Bangkok to Siem Reap: Best Travel Options, Tours & Tips

Bangkok to Siem Reap is among the most traveled paths in Southeast Asia. These two cities are just 330 km apart by air and about 400 km by road. This makes the journey easy to fit into most travel plans. A direct flight takes only 1 hour, while buses, trains, and private cars range from 6–10 hours (depending on the option you choose).

In this article, we will break down each travel option between Bangkok and Siem Reap. We will also cover in detail how long each takes and when the best travel seasons are. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be ready to choose the option that suits your budget, time, and style of travel.

How far is it from Bangkok to Siem Reap? Distance on the Map

How far Siem Reap is from Bangkok depends on how you travel. By air, the distance from Bangkok to Siem Reap is about 330 km. By road, it’s around 400 km. A direct flight usually takes just 1 hour. Traveling by bus, car, or train can take anywhere between 6 and 10 hours. Each option has its pros. Flying is fast, the bus is cheap, the train is local, and a private car is comfortable.

One very important detail to know before planning Thailand and Cambodia tours: tourists are not allowed to travel directly between Thailand and Cambodia by overland border crossings at the moment. This means flights are currently the only practical way to move between Bangkok and Siem Reap.

So, which option is actually BEST from Thailand to Cambodia? Well, it depends on your budget and how much time you have. Here’s a comparison table that outlines the distance, travel time, cost, and unique details for each option. After the table, we’ll walk through each method with tips and insights so you can choose the one that fits your travel style.

Distance and transportation map from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

Bangkok to Siem Reap Flights: Fast and Easy

For time-conscious travelers, Bangkok to Siem Reap flights deliver speed and convenience. Multiple airlines operate daily from Bangkok’s two main airports (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), to Siem Reap. Suvarnabhumi handles most international carriers while Don Mueang serves budget airlines.

Flight duration from Siem Reap to Bangkok is one hour regardless of the airline. Modern aircraft have comfortable seats and offer basic amenities to make your Southeast Asia trip unforgettable. Airport immigration is faster between airports than at land borders.

Flights between these cities vary greatly in price depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Booking early saves you money compared to booking at the last minute. Besides, midweek flights are cheaper than weekend flights. Early morning and late evening flights sometimes have discounts. So keep an eye on airline promotions to find the best deals for Thailand to Cambodia flights.

Bangkok to Siem Reap Bus: Affordable but Slow

NOTE: Tourists are not allowed to travel directly between Thailand and Cambodia by overland border crossings at the moment. We will update the latest information when the overland route reopens.

The Bangkok to Siem Reap bus is the cheapest option for most people. Buses go from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet, cross at Poipet, and then to Siem Reap. Travel time is 8-10 hours. The biggest advantage of taking the bus is the cost. A bus ticket is much cheaper than a flight. This is also easy to book online or at local stations, making it a common choice for those backpackers starting Cambodia tours.

The only downside is the long journey. Border crossing at Poipet can add to the travel time unpredictably. Immigration lines can be slow during the best travel time to Cambodia. But for backpackers and those on a tight budget, the bus is a popular option despite these cons. Tickets are super cheap, and many services have hotel pickups from Khao San Road.

Bus routes get meal stops at designated restaurants along the way. However, it is advisable to bring snacks and water for the journey. Border crossing has limited food options that are usually overpriced. If keeping costs low matters more than comfort, the bus remains a solid option between Bangkok and Siem Reap.

Bus schedule from Bangkok to Siem Reap:

Tourists can take bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap for a budget Thailand and Cambodia tour.

Bangkok to Siem Reap Train: Slow but Scenic

There is no direct Bangkok to Siem Reap train route. The journey starts with a 6-hour ride from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet. From there, you take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the Poipet border, cross immigration, and then take a bus or taxi to Siem Reap. This option is slower than buses and flights, but it is often included in Thailand tours for travelers who enjoy local experiences and slow travel.

It can take more than 10 hours from Bangkok to Siem Reap train journey. But the train is for those who enjoy slower travel. The countryside views, open carriages, and frequent stops make it a unique experience. For those with patience, it’s a memorable way to get to Cambodia.

Thai trains depart Hualamphong Station every morning for the 6-hour ride to Aranyaprathet. Aranyaprathet station is several kilometers from the Poipet border crossing. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis bridge this gap for a small fee. Walking is possible but challenging with luggage in hot weather. After completing border formalities, buses and shared taxis go to Siem Reap. This last segment takes 2-3 hours on decent roads.

Travelers only can take the train from Hualamphong Station to Aranyaprathet.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by Car: Flexible and Comfortable

A Bangkok to Siem Reap by car transfer is perfect for groups, families, or travelers who want convenience. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, depending on border waiting times. Cars provide door-to-door service. This saves time at stations. It’s more expensive, but when shared among several people, it’s a more reasonable option.

Having air-con, personal space, and flexible stops makes it worth the money for many. For those who want control over their schedule, this is the most flexible. Early departures help avoid peak border crossing times. For those with limited time but don’t want to fly, traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap by car is the next best option.

At Indochina Tour, we offer private transfer services from Bangkok to Siem Reap. Our team provides comfortable vehicles, professional drivers, and complete support with border formalities. With us, you can travel safely and enjoy a stress-free journey. Contact us for more details on private cars from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

We use luxury vehicles for private Thailand and Cambodia tours.

Bangkok to Siem Reap by Boat: An Alternative for Adventurers

There are no direct boats from Bangkok to Siem Reap, but some travelers combine land and water routes. The usual plan is to go from Bangkok to Battambang in Cambodia, then take a boat from Battambang to Siem Reap.

Overland transport carries travelers from Bangkok to Battambang in western Cambodia. Buses and taxis complete this segment in 8-10 hours through rural landscapes. Here, Battambang offers charming colonial architecture and local markets worth exploring.

Traditional boats travel from Battambang to Siem Reap during favorable water conditions. Journey time is 6-8 hours through rivers, canals and Tonlé Sap Lake. You’ll see Cambodian floating villages and beautiful wetland ecosystems to take photos.

Tourists are taking a scenic boat trip from Battambang to Siem Reap.

Best Time to Travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap

The cool season from November to February is the best time to visit Thailand and Cambodia. During these months, Temperatures are comfortable for temple hopping and outdoor activities. Clear blue skies are perfect for Angkor Wat photography. This is also peak season, which means it can be expensive to travel during these months.

The hot season is from March to May with intense afternoon heat. Morning and evening temple visits are comfortable, but midday requires air-conditioned breaks. This season has fewer crowds. And fewer crowds mean better photo opportunities at popular sites. During this season, hotel rates drop as well compared to peak periods.

The rainy season is from June to October with afternoon thunderstorms. Lush green landscapes are great for temple photography. Muddy temple grounds may limit access to remote sites. Big discounts for those who dare to get wet.

Festival periods are vibrant but crowded. Khmer New Year in April is a nationwide celebration and temple ceremonies. Water Festival in November is boat races and full moon parties. If you’re planning to travel during festival periods, book accommodations early to avoid price hikes. Many travelers plan their Bangkok to Siem Reap journey around these celebrations for the unique atmosphere they bring.

December is one of best months to visit Angkor Wat.

Suggested Bangkok to Siem Reap Tour Itineraries

A 7-day short trip to Bangkok and Siem Reap lets you see the main highlights of both cities without feeling rushed. You can spend 2–3 days exploring Bangkok's temples, palaces, and street food markets. Then, fly to Siem Reap for 3–4 days of intensive temple touring and cultural activities. This itinerary is best suited for first-time visitors to both cities.

7 Days Short Visit to Cambodia and Thailand

Bangkok – Siem Reap

If you have more time, you can opt for a long 14-day Thailand and Cambodia journey. This allows you to see not only Bangkok and Siem Reap but also add Phnom Penh or other Cambodian towns to the mix. Spend the first few days in Bangkok exploring floating markets, day trips to Ayutthaya, and the vibrant nightlife.

Afterward, fly or travel overland to Siem Reap for in-depth temple visits, local village tours, and cultural performances. End the trip in Phnom Penh, where you can visit the Royal Palace, the Killing Fields, and riverside cafes.

14 Days Thailand and Cambodia Classic Tour

Bangkok - Chiang Rai - Golden Triangle - Chiang Mai - Siem Reap - Sihanoukville - Phnom Penh

Insider Tips for Cross-Border Travel

Crossing the border from Thailand to Cambodia requires some prep. Leaving Thailand is easy, but entering Cambodia means getting a Cambodian visa. You can apply for an e-visa or get a visa on arrival. Carry passport photos and US dollars to make the process faster.

Poipet crossing can be confusing. Some scams target tourists with fake transport or extra charges. Better to book in advance or stick to official operators.

Carry US dollars as they are widely accepted. Thai baht works near the border, but dollars are better inside Cambodia. Buy a local SIM card in Siem Reap to save on data and calls.

Pack light with essentials like sunblock, hats, comfortable shoes, and insect repellent. A power bank is also handy for long trips.

25 Days In-depth Exploration of Cambodia and Thailand

Siem Reap – Battambang – Kong Rong Island – Phnom Penh – Bangkok – Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai – Pai – Chiang Mai - Phuket

Conclusion

Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap can be quick, cheap, or adventurous depending on the option you choose. Each route has its trade-offs. The right choice depends on how much time you have, how much you want to spend, and what kind of experience you are looking for. For many travelers, this journey is also part of longer Thailand and Cambodia tours, where exploring both countries makes the temples of Angkor even more rewarding.

At Indochina Tour, we make the Bangkok to Siem Reap trip stress-free. Our team arranges transport, helps with border formalities, and designs flexible itineraries to fit your schedule. Instead of worrying about queues or confusing connections, you can sit back and enjoy the journey while we take care of the details. Contact us for more information about Bangkok to Siem Reap.