Angkor Wat & Floating Village: 2-Day Tour from Bangkok

Summary

Bangkok to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat temples floating village boat and local food

You’ll start in Bangkok before crossing into Cambodia for two days of temples and floating villages: cruise Tonle Sap Lake by private boat, wander Angkor Wat with a local guide who knows every story, and sleep comfortably in Siem Reap. Expect laughter at border crossings, muddy shoes at ancient ruins—and maybe a new favorite memory somewhere between them.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever seen a house float?" That’s what our driver asked as we left the border behind, still rubbing sleep from our eyes after the early pickup in Bangkok. The drive to Siem Reap felt like flipping channels—Thailand’s neon signs fading into flat fields and motorbikes stacked with families. Crossing into Cambodia was a bit of a blur (bring cash for the visa, by the way), but our guide Sopheak was waiting right at the other side, waving like he’d known us forever. I didn’t expect to laugh so much at border control, but here we are.

The hotel in Siem Reap was nicer than I’d pictured—cool tile floors and that faint lemony smell you only get in Southeast Asia. After dropping our bags, we headed out to Tonle Sap Lake. The air felt thick and sweet by the water; kids waved from boats painted in colors that probably used to be brighter. Our private boat glided past floating schools and shops—I tried to count how many dogs were on one porch but lost track when a fisherman grinned and tossed us a tiny fish (still alive). There’s something about watching life drift by on water that makes you quiet for a minute.

Next morning, it was all about Angkor Wat. Sopheak knew every shortcut through the crowds—he pointed out little carvings I’d have missed, like monkeys hidden under centuries of dust. The air inside Bayon temple was cooler somehow, shadows flickering over those hundreds of Buddha faces. At Ta Prohm—the “Tomb Raider” place—I touched one of those roots curling over stone and it felt rough, almost damp. It’s wild how trees just eat buildings here. My shoes got caked with red mud but honestly, I didn’t care.

We finished back in Siem Reap before heading for the long drive home. I still think about that moment on the lake when everything went quiet except for the sound of paddles hitting water—you know? If you’re up for an early start and don’t mind your hair smelling like lemongrass shampoo after a night in Siem Reap, this Angkor Wat tour from Bangkok is worth every weird border stamp.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bangkok to Siem Reap and Floating Village

• Pick up from hotel in Bangkok
• Arrive at Poi Pet Border, meet guide
• Drive to Siem Reap
• Check in at hotel and freshen up
• Afternoon tour to Tonle Sap Lake
• Visit Floating Village by private boat
• Return to hotel
• Evening free to explore Siem Reap

Day 2 — Angkor Wat and Temples, Return Bangkok

• Visit Angkor Wat temple
• Explore Bayon temple in Angkor Thom
• Visit Ta Prohm temple (Tomb Raider site)
• Transfer back to Bangkok

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Angkor Wat tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Bangkok (or Pattaya/Koh Chang) is included.

Do I need a visa for Cambodia on this trip?

Yes, you’ll need a Cambodian visa (about $35 USD), usually arranged on arrival at the border.

How long does it take to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap?

The drive takes around 4-5 hours plus time at the border crossing.

Is accommodation included in Siem Reap?

Yes, one night at a 4-star hotel with breakfast is included.

What main sights are covered on this tour?

You’ll visit Tonle Sap Lake’s floating village, Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple (Angkor Thom), and Ta Prohm.

Is there free time to explore Siem Reap?

Yes—after returning from Tonle Sap Lake you have free time to check out Pub Street or the Night Market.

Are meals included during the tour?

Breakfast at your hotel is included; other meals are not specified but there are plenty of options nearby.

What should I wear when visiting temples?

Avoid short dresses—modest clothing covering knees and shoulders is required at temples.

What’s included

Your trip includes private hotel pickup in Bangkok or Pattaya (or Koh Chang), comfortable transport across the border into Cambodia with help from your local guide at arrival, one night’s stay at a 4-star hotel in Siem Reap including breakfast, all entry fees for Angkor Wat and other temples plus your private boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake before returning back to Thailand at the end of day two.