Ready to swap the ancient temples of Siem Reap for the buzzing streets of Bangkok? The journey from Siem Reap to Bangkok is a gateway to Thailand’s lively capital, where modernity meets tradition in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavours. Whether you’re plotting your travel options or daydreaming about Bangkok’s endless possibilities, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your trip.
The 400-kilometre journey from Siem Reap to Bangkok offers a few solid options, each with its own charm. Here’s how to get there:
Bus: The most popular and affordable choice, direct buses take around 7-9 hours, including the border crossing at Poipet/Aranyaprathet. Tickets cost between 700 THB and 1,000 THB, depending on the operator and comfort level (think air-con and reclining seats). Buses depart from Siem Reap’s bus stations or travel offices, dropping you near Bangkok’s Mo Chit or Khao San Road areas.
Minivan: A slightly faster alternative, minivans cover the route in 6-8 hours for 800 THB to 1,200 THB. They’re comfier than buses but can feel cramped if full. Booking through a travel agent in Siem Reap is your best bet.
Taxi: For a private, hassle-free ride, a taxi costs 3,000 THB to 4,000 THB and takes about 6-7 hours, including border formalities. It’s ideal if you’re with a group or value flexibility.
Flight: Want speed? A 1-hour flight from Siem Reap International Airport to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang) starts at 2,500 THB one-way. Add transfer time, and it’s still the quickest option.
Note: No ferries or speedboats ply this inland route, so land or air are your go-tos. Book ahead, especially during peak seasons, and have your visa sorted if needed - Cambodia to Thailand border crossings can be busy.
Bangkok’s tropical climate keeps things hot and humid, but the seasons tweak the vibe:
Cool Season (November to February): The sweet spot - temps range from 25°C to 30°C with lower humidity and rare rain. Perfect for exploring without melting.
Hot Season (March to May): Brace yourself for 35°C or higher, with intense humidity. It’s quieter tourist-wise, but you’ll need shade and plenty of water.
Rainy Season (June to October): Monsoons bring daily showers, often short but heavy, with temps around 28°C to 32°C. Flooding can happen, but prices drop, and the city’s lush side shines.
November to February is the top pick for pleasant weather, though Bangkok’s charm holds up year-round if you’re prepared.
Bangkok is a playground of experiences - here’s what to dive into:
Temple Hopping: Marvel at glittering wats like Wat Arun or Wat Pho - history and beauty rolled into one.
Street Food Crawls: Wander markets like Chatuchak or Chinatown, sampling everything from spicy som tam to sweet mango sticky rice.
River Cruises: Hop on a Chao Phraya River boat for a scenic ride past temples and skyscrapers.
Shopping: From luxe malls like Siam Paragon to bargain stalls at MBK, there’s something for every wallet.
Nightlife: Sip cocktails at rooftop bars or dance the night away in Sukhumvit’s clubs.
Bangkok’s energy keeps you on your toes, day or night.
Bangkok’s must-see spots blend culture, history, and modern flair:
Grand Palace: A dazzling royal complex - don’t miss the Emerald Buddha inside Wat Phra Kaew.
Wat Arun: The Temple of Dawn, stunning at sunset with its riverside spires.
Chatuchak Weekend Market: A sprawling maze of 15,000 stalls - perfect for souvenirs and snacks.
Jim Thompson House: A peek into Thai silk history in a lush, teakwood setting.
Floating Markets: Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa offer a taste of old-school river life.
Each spot adds a layer to Bangkok’s rich tapestry - bring your camera!
Bangkok’s accommodation spans all budgets and vibes:
Budget: Hostels and guesthouses near Khao San Road start at 250 THB for a dorm or 500 THB for a basic room - lively and central.
Mid-Range: Hotels like those in Sukhumvit or Riverside offer comfy stays with pools from 1,200 THB to 2,500 THB - great for convenience.
Luxury: Splurge on riverside icons like the Mandarin Oriental, where rooms start at 10,000 THB - pure indulgence with skyline views.
Sukhumvit is ace for nightlife and transit, while Riverside oozes charm. Book early for peak season deals.
Bangkok can be kind to your wallet with these tips:
Use Public Transport: BTS Skytrain and MRT cost 15 THB to 50 THB per ride - cheaper than taxis.
Eat Street Food: Fill up on 30 THB pad Thai or 50 THB skewers instead of pricey restaurants.
Book Early: Snag bus tickets from Siem Reap or accommodation ahead for discounts - sometimes 20-30% off.
Stay in Hostels: A dorm bed at 250 THB beats a 1,000 THB hotel room.
Visit Off-Peak: June to October slashes hotel and flight costs, even if it’s wetter.
A few smart moves keep Bangkok affordable and fun.
Your stay depends on your pace:
2-3 Days: Hits the biggies - Grand Palace, a market, and a river cruise. A solid taster.
4-5 Days: Adds depth with nightlife, shopping, and a floating market - Bangkok’s full flavour.
1 Week: Perfect for slow explorers wanting every temple, meal, and hidden gem.
Most find 3-4 days ideal for a cracking Bangkok adventure.
Bangkok’s food scene is a feast - here’s where to dig in:
Chinatown Stalls: Yaowarat Road’s got 50 THB noodle soups and 70 THB grilled seafood - bustling and cheap.
Thip Samai: Legendary pad Thai for 100 THB - queues are worth it.
Savoey: Riverside Thai classics like green curry (200 THB) with a view.
Cabbages & Condoms: Quirky spot with tom yum (150 THB) and a good cause.
Rooftop Bars: Vertigo at Banyan Tree serves cocktails (300 THB) with epic cityscapes.
From street eats to swanky bites, Bangkok’s got your taste buds sorted.
Bangkok is a whirlwind of wonder, and getting there from Siem Reap is just the start. With its temples, markets, and unbeatable eats, it’s a city that begs to be explored. Ready to dive in? Plan your route, pack your sense of adventure, and let Bangkok steal the show!