After a a few days in the land of smiles, it’s time to head to the ancient city of Angkor. Seeing as Siem Reap, Cambodia has such a small airport, you are likely stopping in Thailand or another country in South East Asia first. Here’s how to get from Bangkok to Siem Reap.
By reading this post, you will know if the Bus, Plane, or Train is best for you. Keep in mind, the distance from Bangkok to Siem Reap is just under 500km, so you will want a comfortable and stress free method.
The Best Way: Bangkok to Siem Reap By Plane
For most people, the best way will be flying directly into Siem Reap. Using either Thai AirAsia or Bangkok Airways, you will be spending around $70-120 (depending on when you book). This flight is just a quick 1 hour hop east, but could be even a little bit shorter depending on the conditions.
Bangkok To Siem Reap By Bus
Going from Bangkok to Siem Reap by bus is for people on a tighter budget, scared of flying, or quite frankly just people looking for a little more adventure. If you are more of a “backpacker” or searching for a cheaper alternative, this might be for you. Giant Ibis is the most popular and easiest bus to take (about $40).
But even for $10-25 you can still embark on this 8 hour journey with other bus companies. You may have seen some HORROR stories about some online, but I mean it’s an 8 hour bus ride for $15, what do you expect. Sure there may be some nuisances, but you really can’t beat that price and the story that comes with it. You will witness a unique perspective of the south east asian countryside by traveling by bus to Siem Reap.
Bangkok To Siem Reap By Train
This third and final way to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap is not something the average person will be choosing. There is no train directly connecting the two, but it’s still possible. If you are looking for a more gritty adventure, this would be for you.Â
You will be waking up early because you have a train to catch at 5:55am. For just a dollar or two, hop on the train from Bangkok Station to Ban Klong Luk (the border station) and enjoy your 5~ hour ride. This will not be the most lavish train you have been on. (There is also a train at 1pm)
Follow the signs and walk across the friendship bridge to pass through immigration, and boom. You are officially in Cambodia. If you travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap by bus, you are a traveler.
Poipet Border to Siem Reap
YOU WILL ENCOUNTER SCAMS, BE CAREFUL. When I say scam, I just mean “tourist” things similar to what you will see in most places. Just politely say no thanks and smile. It may be a little intimidating but this is such a friendly country. For me, I like to look for somebody giving an honest price and generally tip them more.
It is another 3 hour drive to Siem Reap so you will have to take a taxi or bus now….they will want you to take a taxi. WHY? Because just as you arrive outside of the city the taxi driver will pull over and transfer you to a tuktuk. WHY? Because they want to try and sell you tours to Angkor Wat or other activities. It’s not a scam, they just want business. In Cambodia, they always recommend their friends….respect the hustle. The cost of this will vary, but keep in mind its a 3 hour drive.Â
If you have young kids, or not much experience traveling….maybe hold off on this one and take the quick flight. Or just YOLO it who cares.
Now that you are in the Kingdom of Cambodia, you can finally check out this amazing country. I had such a great time here in Siem Reap. If you’re still planning your trip, be sure to check out my Cambodia itinerary.
This post may contain affiliate or Amazon Associate links to in which we would recieve a small compensation on purchase. But it also might not.