A Guide To Visiting Phuket Old Town 2024: Is It Worth It?

Are you wondering if Phuket’s old town is worth visiting? If so, then you’re in the right place! Visiting Phuket town was a great experience for us, and although Phuket has a bad reputation, we really enjoyed our visit.

Heading to Phuket’s old town can be a great way to get a more authentic Thai experience and immerse yourself in Thai culture away from the beach and tourist crowds. With its old market streets, picturesque shrines, delicious cuisine and an abundance of historical sites, you’ll find plenty to do.

We flew straight to Thailand after 5 days in Singapore, opting for the Phuket Sandbox scheme in 2022. Our 7-day trip to Phuket ended up being just shy of three weeks as Jack caught Covid, so we had to quarantine for 10 days. But at least we got to explore!

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In this post, I’ll answer the question: is Phuket’s old town worth visiting? I’ll also cover topics including:

• The top 13 best things to do in Phuket town so you can enjoy your visit too.
• Give you some ideas on where to go in the old town and which streets have the most charm so you can make the most of your trip!
• I’m going to briefly go over the history of Phuket’s old town so you can visit with knowledge and understanding.
• I’ll tell you where we loved eating and provide some ideas on where to stay that are central to the fun.
• And, I’m going to provide some trip costs based on our visit.

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Is Phuket Old Town Worth Visiting

Since we spent longer in Phuket than originally intended, we did manage to explore the province more than planned. This turned out to be a good thing since we left genuinely appreciating Phuket town and Phuket. 

So, if the question is, is Phuket old town worth visiting, the answer is an absolutely huge yes! We really enjoyed the old town’s charm and the endless market stalls. I’m one who can never walk past a food stall without being swayed by all the local delicacies displayed. 

With my inner foodie fully satisfied, Phuket old town is also worth visiting if only to admire the colourful buildings or stop by a quirky cafe, latte in hand to watch the people pass by. The area has a friendly vibe which we loved and the locals were more than welcoming and happy for us to be there and share in their culture.

That said, there are also Western influences mixed in such as modern, trendy cafes and boho shops owned by foreigners. However, there was a good mix and everything appeared to work symbiotically.

There’s quite a lot of history in Phuket’s old town too. As you stroll around the narrow streets you’ll notice remnants of its past, including Sino-Portuguese architecture and street art that tell the stories of the town’s rich cultural heritage.

It’s a truly immersive experience that takes you back in time and makes you appreciate the unique charm and character of the town.

Who will love Phuket old town? If you’re someone who loves immersing yourself in culture and history, trying delicious local cuisine, and getting off the beaten path (kind off), then you’ll absolutely love Phuket town.

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Short On Time? Things To Do In Phuket Town Summary

Below has a lot of information! To summarise, if you’re planning a trip to Phuket, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on the old town’s unique culture and charm.

13 Reasons Not To Miss Phuket Old Town!

• Sunday Walking Street Market: a vibrant market filled with local crafts, delicious street food, and lively entertainment.
• Phuket Thai Hua Museum: a fascinating place to learn about the history of the island and its Chinese influences.
• Khao Rang Viewpoint: for panoramic views of the town.
• Wat Chalong Temple: an impressive temple with ornate architecture and beautiful surroundings.
• Chinese Shrines: Jui Tui Shrine & Saeng Tham Shrine.
• Lock Tien Food Centre And Cham-Cham Food Court: for some of the best local dishes.
• Street Art: incredible murals and street art that are worth exploring.
• Cafe Scene: a thriving and trendy cafe scene that offers unique themes and delicious coffee and desserts.
• Cooking Classes: learn how to cook traditional Thai cuisine.
• Thai Massage: indulge in a relaxing Thai massage.
• Film Setting: explore the setting of the popular movie “The Beach”.
• Weekend Night Market: shopping and entertainment on the weekends.
• Popular Shopping Streets: explore the charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants on popular streets like Thalang Road, Yaowarat Road, and Dibuk Road.

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Top Things To Do In Phuket Old Town

There are a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy while in Phuket Town. It’s perfect for taking a leisurely stroll down the old market streets where you can try some traditional Thai dishes, buy souvenirs and explore the old buildings. 

Discover what we think are the best things to do in Phuket Old town now…

1. Sunday Walking Street Market

The Sunday Walking Street Market in Phuket town is an unmissable experience if you’re heading to the area on a weekend. You’ll find a bustling hub of activity, with vendors selling a collection of local crafts, souvenirs, and mouth-watering street food.

The atmosphere is lively with live music and cultural performances, making it an entertaining and exciting activity for everyone.

📍 It takes place every Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm, the market is located on Thalang Road, right in the heart of the town.

2. Visit The Phuket Thai Hua Museum

For those of you interested in exploring the history and culture of Phuket, a visit to the Phuket Thai Hua Museum is a must. It’s housed in a beautifully restored historic building on Krabi Road, the museum is a fascinating tribute to the island’s Chinese influences.

Exhibitions on display include traditional clothing, musical instruments, and religious artefacts, all of which provide insight into the rich cultural heritage of the area.

✅ Guided tours are available in English, Chinese, and Thai, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the experience.

3. Khao Rang Viewpoint

Are you looking for breathtaking views of Phuket old town and the surrounding islands? Then a visit to the Khao Rang Viewpoint is a must-do on your itinerary!

Located on Rang Hill, just a short drive from Phuket town, the viewpoint offers panoramic views that are stunning. When we arrived there was a man gently playing his guitar.

With a couple of restaurants (although a little pricey) and a small park to enjoy, it’s the perfect spot to take a break and soak up the scenery. We enjoyed a cold fresh coconut while happily listening to the smooth sounds emanating from the guitar!

The best time to visit is around sunset when the views are particularly stunning and the sky is a kaleidoscope of colours. Trust us, you won’t regret adding this viewpoint to your list of things to do in Phuket!

✔️ How to get there? You can walk or catch a tuk-tuk. We decided to walk (so as to burn some of the food I’d overindulged in). It was a trek and the heat was crazy but the view was incredible and made it worthwhile.

4. Wat Chalong Temple 

If you’re interested in learning about Thai culture and Buddhism, then a visit to Wat Chalong Temple is a good place to head. It’s considered one of the most important and revered temples in Phuket!

The complex consists of several buildings and shrines, surrounded by beautiful gardens and statues. Inside the temple, you can learn about the history and significance of Buddhism in Thailand, as well as admire the intricate and colourful decorations.

📍 It is about 15 minutes (by car) outside of Phuket town but it’s worth the trip. Outside, there’s a market selling souvenirs, food, and drinks, so you can take a break and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

5. Chinese Shrines: Jui Tui Shrine & Saeng Tham Shrine

If you’re interested in Chinese culture, you should visit Jui Tui Shrine in Phuket old town. Jui Tui Shrine is the biggest and most significant Chinese temple on the island.

You’ll be amazed by the intricate decorations and Chinese-style statues, lanterns, and altars in both temples. Witnessing traditional Chinese rituals and ceremonies will give you a unique cultural experience.

👉 Have you heard of The Saeng Tham Shrine on Phangnga Road? We didn’t visit it but I’ve read it’s a little hidden gem of a shrine with a stunning Chinese-style gate with incredible dragon carvings on the poles and beautiful street art celebrating the Thai-Chinese culture! See if you can find it…

6. Lock Tien Food Centre & Cham-Cha Local Food Court

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love both of these! Lock Tien food centre is a must-visit canteen spot in Phuket old town while Cham-Cha Local Food Court is more of a food market.

​​We were familiar faces at both as we choose to eat there most days. They are fantastic spots to grab authentic Thai food with a collection of small street food-style restaurants.

You can try several dishes all at once to eat at your table. They serve the delicious Hokkien noodle dish as well as fresh spring rolls, Satay Pork on a stick, and more.

✅ The prices are affordable, and the food is as authentic and delicious as it gets. The markets are open daily from early morning until late at night, so you can satisfy your cravings at any time of the day!

We tried a lot of different dishes, not knowing what half of them were, but enjoyed them all – mostly! These were our favourites:

✔️ Pork soup with noodles. 30 THB = £0.70
✔️ Fresh duck roll. 15 THB = £0.35
✔️ Stuffed sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf. 35 THB = £0.82
✔️ Thai sweets wrapped in banana leaves. 15 – 25 THB = £0.35 – £0.59 (you never know what you’re getting but 9/10 it’s great!)

✅ Make the most out of your trip and jump on a guided tour to explore Phuket’s culinary scene: Phuket Old Town Food Tour for 8 Exclusive Guests

7. Discover The Street Art

We were delighted to find that Phuket old town has a thriving hub for street art and is a great place for art enthusiasts. As you stroll through the city, you’ll notice colourful and creative murals and graffiti adorning many of the walls.

A lot of these street art pieces have cultural or social significance, making them even more meaningful. Some of the best locations to find street art in Phuket town include Thalang Road, Soi Romanee, and Yaowarat Road.

✅ If you want to learn more about the street art scene in Phuket, you can even book a guided tour to explore the various locations and discover the stories behind each artwork: Travstore Phuket Food-Art-Town Tour – Private Tour

8. Enjoy Cafe Culture

Are you a coffee or tea lover? you’ll be happily impressed by the trendy and stylish cafes in Phuket town! The cafe scene there is thriving, with plenty of options to choose from. Even Jack, who doesn’t like coffee, enjoyed the cafe culture in Phuket old town!

Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cup of coffee, a refreshing iced tea, or a sweet dessert, you’ll find a cafe that caters to your taste. Many cafes have unique themes and decor, such as vintage furniture, bookshelves, or art exhibitions, which create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.

📍 Some of the most popular cafes in Phuket town include The Tent, Bookhemian, and Factory Cafe.

9. Experience A Thai Massage

If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in Phuket town, a Thai massage is something you shouldn’t miss.

You can find plenty of massage shops around town offering a range of massage types, including the popular Thai massage, oil massage, and foot massage.

✔️ Prices are affordable, and the service is usually top-notch. Some massage shops also offer traditional herbal remedies and therapies to help you unwind and feel refreshed.

10. Thai Cooking Class 

I highly recommend taking a Thai cooking class if you’re looking for a unique and fun experience in Phuket town. During our visit to Thailand, we did a cooking class in Chiang Mai and it was one of the highlights of our trip.

Phuket offers similar classes, where you can learn to cook traditional Thai dishes, including curries, soups, and stir-fries. The classes are usually led by experienced chefs and are suitable for all skill levels.

✅ Not only will you learn new recipes, but you’ll also gain insight into the local food culture: Phuket Thai Cooking Class

11. Explore a Film Setting from the popular “The Beach”

A really popular thing to do in Phuket town is to visit the On On Hotel, located on Phang Nga Road in the historic district. If you’re a fan of the movie “The Beach”, you’ll be thrilled to know it’s one of the filming locations!

The hotel is where one of the movie’s most memorable scenes was filmed, despite being portrayed as a hotel in Bangkok. The actual location is the charming and affordable hotel in Phuket Old Town.

✅ Good to know: The hotel underwent renovations in 2013, but it still maintains its original character while offering budget-friendly accommodations for guests.

12. Visit The Weekend Night Market

This place is great! If you’re looking for a lively and vibrant weekend experience in Phuket, you should check out the weekend market just outside of Phuket town. The market is a sprawling collection of stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and street food.

And even though it’s a little out of Phuket old town it’s still within walking distance, it took us around 35 minutes to get there along the main street which is paved.

The food stalls were our favourite. There’s so much choice that we ended up trying loads of unique dishes including a lot of naughty deep-fired goodies. This is where we tried the obligatory fried bugs including crickets and grubs…

We also went full steam on the deep-fried sandwiches, potato spiral sticks, crunchy chicken, Asian pizza and local beer… this sounds so bad! But, it was delicious.

The atmosphere is bustling and festive, with live music and cultural performances adding to the excitement. It’s a great place to soak up the local culture, mingle with locals and try some delicious Thai street food.

📍Where and Where? It takes place every Saturday and Sunday from late afternoon until late at night. Don’t forget to bring your bargaining skills, as haggling is expected and can make for a fun shopping experience!

13. Go Shopping in Phuket Town

You’ll be pleased to hear that Phuket Old Town has plenty to offer in the way of shopping. One of the most popular shopping destinations is the Jungceylan Shopping Centre, which features a range of international and local brands, as well as souvenir shops.

But, I would say head for a more traditional shopping experience. You can wander around the charming old streets of the city and discover independent stores selling crafts, spices, and antiquities. It makes for a much better experience!

However, whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of street markets or the luxury of upmarket boutiques, you’ll find something to suit your taste when it comes to shopping in Phuket Town

✅ Check out the ultimate: Phuket City and Sightseeing & Old Phuket Town Tour.

✔️ Familiarise streets in Old Phuket Town

There are many exciting and unique places to discover when wandering around Phuket Town. To make the most of your visit it’s important to familiarise yourself with the popular streets in the area. Here are some streets to know:

• Ranong Road. One of the most famous streets in the area, as it’s home to the Phuket Town Central Market and the Jui Tui Shrine. 
• Another well-known street is Yaowarat Road, which is the main road that runs north of the Suriyadej Traffic Circle. It’s also where Ranong, Ratsada, and Bangkok roads meet. 
• Dibuk Road showcases the beautiful shophouse architecture of Phuket and has some charming sweet shops. 
• If you’re interested in staying at the Memory at On On Hotel or visiting tailors, sweet shops, and art galleries like the Drawing Room, then Phang Nga Road is a must-visit. 
• Ratsada Road is home to the Thavorn Museum, while Soi Romanee is famous for its Instagram-ready shophouses. 
• Thalang Road is another popular destination that’s well worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in small shops and eateries. 
• Finally, it’s worth exploring Krabi Road, which is home to the Thai Hua Museum.

Where to Stay in Phuket Old Town

There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in Phuket Town, ranging from budget hostels to more luxurious hotels. For those looking for a central location, there is a large selection of mid-range and boutique hotels available. 

Whichever type of accommodation you decide on, it’s important to book early as Phuket Town can get fairly busy during peak seasons.

👉 Looking for more great hotel options in Phuket? We’ve put together the 16 Best Hotels In Phuket Town: The Ultimate Hotel Guide.

📍 Budget Suggestion: The Z Nite Hostel

The Z Nite Hostel. Guests are saying the facilities were excellent! The dormitory rooms were roomy and the beds were extremely comfortable and robust, with no shaking when individuals entered or exited. Additionally, they provide complimentary breakfast, water, towels, and shower essentials, earning them a top rating!

📍 Mid-Range Suggestion: WOO Gallery & Boutique Hotel

WOO Gallery & Boutique Hotel. The hotel is said to be stunningly gorgeous alongside a breakfast experience which is said to be incredibly enjoyable and scrumptious. The staff are also very helpful and go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable.

📍 Luxury Suggestion: Hotel Verdigris

Hotel Verdigris. The boutique hotel in the heart of Phuket town is said to be simply beautiful, with lovely and attentive staff providing wonderful personal touches. Guests are saying the breakfast spread was abundant as there was plenty to choose from and the rooms were impeccably clean, including linens of the highest quality. Again, the staff are said to be amazing!

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A Brief History Of Phuket Old Town

Phuket Town is a charming and historic town that has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. Its history dates back to the 18th century when it was a hub for tin mining and trading. 

The town has a mix of cultures including Thai, Malay, Chinese and European, which is evident in its architecture, food, and traditions. In the early 20th century, Phuket Town experienced a boom due to the tin mining industry, and many of the town’s elegant buildings and mansions were built during this time. 

However, in the 1980s, the industry declined, and the town saw a downturn in its economy. In recent years, Phuket Town has been revitalized, with efforts to preserve its historic buildings and promote cultural tourism. 

Today, the town is a vibrant mix of old and new, with traditional shophouses and street markets coexisting with modern restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. 

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What is Phuket Town Most Famous For?

Phuket Old Town is most famous for its Sino-Portuguese architecture, which is a blend of Chinese and European styles. The town is also known for its vibrant street markets, offering local crafts and delicious Thai street food!

The town has a rich history as a trading port and is home to a variety of museums and temples showcasing its cultural heritage. This makes it a fun and interesting place to visit where you can enjoy its unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm.

As well as its cultural heritage, if you’re visiting Phuket town you’ll be able to enjoy a thriving cafe scene, street art, and panoramic views of the town from the Khao Rang Viewpoint.

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Eating and Drinking in Phuket Old Town 

Phuket Old Town may not be as famous for its food scene as other parts of Thailand, but it still offers many delicious traditional dishes and street markets.

If you’re on a budget, like we were, the popular street food vendors offer cheap and tasty snacks. You’ll be able to try classic Thai curries and stir-fried dishes or indulge in the ubiquitous Pad Thai.

We noticed a lot of seafood being sold so if you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be in heaven! You can also find rooftop bars or pubs for spectacular views of the city while enjoying some yummy cocktails. If you want a special dinner, try one of the local restaurants for an authentic taste of Phuket.

A few of our favourites, but don’t forget the food courts mentioned above: Cham Cham and Lock Tien!

The Vegan Table

You don’t need to be vegan to enjoy this place! If you are looking for a great dining experience in Phuket town, visit The Vegan Table restaurant at least once! This restaurant offers some of the best food on the island, not just in the old town.

The drinks were fantastic, but it was the food that was truly delicious. Plus, the air conditioning was a huge bonus, especially on a hot day

Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant Phuket

If you’re looking for an exceptional dining experience, you’ll love the Blue Elephant. The food is perfect, and it’s all served with a level of professionalism that truly sets it apart. Every dish is tasty and exactly as you would expect. The presentation is also very nice, which only adds to the overall experience.

This restaurant is definitely a must-visit, and you could even sign up for their cooking classes. It’s amazing value for such high-level service, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Pad Thai PHANHIN

It was one of the best Pad Thai dishes of my life! The dish was incredibly fresh, bursting with authentic flavours and also very affordable. It’s a little out of town but If you find yourself in Phuket, I highly recommend that you seek out this restaurant and give their Pad Thai a try. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Lao Pa Sat Phuket Town

If you’re craving authentic Singaporean cuisine, this cafe is an absolute must-try. From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for a treat.

We felt like we were eating in Singapore, especially with their incredible laksa. Prices were super reasonable, making it accessible for anyone looking for a delicious meal.

How to Get to Phuket Town?

As Phuket Town is the main hub for tourists in Thailand, there are a variety of ways to get there. The most popular way is by plane as it’s served by Phuket International Airport and is only a short journey from Bangkok. 

Alternatively, you can travel overland via bus or train from nearby cities like Khao Lak or Krabi town. Lastly, it’s also possible to take a ferry from less visited islands such as Koh Mook and Koh Lanta if you want something extra special.

We explored the area opting to use public transport rather than using the tuk-tuks as we found them to be too expensive to be used often – well, expensive for Asia! But, you could rent a scooter to get around too. We just didn’t because we had sore bums from our epic scooter road trip in Bali!

How Much Does A Trip To Phuket Town Cost?

The million-dollar question! Well, it depends on your travel style and preferences. Phuket Town offers accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, so there’s something for every budget. 

You can find delicious and affordable street food and upscale restaurants with higher prices. The cost of transportation depends on whether you choose to travel by tuk-tuk, taxi, or rental scooter. 

All in all, a trip to Phuket Town can range from budget-friendly to high-end, depending on your choices. Not so helpful I know! Therefore, here are some examples of the costs of TRAVEL and FOOD, from our own trip in 2022.

Activity		Thai Baht	GBP £	USA $
Bus	Old town to Patong Beach	30	0.70	0.86
Bus	Old Town to Kata Beach (Via Karon)	40	0.94	1.15
Bus	Old Town to Phuket Central	20	0.47	0.57
Taxi	Patong Beach to Old Town	400	9.37	11.45
Taxi	Phuket Central to Old Town	200	4.69	5.73
Food	Local dish at market	40	0.94	1.15
Food	Local dish at the cafe	80-120	1.87 – 2.81	2.29 – 3.44
Food	Fresh juice	80	1.87	2.29
Food	Local beer	45 – 80	1.05 – 1.87	1.29 – 2.29
Beach	Sun chairs	50	1.17	1.43

Visiting Phuket Old Town FAQs

How do I get from Phuket Town to the beach?

Getting from Phuket Town to the beach is quite easy as there are many transportation options available. The most convenient and popular way is to take a taxi or a tuk-tuk, which you can easily find on the street or book through a ride-hailing app.

Another option is to rent a scooter, which is a fun and affordable way to explore the island. If you prefer public transportation, there are also buses and songthaews (shared taxis) that run between Phuket Town and the beaches.

Keep in mind that the frequency and availability of public transportation can vary depending on the time of day and the location of the beach. However, we had no issues using public transport when we were there.

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Conclusion: Is Phuket Old Town Worth Visiting

Phuket Old Town is definitely worth visiting for those of you who want to experience the cultural side of the island. With its rich history, charming architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious food, there are plenty of things to do and see in Phuket Town.

Make sure you check out the Sunday Walking Street Market, the Weekend Market, Khao Rang Viewpoint, Wat Chalong Temple, and the Chinese Shrines which are the must-visit destinations in Phuket town.

With its unique and charming character, I definitely think Phuket old town is worth visiting if only for a day or two!