Phuket Old Town ย่านเมืองเก่าภูเก็ต
Walk Thalang Road and Soi Rommanee for colorful shophouses. Take breaks in the shade during the hottest part of the day.
View attraction detailsPhuket Travel Guide
Start in Phuket Town for historic shophouses and southern Thai food. Allow separate travel time if you plan to add a beach on the same day.
Before you go
When to go and how long to stay
Spend at least two or three days if visiting the Old Town and a beach area. Set aside time for the transfer between them and keep boat plans flexible during rough weather.
Entry documents
Check the visa or exemption for your passport before booking. If you are entering Thailand with a non-Thai passport, complete the official Thailand Digital Arrival Card when required within the submission window before arrival. Save the confirmation and accommodation address.
Getting to the city
Phuket Airport (HKT) is in the north. Use a taxi counter or prearranged transfer with luggage. If using a bus, check whether it serves Phuket Town or the west-coast beaches.
For coaches or island ferries, check the terminal or pier shown on your booking. Different departures can leave from different parts of the island.
Getting around
Walk around the Old Town and arrange a separate ride for the coast. Check the return times before taking a local bus to a beach, particularly if staying out after dinner.
Payments and mobile data
Carry small baht notes for markets, river boats and small vendors. Set up mobile data before leaving the airport, and save your hotel address in Thai. Bring something that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits.
Where to stay
Book Phuket Town for architecture and food. Choose a beach neighborhood if you want time by the sea every day.
Things to do in Phuket
What to eat in Phuket
O-aew โอ้เอ๋ว
A Phuket dessert of soft jelly served with shaved ice and syrup. It makes a cool break on a hot afternoon.
Photo: Government of Thailand · CC BY 2.0 ↗A day in Phuket
Explore Phuket Old Town early, take a break for o-aew, then pick a café or a separate coast stop.