriraj Museum, ฿200 05:00pm – Walk to N10 Siriraj Pier 05:20pm – Boat to N13 Phra Arthit, ฿15 05:40pm – Walk to Khao San Road 06:00pm – Dinner at Khao San, ฿200 07:00pm – Explore Khao San Road 09:00pm – Taxi to Silom, ฿120

Day 3: TRANSIT TO SIEM REAP 04:00am – Wake up call 05:00am – Hotel check out 05:15am – Walk to BTS Sala Daeng Station 05:40am – BTS to N8 Mo Chit Station, ฿40 06:30am – Buy breakfast or snacks, ฿100 07:45am – Bus to Siem Reap, ฿1093, Reserve here 04:30pm – Arrival in Siem Reap 05:00pm – Hotel check in 06:00pm – Dinner, $4 07:00pm – Angkor Night Market 08:00pm – Pub Street Party 10:00pm – Lights out

Cost Estimate: USD185 (THB5070, PHP9960, SGD255, EUR160), excluding airfare, hotels, and shopping expenses.

Bangkok-Siem Reap Itinerary: 5 Days

Duration: 5 days, 4 nights Stops: Bangkok and Siem Reap Entry point: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Exit point: Siem Reap Airport

Day 5: SIEM REAP CITY TOUR 09:00am – Wake up call, pack up 10:00am – Check out, leave bags 11:00am – Explore Old Market 12:00pm – Lunch, $4 01:30pm – Angkor National Museum, $12 03:30pm – Preah Prom Rath Pagoda 04:30pm – Free time and snack, $4 06:30pm – Back to dinner, pick up bags 07:00pm – Transfer to airport, $5 07:30pm – Flight check in

Cost Estimate: USD210 (THB6886, PHP11310, SGD289, EUR181), excluding airfare, hotels, and shopping expenses.

Bangkok-Siem Reap Itinerary: 6 Days

Duration: 6 days, 5 nights Stops: Bangkok and Siem Reap Entry point: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Exit point: Siem Reap Airport

Day 4: TRANSIT TO SIEM REAP 04:00am – Wake up call 05:00am – Hotel check out 05:15am – Walk to BTS Sala Daeng Station 05:40am – BTS to N8 Mo Chit Station, ฿40 06:30am – Buy breakfast or snacks, ฿100 07:45am – Bus to Siem Reap, ฿1093, Reserve here 04:30pm – Arrival in Siem Reap 05:00pm – Hotel check in 06:00pm – Dinner, $4 07:00pm – Angkor Night Market 08:00pm – Pub Street Party 10:00pm – Lights out

Day 6: SIEM REAP CITY TOUR 09:00am – Wake up call, pack up 10:00am – Check out, leave bags 11:00am – Explore Old Market 12:00pm – Lunch, $4 01:30pm – Angkor National Museum, $12 03:30pm – Preah Prom Rath Pagoda 04:30pm – Free time and snack, $4 06:30pm – Back to dinner, pick up bags 07:00pm – Transfer to airport, $5 07:30pm – Flight check in

Cost Estimate: USD245 (THB8035, PHP13200, SGD337, EUR211), excluding airfare, hotels, and shopping expenses.

Bangkok-Siem Reap Itinerary: 7 Days

Duration: 7 days, 6 nights Stops: Bangkok with Ayutthaya Day Tour and Siem Reap Entry point: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Exit point: Siem Reap Airport

Day 5: TRANSIT TO SIEM REAP 04:00am – Wake up call 05:00am – Hotel check out 05:15am – Walk to BTS Sala Daeng Station 05:40am – BTS to N8 Mo Chit Station, ฿40 06:30am – Buy breakfast or snacks, ฿100 07:45am – Bus to Siem Reap, ฿1093, Reserve here 04:30pm – Arrival in Siem Reap 05:00pm – Hotel check in 06:00pm – Dinner, $4 07:00pm – Angkor Night Market 08:00pm – Pub Street Party 10:00pm – Lights out

Day 7: SIEM REAP CITY TOUR 09:00am – Wake up call, pack up 10:00am – Check out, leave bags 11:00am – Explore Old Market 12:00pm – Lunch, $4 01:30pm – Angkor National Museum, $12 03:30pm – Preah Prom Rath Pagoda 04:30pm – Free time and snack, $4 06:30pm – Back to dinner, pick up bags 07:00pm – Transfer to airport, $5 07:30pm – Flight check in

Cost Estimate: USD295 (THB9680, PHP15900, SGD406, EUR254), excluding airfare, hotels, and shopping expenses.

Bangkok-Siem Reap Itinerary: 8 Days

Duration: 8 days, 7 nights Stops: Bangkok with Ayutthaya Day Tour and Siem Reap Entry point: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Exit point: Siem Reap Airport

Day 8: SIEM REAP CITY TOUR 09:00am – Wake up call, pack up 10:00am – Check out, leave bags 11:00am – Explore Old Market 12:00pm – Lunch, $4 01:30pm – Angkor National Museum, $12 03:30pm – Preah Prom Rath Pagoda 04:30pm – Free time and snack, $4 06:30pm – Back to dinner, pick up bags 07:00pm – Transfer to airport, $5 07:30pm – Flight check in

Cost Estimate: USD350 (THB11500, PHP18850, SGD482, EUR300), excluding airfare, hotels, and shopping expenses.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 9️⃣ • 6️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

Related Posts:

• Sample SOUTHEAST ASIA Itineraries: 5, 6, 7 Days
• 12 Asian Destinations for FIRST-TIME SOLO BACKPACKERS
• BANGKOK TO SIEM REAP by BUS or TRAIN: Crossing the Border
• SOUTHEAST ASIA: DIY Backpacking Itineraries and Routes (2 Weeks)
• Sample DIY BANGKOK ITINERARIES: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Days
• THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE with Multi-City ITINERARIES: 4, 6, 7, 12 Days
• Pub Street and Angkor Night Market, Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Goddess Tuptim Shrine: The Hundred Phalluses of Bangkok

• Recent Posts

• 2024 Philippine Airlines PROMO: Get 50% OFF on PAL Domestic Flights! - 16 May 2024
• 2024 NAIA Departure Guide for International Passengers (Manila Flights) - 10 May 2024
• 2024 Cebu Pacific Promos & PISO SALE with Number of Seats Available - 10 May 2024

Featured On

We heard you!

Your comment is now queued for moderation! We’ll try to get back to you soonest. While waiting, follow us on these channels.

Subscribe on Youtube! Follow us on Instagram!

From Bangkok to Siem Reap: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Oct 21, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Siem Reap is the gateway town to the breathtaking ancient ruins of Angkor–Cambodia's most famous tourist attraction and one of the top places to visit in Southeast Asia . Although not necessarily close to Bangkok, many international tourists going to Siem Reap do arrive in Thailand first and then make their way to the ancient city.

If you're vacationing in Thailand and looking to take a quick detour to Cambodia, there are many ways to get you there. From a quick plane ride to a long, winding journey on land, here are five ways to find your way from Bangkok to Siem Reap, no matter your budget:

On This Page:

• From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Tour
• From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus
• From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Air
• From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Train
• From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Private Taxi

1. From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Tour

If you're only going to Siem Reap to see the temples but then returning to Bangkok, a round-trip might be your best option. Not only does this save you planning time, but it'll end up being cheaper, and you won't have to worry about delays or missing connections.

A Bangkok to Angkor Wat Tour can take you straight from your hotel door to Angkor Wat and back over a period of two days . The tour includes transportation and accommodation plus an English-speaking tour guide to get you through Cambodian customs. Meals aren't included in the tour (except for breakfast on Day 2), so you'll need to plan for that–or you can ask your tour guide for local recommendations.

Once across the border, you'll spend the first day exploring Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. You'll get to discover the beauty and biodiversity of the lake on your own private boat before heading over to the lake's northern end to visit the Chong Kneas Floating Village. In the evening, you'll have free time to explore the many restaurants in Siem Reap and to visit the night markets.

On Day 2, you'll have a chance to explore Angkor Wat and Phreah Khan (a massive temple system right on the water), plus additional smaller wats (temples) such as Baphoun, Elephant terrace, and the Leper King terrace. You'll end the day at Ta Prohm (the famous temple overtaken by a vast tree root system) before the minivan then drives you back to your original departure point in Bangkok.

2. From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus

Buses leave from Bangkok's Mo Chit station twice a day and reach the Cambodian border in about 3.5 hours . While the buses are comfortable and have AC and a toilet, don't expect any extras such as movies, onboard snacks, or ample legroom.

For a little more luxury, you can get a Bangkok to Siem Reap VIP Bus ticket. These fancier air-conditioned buses offer onboard meals, seats that recline to 135 degrees (that's a lot farther back than standard bus seats), free Wi-Fi, and blankets.

Once at the border, you'll have to get off the bus in order to get a visa and enter Cambodia. Some buses come with a helper who offers assistance at the border, while others let you deal with the process on your own. The VIP buses offer an optional paid service to help you with the visa once you get to immigration.

Either way, expect to spend two to three hours at the border dealing with paperwork before you can board the bus again to continue into Cambodia. From here, it's an additional three to four hours to reach Siem Reap .

3. From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Air

There are four airlines that fly from Bangkok to Siem Reap and they make the trip several times a week from one of Bangkok's two airports (Suvarnabhumi and Don Meung), so you shouldn't have any issues finding a flight that meets your budget and time requirements. Keep in mind that budget airlines like Air Asia don't include luggage, so if you have a bag to check in, you'll end up paying more.

After you arrive in Siem Reap and go through immigration, you can grab a moto-taxi, a tuk-tuk (three-wheeled motorcycle taxi), or a regular taxi to get you from the airport to the city center. Make sure you agree on a price before you get on any of these to avoid being overcharged.

4. From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Train

While you can't get all the way from Bangkok to Siem Reap by train, you can at least reach the town of Aranyaprathet near the Cambodian border this way–and then switch to a bus or taxi.

There are only two daily trains from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet (morning and early afternoon), and both take just under six hours to reach their destination–that is, if there are no delays, which are fairly common. The trains are both third-class, which means hard seats, tiny fans on the ceiling instead of AC, and no food service onboard. On the other hand, the trains are clean and safe, and riding one will give you a chance to experience "real Thailand," as you'll be traveling mainly with locals.

Reservations are not possible on third-class trains, so arrive at the station early to buy a ticket on the day you're traveling. Once you reach the railway station in Aranyaprathet, you'll need to take a tuk-tuk to the border crossing, four miles away . Buy your visa on arrival here, cross into Cambodia, and find a shuttle bus or a shared taxi at the Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal a few minutes away.

5. From Bangkok to Siem Reap by Private Taxi

One way to save yourself the stress of transfers and delays when taking public transportation is to pay for a private overland transfer from Bangkok to Siem Reap . When you get your own air-conditioned vehicle , you're picked up directly from your hotel or from Don Muang airport in Bangkok. The company can offer private transportation for groups of up to eight people in either a sedan car or a minivan. After the pickup, you'll travel with your friendly experienced driver until you reach the border.

Once you clear immigration (which might take up to an hour), you'll be escorted to a second vehicle to complete the rest of the journey through Cambodia. The entire trip takes eight to nine hours , and while no meals or extras are included, having your own private transport means quick stops for a bite and to stretch your legs are never a problem.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Siem Reap: There's much more to see in Siem Reap after you've visited the amazing Angkor Wat temples. For lots of things to do in Cambodia's number one tourist destination, check out Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap .

More on Thailand

Email : [email protected] 

10 Days From Bangkok To Siem Reap

The 10 Days From Bangkok to Siem Reap tour is an incredible opportunity to explore the beauty and culture of Thailand and Cambodia. The tour highlights the best of both countries, taking you on a journey through stunning natural landscapes and famous landmarks.

Starting in Bangkok, the tour begins with a full-day city tour visiting famous temples and boarding a long-tail boat on the Chao Phraya river. Experience the vibrant energy of the floating market, where vendors sell their goods on boats. Then, embark on a train ride along the Death Railway, passing through Ayutthaya to see the ancient capital of Thailand.

Next, the tour moves to Siem Reap, where the magnificent Angkor Wat Temples Complex awaits. You will visit the Angkor Highlighted Temples, including Bayon and Ta Prohm, and the outlying temples, including Banteay Srei and Pre Rup. Additionally, the tour offers the opportunity to join a tour to the floating community and enjoy a view of this wonderful area while interacting with the very kind people in the village.

Finally, the tour ends with a walk through the village and floating community before departing from Siem Reap. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience the best of both Thailand and Cambodia, from stunning temples to unique floating markets, all while interacting with locals for an authentic experience.

Itinerary in Brief

Full itinerary, accommodation.

• Visit Bangkok City tour with famous temples, boarding a long-tail boat on Chao Phraya river • Experience floating market where vendors sells their goods on a boat • Boarding a train ride along the Death Railway, pass through Ayutthaya to see ancient capital of Thailand • Move to Siem Reap, see such a magnificent Angkor Wat Temples Complex • Join a tour to floating community to enjoy a view of this wonderful area and interact with very kindly people in the village

• Day 1: Bangkok Arrival
• Day 2: Bangkok Full Day City Tour (B)
• Day 3: Bangkok – Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – Kanchanaburi (B)
• Day 4: Kanchanaburi – Ayutthaya (B)
• Day 5: Ayutthaya Historical Park – Bangkok (B)
• Day 6: Bangkok – Flight to Siem Reap (B)
• Day 7: Siem Reap – Angkor Highlighted Temples (B)
• Day 8: Siem Reap – Angkor Outlying Temples (B)
• Day 9: Siem Reap – Village Walking & Floating Community (B)
• Day 10: Siem Reap Departure (B)

Warmly welcome you on arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport. We will pick you up with a comfortable vehicle to the center of Bangkok to check-in your hotel, then take your time to have a rest after a long flight.

Today, we will take the whole day to explore Bangkok – the city of golden temples.

The first destination is the  Grand Palace .  This huge architecture complex is over 2 sq. kilometers, including 3 main sites: Royal Palace, Royal Office and pagodas (Wat) built in 1770s. Nowadays, the Grand Palace is no longer home of Thailand Royal, most of national significant events takes place there.  

Wat Phra Kaew   is the most out-standing architecture in complex, built in 1785 when King Rama I moved the capital to Bangkok. Wat Pra Kwae is famous not only for its beauty of unique Thailand Buddhism architecture but also for the sacred jade Buddha statue. Thai people believe that the statue will bring back fortune and prosperity for the nation.

Nearby Grand Palace is  Wat Pho  –  the oldest and biggest pagoda in Bangkok with more than 1000 Buddha statues and the huge one sit-back Buddha in gold. This pagoda is also famous for being a birthplace of traditional Thai massage, since there is a traditional medicine school established in 1982, educating the arts of Thai massage.

The Wat Pho wall-surrounded complex was divided into 2 by Soi   Chetuphon running along East – West. The Northern complex is the one including the in gold Buddha statue and massage school mentioned above. The Southern complex, Tukgawee, is a monastery and a school.

We will board on a boat to pay a visit along the Chao Phraya River, watching the life of local people close by.

On route, we stop at  Wat Arun ,  known as the most beautiful pagoda in Bangkok not only for its location on the Chao Phraya’s riverbank but also for the different architecture from other pagodas. “Arun” means sunrise, but it is most beautiful in the sunset.

The pagoda was decorated with glass pieces and Chinese ceramic, in a complicated style. You can climb up to the top of Wat Arun to see Chao Phraya, Grand Palace and Wat Pho at the opposite side.

After having lunch, we visit the last destination of the day:  Wat Traimit .  This pagoda is famous for its unique and historic beauty, and also for the huge golden Buddha statue.

Thai people believe that the statue represents for prosperity and purity, as well as strength and power. The Golden Statue was defined to be built in Sukhothai period, the 13-15th century – one of the most famous periods of Thai Buddhism architecture.

Return to the hotel and you are free to explore Bangkok by night.

Early in the morning, after having breakfast, we pay a visit to  Meaklong Railway Market –  a local market has grown up along the rail tracks. When a train pulls in or out of the station, the sellers quickly clear their stalls, and set them up again when the train has passed .

We continue our way to  Damnoen Saduak Floating market,  which  is specialized in trading fruits, vegetables, etc… by small boat. In the old days, floating markets were formed because roads and means of road traffic have not developed.

Due to the demand for buying and selling goods, people gather in the river by means such as boats. Nowadays, despite the fact that the road network has developed everywhere, floating market still exists and develops more and more.

We transfer to Kanchanaburi, check-in the hotel there and then you are free to relax.

Today morning, we pick up from hotel to visit the  JEATH War Museum,   which has the name standing for countries taking part in the World War II death railway construction from 1942 to 1945: Japan, England, America, Australia, Thailand and Holland.

As the name suggests, JEATH War Museum exhibits photographs and illustrations reflecting the living condition of prisoners of war during that cruel time, some of which were donated by former prisoners who survived after war.

We continue to  Erawan Waterfall,   considered as the most beautiful waterfall of Thailand.  This is such an impressive series of seven tiers, each with a shape and character on its own. 

Originating from the Monglai Stream, water flows down from the hill at height of 2000m and flows into the Khwae Yai River. The waterfall is named after the legendary three-headed white elephant living in the Himavarna forest.

Back to the city, we go to  Kanchanaburi the famous Bridge over the River Kwai ,  the most important landmark of this city.  We continue boarding  a train ride along the railway death,  Railway enthusiasts can travel on one of the historic routes to Southeast Asia, the remaining part of the  “Death railway”.

Proceed to Ayutthaya for overnight.

Having a breakfast and today we will pay a visit to some sites of  Ayutthaya Historical Park,   situated in the old city of Ayutthaya. The city was constructed by Ramathibodi I in 1350 and was the capital of Thailand until it was destroyed by Burmese – Myanmar army in 1767.  Being a ruin with many temples which characterize this type of architecture built with red bricks, the park was recognized as World’s Heritage Site by UNESCO.

– Wat Phu Khao Thong  is a massive pagoda towering in the middle of paddy fields and can be seen from afar. Built by  King Ramesuan  in 1395, the pagoda is unique with the combination of 2 architectural styles: Thai – style and Mon – style. There is a high golden plated chedi on the top, which makes the pagoda outstanding.

–  Wat Phra Sri Sanphet  was   the most important temple of Ayutthaya and situated within the Ayutthaya  Grand  Palace  grounds. It served as a model for the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok. The highlight of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet is 3 towers standing high together in Ceylonese style, has the same architecture with Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.

–  Vihara Phra Mongkhon Bophit   is the pagoda in which the bronze Buddha statue in the attitude of subduing Mara is situated. This is one of the biggest Buddha statue in Thailand. It was considered to be built during the Ayuttaya period of King Srongta, who transferred the location from the east side to the west and has been the location since then. After that he ordered to build a dome on top.

–  Wat Lokaya Sutha  is considered as the sacred place for pilgrims since it’s famous for the reclining Buddha statue, which is the statue of the Blessed Buddha intact compared to other monuments in the entire Ayutthaya ruins. It is also the most important relics in most of those in Wat Lokaya Sutha. Thai people believe that if they paste the golden leaf onto Buddha statues, they will be protected by Buddha.  Heading back to Bangkok.

En route, we visit the  Royal Summer Palace  in Bang Pa-in district.

Situated about 60 km northern away from Bangkok, this palace is called Royal Summer Palace since it is a favorite resort of royal. The first palace had been built in mid-early of the 17th century, then was the ruins and be forgotten when Burman occupied Ayutthaya. It was not until the rule of King Rama IV – did the palace rebuild. King Rama IV was the first Siamese king came to Europe and was sharply impressed by the architecture there. Therefore, the whole architecture of the palace is in the way of 19th century European style.

The time today is on your own until we transfer to the airport for a flight to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival, proceed to check-in hotel and free to explore city yourself.

Beat the crowd  early morning by  7am , visit the picturesque  Ta Prohm  that had nearly disappeared into the jungle and remains overgrown, an oddly haunting and exotic scene.

The magnificent roots of a tree, pushing between the huge stone blocks of the temple in a sort of embrace, evoke feelings that you may remember forever. And continue to visit the intricately carved Khmer ruins at  Angkor Wat  – one of the world’s most impressive ruins.  The temple still owns fine Apsara carvings in Angkorian era art. Lunch is own account.

Afternoon, explore the mysterious Royal city of  Angkor Thom . We will begin with the fascinating South Gate where we will stop for some nice photos. We will then move to the impress  Bayon . Its 54-tower temple is an awesome sight.

At first glance it seems a shapeless mass of stone, but further scrutiny reveals a face, and then another and another until suddenly you are engulfed by the silent, heavy, enigmatic and silent gaze through half-closed eyes, staring out from a primitive and remote time.

Further, visit to the surroundings of the complex including the  Baphoun, Elephant Terraces, Lepper King Terrace and Royal Palace  area.

7am , drive to the rural outskirt 35km from Angkor area to visit the smallest, but magnificent,  Banteay Srei  built in the 10th Century and dedicated to Shiva. The temple was the birthplace of Khmer classical style architecture and the bas-relief work is the best example of Khmer classical art remaining.

The pink sandstone structure bears a series of striking and beautiful sculptures, lintels, pediments and friezes. Khmers say the temple must have been carved by women for the details are too fine for the hands of a man. Drive on to  Chau Srei Vibol  which is a small charming temple on top of a hill which hardly sees any visitors – very few non-locals have heard of it, and it is set just far enough away from the main tourist routes.

Continue to the ancient Khmer civilization site of  Hariharalaya  which flourished in the late 9th and earlier 10th centuries. These are the earliest temples in the Angkor area and are referred to the  Rolous group  we visit the main one called  Bakhong temple .

In early evening, explore Siem Reap night by  tuk tuk  to experience Cambodia’s nightlife in full, from the local people’s customs to the activities geared to tourists. Walking through the food markets, enjoy dinner with local beer/soft drink in local beer garden, insect salad with cocktail ( if you are brave enough to try ), visit night markets and or, you may want to try  foot massage by fish (own account) .

At the end of the trip, take the short tuk tuk ride back to your hotel.

Note*  Set menu dinner ( meal only without drink ) at a local restaurant will be replaced if you are not familiar with local beer garden.

Morning transfer out of the Siem Reap town to a beautiful village in the countryside, you will start to walk through the village houses, witnessing very nice and different activities from the locals for their daily life. Just as some examples: how the locals wash vehicles, selling gasoline in whiskey bottles or the small shops where the locals sell food on the side of small streets.

Enjoy a view of this wonderful area and interact with very kindly people in the village. Leisurely walk through the rice paddies and see how this family doing daily work such as making rice wine, handicraft works meanwhile a member of the family will offer you a fresh  coconut and some homemade rice wine to taste .

Hop in your van for driving onward to the next destination, a  floating community , arrive at the quay for embarking on a motorized boat to visit floating houses village offering an incredible natural phenomenon of making their lives from the lake in a respectful and meaningful way. This is a great chance to witness one of Cambodia and the world’s most amazing natural wonders. Drive back to Siem Reap.

(Note***floating community is recommended from September to February).

The time is on your own until we transfer to the airport for an international flight back to your hometown.

Tour includes:

• Accommodations based on twin/Double Room
• Private transfer as private air-con vehicle
• Private tour as mention as above itinerary
• Meals as mentioned (B=breakfast)
• English  speaking guide
• Service charge & Government tax
• Entrance fee

Tour excludes:

• Other meals, drinks,
• Airport tax, internal & international flight, visa
• Single room supplement
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Any optional additional tours or activities during free time

You may also like:

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the captivating wonders of Southeast Asia. The tour kicks off at the awe-inspiring Kyaiktiyo, where a sacred balancing boulder defies gravity on the edge of a cliff, serving as a remarkable pilgrimage site for devoted Buddhists. Prepare to be enchanted as you venture into the ancient city of Bagan, […]

Embark on an enthralling odyssey through the enchanting realms of Myanmar and Thailand, where an amalgamation of ancient wonders, vivacious traditions, and resplendent vistas beckon the intrepid traveler. Commencing in the illustrious city of Mandalay, one delves deep into the labyrinthine corridors of time, traversing a tapestry woven with opulent cultural heritage and paying homage […]

Embarking on an extraordinary expedition through the captivating realms of Thailand and Myanmar promises an incomparable and indelible experience. The journey unfolds against the backdrop of Bangkok’s dynamic urban landscape, where ornate temples, bustling markets, and vibrant street scenes interweave in a symphony of sights and sounds. The path then leads to Ayutthaya, a revered […]

Immerse in an extraordinary expedition that will take you on an unforgettable journey through the captivating lands of Thailand and Myanmar. Prepare to be enchanted as you traverse a tapestry of cultural treasures, natural wonders, and breathtaking moments that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Deep yourself into the tropical paradise of Phuket, […]

Welcome to Gastronomy in Thailand & Indochina 19D18N! This comprehensive tour will take you on an exhilarating expedition across the majestic lands of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Traverse the rich history and culture of each region through a carefully curated itinerary that offers an array of stimulating activities and unique experiences. Immerse yourself in the […]

The tour begins with a visit to Sentosa Island in Singapore, where travelers can enjoy its beautiful beaches and thrilling rides at Universal Studios. The journey then continues to Chinatown in Singapore and then to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, where tourists can explore the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and the Batu Caves.   Next, the […]

At Angkor Wat Services , we continue to maintain our high standards for all of our guests and strive to make your travel adventure a thrilling and rewarding one that you will remember for a lifetime. We are native Cambodians and therefore, we are specialists and know our country better than anyone one else, you can rely upon accurate, up-to-date and honest information, fair prices and knowledge about every aspect of travel in our homeland. With our world famous hospitality, we invite you to come to The Kingdom of Wonder and thrill to its people, its monuments and awe-inspiring natural wonders. We have a seamless organization that can connect you to all South East Asian countries should you wish to travel outside of Cambodia. Please Send inquiry >>> Visit Angkor Wat From Bangkok Pattaya Laem Chabang Cruise Port Koh Chang Rayong Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport BKK Bangkok Don Muang Airport DMK And More...

» Cambodia Tour Promotions

• Travel Style
• Destinations
• Length of Visit

Travel Style: Cambodia

How to go from Bangkok to Siem Reap

If you’re traveling around Southeast Asia, at some point you’ll likely want to visit the major travel destinations of Bangkok, Thailand, and Siem Reap, Cambodia. Getting between the two, though, can be a bit challenging if you’re new to the region. You have a handful of options and each option offers its own benefits, depending on what’s most important to you — speed, comfort, price, etc. Here’s what to consider before choosing your transportation option for traversing the 254 miles journey, so you arrive safe, sound and ready to explore.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by bus

Time – under 10 Hours Price – approximately $20 to $30 Comfort – 2/5

Traveling between Bangkok and Siem Reap by bus is particularly popular for one primary reason: it’s cheap.

Direct buses do not require you to transfer buses when crossing the Thailand-Cambodia border. Direct bus providers include Nattakan and Giant Ibis. Both companies run full-size buses and pricing for tickets is $28 with Nattakan and $32 with Giant Ibis, with additional minimal fees if you book online versus purchasing your ticket in person the day of your travel. Online booking is advised, as it reserves your spot on the bus and your seat.

Mini buses are another bus option for traveling between Bangkok and Siem Reap. Mini buses do require that you change buses at the border, which means that this option is a bit more of a hassle than the direct buses and you may have to wait up to three hours at the border. Not only do you have to deal with finding your next bus at the border, but, due to the more affordable cost of the mini bus ride, they’re often far more crowded. Mini bus pricing varies, but you can expect to not pay more than $20 for your total trip. Mini bus tickets will have to be purchased in person and mini buses depart Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal (at the Mo Chit Station).

Of course, while traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap by bus is affordable and popular because of it, it’s also not that comfortable. It is bus travel, after all. Expect occasionally cramped conditions. You will, however, enjoy the opportunity to take in the scenic views from your seat throughout the journey.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by plane

Time – around 1 hour Price – anywhere from $70 to $300 Comfort – 3/5

When it comes to flying between Bangkok and Siem Reap, you have four airline options. While flying is the overall priciest way to get between the two destinations, it is by far the fastest. Additionally, if you’re not familiar with traveling on public transportation, like buses and trains, while in a foreign country, you might find flying is more comfortable for you, as the process is generally much the same all over the world.

Airlines that fly between the two destinations include Bangkok Airways, Cambodia Angkor Air, Thai Smile and Air Asia, with service out of Bangkok’s two airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Meung. Flights start at around $70, but can run as high as $300, depending on when you make your purchase and with which airline; keep in mind that some airlines charge additional fees for luggage. For the most affordable flights, try AirAsia. Flights can be purchased on travel aggregators (like Hotwire) or directly through the airlines’ websites.

While flying between Bangkok and Siem Reap is relatively easy and comfortable if you’re already a frequent flyer, it is worth noting that air service between the two destinations is sometimes unreliable, with delays and rescheduled flights common.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by taxi

Time – under 8 hours Price – approximately $100 Comfort – 4/5

If you like the idea of ground transportation between Bangkok and Siem Reap, but aren’t too keen on sharing your transportation with a gaggle of other travelers on a crowded bus, you might want to consider a private taxi service.

As with the mini buses, when you take a taxi between the two destinations, you’ll have to switch taxis at the Thailand-Cambodia border. After crossing the border, if you want a more affordable taxi price, you can walk a bit, as the further you go from the border, the more affordable the taxi rates, generally.

More expensive than a bus or train, but still often more affordable than flights, taxi service between Bangkok and Siem Reap takes around eight hours.

However, do keep in mind, while taxi service does give you the added comfort of privacy, it can make you more susceptible to travel scams, as taxi drivers may attempt to charge you a higher fare, sometimes even deciding to jack up your rate mid-trip, when you have little choice but to agree or exit the vehicle. On the other hand, if you have a taxi driver with a penchant for customer service, you’ll find they’re more than agreeable and you might even be able to negotiate small stops for food or to break up the monotony of the eight-hour drive.

Taxi service can be booked ahead of time at 12Go.asia .

Bangkok to Siem Reap by train and bus/taxi

Time – around 9 hours Price – $15-60 Comfort – 3/5

If you want to mix up your ground transportation and possibly not take a taxi or bus all the way to Siem Reap, you can take a train to the border — to Aranyaprathet specifically — and then switch to your choice of a bus or taxi. There are two daily trains from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet, one in the morning and one in the early afternoon, with train rides taking about six hours.

The trains aren’t the most comfortable, but some enjoy the experience, as it’s a very “local” thing to do and there’s plenty of scenery to admire. Additionally, the trains are known for being very clean and safe. You can only purchase train tickets in person the day of your travel and the fare is only a few dollars.

Once you reach Aranyaprathet, you can take a tuk-tuk to the border (about $3), then cross the border and board a bus or taxi at Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal. From there, a bus ride is about three hours and $10 and a taxi is about three hours and up to $50.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by private tour

Time – 2-4 days, depending on preference Price – $300+ Comfort – 5/5

Lastly, if money is no option and your primary focus is comfort, you can choose to book a private tour company to ferry you between Bangkok and Siem Reap, which is especially a good option if you plan on returning to Bangkok after seeing the sights in Siem Reap. This is by far the easiest and most comfortable option, but it’s also by far the priciest.

There are several companies that offer this service, such as travel aggregator Viator. Generally, a private tour will take you door-to-door from one hotel to your next, and make stops along the route at prime tourist points of interest. You typically have access to your own guide, who can help you navigate the journey with ease, so that really all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.

However you decide to travel between these two culturally rich and fascinating destinations, it’s sure to be an adventure!

Bangkok to Siem Reap FAQ

The most affordable way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is via either a bus or a train-bus combination. Bus rides can be booked via 12Go.asia , but train fare can only be purchased in Bangkok in person. While train rides are scenic and safe, don’t expect any fancy frills. The same can be said for bus rides, as the buses are sometimes cramped and prone to delays.

By far the fastest way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is via a flight. Four airlines service the route: Bangkok Airways, Cambodia Angkor Air, Thai Smile and Air Asia. However, flights on this route can often be pricey. If you’re looking to save cash, you can book other forms of transportation between the two destinations at 12Go.asia .

You have several options for getting between Bankgok and Siem Reap, including bus, mini bus, private taxi, private tour, train and plane. Many of these can be booked easily and affordably with 12Go .

There is not a train that goes directly between Bangkok and Siem Reap, but there is train service from Bangkok to the Thailand-Cambodia border. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Siem Reap. Bus and taxi service are bookable on 12Go.asia .

The bus ride can take up to 10 hours, depending on delays and how long you are required to sit at the border crossing at the Thailand-Cambodia border. Bus rides between the two destinations are very affordable and can be booked right now at 12Go .

As many as you can! Siem Reap is a popular resort town and considered the gateway to the famed Angkor ruins.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

How to travel from Phuket to Surat Thani

Private Angkor Wat special tour

Private Angkor Wat Sunrise tour

2-day Private Guided Journey

3-day in Siem Reap Itinerary

Private Angkor Wat Tours to Unlock the Magic

Private Siem Reap Tours

Pack your bags and let your spirit soar as we launch on an impressive 7-day adventure through the heart of cambodia.

From the ancient wonders of Siem Reap to the rustic charm of Battambang, we’ve got the ultimate itinerary to quench your wanderlust. Get ready to be enchanted by temples, culture, and landscapes that tell tales as old as time.

Hand-picked

Most valued itineraries

Private Group

Maximum satisfaction

The most rated Tours in Siem Reap! 

What a value with the best Siem Reap tour to Angkor Wat!

Fast Confirmation

Get Your e-ticket in your email within seconds

256-Bit Payment Protection

Easy payments

Pay with Multiple Credit Cards

Get the best offers

Up to date Tours with best pricing

Featured Siem Reap Tours This Month

Find the siem reap or angkor wat tour that makes you happy, enjoy 17% off with our monsoon magic promo use code: monsoonmagic17.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Book your Siem Reap tour or Angkor Wat tour now and save 17% with our Monsoon Magic promotion. Just use the promo code “ MonsoonMagic17 ” at checkout to enjoy this special discount. Valid Until 31st of October . Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or diving into local culture, we’ve got the perfect tour for you.

Private Banteay Srei Tour | Guided Banteay Srei Temple Siem Reap Tour [with sensational off-the-beaten-track temples]

Private Angkor Wat Sunrise tour – Half-Day Private Sunrise Guided Tour [Go to Angkor Wat early and avoid the crowds]

Early Bird Ta Prohm tour after Sunrise | Experience Ta Prohm, tour Banteay Kdei Temple in early morning plus 4 more Temples

Cultural heritage and siem reap countryside excursions, exploring deeper into the heart of cambodia with our cultural heritage and countryside excursions.

These tours are dedicated to those who want to go beyond the old temples and uncover the intricate pattern of Cambodian rural life and heritage. Each tour is designed to provide an immersive experience, offering insights into traditional ways of life, the natural beauty of the countryside, and Siem Reap architectural marvels.

7 days in Siem Reap and Battambang Tour Itinerary | A 7-Day Journey Through Siem Reap and Battambang

Siem Reap Elephant Tour | Private full day tour with Secret Temples and Kulen Elephant Forest Sanctuary

The Ultimate Siem Reap Adventure Tour | Temples – Trees and Floating Villages [with Ta Prohm Temple – Angkor Wat Temple – Bakong Temples and Siem Reap Floating Village]

About our siem reap tours, every single detail, the emotions we put in all siem reap tours, every bit of that is all for you, to create a special moment in your holiday.

Our customers and travelers are every bit of the secret sauce of our dedication. Whatever Siem Reap tour or Angkor Wat tour you choose, we work so you can have the time of your life, on top of a majestic temple, at a world wonder location; you will be leaving here with smiles on your faces in some way. Everything is about what we do. It’s what we love. It’s why we do it. So when we visit with you at the top of a magnificent temple on an Angkor Wat tour and we see that look in your eyes… That moments give us that passion and all the energy we put into our tours for you!

Book Angkor Wat Tours Online!

One of our favorite Siem Reap itineraries!

Private Angkor Wat Sunrise Guided Tour [Go to Angkor Wat early and avoid the crowds]

Koh ker and beng mealea guided tour..

"This Siem Reap tour was very well organized and we were picked up at our hotel in time. The guide was friendly and knowledgeable. We got to visit 6 different temples, including Banteay Srei which is a highlight of any trip to Cambodia. I would recommend this tour to anyone who likes to be active in their holidays and likes visiting temples!"

Maria Olivera

"The Sunrise Guided Tour includes Angkor Wat at Sunrise, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm Temple. An impressive Angkor half-day tour with your English live guide and a luxurious minivan (all amenities included) for a private comfy atmosphere."

Victor Bhaskar

Private Angkor Wat special tour.

"The tour was great. We got to visit many of the temples in Angkor and the driver was very experienced with the roads. We were able to see the jungle, countryside, and rice fields as well. A very complete Angkor Wat tour!"

Angkor Wat tour Semi-Private – Temples Guided Tour

"Today was a wonderful morning for a sunrise trip. A fantastic adventure with a highly professional operating organization! They provided water and a comfortable van with air conditioning. Our tour guide, Sok, is a brilliant photographer in addition to having a great deal of information. We are very fortunate to have him as our guide."

Our Latest Siem Reap Tour

This private tour of Angkor’s temples includes Banteay Kdei, Pre Rup, and Banteay Samre. Climb Phnom Bok hill with a moderate climb to visit Phnom Bok temple and appreciate the spectacular sunset views.

Follow your expert guide to experience one-of-a-kind Angkor Wat tours!

Angkor wat sunrise tour, private sunrise guided tour, private angkor wat 2-day tour, discover more, angkor wat mix temples tour, explore the temples of angkor, why choose us for your next siem reap tours and angkor wat tours.

MySiemReaptours is your guarantee to find the best Angkor Wat Tours and the Top-rated day tours to Angkor temples when you book Angkor Wat tours online.

Best Values

Book Angkor Wat Tours Online! Make your online reservation to visit Angkor Wat right now. Tours and Tickets to Siem Reap at Amazingly Value Pricing!

Your Best Experience

After a rigorous and methodical selection of itineraries, all tested by our experts and tour operators, we have a large range of Siem Reap tours and Angkor Wat tours at your disposal.

Secure Payment

MySiemReapTours.com allows you to book in advance with the most convenient and secure payment method for you. You get instant confirmation with your ticket to present during pick-up!

Book Angkor Wat Tours Online

Book Angkor Wat Tours Online: Angkor Sightseeing Tours, Angkor Wat Excursions, Siem Reap tours, Activities and Things to Do. You can book your Angkor Wat tours online. Imagine the life and history hidden behind a word, an ancient city wall, or behind the door of a wonderful temple; you can stop fantasizing since your adventure to the Angkor’s most appealing and astonishing places begins right here, right now, with MySiemReaptours.com and just one click.

You can travel your fantasies with us, and you will find all the assistance and advice you need to plan a memorable vacation in Siem Reap. You can search and book Siem Reap tours online with MySiemReaptours.

Not only that, you will find a team of skilled travelers and tour guides ready to assist you with your full day travels and to offer only the best Angkor Wat sightseeing tours in all the top-interesting locations. We are here to help you find excellent excursions. Chat with us to uncover all the most pleasing excursions. We offer you the best selection of exotic and cultural Angkor Wat tours to visit the top wonders in the world of travelers, the Angkor Ancient City. You are and will be our best testimonials to show the world the mesmerizing landscapes and scenery, the appeal and beauty of our world’s ancient wonders.

We are here because we adore travelers and vacationers, and we will always provide exceptional Siem Reap day trips and travel opportunities because purchasing tours with MySiemReaptours has never been easier!

With just a click and all the assistance you require from our team, you can locate tours online to make your vacation extra unique, fulfill your aspirations, and save in your memories all the pictures and amazing moments you will encounter. Dreaming of your holiday in Cambodia and booking tours seems like something out of a fairy tale, but you can see it all in real life for your vacation.

There is no better way to spend your time traveling throughout the the beautiful and peaceful province of Siem Reap and the ancient lands of the kingdom of Angkor than by clicking on MySiemReaptours and getting our best support for your Siem Reap tours and holidays. Make wonderful memories in one of the world’s most gorgeous temples and plains by booking tours online with MySiemReaptours!

Book Angkor Wat Tours Online and Explore more on My Siem Reap Tours

Koh Ker and Beng Mealea guided tour   |   Banteay Srei temple tour semi-private guided tour   |  Morning Siem Reap floating village tour   |  Afternoon Siem Reap floating village tour   |  Private Angkor Wat special tour   |  Kulen Waterfall small group guided Tour   |  Private Angkor Wat mix temples photo tour   |  Angkor Wat tour from Bangkok   |  Full-Day Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour   |  Private Half-Day Angkor Wat Sunrise tour   |  Private Angkor Wat 2-Day Tour   |   3 Days in Siem Reap Itinerary   |  Private Siem Reap City Tour   |  1-day Angkor Wat GRAND LOOP Private tour   |  1-day Angkor Wat SMALL LOOP Private tour | Half Day Early Morning Ta Prohm Tour | Early Bird Ta Prohm tour | Siem Reap HomeStay 2 Day Tour | Siem Reap Elephant Tour | Siem Reap Private Driver | Private 2-Day AngkorTour | Private 3-Day Angkor Tour | Private Siem Reap 5 day Tour

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

• Siem Reap Guide
• Angkor Temple Guide
• Travel Guide
• Living Guide
• Cambodia Guide
• Sightseeing & Nature
• Tours & Activities
• Body, Mind & Soul
• News & Events

Hours & Admission

Public holidays in cambodia in 2024, siem reap – angkor international airport (sai): a comprehensive guide to the new airport, angkor visitor code of conduct, siem reap’s best souvenir & night markets to visit in 2024, top experiences for the adventurous in siem reap, the best places to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs in siem reap, top 10 activities for children in siem reap (updated in 2024), overland travel from bangkok to siem reap.

Overland travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap is pretty straightforward. Read the following and you will feel confident to do the 465km long journey without running into any problems or scams. The whole trip takes between 7 and 12 hours, depending on your chosen mode of transport, traffic conditions and immigration queues at the Poipet border crossing .

Bangkok to Siem Reap: Travel Options

There are plenty of travel options available to make the overland trip from Bangkok to Siem Reap:

• Tourist bus or mini van departing from Khaosan / Sukhumvit Road
• Bangkok – Siem Reap direct bus line
• Minivan service departing from Ekkamai Bus Terminal
• Casino bus service departing from Lumpini Park
• Bangkok to Siem Reap by private taxi
• Public bus from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet bus terminal
• Train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet train station

Note that only the first two travel options will bring you all the way from Bangkok to Siem Reap. The other ones will only bring you to the Thai border town Aranyaprathet (or Aran in short) from where you’ll have to continue your trip to Siem Reap individually.

Tourist Bus or Mini Van Departing from Khaosan / Sukhumvit Road

Tickets can be purchased in most travel agencies in Bangkok and prices can vary dramatically, from 300 to 600 Baht on Khaosan Road, or as much as 1000 Baht at some travel agencies on Sukhumvit Road. Shop around and bargain a little to get a price you’re happy with.

Expect to stop once or twice for snack and toilet breaks. However, if the driver stops right before reaching the Cambodian border at an official-looking building with a big sign saying “Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Cambodia”, this is not the official visa office, so don’t get your visa here. More details on the following page.

When you arrive at the border, cross the Thai immigration and apply for the Cambodian visa and afterwards cross the Cambodian immigration. If you are shown to a row of desks under a tarp before you go into the visa office, this is okay, usually the staff here will give you the visa form, explain about the photographs but should not ask for any money. From here enter the building and in 5-10 minutes you will have your visa. Don’t be surprised if asked for an extra few dollars at this point. Once you are on the Cambodian side of the border, you will be put on a shuttle bus to the Poipet bus terminal, from where you continue your trip to Siem Reap.

Bangkok – Siem Reap Direct Bus Line

The Bangkok – Siem Reap direct bus line , organized by Transport Co. on the Thai side and Nattakan on the Cambodian side, offers three daily connections between Bangkok and Siem Reap.

The bus departs in the morning from the Mo Chit (Northern) bus station in Bangkok, located close to the famous Chatuchak weekend market. Departure times are 8am, 8.30am and 9am. Tickets can be purchased online by credit card or Paypal on CamboTicket  (US$28). The whole trip takes about 7 to 8 hours. The bus is air-conditioned and there’s a toilet on board. Snacks and lunch are served as well.

No need to take your luggage when arriving at the border, but make sure to take your valuables! At Thai immigration, you’ll have the privilege to use the fast lane (which is a big benefit in the busy high season)! Once passed the immigration check, you can arrange your visa at the official Cambodian visa office. Continue walking to Cambodian passport control and get your visa stamped. Afterwards, the bus will pick you up again and continues the ride to Siem Reap, where you will be dropped off at the Nattakan Bus Station .

Mini Van Service Departing from Ekkamai Bus Terminal

Go to the Eastern Bus Terminal , better known as Ekkamai , for minivans to Aranyaprathet / Poipet.

The Victory Monument was a central point in Bangkok from where minivans departed, for decades, now the vans operate from the main bus terminals. There is a free shuttle bus from the Victory Monument and to go to Cambodia you need the eastern bus station. You want to go early to avoid queues when you arrive at the border. The trip should take 4 hours, depending on traffic and expect an extra half hour somewhere if the driver stops for a meal break. As soon as a van is filled up with travelers, it will depart. The price per person should be 230 Baht, but be aware that this only covers the trip from Bangkok to the Cambodian border. Once you’ve crossed the border and entered Cambodia, you will need to find ongoing transport to Siem Reap.

The good thing about this minivan service is that there’s no visa scam. The van will drop you at walking distance from the border. From there continue your trip individually, though you may wish to arrange to share a taxi with other travellers. Details for transport to Siem Reap in the “Poipet to Siem Reap” section.

Casino Bus Service Departing from Lumpini Park

Poipet is the border town on the Cambodian side and has several casinos in a duty-free declared zone between the Thai and Cambodian immigration offices. Since casinos (and gambling in general) are not allowed in Thailand, hordes of Thai punters hit the road every day to spend their money in the casinos of Poipet. As such, there is a daily bus service departing from Lumpini Park in Bangkok organised by the casinos.

Departing from the south-eastern corner of Lumpini Park from 5am onwards for around 200 Baht. You don’t need to book but it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially on the weekend. Note that if you are Cambodian (or have a Cambodian companion travelling with you), you may be denied access to the bus or have to pay extra, because it is assumed you will be travelling on and not spending money at the casinos.

Similar to the minivans, there is no visa scam when using this service. More details on the next page.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by Private Taxi

Travel by taxi is the fastest and easiest way to travel from Bangkok to the Cambodian border, especially if you can share the cost with other travellers.

Finding a taxi in Bangkok is easy. Just wave a taxi down and negotiate a price. Depending on your negotiation skills, you should be able to agree on a price between 1800 and 2500 Baht for the trip from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet.

•  It’s best to avoid taxis that are waiting in front of your hotel, especially if they are advertising trips to tourist destinations like Pattaya, Koh Chang and alike. Usually these taxis charge you 3500 Baht or more.
• Never pay your taxi driver upfront. Pay him once you reached the border with Cambodia.
• Make sure to have the exact amount with you in Thai Baht. It’s an old trick of many taxi drivers to say that they don’t have any change to give back to you.

After crossing the Thai – Cambodian border, you’ll have to find additional transport to continue your trip to Siem Reap. This can either be a bus, minivan or taxi. Read the Poipet to Siem Reap section for more information.

Public Bus Service from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet

It’s possible to travel from Bangkok to the Cambodian border by public bus. You can take the bus either at the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) or at the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) .

The Northern Bus Terminal is the best choice for buses to Aranyaprathet. Buses leave every half hour to hour from the ground floor of the terminal and you can choose between first class – 209 Baht and second class – approx. 160 Baht.

At the Eastern (Ekkamai) bus terminal, buses leave every 1 or 2 hours. The fee is 203 Baht for a seat on an air-conditioned bus.

The whole trip to the Aranyaprathet bus terminal takes around 5-6 hours. On arrival, there will be plenty of tuk tuks available to bring you to the border for around 100 Baht. Choose one of the drivers but be wary of a possible visa scam that he may try to pull before reaching the border.

Train Service from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet

Travelling by train is a slow option, but it is cheap and a very unique experience, if you’re not in a rush. You can catch a train to Aranyaprathet from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong train station . There are other stations further along the line, but since Hua Lamphong is the train’s departure point, hopping on here gives you the best guarantee for a good seat.

There are two trains a day to Aranyaprathet. The first one leaves Hua Lamphong station in the early morning at 5.55 o’clock and arrives in Aran at 11.35 lunch time. The second one leaves in the early afternoon at 13.05 o’clock and its arrival time is 17.35 in the evening. Unless you plan to spend the night in Aran, we recommend that you take the early morning train. Expect delays.

A one-way train ticket to Aranyaprathet is 48 Baht (or 1.5usd) , which is an amazing bargain for a trip of 255kms!

On arrival at Aran’s train station, there will be lots of tuk tuk drivers. Expect to pay 50-80 Baht for the short trip to the border. Be wary of a visa scam that your tuk tuk driver may try to pull along the way to the border. More details on the following page.

Crossing the Thai / Cambodian Border

Poipet, Cambodia’s border town with Thailand, is only known for two reasons: its casinos and its notorious border crossing. In this section you’ll find the information you need to make a successful border crossing.

Cambodian Visa Scam

Somewhere close to the border, your driver may stop at an officially looking building, showing a big sign saying “Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Cambodia”. He will try to convince you that you have to apply for a Cambodian visa in this building. Do not believe him! It’s a scam. He receives a commission for bringing you there and you will be charged about 50% more than the amount of the official visa fee.

So, if you’re in a tuk tuk make it clear to the tuk tuk driver that you want to go straight to the border and that you already have a Cambodian visa (even if this is not the case). Once there, you’ll first have to cross Thai immigration and afterwards you can arrange the visa yourself at the real Cambodian visa office. It takes 5 minutes of your time and is a very easy process! If you’re in a bus or minivan that stops here, be aware of the situation. If you do fall into the trap the fee is around 1600 Baht or US$45, while the official price is only US$30.

Crossing the Thai – Cambodian border

The opening hours for the border are 7am – 8pm. (There is no time difference between Thailand and Cambodia.) It’s recommended to arrive at the border as early as possible, to avoid the lunch peak period between 11am and 2/3pm. If you arrive after closing time, you’ll be forced to spend the night in Aranyaprathet, which is definitely not the most interesting town in Thailand!

To cross the border, follow these 3 easy steps:

• Thai immigration:  Cross the passport control at the Thai immigration office. The office is located on the left hand side of the road. Look out for a blue sign saying “Passport control” and “Departure”.
• Cambodia visa office:  Apply for a Cambodian visa in the official visa office. The building is located on the right side of the traditional style arch that welcomes you to the country. Above the entrance you’ll see a sign saying “Border Check Point of Poipet”.
• Cambodia immigration arrivals:  Cross the passport control at the Cambodian immigration office. This building is also located on the right side of the road. There’s a blue sign above the entrance saying “Arrival”.

Poipet to Siem Reap & Arrival

Straight after leaving the Cambodian immigration office, several touts (in official looking uniforms) will approach you to use a free shuttle bus (or minivan) to the Poipet tourist bus terminal . Unless you already booked onwards transport to Siem Reap, ignore them because this free shuttle bus is part of a transport monopoly scam. The Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal, where the free shuttle will bring you, is located several kilometres out of town. Once you arrive there, you will have no other option than to use their overpriced transport options.

Walk straight past them. Cross the roundabout and keep on walking into Poipet’s main street. Here, you should be able to pick up a ride to Siem Reap in a private or shared taxi at acceptable prices. A private taxi costs around US$35, while a seat in a shared taxi will set you back around US$8.

The Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal

Unfortunately, despite its official sounding name, the Poipet Tourist Passenger International Terminal is a rip-off. An “official” private taxi to Siem Reap costs US$48. A seat in a shared taxi costs US$12. There’s also a bus available for US$9 a person, but be aware that this bus will drop you off a few kilometres outside of the centre of Siem Reap. Several tuk tuks will be waiting here to bring you to your guesthouse at an additional cost ($4-5 depending on its location).

Arriving in Siem Reap

The trip from the Poipet border to Siem Reap should take 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions. The bus will probably drop you at Siem Reap’s bus terminal, which is located several kilometres out of town along National Road 6. In this case, you’ll need to negotiate a price with one of the tuk tuk drivers that will approach you. Make sure though that he will bring you to the guesthouse that you request and not to a different place (where he will receive a commission upon your booking).

In case you are arriving in Siem Reap by taxi, make sure that you don’t pay the driver until he drops you off at exact location that you request. Do no believe that taxis are prohibited from entering Siem Reap. Also, do not let him drop you off at the taxi park, a different guesthouse or hand you over to a waiting tuk tuk (from which he will receive a commission).

Safely Exchanging Money in Siem Reap: Tips and Trusted Currency Exchange Services

Overland travel from phnom penh to siem reap, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Siem Reap’s One of a Kind Hotels

The top 10 luxury resorts in siem reap, the best boutique hotels siem reap has to offer, see & do, the very best of siem reap’s khmer cuisine, siem reap’s top bars: from relaxed to refined, siem reap’s best international restaurants.

Visiting Angkor Wat, Cambodia? Or maybe you live in Siem Reap? Siemreap.net is your portal to local news and stories. Discover top restaurants, current activities & events, and the best attractions Siem Reap has to offer. Let us be your guide to Angkor Wat and it's complex of vast temple ruins, as you journey back through time, to ancient Cambodia.

Contact us: [email protected]

© siemreap.net 2011 - 2023

How to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap in 2022

If you’re planning a trip to Southeast Asia then there is a good chance you’re wondering “What is the best way to get between Bangkok and Siem Reap?” This is actually the most common tourist route traversed between Thailand and Cambodia. And while the distance between Bangkok and Siem Reap is just 250 miles (402 km), the border crossing makes the trip a bit more complicated and time-consuming than you might guess.

Most visitors come to Siem Reap to explore Angkor Wat , the magnificent Buddhist temple complex that is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. But Siem Reap also offers a thriving international food scene, world-class hotels and spas, and a much-needed respite from the smog and traffic of Bangkok .

The easiest way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is to fly, which takes just an hour. All other transportation options will take you at least seven hours due to the crossing of the Thailand/Cambodia border.

A private vehicle is the most convenient land-based option, but it can be quite expensive unless you’re traveling in a group of three or more. If you want to save money, you can also reach Siem Reap by a direct bus or by a combination of train and bus.

In short, the best way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap really depends on your travel budget. Below we have summarized all of the best transportation options between Bangkok and Siem Reap so you can decide which method is best for you!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Cambodia Visa-on-Arrival vs. eVisa

Whatever transportation method you take from Bangkok to Siem Reap, you will have to decide if you want to get a Cambodia eVisa or research if you can get a visa on arrival at the Cambodian border.

Citizens of all but 10 countries can get a 30-day single-entry visa on arrival when they reach Cambodia. The process is simple and straightforward – in fact, all you’ll need is $30 US and a passport that is valid for six months.

Unfortunately, corruption is quite common in Cambodia and there are incidents of travelers being overcharged for their visa-on-arrival. The best way to avoid this is to have exact change. If the immigration officer asks you to pay more or for a tip, play dumb until they give up and waive you through.

Of course, we recommended you do your own research beforehand to see what type of visa you’ll need to enter Cambodia before your arrival.

If you want to avoid negotiating with corrupt border agents, consider getting a Cambodia eVisa in advance. Just like the visa-on-arrival, the eVisa is good for a single-entry and a stay of up to 30 days. The cost of a Cambodia eVisa is $36 USD.

The approval process can take up to three business days so make sure you allow enough time for your eVisa to be approved before embarking for Cambodia. You’ll also need to print out your eVisa and have it with you when you cross the border. Having an eVisa can give you some peace of mind and can save you a bit of time in the immigration offices. 

Note : If you’re a citizen of one of the following Southeast Asian countries you won’t need a visa to enter Cambodia: Laos , Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore , Vietnam , Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, and Myanmar.

The Best Way to Get from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Flights from bangkok to siem reap.

Duration : ~1 hour Cost : $75+ USD per person

The quickest and easiest way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is to fly, which takes about an hour. Several airlines fly this route, including Bangkok Airways, Cambodian Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, and Air Asia.

Take note that there are two airports in Bangkok: Suvarnabhumi Airport (Airport Code: BKK) and Don Muang Airport (Airport Code: DMK). The newer and larger Suvarnabhumi Airport is used by most major airlines, such as Bangkok Airways, whereas budget airlines like Air Asia tend to use the older Don Muang Airport.

Suvarnabhumi Airport is located in the eastern suburbs of Bangkok, and Don Muang Airport is located in the northern part of the city. Both airports are about 20 miles from downtown Bangkok, so allow for ample transit time when going to and from either airport. We recommend leaving yourself an extra hour to account for Bangkok’s horrendous traffic.

If you use budget airlines, the flights themselves are very affordable, but it’s also important to look at the airline’s baggage policy. If you’re checking any luggage, you can expect to pay an additional $15-30 USD per bag if you’re flying to Siem Reap on a budget airline. Just be sure to read the airline policies and fees carefully before purchasing your ticket.

Our favorite flight comparison search engine is Skyscanner – we always use it when booking our flights!

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

Note : If for some reason you need to transit in Bangkok between Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport, make sure to leave yourself a couple of extra hours of travel time due to heavy traffic and the distance between the two. There is a free shuttle bus service that connects the two airports. To board the free shuttle, you need to show your airline ticket for your next flight.

Transportation from the Siem Reap Airport

As mentioned above, the Siem Reap International Airport was relocated about 50 kilometers outside of the city in 2023. The ride into town used to be a short one but now it will take close to an hour.

We recommend checking with your hotel prior to your arrival to see if they can arrange an airport pickup. If not, there are transportation desks at the airport that can help you with a taxi. Or you can arrange a ride-share using an app like Grab ( iPhone | Android ) or PassApp ( iPhone | Android ). We prefer PassApp because it supports a local Cambodian company.

We also have a favorite tuk-tuk driver in Siem Reap. His name is Nakry Mean and he drives a batmobile themed tuk-tuk. You can reach him on WhatsApp at  +855 17 761 110  or on his Facebook page,  Siem Reap Batmobile Tuk Tuk .

Private Transfer from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Duration : ~7-9 hours depending on stops Cost : ~$95 – $130 USD per vehicle

If you’re traveling in a group of three or more you may find it cost-effective to travel between Bangkok and Siem Reap by private car or van. Unfortunately, due to the border crossing, this method typically requires two different vehicles – one for the Thailand portion of the trip and a second for the Cambodia portion.

First, you’ll need to arrange a vehicle to take you from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border. This should cost ~$60-70 USD and takes ~3.5-4 hours

After the customs and immigration procedures, you’ll cross into Cambodia on foot before catching another ride from the Cambodian border town of Poi Pet to Siem Reap.

The rates of a car from Poi Pet to Siem Reap are anywhere from $35 to $60 depending on your negotiation skills and the drive takes ~3-3.5 hours. Make sure you agree upon a set price before you get in the taxi. We also recommend that you do not pay the fare until you arrive at your final destination in Siem Reap.

A private transfer is, in theory, a great way for groups of three or more to save money. Plus, you can travel in relative comfort between Bangkok and Siem Reap. Unfortunately, because of the need to switch cars and drivers at the Cambodia border, this option sometimes turns into a giant hassle. Even if you arrange everything in advance.

Bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Duration : ~9-11 hours  Cost : ~$25 – $35 USD per person         

Another option is to take a bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap via direct bus. If you’re on a budget and aren’t pressed for time, this is one of the easiest ways to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

Taking a direct bus can be even more convenient than a private transfer because you won’t have to change vehicles at the border. And if you have lots of bags, this option can be helpful since you won’t have to carry your luggage around since it stays on the bus the entire time.

A lot of budget tour offices in Bangkok will advertise a direct bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap. But when you arrive at the border you will discover that you do indeed have to change vehicles – often to a much less comfortable minibus.

There are only three companies that truly offer direct buses from Bangkok to Siem Reap: Travel Mart , The Transport Co. (aka Nakattan), and Giant Ibis . These are the only bus companies we recommend for traveling this route. And since there are only six direct buses a day between Bangkok and Siem Reap, you’re best off reserving your seat at least a couple of days in advance. Note that the Transport Co. isn’t currently offering routes from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

Of these three bus companies, Giant Ibis is our top pick – you’ll be guaranteed a comfortable bus plus they include a bottle of water, a can of iced coffee, a breakfast pastry, and a cold towel. It’s definitely worth paying a few dollars more!

Direct buses from Bangkok to Siem Reap cost ~$25-35 USD per person and the total duration of the trip is ~11 hours. Most of these buses depart from Bangkok between 7:30-9 am, with an arrival time in Siem Reap at 6:30-8 pm.

We always prefer to use Bookaway.com for booking buses in Southeast Asia. You’ll receive an e-ticket that you can either print out or present on your phone when you arrive at the pickup point. Bookaway also makes it easy to cancel or modify bus tickets in case you have a change of plans.

There is also one overnight sleeper bus through Travel Mart that leaves Bangkok at 12:45 am and arrives in Siem Reap around 11 am.

This saves you the cost of one night’s accommodation, but you’ll be absolutely exhausted on your first day in Siem Reap. Plus, if your bus arrives at the border before the offices open, you might have to wait to get your visa processed. We don’t recommend the overnight bus, but you can make your own choice.

Crossing the Thailand-Cambodia Border by Bus

If the bus company processes your visa.

Many bus companies like Giant Ibis will offer (or insist) to process your visa on your behalf for an additional “convenience fee” which is typically $5. The bus steward will collect your passport, visa paperwork, and visa fee of $30 USD (so you’ll pay $35 total with the additional convenience fee). Make sure you have $35 cash in US dollars that are in reasonably good condition (no old or torn bills). If you already have an eVisa for Cambodia just give that to the staff along with your passport.

The bus steward will procure all of the Thailand exit stamps and then run ahead to start processing everyone’s visas on arrival for entry to Cambodia.

You will be required to get off the bus pass through the Thailand immigration office and walk ~100 yards to the Cambodian immigration office. You can leave your luggage on the bus, but it is best to keep any valuables on your person during the border crossing.

Once you arrive at the Cambodian immigration office your bus steward should be waiting for you with your Cambodian visa and entry stamp already in your passport. All you’ll need to do is briefly show your passport to a Cambodian immigration officer so they can double-check everything before you enter the country.

Some people on your bus will inevitably complain about having to pay an extra $5 to the bus company for this service, but it’s a small price to pay for the convenience of not having to navigate the immigration process on your own. The Cambodian immigration officials have a reputation for trying to extract small bribes out of tourists crossing the border here so you might even end up saving a bit of money by having the bus company take care of it for you.

If the Bus Company DOES NOT Process Your Visa

If your bus does not offer to process your passport on your behalf, then here is what you can expect at the Thailand-Cambodia border.

Upon arrival at the border at Poi Pet, the bus will drop passengers off on the Thailand side. Your bus will wait for you, usually in front of the Casino on the Cambodian side after you complete the immigration process. Remember what your bus looks like as there will likely be many buses crossing the border at the same time. You may even want to snap a picture of the license plate number just to ensure you get back on the correct bus.

There is not a lot of signage or instruction at the border so it may feel overwhelming, but it’s actually all quite simple. Just remember to remain calm and patient. Depending on the time of day, the entire customs and immigration process may take up to two hours depending on how crowded it is.

First, you’ll have your passport stamped out of Thailand in the Thai immigration office. Then you’ll walk ~100 yards to the Cambodian side where you’ll purchase your visa and be stamped into Cambodia.

As previously mentioned, the visa-on-arrival costs $30 USD and you should make sure to bring US dollars in good condition – no old or torn bills. The Cambodian immigration officers may try to short-change you or request a small bribe or tip. You can avoid most of the hassle by handing the immigration officer the exact change.

If you are approached by anyone at the border that says that they can get you a Cambodian visa quicker it’s best to just politely but firmly decline. Proceed directly to the Cambodian immigration counter. If you get confused, it’s okay to ask an official custom official for help on where to go next. 

Once you have your Cambodian visa and entry stamp, exit the immigration office and look for your bus in front of the Casino – remember you snapped a photo of it on your cell phone. Welcome to Cambodia!

Arrival by Bus in Siem Reap 

When you arrive in Siem Reap, the bus will either drop you off in the central part of town or the bus station, depending on the company and the mood of the bus driver. The Siem Reap bus station is located a few miles outside of town. Before your arrival, you should arrange for your guesthouse or accommodation to pick you up, as most will do so free of charge.

If you have not pre-arranged a ride to your guesthouse, you can easily grab a tuk-tuk as there will likely be dozens of them waiting at the bus stop. A tuk-tuk to any hotel in the center of Siem Reap will cost you ~$2-5 USD.

Our preferred method of transportation in Siem Reap is by using Grab ( iPhone | Android ) or PassApp ( iPhone | Android ) to call for a taxi or tuk-tuk at a cheaper price. Unfortunately, you probably won’t yet have a Cambodian SIM Card so you may have to rely on bargaining with a tuk-tuk driver for your first ride in Cambodia.  

Train from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Duration : ~8-9 hours (4-5 hours on the train, plus 3-4 hours of driving time) Cost : ~$15.00 – $45 USD per person

The most affordable way to cross the border from Bangkok into Cambodia is actually by a little-known combination of train and local bus.

First, you’ll take a train from Hua Lamphong Station in Bangkok to Aranyaprathet on the Cambodian border. From there, you’ll need to cross the border to the Cambodian town of Poi Pet, and then take a bus onward to Siem Reap.

There are two train services a day from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet, the aforementioned border town in eastern Thailand. One train leaves Bangkok in the early morning at 5:55 am and the other departs at 1:05 pm.

If you want to reach Siem Reap on the same day you MUST take the morning train. The afternoon train gets you into Aranyaprathet too late in the afternoon. You won’t be able to find a bus in Poi Pet onward to Siem Reap (and a taxi from Poi Pet to Siem Reap will cost you ~$35-$60).

Keep in mind that trains in Southeast Asia are often delayed, so allow yourself some extra travel time.

Third-class seats cost as little as $3 USD, while the first-class air-conditioned berths (basic bunk beds) can cost up to $35. You can buy tickets the day-of or in advance at the ticket counters at the train station in Bangkok. 

Once you reach the final station, it’s time to cross the border into Cambodia. The border crossing is a few miles from the train station to the border. The most cost-effective way is to take a songthaew, which should cost ~30 Thai Baht (~$1 USD). Other options to get to the border include taking a moto-taxi, which should cost ~60 Thai Baht (~$2 USD), or a tuk-tuk, which should cost ~100 Thai Baht (~$3.50).

Some drivers will attempt to overcharge you double or triple the normal cost, just continue asking until you get a fair price. No matter what your transport, it’s important to agree on the price of the ride in advance and not after arriving at your final destination.  

After you clear both Thailand and Cambodian immigration, look for the free shuttle bus to the bus station that sometimes sits outside the Cambodian Immigration building. It’s important to deal with the Immigration Offices directly and avoid any scams at the border by ignoring anyone that tries to arrange a visa on your behalf. 

Once you reach the main bus station you can buy a bus ticket to Siem Reap, which is about $10 USD. The bus to Siem Reap can take about 4 hours. Some travelers report being charged over $20 for a bus ticket to Siem Reap. If this happens, there are travel agencies in Poi Pet located on the main road that will quote you a fair price for a bus or minivan to Siem Reap.  

Bangkok to Siem Reap FAQ

The distance between Bangkok and Siem Reap is approximately 250 miles (402 km).

The fastest way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is to fly which takes about an hour. Other methods of transportation (including by train, bus, and private car) will take you at least 7 hours and perhaps as long as 11 hours.

In our opinion, the best way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is to fly.

We prefer Giant Ibis. They are a little bit more expensive but worth it.

The most affordable way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is a little know combination of train and local bus. You’ll take a train from Bangkok to the border and then take a local bus from Poi Pet in Cambodia onward to Siem Reap. The total cost is ~$15.

We hope this guide helped you determine the best way to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap! Got any suggestions – let us know below.

Planning a trip to Cambodia? Check out our favorite books and travel guides.

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

Nick took his first solo trip abroad to Ireland and Scotland when he was just 19. Since then he has visited over 70 countries around the world (plus 45 states in the USA). He coupled his passion for travel photography with Val’s passion for writing and thus Wandering Wheatleys was born. He now lives in Asheville with his two rambunctious kids, Humphrey and Wilhelminha. Besides photography, Nick loves eating the weirdest food he can find in a country (sheep’s brain currently sits in first place) and making Val get up an hour before sunrise to make sure he gets “the good light”.

Related Posts

The 10 Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Philippines Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Visiting!

Thailand Travel Tips: 16 Things to Know Before Visiting the Land of Smiles

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Buses from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Best options, other options, bangkok to siem reap bus schedule, transportation from bangkok to siem reap.

• Buses RUB 2,904
• Flights RUB 7,419
• Taxis RUB 2,904
• Vans RUB 2,282
• Trains are not available
• Ferries are not available

Facts about the bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Bangkok to siem reap destination reviews.

Trevlig personal och lätt att ta sig över gränsen

Popular Routes

From bangkok.

• Bangkok → Pattaya
• Bangkok → Chiang Mai
• Bangkok → Phuket
• Bangkok → Koh Samui
• Bangkok → Hua Hin
• Chiang Mai → Bangkok
• Pattaya → Bangkok
• Phuket → Bangkok
• Hua Hin → Bangkok
• Koh Samui → Bangkok

From Siem Reap

• Siem Reap → Phnom Penh
• Siem Reap → Bangkok
• Siem Reap → Sihanoukville
• Siem Reap → Battambang
• Siem Reap → Ho Chi Minh City

To Siem Reap

• Phnom Penh → Siem Reap
• Ho Chi Minh City → Siem Reap
• Sihanoukville → Siem Reap
• Battambang → Siem Reap
• Chiang Mai → Siem Reap

Popular Routes in Thailand

• Phuket → Koh Phi Phi
• Phuket → Krabi

How to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus

Taking a bus to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap is a safe, comfortable and less expensive alternative for traveling this route. To popular destinations, bus companies operate multiple trips per day, often round the clock at 30-60 minute intervals. To less traveled destinations, there may be only 1 scheduled trip a day. The most common bus types are non-air-conditioned, air-conditioned, and premium buses.

It is best to reserve your tickets at least a few days ahead of your travel date. Check our list of bus companies available for online booking offering Bangkok to Siem Reap tickets. When traveling on weekends and holidays it is recommended to reserve tickets much earlier due to higher numbers of travelers, both vacation-makers and urban workers returning home to their provincial home.

How far is it from Bangkok to Siem Reap?

Traveling by bus, the distance from Bangkok to Siem Reap depends on the route taken. Most bus companies travel via expressways or tollways. This may not necessarily be the shortest route but it is the fastest one as normally there is less traffic and no traffic lights.

To get to certain island destinations which are not connected to the mainland by a bridge, buses board large car ferries. Passengers are usually asked to get off the bus, but there is no need to take your luggage from the bus. The travel distance from port to port is added to the total distance.

How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus?

The estimate travel time from Bangkok to Siem Reap is about 8h 30m. Note that traveling by bus is slower compared to driving your own car or getting a taxi. Depending on the departure time congestion between Bangkok and Siem Reap may differ greatly There is usually more traffic between morning until afternoon during weekdays than during weekends.

Another important factor that may affect travel time is the type of bus. Premium or VIP buses are usually faster as they use motorways and call to fewer bus stations (if any) en route. Buses normally make short 10-30-minute breaks after a few hours of continuous travel to allow passengers use bathrooms, stock up on munchies and let bus attendants and the driver have rest.

Some premium buses have onboard toilets and the second driver. Nevertheless, usually they still make en route stops for a quick lunch or fuel refill.

How much does it cost to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap by Bus?

The ticket price from Bangkok to Siem Reap can vary depending on the type of buses you choose. For a less expensive ticket consider non-air-conditioned or ordinary buses. Premium or luxury buses are more expensive but you can expect more comfort and some additional services like phone charging ports, personal entertainment system screens and toilets.

Bangkok to Siem Reap timetable

To help you plan your trip, here is the Bangkok to Siem Reap timetable of bus departure and arrival times.

Best Rated Companies for this Route

Bus companies differ a lot in quality and service they provide. When choosing a bus company for you travels, do some basic research before you buy your tickets.

Safety is one of the most important aspects to consider. We also recommend you checking reviews on overall service quality of the bus companies serving this route.

Our service only partners with reliable and trustworthy bus companies. We do our best to provide your a choice of the best operators available on each route.

• Transport Options

• BACKPACKERS WANDERLUST - AN AWARD WINNING TRAVEL BLOG
• Work With Me | Backpackers Wanderlust

• DISCLOSURE & PRIVACY POLICY
• United States
• Cook Islands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Accommodation Goals
• Budget And Cost Of Travel
• Foodie Goals
• Packing & Planning
• Travel Inspiration
• Volunteering Abroad
• Working & Studying Abroad
• Other Travel Tips

Siem Reap To Bangkok: The 4 BEST & EASIEST Ways To Travel

Come find out the best, easiest, and most cost-effective way to travel from Siem Reap to Bangkok. From what companies to book with, crossing the border from Cambodia to Thailand, costs, and more will be explained below for those backpacking Southeast Asia.

If you are like me and following the famous banana pancake backpacking trail in Southeast Asia then no doubt, at some stage you will find yourself needing to travel from Siem Reap to Bangkok, which includes a border crossing from Cambodia to Thailand .

These are two cities popular with travelers, and each has its own charm. They are seemingly complete opposites to each other, though at the same time and equals when it comes to must-visit spots.

So when your Angkor experiences are over and you are ready to make your way to your next stop, you will be needing to know how to make the journey from Siem Reap to Bangkok.

Though before we get into the exact details of how to complete this journey, let’s talk about why; more precisely why should you visit Bangkok. Well, it is a huge metropolitan city that honestly has something for everyone.

Whether that is hitting up the ever-popular Khao San Road, drinking a cocktail from your infinity pool looking over the city, trying some of the best street food in the country, and much more. It is also a well-connected transport hub with numerous choices to travel north, or south once you arrive in Thailand .

The journey is long, and if you have done research before, then no doubt you have heard about the scams. Whether that is a tourist entry/exit fee or a ‘special’ tax.

Nevertheless, the worst part for me was simply just waiting in lines at immigration. However, whether you travel overland or by air will also affect how long the total journey is.

Though before I get into my experience I will let you know all options when it comes to traveling from Siem Reap to Bangkok. This includes whether to bus, plane, minivan, taxi, or train, prices, how to book tickets, departure times, and more!

Siem Reap To Bangkok: How To Cross The Border From Cambodia To Thailand

Siem reap to bangkok distance, siem reap to bangkok travel time, bus from siem reap to bangkok, fly from siem reap to bangkok, siem reap to bangkok by train.

• Private Taxi From Siem Reap By Bangkok
• FAQs About Traveling From Siem Reap To Bangkok

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Cambodia & Thailand: 12Go Asia

The distance from Siem Reap to Bangkok is approximately 400 kilometers, and yes it does take a while, though more on this below. If you are planning to make this journey overland as I did, bring snacks and make yourself comfy, you will be here for a while.

Luckily the majority of the distance is on highways, though there will no doubt be some waiting around when you cross the border from Cambodia to Thailand .

Though if you happen to take a plane rather than traveling overland you will quickly realize how much quicker the journey is by air. I will recommend this option if you are short on time and value this more than money.

The deciding factor that will sway you on whether to take a bus, private transfer, plane, or train will depend on your budget and how long you have to complete the journey.

Depending on the type of transport you decide to book from Siem Reap to Bangkok will affect how long it takes to travel.

Bus: The bus journey from Siem Reap to Bangkok takes approximately 8 and a half hours at a minimum. Though there could easily be delays at the border meaning this transport method could take longer than planned, as well as evening traffic when arriving in Bangkok.

Flight: The quickest way is no doubt flying as the total journey time from Siem Reap to Bangkok is a straightforward 1 hour and 15 minutes. Though keep in mind this is an international flight so it is recommended you arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to departure.

Duration: 8+ hours

Cost: $25.00 per person

Now I always enjoy taking a bus. Though you need to be prepared for a pretty long journey when traveling from Siem Reap to Bangkok. At a minimum, it will take 8 hours, though this can easily be increased thanks to traffic and border delays.

Therefore prepare to spend a full day traveling on the bus and don’t make any plans in Bangkok for the same day.

To make things run a bit smoother there are special tourist buses that operate this route and that is actually what I used when traveling this route.

Alternatively, you can take a local bus to the border town of Poipet, and then a different bus once you enter Thailand to Bangkok. Though just be aware you may be stuck for quite a while waiting on the buses, and you will not be provided any assistance when crossing the border.

My preferred company for bus travel in and around Cambodia, and on the Siem Reap to Bangkok route is The Giant Ibis which you can book on 12.Go Asia .

Bus vs Tourist Bus

Now when you are traveling essentially any country in Southeast Asia you will quickly learn that there are two different types of buses, the regular bus, and the tourist bus.

The standard regular bus is more to local standards, which is fine if you know that is what you are booking and are prepared for it. Though if not, you may be in for a surprise.

These can also be quite different when it comes to the border crossing. This is simply because you will only be taken to the border and provided no further assistance in transport for the rest of your journey, or with immigration.

If you are a relatively new traveler I don’t recommend this method. Though if you are a seasoned adventurer and enjoy getting out of your comfort zone, this could be a perfect choice.

If this doesn’t sound like you, don’t worry, luckily there are a handful of buses servicing this route that cater to travelers and their needs. These include Giant Ibis, Travel Mart, and Virak Buntham Express.

Though personally, as you may have figured, my preferred company operating from Siem Reap to Bangkok is Giant Ibis. They have comfortable buses with air conditioning, are reliable, and have an attendant onboard to assist with the border crossing, ensuring the entire journey is a smooth experience.

Though you do pay a bit extra booking them compared with other options.

Bus Schedule From Siem Reap To Bangkok

Here is the bus schedule departing from Siem Reap to Bangkok. Of course, there are more companies than just those I have listed. Though this is just a selection of the most popular.

As you can see all companies cost about a similar amount and depart rather regularly. Though personally, I enjoy traveling with Giant Ibis. They cater to travelers so even though you are paying a bit more you do get to travel in comfort and get assistance with crossing the border.

How To Book Tickets

Thankfully it is super easy to book your travels in Cambodia or Thailand, including from Siem Reap to Bangkok.

I have actually had great luck booking online with 12.Go Asia . I have used them throughout all my travels in Southeast Asia and never have had an issue. They also offer some of the best companies to book your journey with, including my favorite the Giant Ibis.

The other option is to head to a nearby travel agency or through your hotel once you are in Siem Reap. Though they will just book you on whatever is available and what they make a decent commission on. So not necessarily always the best or most comfortable journey.

Anyway by booking with 12.Go Asia you can see what other travelers have said about certain routes with particular companies. Then you can just book your ticket through their website and they will email you a copy. It’s super easy!

Where Does The Bus Drop You Off

Depending on the bus company you decide to book with it is likely they will drop you off somewhere different, such as their office, rather than at the bus station.

If you choose the right company and research in advance, this could pay off for you as some drop you off right in the bang center of town, a quick walk away from your hostel.

Luckily the companies I have recommended, The Giant Ibis, Travel Mart, and Virak Buntham Express, both drop passengers off at Phra Nakhon. From here it is just a few minutes walk from the popular backpacker hangout of Khao San Road, where you will be able to easily find an assortment of hostels.

My Experience Taking The Bus From Siem Reap To Bangkok

After being picked up in a small minivan and taken to the actual bus it was time to start the journey from Siem Reap to Bangkok. Today’s journey is with the Giant Ibis .

This is the same company I booked my previous border crossing from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh with, as well as some internal travels within Vietnam and Cambodia.

Honestly, online I had read some horror stories, as well as watching a few videos about getting scammed at the border, or just simple bus complications. That is why I knew when I was booking this journey that I wanted to travel with a reputable company that I trusted.

Once on board the bus we found our seats and got given a sweet little lunch pack to keep us going. Before we knew it we were heading out and away from the incredible city of Siem Reap.

Luckily the bus had power outlets by the seats so I was able to work on my laptop while we traveled, making the journey go a lot faster than expected.

Soon enough the border had arrived and the staff went around to make sure everyone was prepared to exit the country. We made our way over to what seemed like a random small shack but was actually the immigration office.

As we had the Giant Ibis stickers on us the border staff knew we were traveling as a group so we avoided a lot of the common scams that go on here. On the bus, we were briefed about them and told what we do and do not have to pay.

A worker from the company also assisted us, in case any of the passengers were given any grief.

Luckily everything ran smoothly there and it was time to enter Thailand. Unfortunately, this was the longest part as we ended up standing in queues for 40 minutes, waiting for our turn to be processed.

After a long wait, we were all quickly processed and it was back on board the bus to complete the remainder of our journey. Though luckily a short distance away we pulled in at a 7/11 for some delicious snacks and of course toasties for the backpackers. It is certainly good to be back in Thailand.

Back onboard we drove the rest of the distance, everyone napping after a long day of travel. Luckily we didn’t hit too much traffic arriving in Bangkok so it didn’t take too long until we were jumping off and checking into our nearby hostel around Khao San Road.

Duration: 1 1/2 Hours

Cost: $60.00+ per person

If you are perhaps relatively limited on time you may find the best, and most straightforward way to travel from Siem Reap to Bangkok is by taking a flight.

You can easily find direct flights between these two locations, though the deciding factor will be the price, especially if you are not traveling with carry-on luggage if I know I don’t. Luckily if you happen to book far enough in advance you can score yourself some deals.

Just remember this will give you less freedom as a traveler, in terms of having to stick more to an itinerary, rather than going with the flow. You can book these airfare tickets online over at 12.Go Asia , or directly through the airline’s website

You will be able to find the cheapest airfares with Air Asia, which start at $60.00. Though just be aware that they are a budget airline, so the services that they offer are minimal.

This means you will pay extra for things like luggage, and food, and there isn’t any onboard entertainment. Alternatively, you can also book Bangkok Airways if these are important to you, but you will be paying a premium for their services.

The bonus of taking a flight is that you don’t have to be cramped in a bus for hours on end, and for this journey, I am talking more like a minimum of 8 hours.

Instead, you will be able to relax in comfort as this long journey is quickly decreased into a simple 90-minute flight. Though be aware you are typically expected to be at the airport 3 hours prior to departure for an international flight. As well as the journey from the airport to your accommodation for the night.

All flights depart from the Siem Reap International Airport (REP). This is an easy short drive away from the main city center by motorbike or taxi.

Be aware there are two different airports in Bangkok your flight may arrive. This is either Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Muang Airport , which are both a decent drive away from the popular backpacker hangout of Khao San Road.

So if you are looking for a true experience and adventure why not take the train from Siem Reap to Bangkok, crossing the border from Cambodia to Thailand.

Unfortunately, this is not as straightforward an option as it may sound. Instead, you will need to do multiple transfers, though what you lose in time, you gain a real adventure, and save in cash, as this is a real budget option.

Getting To Poipet

This first stage of your adventures will be traveling from Siem Reap to Poipet. This is easiest done by bus and is a relatively short journey taking 3 hours, and costing a pretty affordable $10.00.

The best company to book the route with would be Virak Buntham Express which offer 4 trip daily from Siem Reap to Poipet. Though be aware in order to make the border connections, and actually get to Bangkok in one day, you will need to take one of the morning vans.

These buses depart from the Virak Buntham station in Siem Reap and tickets can be booked online over on 12.Go Asia .

Alternatively, you can also travel from Siem Reap to Poipet by taxi. Though be aware this will cost you a lot more, approximately $60.00. This may be suitable if the schedules don’t match your planned itinerary.

Poipet To Aranyaprathet

Once you arrive in Poipet you will then need to go through Cambodian immigration to exit the country. This is where you will most likely be taken advantage of as you are lone strangers and at the mercy of the border agents.

After you have exited Cambodia you will then need to enter Thailand, which depending on your country of origin you may be able to get a visa on arrival.

Once you have entered Thailand you will need to take a tuk-tuk to Aranyaprathet station where you are able to take a train to Bangkok. It should cost you around 100 THB / $4.50 for the 10-minute ride.

Aranyaprathet To Bangkok

The final stage of traveling from Aranyaprathet station to Bangkok. You will want to take the train bound for Hua Lamphnong Station. Beware there are only two different trains that operate this route daily. They depart at 07:05 am and 2:00 pm and it is a cheap journey costing around $2.00 to take you the 5 to 6-hour distance.

One thing to be aware of is that you can only purchase these train tickets on the day of and the only seat type available is third-class coach.

Private Taxi From Siem Reap To Bangkok

The last but nowhere near the least option is taking a private taxi from Siem Reap to Bangkok. Be aware this is the most costly option setting you back at least $200.00. In all honesty, it is not an option I recommend, considering for that price you can fly business class from Siem Reap to Bangkok.

Nevertheless, if this is something you are interested in then you will need to split the journey into two parts. The first is from Siem Reap to Poipet, and then the second is from the border to Bangkok. Be aware many taxi drivers may try to charge crazy amounts as you don’t have a whole lot of options, and they know that. You can book a taxi and check out prices over on 12.Go Asia .

FAQs About Traveling Siem Reap To Bangkok

How many days to spend in Bangkok? Honestly, I recommend spending between 2 to 3 days here in Bangkok . This will allow you enough time to see some of the main sights and get a good feel for the place before needing to move on.

Though if you are quite a party animal you may want to spend a little longer here. Bangkok has an incredible party scene, hello Khao San Road !

Another option would be using Bangkok at home while doing a couple of day trips. One of my favorites was a day trip to Ayutthaya from Bangkok using the train. Lastly, you can maximize the amount of time you spend in Bangkok by taking an overnight bus or train to your next destination.

How far in advance do I need to book tickets? It is recommended you book tickets in advance to ensure you can travel with a reputable, clean, and safe company. You should try for at least a week in advance to be safe. Though if you are not worried about this then you can probably just book the day before.

Booking through 12.Go Asia is perfect for those busy periods as you can book when you haven’t even arrived in the country yet! This means you can relax knowing all the planning is taken care of.

Where To Stay In Bangkok

There are multiple different areas of Bangkok that are popular with travelers. Though the main ones here are the ever-famous Khao San Road, Silom, Siam, and Sukhumvit. Khao San Road is perfect for first-time travelers coming to Bangkok or those just looking to party.

Heads up, I do not recommend that ANYONE stay on actual Khao San Road. There is constant noise from the street below and because that’s automatically where travelers book there is no standard for accommodation as no matter what the room gets filled.

For a more “normal” experience of Bangkok, I recommend you stay in Silom, Siam, or Sukhumvit. I have stayed in both and I prefer to stay in the Khao San Road area. Well not on the actual street itself, but within the area. A 5 or so minute walk away.

In terms of hostels on Khao San Road, the list seems to be never-ending. Seriously there are hundreds! Though check out my guide on the best hostels around Khao San Road for the best stay.

Here are my top picks for the backpacking Bangkok travel guide:

Things To Do In Bangkok

The Grand Palace: Visiting the Grand Palace has to be one of the top things to do in Bangkok. Sure you will be surrounded by hoards of tourists, but it a must-do when you are here. You can try to visit early morning when it first opens if you want to beat the crowds.

The entry fee is $16.70 / 500 THB so it will put a rather large dent in your budget. This grants you access to both the Royal Palace and the famous Wat Phra Kaeo Temple housing the 14 th Century Emerald Buddha.

Reclining Buddha (Wat Po): Another one of the must things to do when in Bangkok is visiting Wat Po. This is home to the incredible 45-meter-long reclining Buddha. It is also 15 meters high and this Wat (temple) is the oldest and largest in Bangkok. The entry fee is $6.70 / 200 THB and it is on the same grounds as the Grand Palace.

Flower Market: The Flower Market is one of Bangkok’s most famous markets. As the name implies this is where you can find a sea of flowers being sold. The most popular time to visit here is actually midnight when the freshest flowers arrive ready to be sold in stores the next morning.

Chatuchak Market: The Chatuchak Weekend Market has everything you could ever want and even things that you probably never would want all in the same place. This is Thailand’s biggest market boasting over 15,000 stalls!

Boat Trip On The Chao Phraya River: The boats on the Chao Phraya River are actually are a form of public transport in Bangkok and it is a great way to see some of the city. There are both contrasts of Bangkok located along the river. From the shining and grand temples to the low-key markets.

Wat Arun: Wat Arun is definitely known as one of the more instagramable temples in Bangkok. Though that is because it is absolutely beautiful. Known as the Temple of Dawn it is one of the many iconic sights of the city.

Airplane Graveyard: The famous airplane graveyard in Bangkok has become a famous Instagram spot in recent years. Near to the Ramkamhaeng Station in Bangkok, you will find a field of abandoned airplanes. Be aware that locals patrol the area and will ask you to pay an entry fee.

You will need to pay this in order to access the property and it generally is a couple of hundred baht.

Food Tour: If you are a bit of a foodie like me what better way to discover a new city than through its flavors. There are a few different options available. Though I recommend checking out Get Your Guide to discover what tour would be best suited for you.

If you are looking for an all-in-one, Bangkok by Night Tuk Tuk Tour: Markets, Temples & Food encompasses an assortment of Bangkok highlights.

Lumpini Park: If you are looking for a break from this bustling city and missing a bit of greenery in your life. Then definitely head to Lumpini Park to get back in touch with nature. It is super easy to get to as well as being located between the modern business districts of Silom and Sukhumvit.

Khao San Road: If you are not staying in the backpacker hub of Khao San Road it is definitely worth heading out to spend a night partying. Though if the party life isn’t your scene you can still people watch, try some street food, and get in a bit of shopping.

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Thailand Inspiration? Check out….

• TRAVEL KOH PHANGAN TO KOH TAO
• VISITING THE WHITE TEMPLE IN CHIANG RAI
• COST TO TRAVEL THAILAND
• PHUKET TO KOH LANTA TRANSPORT GUIDE
• KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINTS
• ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE WITH ELEPHANT NATURE PARK IN CHIANG MAI, THAILAND
• A NIGHT AT THE CHIANG MAI SUNDAY MARKETS, THAILAND
• BACKPACKING KOH LANTA
• VEGETARIAN COOKING CLASS IN CHIANG MAI
• KRABI TO KOH PHI PHI TRANSPORT GUIDE

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

Photo credit: “ Poipet ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Du Hangst .“ Popiet (Thai Border) ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by James Antrobus . “ Aranyaprathet to Bangkok ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Clay Gilliland . “ Aranyaprathet- Popiet Border ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Thanate Than . “ Aranyaprathet Border Crossing ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by I G .

Related Posts

White Temple In Chiang Rai: Visiting Wat Rong Khun & Top Travel Tips (2024)

Thinking of visiting The White Temple in Chiang Rai, also known as Wat Rong Khun? [...]

Koh Nang Yuan: Planning The Perfect Trip To Paradise

Find out everything you need to know about Koh Nang Yuan Island in Thailand. From [...]

Chiang Mai To Luang Prabang: All You Need To Know 2024

Find out exactly how to travel between Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang. Comparing taking a [...]

61 Comments

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 25 Favorite Cities in the World of 2023

T+L readers select their favorite cities in the world in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Alexandra Farias

Five of seven continents are represented on this year’s list of best cities in the world, according to T+L readers. And the rankings prove that, this past year, our resilient readers got back to Asia and Africa, and traveled to cities well worth the long-haul flight, like Marrakesh (No. 14) and Singapore (No. 18). Based on reader comments, it seems the travelers who voted in this year’s World’s Best Awards survey were most interested in welcoming locals, great food, safety, reasonable prices, and aesthetics (be it picturesque nature or Renaissance architecture). 

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Sights/landmarks
• Friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

It looks, from this list, like Mexico is T+L readers’ favorite country in the world. No fewer than five Mexican cities ranked as the best in the world this year. Japan had three winners, and Thailand, Italy, and Portugal each had two. There was some movement in the top five, compared to last year’s rankings, with two European cities slipping to make room for No. 2 Udaipur, India, and No. 3 Kyoto, Japan. It’s typical to see at least one European city in the top five — often Istanbul (No. 8 this year, also winning the title of best city in Europe) or Florence, Italy (No. 12). Those spots, this year, went to Asian cities instead, indicative of the shift back to travel to Japan (Tokyo came in at No. 7, four spots behind Kyoto) and India (which also had Mumbai at No. 10, trailing Udaipur by eight). 

Read on to learn how Oaxaca, Mexico, claimed the coveted top spot for the second year in a row, and why travelers chose these 25 cities as the best in the world.

1. Oaxaca, Mexico

For the second year in a row, Oaxaca took the No. 1 spot on our best cities around the world list. The mole and mezcal capital has long been a favorite among T+L readers, but must-visit restaurants and cocktail bars ( Selva , Sabina Sabe , to name a few), plus new-and-improved hotel talent, like the stunning, six-room Casa Silencio , really gave the city the edge it needed to return to the top of the podium. As one reader said, Oaxaca is “hands down one of the coolest cities in the whole world.” The coolest, you might say.

Reader Score: 93.53

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia

Hands down one of the coolest cities in the whole world.

2. Udaipur, India

Jeremy Woodhouse/Getty Images

Udaipur is vying for that top spot. It was at No. 2 in 2021, before slipping into 10th place last year. Now? It’s two-tenths of a vote from perfection. As international travelers return to India — and finally see the long-awaited Raffles Udaipur , which opened during the pandemic — it’s no surprise that Udaipur is once again climbing the ranks. One reader sums up Udaipur’s appeal — in all caps, no less, saying, “VERY VERY BEAUTIFUL CITY.”

Reader Score: 93.33

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia | Tripadvisor

3. Kyoto, Japan

Yeojoon Yoon/Getty Images

In Tokyo, attractions are sprawled out in the open, for tourists to find easily. In Kyoto, those attractions are hidden in plain sight. It is a city of remarkable shops and restaurants and tucked into narrow, enticing alleyways. You have to look closely, but you’ll be rewarded with, as one reader said, “the best food in the world.” Another Kyoto stan noted the city’s “incredible sights and cultural landmarks with so much history that is so different from the cultures of Europe and the U.S.” That same traveler continued, “One small example was sitting around with locals soaking our bare feet together in a giant, very hot foot bath one evening at a spa situated on a train platform.” WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.06

4. Ubud, Indonesia

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

A fixture in the top five at this point, Ubud is an inland Balinese city surrounded by jungle. One reader described their vacation highlights: “swinging over rice terraces, riding elephants, chasing waterfalls, taking pictures with monkeys, shopping at both market stalls and high-end stores, beautiful restaurants ( Cafe Lotus at night is special), cheap massages, and hotels with stunning scenery.” Sounds like a perfect itinerary.

Reader Score: 91.73

Book Now: Tripadvisor

5. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Last year’s runner-up and 2021’s winner, San Miguel de Allende is a longtime favorite among T+L readers. This “visually stunning” city, per one reader, is brimming with “art galleries and boutique shops,” another fan said. And as one T+L reader observed, “[It’s a] magical city that feels more like Spain than Mexico.”

Reader Score: 91.19

6. Mexico City, Mexico

Andrew Hasson/Getty Images

The capital of Mexico, and its largest city, was founded by Aztec Indigenous communities and is a regular in this category’s top 10. Every year brings more exciting hotel openings (this year it’s the beautifully designed Soho House Mexico City , opening in the fall), restaurant debuts, and perhaps most importantly, food tours of the city’s best tacos.

Reader Score: 90.55

7. Tokyo, Japan 

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

It’s not in Tokyo’s nature to sit blithely by as Kyoto places in the top five. Japan’s energetic capital, with Michelin-starred ramen joints, phenomenal new hotels (see: Bulgari Tokyo and the forthcoming Edition in Ginza ), and a never-ending list of neighborhoods to explore, draws travelers in just like Cyndi Lauper, time after time.

Reader Score: 90.30

Book Now: Marriot | Tripadvisor

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Also named the best city in Europe this year, Turkey's culture and style capital celebrates “the intermingling of cultures and religion and people,” one reader said. “The rest of the world should take this city as an example.” They continued, “the food is exceptional, and people are ridiculously welcoming to tourists.” 

Reader Score: 90.23

9. Bangkok, Thailand

Karl Hendon/Getty Images

It’s rare that Thailand’s bustling capital would rank higher than Chiang Mai. Case in point: last year, Bangkok came in at No. 24, while Chiang Mai landed at No. 7. Climbing 14 spots as travelers flock back to Asia, Bangkok has new hotels (see The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon ) and an absolutely delectable display of Michelin-starred restaurants to thank for its rising stock.

Reader Score: 89.99

10. Mumbai, India

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Our readers love to look beneath the surface of Mumbai — venturing past classic tourist haunts, like Leopold Cafe , and sites like the Gateway of India arch to the “art galleries and the fish market in the Colaba area,” as one T+L reader detailed.

Reader Score: 89.79

11. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Danica Chang/Getty Images

Despite slipping slightly in rank this year — after making the top 10 in 2021 and 2022 — Chiang Mai remains many T+L readers’ “favorite city in Thailand,” as one said. Reader Score: 89.49

12. Florence, Italy

Ondrej Bucek/Getty Images

Come for the mesmerizing Botticellis hanging in the Uffizi Gallery and the detailed look at the Medici family tree, stay for the alfresco sculptures in lesser-known piazzas. “Every time we come here, we fall a little more in love with this place and its amazing antiquities,” one fan gushed.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 89.48

13. Luang Prabang, Laos

Carsten Brandt/Getty Images

After not making the list last year, the Laotian city returns at No. 13 for 2023. In the mountains of north Laos, Luang Prabang is scenically sandwiched between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.

Reader Score: 89.44

14. Marrakesh, Morocco

Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images

Marrakesh was the only African city to rank this year, exciting T+L readers with its restaurants and hotels tucked into the bustling Medina and iconic sites like the Majorelle Gardens and Bahia Palace.

Reader Score: 89.24

15. Rome, Italy

Camilla Glorioso

The 2,500-year-old city, which is older than Italy itself, is getting a lot of attention this year. An influx of new luxury hotels — an Edition, a Bulgari, and a Six Senses — might even push Italy’s capital city into the top 10 next year. Time will tell.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.91

16. Mérida, Mexico

Jurgen Vogt/Getty Images

“Mérida is an undiscovered gem in Mexico,” one T+L reader said. “The food was excellent and inexpensive.” In addition to praising the food (Mérida is known, especially among Mexicans, as a foodie town), travelers remarked on how safe the city is, with multiple readers calling it a “very safe city.”

Reader Score: 88.81

17. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Wirestock/Getty Images

Cambodia reopened to American travelers in November 2021, and since then, international travelers have been wading back into the wonders of Siem Reap. One reader, who visited right as the country reopened, said, “Our hotel in Siem Reap did not have the restaurant back yet, but we found 'Brown,’ a coffee shop. The second day we went, we were recognized, and by the third day, he knew our orders. At our hotel, the person at the desk would walk us out to our vehicles to say goodbye and greet us at the end of the day upon our return. I felt like royalty here.”

Reader Score: 88.80

18. Singapore

Caroline Pang/Getty Images

The land of hawker centers, the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool, the merlion, and the legendary Singapore sling came in at No. 18 this year, after not placing on the world’s best cities list for the past two years. The Lion City reopened in 2021 and continues to become less of a stopover and more of a final destination. (Though, with Changi Airport taking the No. 1 spot for world’s best airport, it’s not hard to see why a Singapore stopover is so appealing.) 

Reader Score: 88.78

Book Now: Hotels.com | Tripadvisor

19. Charleston, United States

Lindsey Harris Shorter

Charleston, South Carolina, was named the best city in the U.S., by T+L readers, for the 11th year in a row. Travelers can’t get enough of this coastal Southern city’s pastel-colored row homes, lowcountry cooking, and phenomenal hospitality.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.63

20. Lisbon, Portugal

A treasure trove of mosaic tile, coastal scenery, and really, really good tinned fish, Lisboa is back on the world’s best cities list for the first time since 2020. Reader Score: 88.62

21. Santa Fe, United States

Getty Images

Santa Fe is one of just two American hubs to make the 2023 list. Though it hasn’t ranked among the best cities in the world since 2019, its vibrant art scene, Pueblo-style architecture, spa-forward hotels, and one-of-a-kind cuisine, blending Hispanic and Native American influence, drew T+L readers back this year.

Reader Score: 88.47

22. Hobart, Australia

Andrew Merry/Getty Images

The capital of Tasmania is a newcomer to this list — it hasn’t placed in at least the last five years. But it’s certainly a welcome addition to our readers’ selection of their favorite cities in the world, as a fantastic city destination on an island off Australia, a counterpart to Auckland, if you will.

Reader Score: 88.44

23. Guadalajara, Mexico

Simon McGill/Getty Images

The largest city in the Mexican state of Jalisco, Guadalajara pulls T+L readers in with incredible street food, including torta ahogada (a sauce-drenched sandwich) and tacos brimming with birria.

Reader Score: 88.13

24. Porto, Portugal

Jui-Chi Chan/Getty Images

The gateway to Portuguese wine country, Porto is praised by T+L readers for “not [being] overrun with American tourists” and, of course, for its grilled sardines. “So colorful, so friendly, and most everything you want to see is within walking distance if you are staying in town,” one reader summarized. Reader Score: 88.09

25. Osaka, Japan

Last but certainly not least, Osaka is the third Japanese city on the list this year. Located south of No. 3 Kyoto, readers were drawn to Osaka for the excellent public transportation and the wonderfully welcoming (and primarily non-English-speaking) people. Of the people they encountered in Osaka, one reader said, “We have a lot to learn from them.”

Reader Score: 88.05

Related Articles