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One Day in Phuket Itinerary – Top Things to do in Phuket, Thailand (VIDEO)

Phuket is a popular island destination located in southern Thailand, known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse cultural attractions. With its warm tropical climate, lush jungles, and rich history, Phuket offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local markets, or discover the island’s unique history and culture, there is something for everyone in Phuket. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, the island also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with an array of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. Phuket truly offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities that make it an ideal destination for travellers worldwide.

One day in Phuket Itinerary

Phuket Itinerary Video Preview

Best Time to Visit Phuket

The best time to visit Phuket, Thailand is during the dry season, which runs from December to March . During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with low humidity, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. The peak tourist season falls between November and February, so it’s advisable to book your accommodations and activities in advance. April to May is the shoulder season, and while the weather can be hot, it’s still a good time to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices. From May to October, Phuket experiences its monsoon season, which brings heavy rainfall and occasional storms.

Laem Phromthep

What to do In Phuket in 24 Hours

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Phuket, Thailand:

Start Your Day in Phuket Old Town

After you check in at your hotel , step out to Phuket Old Town is a charming historic district that offers a glimpse into the island’s past. This part of Phuket is an ideal destination for those interested in culture and history, with its unique Sino-Portuguese architecture, narrow streets, and colorful buildings. Visitors can wander through the bustling streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of the lively markets and street vendors selling everything from fresh fruits to handmade crafts. The town’s highlights include the well-preserved mansions of wealthy Chinese families, which have now been converted into museums and galleries showcasing the island’s rich heritage.

Phuket Old Town

See The Chinpracha House

This stunning building was constructed in 1903 by the Chinpracha family, who was one of the wealthiest families in Phuket at the time. The mansion is considered to be one of the most well-preserved heritage houses in Phuket. The Chinpracha House is open to the public, and visitors can take a guided tour of the property to learn about the history of the mansion and the family who built it. The interior of the house is decorated with beautiful antiques and traditional Thai artwork, providing a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Chinpracha family. The Chinpracha House is a must-visit attraction on your one day in Phuket for anyone interested in the history and culture of Phuket.

Visit Big Buddha

This enormous statue of Buddha stands at the height of 45 meters! It is perched on top of the Nakkerd Hills and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The statue is made of reinforced concrete and covered in Burmese white jade marble which gives it a serene and majestic look. The site also offers a beautiful temple with prayer bells and numerous smaller Buddha statues, which are considered to be very sacred among the locals. Overall, visiting the Big Buddha on your one day in Phuket is a must-do experience for anyone interested in Thai culture and history.

Big Buddha, Phuket

Head Over to Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is renowned for its stunning pagodas, intricate carvings, and magnificent golden Buddha statues. Visitors can learn about the temple’s history and significance, witness traditional Thai rituals and ceremonies, and pay their respects to the Buddha. The temple also houses a museum displaying a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts and offers various activities such as meditation and traditional Thai massage. The serene and peaceful atmosphere of Wat Chalong is perfect for spiritual reflection and relaxation.

Wat Chalong

Try Local Thai Cuisine at One of The Street Food Vendors

The street food in Phuket is not only delicious, but it also offers a great insight into Thai culture and the daily life of locals. The best part is that street food in Phuket is usually very affordable, making it an excellent option for travellers on a budget who want to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank. Phuket, Thailand is renowned for its vibrant street food scene, offering a wide range of delicious and affordable local delicacies that are a must-try for foodies visiting the island. The local street vendors, known as “hawkers,” offer a vast array of options, including fresh seafood, meat skewers, spicy soups, pad Thai, and fried rice.

Street food, Phuket

Spend The Afternoon Exploring The Beautiful Beaches of Phuket

Kata Beach, with its turquoise waters and powdery white sands, is a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling. Meanwhile, Karon Beach boasts a more laid-back vibe and is perfect for sunbathing and taking leisurely walks along the shoreline. 

Kata Beach, Phuket

These beaches offer an incredible array of restaurants and bars, as well as local vendors selling traditional Thai street food, souvenirs, and beach gear. Whether you’re looking to relax, soak up the sun, or dive into the crystal-clear waters, these beaches are a must-see in Phuket. Try Thai massage –  a unique style of massage that combines yoga-like stretching, acupressure, and energy work to promote relaxation and balance throughout the body.

Kata Beach

End Your Day With a Stunning Sunset View at Promthep Cape

Visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea as the sun sets over the horizon, creating a beautiful and romantic backdrop. As the sun begins to dip, the sky turns into a beautiful array of oranges, pinks, and purples, and the sea begins to glow with an orange hue.

Laem Phromthep

The viewpoint at Promthep Cape is accessible by car or motorbike, and visitors can park their vehicles and take a short walk up the hill to get to the viewpoint. There are also several vendors selling local snacks and souvenirs, making it a great place to spend a relaxed evening with friends and family. Watching the sunset at Promthep Cape is a quintessential Phuket experience that should not be missed.

Sunset at Promthep cape, Phuket

Party at Bangla Road

Bangla Road is one of the most famous destinations in Phuket, Thailand, and is located in the heart of Patong Beach. This bustling street is known for its lively nightlife and comes to life after dark with an incredible array of entertainment options.

Phuket at Night

Bangla Road is a long, narrow street that is closed to traffic in the evening, and the atmosphere is loud, energetic and full of excitement. Visitors can find a variety of bars, nightclubs, live music venues, and street performers throughout the road, with something to suit all tastes. The street is also home to an extensive selection of local and international restaurants, street food stalls, and shops, making it an excellent destination for foodies and shoppers!

Bangla Road at Night, Phuket

Where to Stay in Phuket, Thailand

Xinlor House

Xinlor House – Phuket Old Town

78 Dibuk Road, Talad Nuah, Amper Mung Phuket, 83000 Phuket Town

Xinlor House – Phuket Old Town is a 3-star hotel located in the vibrant area of Phuket Town, just 400 meters from Chinpracha House and 5.1 km from Prince of Songkla University. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a private bathroom. With a terrace, this non-smoking property is located just 300 meters from Thai Hua Museum. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, and a kettle. Selected rooms come with a balcony, while some offer scenic city views. Bed linen and towels are provided in all rooms to ensure a comfortable stay.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Verdigris

Hotel Verdigris

154 Yaowarat Road Phuket Old Town, 83000 Phuket Town

This upscale accommodation boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace, all available for guests to enjoy. The hotel also offers free private parking, a bar, a 24-hour front desk, and a concierge service. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, making it easy for guests to stay connected with friends and family. The guest rooms at Hotel Verdigris are designed for comfort and convenience, featuring air conditioning, a fridge, a minibar, a coffee machine, and a desk. The private bathrooms in each room are equipped with a shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer. Some of the rooms come with a balcony, offering stunning city views. Bed linen and towels are provided in all rooms. Guests can start their day with a continental, Asian, or vegetarian breakfast served on-site.

Pacific Club Resort

Pacific Club Resort

16 Patak Road, Soi 24, Phuket, 83100 Karon Beach

The Pacific Club Resort is a charming boutique hotel located atop a hill and just a 10-minute stroll from Karon Beach. The resort boasts a unique design and offers stunning views of the surroundings from the private balconies of its spacious rooms. Guests can enjoy the resort’s swimming pool which offers a 360-degree view of Karon Beach, as well as a spa bath and a well-equipped gym. The resort’s spa offers massages and body treatments for ultimate relaxation. The Dining Room restaurant serves an international menu that can be enjoyed anywhere in the resort. The Pacific Club Resort – SHA Extra Plus is a fantastic choice for those looking for a peaceful and luxurious stay in Phuket.

Day Trips From Phuket, Thailand

Ethical elephant sanctuary interactive tour.

Savour the opportunity to walk with your guide through the park and interact with the free-roaming elephants in a safe, sustainable, and ethical environment while feeding and touching them. Join the elephants in a healthy mud treatment session followed by a refreshing bath in a nearby river. You can also help bathe and brush the elephants while playing in the water. Capture precious memories with the elephants, and then change into dry clothes before heading back to your hotel!

Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay

Phi Phi Islands are a group of six stunning islands in Thailand known for their turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and towering limestone cliffs. Among them, Maya Bay is one of the most famous and picturesque spots! Maya Bay is surrounded by 100-meter cliffs on three sides, with a stunning turquoise lagoon and a long stretch of white sandy beach. It is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling, and diving to explore the rich marine life.

James Bond Island & Canoe Tour

James Bond Island, also known as Koh Ta-pu, is a famous landmark in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand. The island’s name was inspired by the 1974 James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun,” as it was one of the film’s shooting locations. The island is a popular destination for tourists due to its unique shape and stunning natural scenery. It features a towering limestone cliff that juts out of the turquoise water, creating an impressive backdrop for photos. Visitors can take a boat tour to James Bond Island and explore the surrounding area, including the sea caves and hidden lagoons.

A Few Facts About Phuket, Thailand

  • Phuket is home to the famous Phi Phi Islands, which were featured in the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
  • The name “Phuket” is derived from the Malay word “bukit,” which means hill or mountain. The island is known for its hilly terrain and lush vegetation.
  • The island is a melting pot of cultures, with a mix of Thai, Chinese, and Muslim influences. This is reflected in its food, architecture, and cultural practices.
  • Phuket has a rich history of tin mining, which was a significant industry on the island from the 16th to the 20th century. Many of the old mining sites have been converted into tourist attractions, such as the Bang Pae Waterfall and the Kathu Mining Museum.

Extra Tips For Visiting Phuket, Thailand

  • Phuket has a unique tradition of vegetarianism, which is celebrated during the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival . During the festival, participants abstain from meat and perform various rituals to cleanse themselves and bring good luck.
  • Respect the culture: Phuket has a rich and unique culture, and visitors should take the time to learn about it and respect the local customs and traditions. For example, visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.
  • Watch out for scams: Like any tourist destination, Phuket has its share of scams, so visitors should be wary of unsolicited offers or too-good-to-be-true deals.
  • Learn some Thai: While English is widely spoken in Phuket, learning a few basic Thai phrases can help visitors connect with the locals and show respect for the culture.
  • Plan ahead: Phuket can be busy during peak season, so visitors should plan ahead and book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Romi R

Romi is a llama coach from Split, Croatia. This sounds made up but it’s true. ​She lived in Toronto, Canada for about ten years, give or take, but she wasn’t working with llamas. She was working in PR, restaurants, daycares, one yoga clothing store. She doesn't know how she got that job as she has never done yoga at that point. She taught English in Colombia and Vietnam. Traveled the world for two years. Then she got into writing. Actually, she was always writing, but then someone paid her to write. Then more people paid because they saw she was making them money. Then it became a thing she does for a living. And here we are now. Specializing in travel, real estate, and digital nomad guides, familiar with SEO, and always ready to learn something new so she can branch out and take over the world.

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One-Day Phuket Itinerary: What to Do in Phuket in 1 Day?

Let us start this blog by saying that it’s impossible to capture the full essence of our enchanting island in just one day! As with any destination rich in culture, history, culinary delights, natural wonders, and heart-racing adventures, a single day simply isn’t enough.

However, at Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve, we always go the extra mile! So while there’s no such thing as a ‘best’ one-day Phuket itinerary for all travellers, we have provided some ideas below to help you create a schedule that makes the most of your limited time.

Of course, the ideal solution is to stay in our part of paradise for longer! That means you can take your time exploring everything our island has to offer, from picture-perfect beaches to ethical elephant activities in Phuket .

For now, though, let’s take a look at our suggestions for what to do in Phuket in one day. We have made recommendations for the morning, afternoon, and evening, but you can move these around to better suit you.

If any questions come to mind while you read, please get in touch with the PENR team for the information you need.

1 day trip phuket

Thonglor, our 3rd rescued elephant, enjoying a walk around our sanctuary

One-Day Phuket Itinerary: Ideas for How to Spend Your Morning

How you decide to start your day could depend heavily on whether you’re a morning person! To find the best balance, we’ve provided two experiences that are relatively easy-going but also quintessentially Thai.

Enjoy Ethical Elephant Activities with Us!

Kickstart your day with a visit to our ethical elephant sanctuary – a haven for these magnificent creatures. Our Phuket elephant activities focus on observation and education, so you can be certain that the health and well-being of our rescued animals are our priorities.

Watching these gentle giants roam around and play in their natural habitat is a truly heartwarming and authentic experience, just as nature intended. When you leave us, you’ll have a far greater appreciation for these unique animals.

The morning program for our Private Half-Day Phuket Elephant Adventure runs from 9 am to 12:30 pm and includes a cooking demonstration and lunch.

If you are a morning person and you want to explore Phuket’s beautiful countryside in cooler temperatures, consider joining a Private Guided Adventure Hike here at our sanctuary.

1 day trip phuket

Soak Up Some Culture at Wat Choeng Thale and Wat Sri Sunthon

Immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage offered by Phuket’s many temples is another amazing morning experience. Just two of our favourites are Wat Choeng Thale and Wat Sri Sunthon, the latter of which features a large reclining Buddha statue. 

The intricate architecture, serene atmosphere, and vibrant surroundings at these and other temples offer a glimpse into the island’s spiritual and historical roots. Take a moment for quiet reflection and capture the beauty of these sacred sites.

Remember to behave respectfully and to dress conservatively if you visit a temple. This means you should cover your shoulders and ensure that any shorts and dresses are smart and knee-length.

If you’ve got more time to play with, you may want to consider visiting some of our other picks for the five must-see temples in Phuket .

Looking for even more cultural inspiration? We think you’ll love our blog Top Things to Do in Phuket for Culture Lovers .

Bang Tao beach Phuket Thailand in the evening sun

What to Do in Phuket in One Day? Afternoon Ideas

Phuket is close to the equator, so we have a tropical monsoon climate. This means that as the afternoon approaches, the temperatures will reach their peak! With this in mind, we’ve focused our attention here on keeping cool.

You’ll probably be hungry by this point too. If you visit Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve, you can eat at our highly-rated Ban Chang Restaurant Phuket . If you’re elsewhere, however, see if you’re close to any of our other choices for the best Thai food places in Phuket .

Have a Fun-Filled Time at Blue Tree Phuket

For a refreshing afternoon, head to Blue Tree Phuket ! This vibrant destination offers a mix of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, indulging in water activities, or shopping for souvenirs and gifts, Blue Tree Phuket provides the perfect escape, especially for families. 

The park has numerous sections appealing to a broad range of interests. Head to the lagoon and its water sports centre to make a splash in the stunning azure water. The lifestyle village has a shopping mall for retail therapy, and there’s even a dedicated water sports club.

And if you’re travelling with little ones, there are plenty of child-friendly activities, including an adventure playground.

1 day trip phuket

Cool Off at Beautiful Bangtao Beach

If you want a more natural experience, venture to picturesque Bangtao Beach. This over 6-km-long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear water is ideal for a leisurely stroll, beachcombing, a cooling swim or enjoy one of the many massage stands. Of course, you can also just bask in the sun!

Treat yourself to a coconut refreshment from a beachside vendor and relish the laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere.

Given its length, it’s easy to find a quiet spot on Bangtao Beach, if that’s what you prefer. Generally speaking, the northern end of the beach (called Layan Beach)  is much more peaceful, with the occasional small bar here and there. 

The southern end is home to hotels and beach clubs, so it’s much livelier, especially at night. But more on that below!

If you’re already considering staying longer in Phuket, check out our blog What Should I Do with a Week in Phuket?  

Boat Avenue Phuket Parking View

Enjoy the Shopping at Porto de Phuket and Boat Avenue Phuket

Explore the vibrant Porto de Phuket and Boat Avenue Phuket for a taste of local shopping and dining. These two impressive retail centres are essentially next door to each other, so there are plenty of shops to keep you busy!

Discover unique souvenirs, indulge in delicious street food, or savour a meal at one of the many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. 

Boat Avenue, a mall consisting of repurposed shipping containers, took inspiration from a similar project in Christchurch, New Zealand. Having cemented its reputation as a popular shopping destination, people flock here from the Bangtao, Layan, Kamala, and Surin beach areas.

Porto de Phuket is a single-storey mall that covers a huge surface area. It has an incredible Central Food Hall Supermarket, a branch of Super Sports (for swimwear and football shirts!), and much more.

Both of these shopping hotspots feature in our list of the best shopping destinations in Phuket .

Carpe Diem Beach Club, Phuket Cocktails

One-Day Phuket Itinerary: Ideas for How to Spend Your Evening

Much like the morning, how you spend your evening in Phuket depends on your preferences. You may be tired from adventures during the day and looking to take it easy. Or maybe you’re full of energy and want to have an evening of fun!

Our blog about the best things to do in Phuket at night takes a more detailed look at this topic. For now, we have provided a couple of options below that we think will appeal to most travellers.

Finish the Day in Style at Carpe Diem Beach Club

As the sun begins to set, head to the Carpe Diem Beach Club at the southern end of Bangtao Beach for a relaxed evening by the shore. Enjoy a cocktail, take in the breathtaking views, and unwind in this stylish beachfront setting. With a menu including imaginative Mediterranean cuisine, this is also a brilliant place for dinner.

Carpe Diem celebrates the finer things in life with class, elegance, and subtlety. The laid-back atmosphere and unobtrusive soundtrack create the perfect ambience for a memorable evening. There aren’t many better ways to pass a sultry night in Phuket.

We ranked Carpe Diem as one of the best beach clubs in Phuket .

Phuket Weekend Markets

Immerse Yourself in the Atmosphere of a Night Market

Phuket is home to many incredible night markets, each one a captivating gateway into local life here on the island. Night markets are sensory experiences; the aroma and taste of delicious street food, the colourful products on the stalls, the sound of live music and entertainment, and the bustle of the crowd.

Just two of our picks for the best night markets in Phuket are the Wansao Night Market at Blue Tree Phuket and the Friday Night Fun Market at Boat Avenue.

The Wansao Night Market takes place at the same Blue Tree Phuket mentioned above. It has market stalls, food trucks, drinks, live DJs, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and an outdoor cinema.

As Phuket’s first boutique community mall and open-air amphitheatre, this night market isn’t just in a wonderful setting, but it’s also suitable for families, friends, and couples.

Boat Avenue’s Friday Night Fun Market is smaller but still vibrant. And as you may have guessed, it pops up every Friday night!

Only a short distance from Bangtao Beach, this spot has everything a great Thai night market should: shopping, drinks, food, and plenty of locals.

1 day trip phuket

Lotus & Bow love spending time together

Support Ethical Elephant Experiences in Phuket

So, what should you do in Phuket in one day? That’s up to you now! It’s important to remember that a single day cannot fully encapsulate the wonders of Phuket, but this itinerary provides a delightful taste of the island’s diverse offerings.

No trip to our island is complete without enjoying Phuket elephant activities . Browse our range and find the perfect fit for you. By supporting ethical elephant experiences, you contribute to our ongoing conservation efforts.

Do you have any questions for our team? Please get in touch for all the answers you need.

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  • Phuket Town in 1 day
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1-day itinerary, the big buddha, phuket.

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Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong)

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Phuket Bird Park

Naka night market, dolphins bay phuket, ao sane beach, windmill viewpoint, where to eat, go benz rice porridge phuket, blue elephant cooking school & restaurant phuket, thong dee the kathu brasserie, top searches in phuket town, popular road trips from phuket town, what's the weather like in phuket town.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Phuket Town for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Phuket Town in January
  • Weather in Phuket Town in February
  • Weather in Phuket Town in March
  • Weather in Phuket Town in April
  • Weather in Phuket Town in May
  • Weather in Phuket Town in June
  • Weather in Phuket Town in July
  • Weather in Phuket Town in August
  • Weather in Phuket Town in September
  • Weather in Phuket Town in October
  • Weather in Phuket Town in November
  • Weather in Phuket Town in December

All road trips from Phuket Town

  • Phuket Town to Bangkok drive
  • Phuket Town to Singapore drive
  • Phuket Town to Krabi Town drive
  • Phuket Town to Kuala Lumpur drive
  • Phuket Town to Siem Reap drive
  • Phuket Town to Ho Chi Minh City drive
  • Phuket Town to Pattaya drive
  • Phuket Town to Hanoi drive
  • Phuket Town to George Town drive
  • Phuket Town to Phnom Penh drive
  • Phuket Town to Hua Hin drive
  • Phuket Town to Ao Nang drive
  • Phuket Town to Chiang Mai drive
  • Phuket Town to Hoi An drive
  • Phuket Town to Melaka drive
  • Phuket Town to Yangon (Rangoon) drive
  • Phuket Town to Luang Prabang drive
  • Phuket Town to Ayutthaya drive
  • Phuket Town to Kanchanaburi drive
  • Phuket Town to Hue drive
  • Phuket Town to Nha Trang drive
  • Phuket Town to Chiang Rai drive
  • Phuket Town to Ipoh drive
  • Phuket Town to Vientiane drive
  • Phuket Town to Bagan drive
  • Phuket Town to Da Lat drive
  • Phuket Town to Halong Bay drive
  • Phuket Town to Damnoen Saduak drive
  • Phuket Town to Surat Thani drive
  • Phuket Town to Mandalay drive

Explore nearby places

  • Phuket Town
  • Karon Beach
  • Choeng Thale
  • Bang Tao Beach
  • Thep Krasattri
  • Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Railay Beach

All related maps of Phuket Town

  • Map of Phuket Town
  • Map of Talat Nuea
  • Map of Ratsada
  • Map of Cape Panwa
  • Map of Wichit
  • Map of Chalong
  • Map of Kathu
  • Map of Koh Kaew
  • Map of Patong
  • Map of Si Sunthon
  • Map of Karon Beach
  • Map of Karon
  • Map of Rawai
  • Map of Kata Beach
  • Map of Kamala
  • Map of Choeng Thale
  • Map of Nai Harn
  • Map of Bang Tao Beach
  • Map of Pa Khlok
  • Map of Thep Krasattri
  • Map of Nai Thon
  • Map of Nai Yang
  • Map of Sakhu
  • Map of Mai Khao
  • Map of Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Map of Tha Yu
  • Map of Khok Kloi
  • Map of Railay Beach
  • Map of Nong Thale
  • Map of Ao Nang

Phuket Town throughout the year

  • Phuket Town in January
  • Phuket Town in February
  • Phuket Town in March
  • Phuket Town in April
  • Phuket Town in May
  • Phuket Town in June
  • Phuket Town in July
  • Phuket Town in August
  • Phuket Town in September
  • Phuket Town in October
  • Phuket Town in November
  • Phuket Town in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Phuket Town?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

  • 1-Day Kathu Itinerary
  • 1-Day Karon Itinerary
  • 1-Day Choeng Thale Itinerary
  • 1-Day Mai Khao Itinerary
  • 1-Day Sakhu Itinerary
  • 1-Day Pa Khlok Itinerary
  • 1-Day Ao Phang Nga National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Chalong Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kamala Itinerary
  • 1-Day Patong Itinerary
  • 1-Day Nong Thale Itinerary
  • 1-Day Railay Beach Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kata Beach Itinerary

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1-Day Itinerary to Phuket – Massive Savings Unlocked!

1-Day Itinerary to Phuket – Massive Savings Unlocked!

Didn’t someone say that Thailand is a backpacker’s paradise? Then why are we talking about traveling to Thailand on a budget? While some parts of this gorgeous and highly hospitable country might be known for being pocket friendly – there are other parts of Thailand that can be unbelievably expensive.

Phuket for instance.

Even though I’ve visited Phuket twice before , my memory is foggy on just how expensive the largest and most popular island of Thailand is.

This time, I made sure to note down all the expenses of my trip and was shocked to find that I spent the majority of it on stay and transport followed by food.

And guess what?

I spent only a small portion of it on activities even though I tried a whole bunch of them. From ziplining through the forests of Phuket, elephant feeding in an ethical elephant park, and an authentic 2-hour Thai massage. In fact, I saved more on activities than I spent. 

Thanks to TAGTHAi Pass – the all-in-one Thailand Travel Pass .

Patong beach, Phuket

TAGTHAi Pass – Thailand’s First Digital Tourist Pass

TAGTHAi is a travel super app where you can book single-day or multi-day passes for activities in Thailand.

Currently, they are operating in Bangkok , Chiang Mai , Phuket , Ayutthaya, and Pattaya. So you can book 1-day or 3-day passes at these locations based on what’s available.

If you have limited time, then I’d suggest going for the 1-day pass and if you are staying for longer, then a 3-day pass would be more appropriate. Note that only Chiang Mai and Phuket have 3-day passes at the moment.

Also, they are constantly onboarding new activities, so when you opt to use the pass, you might find an even larger range of activities than I did.

How to use TAGTHAi Pass

Step 1: Buy the Phuket pass, either a 1-day or a 3-day pass either on the app or the website.

Step 2: Once you order the pass, you can activate the pass on the morning of the day you’ll be using the pass. You’ll be issued an explorer pass which essentially includes a QR code associated with your account

Step 3: Go to the attraction that’s included in the pass, and scan the QR code in the TAGTHAi app to redeem. And voila, you are in. As simple as that.

1 day trip phuket

How much does a TAGTHAi pass cost?

The cheapest 1-day pass costs around 16 USD for cities like Pattaya & Ayutthaya and the most expensive 1-day pass costs around 74 USD for Chiang Mai.

For Phuket, a 1-day TAGTHAi pass costs around 45 USD, and a 3-day TAGTHAi pass costs 92 USD.

The pass is valid till 11:59 pm on the same day in case of a 1-day pass, or 11:59 pm on the 3rd day in case of a 3-day pass.

I ended up ordering a 1-day pass to Phuket owing to limited time and it was a game changer for me. So I wanted to share this little secret with you too.

What activities are included in the Phuket 1-day pass?

  • Hanuman World Ziplining
  • Thai Massage at Sansabai Spa
  • Thai Massage at Raintree Spa
  • Elephant Bathing at Phuket Eco Elephant Park
  • Elephant Feeding at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
  • Banana Beach Snorkeling
  • Steak Ao-Kae Restaurant

Kopi de Phuket Cafe & Restaurant

  • Hickory Restaurant
  • Sugar Dark Cafe Restaurant
  • Cherna 88 Restaurant

Note that the activities mentioned here are also part of the 3-day pass.

If you are planning on going with the 1-day pass, this is the itinerary I’d suggest to make the most of your day. All of these activities are inclusive when you opt for the pass.

Ziplining in Phuket

Ziplining at Hanuman World, Phuket

Start the day early with zip lining in Phuket. The transfer is included as part of your package, so you’ll be picked up from the hotel. Which is great considering it’s not easy or cheap to get around Phuket.

Ziplining is not really a well-known activity in Phuket but I’d highly recommend it. It’s a whole different feeling ziplining through the dense canopy of trees and I’m sure will be the highlight of your trip to Phuket.

This activity needs to be reserved one day in advance. I’d suggest you reserve 8:00-9:00 on your preferred date (the earliest time slot available) to make the best use of your 1-day TAGTHAi Pass.

I’d suggest you wear shoes to this activity.

Package includes  zip lining across 10 platforms (3 ziplines), roller (fastest zipline), skywalk, and buffet lunch.

Duration: 2-4 hours Actual Cost: 2490 baht

Things to carry: Sunscreen, Mosquito repellent.

Elephant feeding at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Elephant feeding activity at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

This sanctuary has rescued elephants from the circus, logging, and riding camps. Situated on an expansive 40-acre land, this elephant park follows European standards of elephant protection, and has to be one of the most genuine elephant parks I’ve come across.

The elephant feeding program is usually once every 2-3 hours, so I’d say it’s best to book ahead.

Although, I did a walk-in and there was a program happening in 20 mins, that might not always be the case.

I was particularly touched by the ever-dancing circus elephant (elephants have great memories and she still remembers her dance movements from the circus she was rescued), and another elephant who was blind with a skin disease.

The staff told me that there’s no riding allowed in this camp as there were elephants here rescued from riding camps.

It was nice to see that they finally have a safe haven in this sanctuary.

Package includes elephant feeding activity with guide + 1 complimentary drink

Duration: 1 hour Actual Cost: 900 baht

Visit Restaurants in Phuket Town

Time to stop at one of the many restaurants located in Old Phuket town for a wholesome meal.

Note that, you have a special set available on the app to choose from and not just anything on the menu.

The restaurants and the dishes available in these restaurants as part of the TAGTHAi pass are mentioned below:

Steak-Ao-Kae

An all-steak restaurant. Options include pork chop & herbal juice, or spaghetti, french fries, and herbal juice.

A local restaurant located in the heart of Phuket town. Options include Chicken curry with roti, Noodles with ham, and Bread with custard. All of these different set options come with lemon iced tea.

This restaurant is not in Phuket town but in Ko Kaeo, about 11km from Old Phuket Town. It serves homemade German sausages and special espresso.

Options include Honey lemon salad, Kao Thai-French beef, Beef cheek massamun & garlic butter roti, Leberkase burger, and Thai-french Sirlion spicy salad. All of these different options include an ocean drink as well.

Sugar Dark Cafe

strawberry waffle, sugar dark cafe, phuket

Located about 2km from Old Phuket town, Sugar Dark cafe offers a variety of binsu (Korean shaved ice dessert), pancakes, waffles, and beverages.

Options include Mango binsu, hot pot pancake & lemon, toasted brownie, and strawberry waffle. All are served with either lemon or peach tea.

Keep in mind that they are also onboarding new restaurants, so check the TAGTHAi app for all available restaurants to redeem from.

Thai Massage

Thai massage is something that you need to absolutely do when in Thailand.

If you are a Thai massage newbie, let me just paint a quick picture. A typical Thai massage is mostly a dry massage (without oil) where you lie fully clothed on a mat on the ground. The masseuse uses hands, elbows, and knees to perform stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques. This helps relieve tension and improves the circulation of the body. You can expect your body to be contorted into various forms to ultimately attain deep relaxation.

My experience at the end of a Thai massage has always been one of pure bliss. Ah! The feeling of floating over the clouds!

Anyway, there are 2 spa centers to choose from for this activity. I mean, you could do both if you have the time but as part of the pass, you can only opt for one massage per spa center.

Raintree Spa

Now, if you are staying close to Phuket town, I’d suggest going to Raintree spa as it’s just 800m from Old Phuket town.

You have 3 options to choose from – 2 hours of Thai Massage, 2 hours of Thai and Foot Massage or 2 hours of Thai Aromatic Massage.

Raintree Spa is more of an upscale spa that provides a wholesome spa experience.

Duration: 2.5 hours (including 2-hour massage + pre and post-massage routines) Actual Cost: 1200 baht

Sansabai Spa

1 day trip phuket

On the other hand, Sansabai Massage & Spa has 2 centers. One in Phuket Town and another in Patong Beach. So, if you are staying at Patong beach, I’d suggest going to Sansaibai spa.

This is more like what you see everywhere in Thailand – streets lined with small open massage parlors and in that sense, more authentic.

It has a 1-hour massage option between a Thai massage or a head, neck, and shoulders massage.

If I have to choose, I’d say Sansabai massage was my favorite as I found the experience close to a typical Thai massage experience that you’d find all over Thailand.

Duration: 1 hour Actual cost: 300 baht

How many experiences can you do as part of the 1-day TAGTHAi pass?

I’d say it depends on the activities that you choose. Some activities take an entire day while others might take an hour. On average, I’d say you can easily do 3 experiences as part of the 1-day pass. And if you have your own mode of transportation or plan ahead of time, then maybe about 5.

How much money can you actually save with a TAGTHAi 1-day Pass?

I also made sure to ask what the actual cost of the experiences was at the places that I visited. 

Here they are: Ziplining: 2490 baht Elephant feeding: 900 baht Raintree spa: 1200 baht Sansabai spa: 300 baht Sugar Dark cafe (or a different restaurant): 214 baht (~200 baht)

Minimum (3 activities): 3690 baht Maximum (5 activities): 5305 baht

Cost of the 1-day pass: 1573 baht (USD 44.45)

If you opt for the 1-day pass in Phuket , you’d end up saving anywhere between 50% and 70% of the actual activities price.

Interestingly, if you are even just doing ziplining alone, you are saving about 1000 baht just by buying the pass. That’s impressive by any standards!

And overall, the total value of the activities is USD 588.

Now that’s massive savings that can be maybe spent on heaps of massages and mango sticky rice in Thailand 😉

Top Tips While using TAGTHAi Pass in Phuket

Don’t forget to avail a 7-day free tourist sim card.

Once you download the app and signup, you are awarded the Essential Pass. As part of this pass, you can get a 7-day free Tourist SIM card (True Move H or AIS) which can be picked up from Angsana or Old Phuket Town. Check the exact location on the app.

Considering that most international tourists stay in Phuket for 5 days, this is great value for money.

Best Place to Stay While Using TAGTHAi Pass

Phuket Old Town

It’d be ideal to stay somewhere close to Phuket town when using the pass to get the most bang for your buck as most of the restaurants and massage centers are located around here.

Although, if you have your own transport, then you are more flexible in terms of traveling between different locations mentioned in the TAGTHAi Pass.

I was staying on Patong beach, so I couldn’t visit as many restaurants as I’d have liked to as they were farther away.

Start your Day as Early as Possible

Check the opening and closing times of the activities and make sure you start the day as early as possible to make the best use of your day pass.

No. of Activities to Redeem Per Shop

You can only use 1 activity per shop. For instance, you cannot do a 1-hour Thai massage followed by a 1-hour head, neck, and shoulder massage at the same location or a different location under the same brand.

Get a Prior Appointment for Certain Activities

Some of the activities like Hanuman World zip lining, and Banana beach snorkeling need to be booked 1-day prior. Also, these activities offer transfers. Refer to the app to get the latest information on if you need to book an appointment before or if a walk-in is available.

Avail Hotel transfers wherever applicable

Some activities offer transfers. And if it’s available, TAGTHAi would mention it in their app.

Transfers are usually to and from the hotel. But if you aren’t planning to go back to your hotel, you can ask them to drop you off at your next destination. Usually, this request is entertained as long as it’s only 1 drop.

For instance, I was picked up from my hotel for the Hanuman Ziplining experience but then I was dropped off at Elephant park as that was part of my itinerary for the day. I had to figure out my own mode of transportation from there, and I found a Grab bike to take me to the hotel for 94 baht.

Are you visiting Thailand anytime soon? What do you think of this cost-saving hack?

Let me know in the comments below!

This post is sponsored by TAGTHAi pass. But as always, all experiences and observations here are entirely my own.

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Good blog! most of the important things are covered, but I wanted to to ask after taking the THAITAG pass we can pick the activities at our own time or do we get all organized first hand?

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It’s usually mixed. Some activities have time – especially full day island tours and the ones that involve transfers (like ziplining). You need to prebook these activities through the app and the rest are walk-in. Each activities would have information on the app whether it’s pre-book or walk-in. So, you can decide based on it.

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Geek Wandering

Good itinerary, but I think one day is just not enough there is so much see and do in Phuket

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1 Day Phuket Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Phuket

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May 15, 2024

  • Phuket 1-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights to Phuket

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Day 1 | Morning

Phuket simon cabaret.

Opening Hours: Open from 6:30pm-7:45pm,8:00pm-9:15pm

Ticket Price:

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours

Location: 8 Sirirat Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150

As a veteran ladyboy show in Phuket , the Simon Cabaret has evolved into a professional entertainment venue in Phuket since its 1991 opening. The content of its show is healthy and interesting, the scale of the performances is large, and the elements of China, India, Egypt, Europe, America, Africa and other countries and regions are integrated. There are also up-to-date song and dance programs. The charm, beauty, talent, versatility, temperament and grace of the ladyboys are so expressive that put many women to shame.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Odette : Even though this show is a bit expensive, it is worth every bit. It is professional and extremely entertaining. The venue is impressive too. Have an open mind when going to the show. No cameras or recordings allowed. Ticket includes a drink before or after the show.

Trip.com User: Simon Cabaret is a very amazing show. with a very graceful dance show. they are a man who is transformed into a very beautiful woman. if you go to Phuket, you have to watch this show. thank you Trip.com

Day 1 | Afternoon

Phuket FantaSea nearby is the top choice before you leave Phuket Simon Cabaret and hit the road.

Phuket FantaSea

Opening Hours: Performance time 21:00-22:30; meal time 18:00-20:45

Ticket Price: 1800 THB

Recommended Length of Stay: 5-6 Hours

Location: 99, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150

Phuket FantaSea is a Las Vegas-style theme park located on the Gold Coast of Kamala. It is famous for its colorful nightlife and is also a popular tourist spot in Phuket . Unlike other theme parks which have mechanical facilities, Phuket FantaSea is based on the theme of Thai culture. Its selling points are a giant buffet restaurant and cabaret shows. The Thai people regard it as their local Disneyland. Every night, Phuket FantaSea will have exciting performance programs such as song and dance, magic show, acrobatics and elephant performance, giving people a deeper understanding of Thai culture.

K-TravelMuse: phuket fantasea is actually a very big show where you get acquainted with the ancient Thai culture. the main program is play in which both humans and animals such as tigers, elephants, etc. play a role. you enjoy Thai music ,dance and beautiful stories throughout the show. ,big surprise is waiting for you. the ground of this place are very large and you can buy Tai handcrafts and souvenirs here. there are a number of photography studios here where you can wear traditional clothes and take interesting photos. i recommend to those who come to phuket for the first time to sea this evening show. the program starts at about 7p.m until about midnight. we love fantasea show! (photos and videos were taken in different years and on different trips)

Yulia Hasto: Phuket FantaSea is a show that tells the legend of Kamala, which in this story is a forest with a mythical palace, very different from Kamala you know! This massive stage show is played on the ground of a large amusement park located on Kamala Beach. After more than 20 years in Phuket, the show will still be going strong, welcoming millions of visitors and tourists from all over the world every year to enjoy this dazzling show.

  • Phuket 1-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights from Phuket

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* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

  • Day 1: Phuket Simon Cabaret, Phuket FantaSea

Phuket Weather

1 day trip phuket

Find What to Do in Phuket in 1 Day Tour

Let's relax spa e-cash card · thai spa · thai massage.

  • E-cash card can be used for all services at Let's Relax Spa outlets in Thailand An immersive experience of authentic Thai massages and spa treatments Feel the de-stressing touch of highly trained and experienced therapists

ATV / Buggy / Elephant Camp jungle or seaview Adventure on top of Big Buddha in Phuket 【Yepee Tour】

  • ATV / Buggy / Elephant Camp jungle or seaview Adventure on top of Big Buddha in Phuket

Phuket Sukhothai Spa

  • Suuko Wellness, a traditional SPA brand in Thailand, has been certified by the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand Multiple Option are available to meet your different needs, providing a variety of authentic Thai health care, relaxing your body and mind Spa environment | Modern Thai architectural style SPA environment is elegant and green everywhere

Phi Phi Island Tour by Premium Speed Boat with Lunch

Phuket [skyline ziplining adventure experience + atv + 4wd + elephant riding + two-way transfer].

  • Skyline Adventure is located in Rawai and is a relatively new Ziplining camp in Phuket. In the lush rainforest, you can fly freely in the forest like Tarzan, breathing the moist air above, hanging in the air in the rainforest, overlooking the dense jungle below and the magnificent sea in front of you. Zipline is a common item in Ziplining. People hang under the zipline and slide from high to ground level. Skybridge is a suspended bridge made of wood. Climbing net is a test of your arm strength just like climbing. The Skyline Ladder is a series of ropes hanging from iron locks, which sway with every step. Standing at the panoramic point, you can overlook the dense jungle in front of you and the sea in the distance. Each link here can bring a different experience, which is very exciting!

Phuket Karon Cliff Seaview SPA·Seaview Tingtao Spa [Pure enjoyment of natural essential oils + sunset seaview Tingtao Spa]

  • Open-air sea view massage pavilion Sunset sea view Tingtao spa Pure enjoyment of natural essential oils

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Grantourismo Travels

One Day in Phuket Old Town Itinerary for a Perfect Day in Phuket Old City, Southern Thailand

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Our one day in Phuket Old Town itinerary provides a plan for a perfect day in the capital of the Southern Thai island, kicking off with a quintessential Old Town breakfast – or two – and taking you through snacks and lunch, punctuated by market walks and museum visits, and ending with a must-do dinner.

Most travellers to the island of Phuket in Southern Thailand are there for the beach and water-based activities. Too few see it as the food destination that we do, spending most of their time on the beach and at resort restaurants and bars. And who can blame them? Phuket is home to some of Thailand’s best beach resorts.

If visitors to Phuket do make it into the island’s capital, they tend to do little more than linger at the weekend market in the late afternoon and then stay on for dinner. We reckon Phuket Old Town with its wonderful Sino-Portuguese architecture, distinct Peranakan culture, and delicious Phuket-style Thai cuisine warrants a full day of your time and this is how we think you should spend it.

Here’s our one day in Phuket Old Town itinerary to guide you to the must-do experiences in the island capital. A warning: many of them involve food!

One Day in Phuket Old Town Itinerary for a Perfect Day in Phuket’s Capital

Where to stay in phuket old town.

If you’re only allowing one day in Phuket Old Town, we suggest scheduling it at the beginning of your Phuket trip and staying a night in Phuket Town so you don’t waste a second. When you need to retreat from the heat or require a short siesta, it means you won’t have far to go for a quick nap or cool-down.

Check into one of the charming boutique hotels in Phuket Town in heritage buildings, such as The Memory at On On or Casa Blanca . Built in 1929, The Memory at On On is one of Phuket’s oldest hotels. It starred as the seedy backpackers in the movie The Beach before extensive renovations in 2013.

Book one of the lovely mid-range rooms with balcony, although note that most of the charm lies in the public spaces, which are furnished with vintage pieces, such as antique wireless radios, and the light-filled courtyards and tranquil nooks.

Casa Blanca is a comfortable boutique hotel with a feminine sensibility – pastel colours, pretty furnishings, fresh flowers – and a well-travelled, English-speaking Thai owner who is a passionate baker and foodie and generous with dining tips. Both are centrally located and handy to markets, shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars.

And when you are ready for some sun and sand, see the Phuket beach resorts we recommend.

Breakfast In Phuket Old Town

With only one day in Phuket Old Town, breakfast must be one of the quintessential Phuket Town breakfasts, khanom jeen or dim sum (siao boi). Whatever you decide on, you’ll have to wake early to join the locals for breakfast, which starts around 6am and is done by 8am or 9am.

For khanom jeen – freshly made, lightly fermented rice noodles served with curries, aromatic fresh herbs, and raw and steamed vegetables – make a beeline to Pa Mai Kanom Jeen on Satun Road (if it’s closed, try Mae Ting Kanom Jeen up the street toward Thungkar Road).

If there’s a lady behind the table laden with pots of rich curries (along with plates of fried chicken, grilled fish and hor mok, a steamed fish curry), let her know what curry you fancy and she’ll ladle it onto a dish of noodles. Otherwise, snag a table and a waitress will take your order.

For dim sum, try century-old Juan Hiang (18 Phoonpon Rd), where owner Yaowamal Woaranopakul offers some 50 different types of siao boi, including an array of seafood and pork dumplings, fluffy steamed buns, deep fried snacks, fried tofu, vegetables, and Portuguese egg tarts.

Grab a table then wait for staff to drop by with small plates of dim sum. Accept what you think looks good, politely decline what doesn’t, and wave when you’re ready for more.

Coffee In Phuket Old Town

Kickstart your one day in Phuket Old Town with coffee at Kopitiam by Wilai. Phuket Old Town has much in common with the ports of Penang, Malacca and Singapore due to the historic maritime trading routes. One aspect of everyday culture they share is the ‘kopitiam’, a type of old-school Chinese coffee shop originally established by Hokkien immigrants. ‘Kopi’ is Malay for coffee and ‘tiam’ is Hokkien for ‘shop’.

Many of Phuket’s Thai-Chinese locals are of Hokkien heritage, which explains the red Chinese signs and the Chinese temples peppered around town. Furnished with antiques and bric-a-brac, with old black and white photos on the walls, Kopitiam by Wilai is popular with Thai tourists as much as foreigners, for its old-world atmosphere and traditional Thai coffee, made with robusta beans, and served with sweet, creamy condensed milk. Opt for the iced coffee if it’s a steamy day.

A Morning In Phuket Old Town

With only one day in Phuket Old Town you’ll only have time for a few sights. Start exploring the streets and then when the heat gets too much for you retreat indoors. For us, mornings in a Thai town mean market time.

In the centre of Phuket Town, Central Market (Ranong Road) is the main market in a big modern building, however, cross the road and head down Soi Phisai Sapphakit and you’ll find a small but busy market with stalls selling fresh farm produce, much of which comes from around the island, along with perfumed herbs, aromatic spices, pungent chilli relishes, fermented fish pastes, and dry and smoked fish.

Vehicles come and go, delivering and collecting goods, so there’s always something happening. If the food has made you peckish, make your way to lunch…

Lunch In Phuket Old Town

Elsewhere on the island, Thai food means food from central Thailand or the north-eastern Isaan region, which is different to Phuket cuisine , which has been influenced by historical connections to China and Malaysia, resulting in Peranakan or Baba Nyonya cuisine.

So with only one day in Phuket Old Town we recommend tasting Phuket-style street food at Lock Tien Food Court (corner Dibuk and Yaowarat Roads), a 1950s-era hawker centre. The ten or so stalls have been operated for about five decades by the same families dishing up their Phuket specialties.

Start with the Phuket-style popiah, char siu pork, grated turnips, bean sprouts, and peanuts rolled up in wheat-flour wraps roll and doused in a sweet and sour tamarind sauce, which hailed from China’s Fujian province but are also found in Singapore and Malaysia.

Then order the “ancient noodles” listed on the laminated menu: mee hoon pah chang, fried noodles with pork bone soup, and mee nam Hokkien, Hokkien-style prawn noodles.

If you had more than one day in Phuket Old Town, we’d also be recommending this Phuket Old Town 15-taster food tour for a comprehensive introduction to Phuket’s culinary history and culture.

Afternoon In Phuket Old Town

If it’s too hot for you, it might be time for that siesta back at the hotel. However, as you only have one day in Phuket Old Town, if you can cope with the heat walk off lunch and work up an appetite for your next meal on a wander around Phuket Old Town, dropping into a temple or a museum or three when you’re in need of some air-conditioning.

Scattered across Phuket Old Town are ornate incense-filled Chinese temples and grand Sino-Portuguese mansions built from the wealth of Phuket’s tin-mining boom and long history of trade. Many of them are now dilapidated with peeling paint, others transformed into fascinating museums.

Make your priorities the Thai Hua Museum , the new Phuket Peranakan Museum and Phuket Baba Museum, all of which reveal different aspects of Phuket’s intriguing history.

Early Evening In Phuket Old Town

With only one day in Phuket Old Town, if you’re here on a Thursday or Friday, you must make a beeline for the casual, cool little Indy Market (beside Limelight Avenue, Dibuk Road; 4-10pm), where young Thai designers, artists and makers sell handmade crafts, art, jewellery and accessories, along with vintage clothes and kitschy-cool gifts and souvenirs.

You can also get a tattoo, mani-pedi or your portrait sketched. Stalls serve up street food snacks, from burgers and barbecue chicken to som tam and ‘Thai tacos’ (khanom buang). There’s live music and small bars selling coconut water, sugar cane juice, cold beers, and cocktails.

Sundowners In Phuket Old Town

Unpretentious Quip Sky Bar (Quip B&B, 5th Floor, near corner of Phuket and Rasada Roads; 4pm-midnight) is the spot to head for sundowners if you only have only one day in Phuket Old Town.

It was the Old Town’s first rooftop bar and it remains popular with artsy young local Thais as much as travellers of all types and it’s easy to see why once you’re reclined on cushions sipping something cold as you watch the sun set over the Old City rooftops.

Dinner In Phuket Old Town

With only one day in Phuket Old Town, dinner must be at  Raya (48 Dibuk Rd) in a grand yet faded century-old Sino-Portuguese mansion house with stained walls with peeling paint and worn antique floor tiles.

Arguably serving up Phuket’s finest local food, Raya is still ran by the elderly daughter of the original owners, who checks every plate as it leaves the kitchen – if she’s not working the woks herself of course.

Order the nam prik goong seab (spicy prawn chilli dip), pad bai liang (stir fried bai laing leaves), moo hong (stewed pork belly), and the fiery gang poo bai chaplu (crab meat curry with betel leaves).

If you can’t get into Raya, head to One Chun restaurant (48/1 Thepkasattri Road, near the corner of Dibuk Road), which is popular with Thai tourists and also does a great gaeng poo, although it doesn’t have the lethal heat of Raya’s, restaurant’s gaeng poo, which Central Thais sometimes struggle to eat.

Spread across a couple of Sino-Portuguese shophouses, it’s delightfully decorated with retro pieces, including old suitcases and record players, antique clocks, and even a vintage film projector. If downstairs looks full, there are often tables free in the courtyard garden.

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Phuket Itinerary 1 Day

Popular day trips to phuket.

Have a look at this collection of popular day trips to Phuket created by fellow travelers. These are the most viewed and most customized itineraries for Phuket, choose one to make the best out of your 1 day in Phuket.

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Recent 1 Day Itineraries for Phuket

Explore these recently created itineraries which include latest attractions, trending hotels & experiences by visitors. If you are visiting Phuket in next few days these are the perfect itineraries for you.

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Sightseeing Tours and Activities for 1-Day in Phuket

Apart from the general sightseeing, your vacation to Phuket can be enriched by booking tours such as

Dive Trip to Phi Phi from Phuket for certified divers

Best Hotels in Phuket for 1 Day Trip

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1 day trip phuket

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1 Day in Phuket

  • Updated: April 9, 2020 Bich Ngoc in Beautiful Thailand , City Highlights 0 comment.

1 day trip phuket

How to spend 1 day in Phuket? The province of Phuket consists of an island bordered by sandy beaches, with miles of palm trees, small villages and dozens of activities, cultural sites or sports. It is also the perfect place if you want to relax in the sun and enjoy the fabulous surroundings of Phuket on your tour to Thailand .

Best time to go to Phuket

  • 14 days in Thailand: Modern Cities and Phuket Beach
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  • 6 days in Thailand: Across Country Packaged Tour

The island of Phuket has a humid tropical climate, which means that the temperatures are warm all year, but mainly in April, between May and September, or in October.

The monsoon period extends between September and October, but you will rarely experience many days of unfavorable weather on this island paradise, so there is nothing to worry about on your 1 day in Phuket.

How to get to Phuket?

Being a popular destination for tourists, there are many ways to get to Phuket:

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Phuket International Airport is the second largest airport in Thailand after Bangkok. A lot of domestic and international flights (Europe, Asia, Australia …) take off and arrive every day.

The bus from Bangkok to Phuket will take you about 13 hours to travel. You should choose a high-quality night bus to enjoy an uninterrupted sleep on your 1 day in Phuket.

By motorbike or tuk-tuk

In Phuket, it is very easy and economical to travel by these two transportations. You will also have no problem when transferring between different attractions you have planned for your 1 day in Phuket.

Where to stay in Phuket?

Here are our suggested best accommodations  for your 1 day in Phuket:

On the beach

Katathani Phuket is a well-known and popular hotel for its tropical gardens, azure blue pools and a private beach. This place is such a little corner of paradise that you should consider while in Phuket.

For couples

SALA Phuket Resort is the perfect place for taking a honeymoon trip. Don’t forget to experience outdoor bathrooms at this resort!

For families

JW Marriott Phuket is the ideal place for a dream family vacation. Many activities are offered at no extra cost for children, counting a real plus on your 1 day in Phuket.

For small budgets

Patong Princess Hotel has its beautiful view to the dynamism of Patong and an outdoor swimming pool. It also offer a suitable price that you should consider for your staying in Phuket.

Suggested Itinerary for 1 day in Phuket

Itinerary 1: Get to know the city

Itinerary 2: Get off-the-beaten-path

1 day in Phuket

Marvelous Islands in Phuket

Itinerary 1

Mornin g: taking photos of wat chalong and big buddha, wat chalong.

Majestic Wat Chalong Temple, Phuket

Majestic Wat Chalong Temple, Phuket

This is the perfect place for visitors who wish to discover Buddhist culture in a breathtaking atmosphere. You had better make sure to take off your shoes as well as cover your shoulders and legs before entering a building.

Big Buddha is one of the most important and most revered sites on the island. The 45-meter high statue was built in 2004 with its peaceful and spectacular scenery on the Mount Nakkerd.

Afternoon: Lazing on the beach

There are a lot of beautiful beaches that are worth visiting on your 1 day in Phuket:

With its fine sand and crystal clear water, there is no doubt that you will get immersed deeply at this sea. Especially on the period from May to October, you can enjoy the waves with a cocktail feet in the water thanks to the cool weather with low rainfall.

Karon Beach

This is the third longest beach of the island and the most suitable sea for snorkeling and diving on your 1 day in Phuket.

Patong Beach

A perfect rendezvous for party lovers! There are different bars and entertainment areas for you to party in an idyllic setting on your 1 day in Phuket.

Freedom Beach

One of the most beautiful and quietest beaches that you can find in Phuket. As the name tells, this spot is perfect for a relaxing moment, with family or couples.

Paradise Beach

It is on this beach that the Full Moon takes place. It often gets crowded here but you can still find some calmer corners from the main beach.

Cape Promthep

Romantic sunset at Cape Promthep

Romantic sunset at Cape Promthep

On the Southern tip of the island, the place is ideal for lovers of sunsets. A palette of exquisite colors that gradually fade into the water, the place seems out of a dream.

Evening: Street tour at Phuket

Strolling on bangla road.

This street is the main artery of Patong. It is revealed at dusk and its wandering has become a must-visit for 1 day in Phuket. You can have so much fun at many bars, restaurants, clubs with all in a symphony of colorful neon lights and music on this special road.

Enjoying a magical show at Phuket Fantasea

A fantastic performance at Phuket Fantasea

A fantastic performance at Phuket Fantasea

It is an amusement park that tells you the mysteries and legends of Thailand, staging them in a show whose stars are elephants, and many artists in traditional costumes. This is an activity that children especially love on 1 day in Phuket.

Itinerary 2: Get off-the-beaten-track

Option 1: visiting phang nga bay and the famous james bond island.

The well-known James Bond Island

The well-known James Bond Island

Phang Nga Bay has hosted many film shoots, and for good reason, its natural beauty is fascinating. Sailing on clear waters by boat, kayaking or taking a cruise ship, and discovering the over-water village of Koh Panyee will make your trip more complete than ever! Spending 1 day in Phuket in the heart of nature, invigorating and relaxing to discover Phuket as you have never seen before.

Option 2: Refreshing at your leisure at Phi Phi Islands

These two small islands are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful places in Thailand. There is an idyllic setting in which you can laze all day. This tourist attraction has the famous Maya Bay beach, which is used as a filming location for the film “The Beach” with Leonardo Dicaprio. This beach has been closed to tourists for a few years to preserve its ecosystem of the place, but you can safely enjoy Phi Phi Don, which offers equally wonderful places, and a myriad of restaurants and hotels will be one pleasure to welcome you on your 1 day in Phuket.

Option 3: Discovering and admiring the sunrise at Coral Island

Natural coral reefs at Coral Island

Natural coral reefs at Coral Island

Located just 15 minutes by boat from the main island, this small island is famous for its magnificent coral reefs. If you are a diving or snorkeling enthusiast, this is the place for you. In case you want to enjoy the island as if you were alone in the world, we recommend sleeping on site. Tomorrow morning when you wake up and watch the sunrise at this beautiful spot, you will truly get fulfilled into your soul.

Best foods to eat for 1 day in Phuket

The island is full of restaurants of all kinds, here are a few that we highly recommend, to treat all budgets for 1 day in Phuket.

Laem Hin seafood

This is one of the best seafood restaurants on the island, where you can lie on the sand and enjoy your meal, while listening to the wind beat, the waves sounds and admiring this place’s beauty.

Rimpan Seafood

As you can see, seafood is in the spotlight here as well. It is a small hidden hideaway in the North of the island, where you will taste your dishes in small bungalows on the beach on your 1 day in Phuket.

Chic restaurants

Black ginger phuket.

This restaurant is located in the middle of a lagoon, so you can access to this place only by boat. You will have a chance to enjoy traditional dishes revisited with a touch of modernity that create such a pleasure for the eyes and the palate on your 1 day in Phuket.

Blue Elephant Phuket

This is an imposing building not far from the old Phuket district, whose Thai cuisine has proven itself more than once.

We hope that these information helpful for your plan traveling on 1 day to Phuket. Customize your tour to Thailand so that we can help create your most amazing trip to the country of pagodas! Read more:

Phuket, a wonderful place to visit

Top 9 family destinations in Thailand beyond Phuket and Pattaya

Start planning your tailor-made Vietnam tour by contacting one of our specialists…

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1 day trip phuket

As a true Vietnamese enthusiast of music, books and coffee, Bich Ngoc loves researching into those typical cultural characteristics of Vietnam as well as exploring further destinations in the country of thousand years of civilization.

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What to do if you only have 1 day in Phuket

1 day in Phuket feature

Phuket is a former timber town in the south if Thailand sitting on its own island. In the 70s, an airport was built and that started to bring in some tourists. The real explosion happened in the 2000s when the island was discovered as a beach destination with some of the best beaches in Thailand .

Today, the city has become a magnet for anybody looking for sand, sun, sea and fun and there is no doubt a lot of things to do in Phuket to keep families, solo travelers, men, women, boomers and backpackers happy.

Getting into Phuket

Phuket can be reached by international flight from major cities like Dubai , Singapore , Hong Kong and even some longer haul destinations. There are also domestic flights from all the cities in Thailand as a lot of visitors tend to include Phuket, Bangkok and often times a third city into their Thailand itinerary.

Once you are in Phuket, you will need to take a taxi or tuk tuk to get to your hotel. Alternatively, you can also rent a car so you can explore Phuket on a road trip at your own pace. I highly recommend doing that if you only have a day as otherwise you will spend a lot of time haggling with tuk tuk drivers. Having your own car will also allow you to hit a lot of the proposed places in this itinerary that may otherwise be a bit remote.

What to if you have only have one day in Phuket

Phuket has a lot to offer anyone but the reality is that most people come here for the beaches and the sea . If that is what you are interested in, you can visit some of the lesser known beaches in Phuket to relax without the crowds. I recommend doing that with your own car.

Paradise Beach Phuket

For something a bit more sophisticated, Paradise Beach has live music, DJs, bars and food and the beach is gorgeous. Don’t be put off by the full moon party signs, there is a secluded section where chillout music is played and you can relax. For something emptier, Freedom beach is a good choice.

If you prefer to explore a lesser known side of Phuket related to its heritage and Sindo-Portuguese past , head to Phuket Old Town where you can see beautiful shophouses, old buildings and enjoy a coffee or meal in a hip cafe.

Soi Romanee in Old Tow Phuket

For food and drink lovers Thailand is a paradise. Head to The Blue Elephant for a cooking lesson with one of the best known Thai chefs and then visit the Rum Distillery to learn how Chalong Bay Rum is made.

What to taste in Phuket

The Blue Elephant

Phuket, and Thailand in general, are foodie havens and all food, from the cheap street eats you can get for $2 to the elaborate Michelin starred meals are all great. So if you are in Phuket just for a day I would recommend finding something wherever you are. If you go to Paradise Beach you can eat there, if you are in Old Town, Blue Elephant is a great colonial inspired restaurant serving Royal Thai Cuisine.

Dinner is when you should splurge and what better way to do that than by ending the day with some stunning sunsets and Thai food and Thai wine ? I highly recommend The Boathouse . What started as a restaurant on the beach by one of the most famous Phuket chefs and hoteliers, Mom Tri, then became a restaurant with rooms and today is one of the most emblematic of the beach hotels in Thailand.

It’s still keeping its focus on the food and with excellent sunset views over Kata beach, the perfect combination to end the day. Did I say the restaurant has the largest wine cellar in Phuket? Including some Thai wines which are perfectly paired by the head sommelier.

If you just want a more casual sunset drink, there are a lot of spots to see the sunset in Phuket . Trust me, Phuket’s sunsets are always stunning no matter what. And for a more affordable option, buy a couple of beers and sit on the beach.

Where to stay in Phuket

Sri Panwa from above

There are more than 1,000 hotels and resorts on the island so the offer is overwhelming. If you want a luxury resort in Phuket , the choice is wide but I recommend Sri Panwa for the views and the cool atmosphere, and those pool cliff villas are to die for.

For a fantasy-fuelled stay Keemala is inspired by a mystical magical group of tribes. Kata Rocks has sexy villas above Kata beach and Amanpuri has Aman’s legendary service standards.

The Boathouse Phuket right on the beach

For a more affordable but chic option , there is pretty much every international hotel chain in Phuket usually offering good prices. If you want something more local and with character, try The Boathouse so you can just roll into bed after a satisfying Thai dinner with New Latitude Wines and a walk on picturesque Kata Beach.

Lastly, if you are visiting with your family, here are a few recommendations for the best family-friendly resorts in Phuket .

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Phuket One Day Tours & Trips

Do you know how to spend an interesting day at the resort? Choose Phuket day tours at our website and get ready for adventures. Islands, water parks, boat trips, snorkeling and diving – the list of Phuket entertainments is endless.

Price List for Tours and Excursions in Phuket

Phuket Day Tours, Trips, Packages

Day trips from Phuket to the islands will fill your holidays with vivid impressions. At the sandy beaches you can enjoy diving, snorkeling or just swimming. Exotic underwater world of the Andaman Sea will amaze you. You can also visit small shops and cafes, have a snack. In the evening, you will be taken to the pier and then to your hotel so that you can relax after an active day.

Families with children can spend weekend at Splash Jungle Water Park. There is a large selection of adult attractions and slides: extreme slides, Wave pools and lazy river, sauna, zone with geysers and many others! There is also a special area for children with safe slides and a shallow swimming-pool.

You can visit the most interesting places of the island in one day during the Cheow Lan Lake Tour. The route includes visiting Wat Suwan Khuha Temple and elephant village where you can ride elephants. Then you will visit the beautiful Cheow Lan lake, take a ride on the traditional Thai boat and have lunch in a floating restaurant. Don't forget your camera, extraordinary photos are guaranteed!

What about fishing? Do you want to catch a giant fish? Go on a Lake Fishing Tour. At Phuket Fishing Park you'll have an incredible catch.

One of the best day trips from Phuket for big families with curious kids is the Tour to Khao Lak. During the tour, you will visit Golden Buddha Temple, try elephant riding, rafting and enjoy the beautiful wild nature of the island.

Book the most popular Phuket day tour package at the best prices at our website. The organizers will take care of everything and you will only enjoy the comfortable trip. Every day in Phuket can be unforgettable!

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Phuket

The BEST PHUKET ITINERARY in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

It is a mark of impressive self-control to resist the urge to make a bad Phuket pun. They’re not even half as funny as you initially think, and probably about a tenth as clever.

But Phuket, life is short, and it does wonders for publicity…

Beautiful beaches, night markets, big buddhas and questionable (or seriously legit) Thai cooking classes are all up for grabs. But how to fit in all this wondrousness in such a short time?

The answer is in hand with my top-tier Phuket Itinerary , written for the purposes of indulging your island hopping, street food chopping, Bang Tao Beach loving appetites. These three days may well be some of the most enjoyable of the year, decade, century… etc.

Let’s see what we can do in Phuket!

a girl looking at the crystal clear water at a beach in Phuket, Thailand

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1 day trip phuket

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Phuket Itinerary

Where to stay in phuket, phuket itinerary, phuket itinerary day 1, phuket itinerary day 2, phuket itinerary day 3, what to do with more than 3 days in phuket, best time to visit phuket, how to get around phuket, plan a trip to phuket – what to prepare, faqs on great phuket itineraries, final thoughts.

Are you an edgy cool person intent on backpacking through Thailand ? Do you feel existential dread from the prospect of an unscripted day?

Then come on through! I am about to uncover some of the best things to do in Phuket , from delicious local dishes and beautiful Islands to authentic Thai culture…

a girl stopping to say hi to a family of monkeys in the streets of thailand

This 3-day Phuket itinerary is set up to be busy, so don’t worry if you feel you can fit everything in! There’s an unreasonable amount to do here, and just taking part in some of it will give you a real feel for the place.

Your Phuket trip is (as always) up to you, so take what you fancy, drop what you don’t, and hopefully, you’ll have a baseline for your perfect personalised itinerary. Taking the time to visit Phuket and its top attractions will be an unreal addition to your Thai adventure!

3-day Phuket Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1: Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier
  • Day 2: Bang Pae Waterfall | Sirinat National Park | Bang Tao Beach | The Banzaan Market | Paradise Beach | Bangla Road
  • Day 3: Patong Beach | Phang Nga Bay | Koh Panyi | James Bond Island

Before you head off on your travels, it’s worth getting to grips with where to stay in Phuket . Not only will this drastically improve the odds of your SO liking you, but it will also give you a good idea of what is up in this awesome Thai playground.

Phuket City (or Phuket Town) is Phuket’s capital and is the largest city for miles. If you enjoy learning about history and culture, Phuket City is the place to be. It has ok parties too.

a bull dog laying on the floor with his tongue out

Patong is the most popular tourist destination in the province of Phuket. With picture-perfect coastal views, stunning white sand beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful scenic surroundings, I can see why! If you’re searching for Phuket nightlife, Patong is where you want to be.

Karon beach is found on the west coast of Phuket island and is the second-largest tourist beach. Karon is just the place if you’re looking for out-of-this-world views, inviting turquoise waters and long stretches of white sand shores!

Staying with locals in Phuket  through a homestay is another awesome (and cheap) accommodation option, and it comes with a much more authentic feeling.

Best Hostel in Phuket- Lub D Phuket Patong

Phuket Itinerary

This magnificent Phuket Hostel was Voted in 2017 as the “Best New Hostel” in the world, and it must be seen to be believed. Take a dip in the see-through outdoor swimming pool, sunbathe on the huge terrace and treat yourself to a few delicious cocktails or beers. This is a place with vibe and friendliness oozing from the walls! Meet other travelers and enjoy the fun and relaxation of the space. If you’re looking for the beach, then it’s only 2 minutes away! If you want to hit the nightclubs & bars on Bangla road then you only have 5 minutes to walk.

Best Airbnb in Phuket: Luxury Room & Rooftop Pool with Phuket City Views

Luxury Room & Rooftop Pool with Phuket City Views, Phuket

Enjoy amazing views and modern amenities in this luxury condo in Phuket Town. Located on the 11th floor, this contemporary condo offers guests a king-sized bed, colourful décor, and comfortable living space.

With free wifi, two swimming pools and a fitness centre, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Phuket.

Best Budget Hotel in Phuket – U Sabai Living Hotel

U Sabai Living Hotel

This Budget pick is constantly surprising punters with its spacious rooms, cleanliness, and great location. Phuket international airport is 40 minutes away by car, whilst the famous Patong beach is just a 15-minute walk. Traditional Thai massages are on offer, and each room has a private bathroom. Snorkelling and sightseeing tours can be arranged from the front desk, and the on-site restaurant offers a mix of great Thai and western dishes.

Best Luxury Hotel in Phuket – Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa

One of the best luxury resorts going, this family-friendly resort offers guests access to 3 swimming pools, 8 dining options and a private beach. There is a fitness centre, two whirlpool pools, and of course, a great massage centre. One of the bars even offers guests the opportunity to swim up to it. There are loads of activities for kids on offer too, which makes it super great for family vacations, as well as romantic getaways. If you’re looking to be pampered, look no further.

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crystal clear water with rocks

Ok, without further ado, I present to you my epic, super fun, mostly well-thought-out Phuket Itinerary…

…Enjoy!

Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier

In and around Phuket, day 1 is all about getting to know your immediate surroundings. Then, we move down to southern Phuket, before returning to the city for a seaside dinner. Phuket city accommodation is preferred here!

8:00 am – Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town is a must-see place in Phuket and provides you with different shapes and sizes of old Sino-Portuguese splendors, plenty of funky shops, and boutique cafes! Explore and find some of the most unlikely places that will surprise and delight at the same time.

Phuket Old Town is the heart of Phuket’s island and also happens to be the capital. This town is far from ordinary, and offers so much more than you might think! Grab breakfast, and get ready for an awesome day.

Phuket Town displays attractive and aesthetic buildings that date back to the 1800s. There is a unique blend of colonial and Chinese architecture, joint with a tangible quaintness. This makes for a fascinating and eye-opening morning spent sauntering around Phuket’s Old Town. Expect the unexpected and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures !

  • Cost – Free
  • How long should I stay here? 1.5 hours
  • Getting there – Either you’re staying nearby, or you can taxi or bus. Phuket city is the centre so it’s not hard to get to!

11:00 am – Wat Chalong Temple

Wat Chalong Temple

This gorgeous temple showcases the brilliance of Phuket’s architectural creativity as well as the rich cultural history of religion on this island. Wat Chalong Temple is formally known as Wat Chaiyathararam and is a huge part of Phuket’s heritage!

Wat Chalong is the largest, most revered and most visited Buddhist temple in the whole of Phuket island. This temple was built at the beginning of the 19th century and is definitely at the top of our must-see places in Phuket.

You will see that the tallest building on the grounds of this stunning temple is the 60-meter tall stupa that shelters a magnificent bone fragment of the Lord Buddha. The walls and ceilings of the temple are adorned with beautiful and spiritually significant paintings that retrace the story of Buddha’s legendary life. Each of the three floors and also full of large donated golden statues.

  • Cost – Free, but donations are appreciated
  • How long should I stay here? 1 hour or less
  • Getting there – Grabbing a taxi or bus from Phuket is relatively easy. It’s well-known so you shouldn’t have problems getting there!

12:30 pm – Phuket Big Buddha

Phuket Big Buddha

The Phuket Big Buddha , otherwise known as The Great Buddha of Phuket, is a nobly seated Maravijaya Buddha statue in the south of Phuket island. The formal and official name is Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri, shortened to Ming Mongkol Buddha. Find this marvelous statue sitting atop Nakkerd Hill.

The Big Buddha is a 45-meter-tall white statue made entirely out of marble and is visible from anywhere in the southern part of Phuket as it protrudes the skies. Visiting this outstanding landmark is at the top of most must-do-in-Phuket lists and we can easily understand why! This is a monument that pays homage to the spiritual history of Phuket and it is a sobering experience to go and see it! The views from this mountain also happen to be breathtaking.

Mostly built on people’s donation in 2004, The Big Buddha Phuket is actually still under construction. If you feel like doing something to help to finish the broad base of the Buddha, you can sponsor a piece of white marble!

Make sure that you get there before it closes at 7pm!

  • How long should I stay here? 1.5 to 2 hours (with lunch!)
  • Getting there – Taxi, it’s about a 20-minute drive from Wat Chalong. It’s a 6km walk, but up a hill and in the day might not be the best idea.

2:30 pm – Kata Noi Beach

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Kata Noi is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Phuket. The white sands, gorgeous watercolour, and rising cliffs make this a top place to relax for the afternoon! The area gets waves good enough for surfers between May and October and is both pet and nudist-friendly. Kata Noi Beach is perched on the West Coast of Phuket, not too far from the Big Buddha.

Kata Noi is about 700 metres long, which means that if you’re looking for a bit of space, there is certainly that. There are also a load of activities to take part in; banana boating jet skiing and snorkelling are all possible past times here.

Hiking up to the nearby Karon viewpoint is a great way to put the beach into perspective. Enjoy some top-class views, and get familiar with some Thai jungle scenery!

  • Cost – Free (it’s a beach!)
  • How long should I stay here? around 3 hours. Get comfy!
  • Getting there – It’s half an hour’s drive again from the Phuket Big Buddha. Grab a taxi if you can!

6 pm – Prompthep Cape

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If you’re looking for a gorgeous sunset to finish the day off, then I have properly nailed this itinerary. The sunsets at Prompthep Cape are spectacular, but sadly this draws a pretty formidable tourist crowd. You can get a people-free shot by walking to the end of the Cape, but this isn’t an easy walk!

It’s at this point in the day when I start recommending alcohol. Bukito by Promthep Restaurant can offer dinner and drinks, but I’d recommend just going for a beverage or two – I’ve got a great dinner spot lined up for later. The Promthep lighthouse (also a small museum) is worth taking a look at, but it’s not worth staying much longer. Grab a photo, enjoy the sun setting, and get out of there!

People-watching here is excellent, since everyone is just waiting for a sunset photo.

  • Getting there – Sorry to say it’s another Taxi or drive from kata Noi beach. Takes about 20 minutes.

8 pm – Laem Hin Pier

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This is our evening endpoint. Located just north of Phuket City, you jump on a free shuttle boat which will take you out to a pier filled with some of the best local seafood places on the island.

Laem Hin is a vast wooden construction, but can still get reasonably busy. The seafood here is just amazing, so it’s understandable. It’s also cheap! So if you’re here with a family you can really go for the banquet experience.

After a long day, you’ll be ready to relax, so grab a beer or two, then head back to your Phuket Town accommodation for a good night’s rest. You’re going to need it!

  • Cost – Pay for what you buy (<$10)
  • How long should I stay here? around 2 hours
  • Getting there – Long drive back to Phuket town (just under an hour). Then take the ferry shuttle over to the restaurant.

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Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Bang Pae Waterfall | Sirinat National Park | Bang Tao Beach | The Banzaan Market | Paradise Beach | Bangla Road

Day 2 is all about tripping, specifically day tripping, and getting out into the furthest reaches of North and Eastern Phuket. Staying near Patong beach will allow you to make the most of this day.

8:30 am – Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae waterfall is one of the top three best-known waterfalls in Phuket, perhaps four if you include a tiny one in Layan Bay, but only three are significant: Bang Pae, Kathu Waterfall and Tonsai Waterfall.

This is a must-see waterfall and getting there is an absolute adventure! Travel through the dense rainforests of Phuket, and see indigenous birds in their natural habitat. The waterfall is on part of a National Park which means you will also see some of the most spectacular jungle fauna!

Bang Pae waterfall is breathtaking and remarkably easy to reach. Take a stroll and see Thai teens and families playing in the stream as you walk up the hill. Visiting a waterfall is a wonderful way to spend a day during your weekend in Phuket, as this is when it is most busy and attracts the locals.

Grab a quick hotel/ hostel breakfast before embarking on this early-morning adventure!

  • Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) for the national park, and then you will pay either a THB 20 (63c) parking fee for a motorbike or THB 30 (95c) for a car.
  • How long should I stay here? 2 to 3 hours
  • Getting there – Worth hiring a taxi man for the day if I’m honest, but you can bike it too! It’s a 40-minute journey from Phuket Town

11:30 am – Sirinat National Park

Sirinat National Park

The picturesque Sirinat National Park is found on the northwestern coast of Phuket Island.

There is such an atmosphere of peacefulness and so many new types of vegetation and wildlife for you to stumble across! Sirinat National Park stretches over a large amount of pine-fringed beaches, including Nai Thon, Nai Yang, and Mai Khao Beach.

Mai Khao Beach is famous for being the exotic home of nesting sea turtles, such as the leatherbacks and hawksbills! You can also explore tropical coral reefs that are clustered in the clear waters offshore and escape into massive mangrove forests in Sai Kaew Beach.

This is a truly amazing place to be, but it is rural. Pack some snacks for your day before you arrive. Lunch isn’t until later!

  • Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) per adult and THB 100 ($3,17) per child.
  • Getting there – Sirinat National Park isn’t far from the Bang Pae Waterfall. Hop in your car, you’ll be there in 20 minutes!

Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for the birdlife, many famous and rare birds can be sighted within the canopies of Sirinat National Park! One of the most popular is the Kingfisher.

2 pm – Bang Tao Beach

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If you fancy a slice of the untouched, then Bang Tao beach is for you! An amazingly quiet, pristine beach, it is a great place to doze away the hours of the early afternoon. You’ll need to – things heat up later.

Bang Tao beach is one of the longest beaches on Phuket island. It is relatively uncluttered, and much more peaceful than many of the other beaches in Phuket. There are great fancy restaurants at hotels, but there are some midrange and cheaper places too. Stop off for a relaxing lunch to rejuvenate. Since the beach is so long, I’d recommend heading for the Southern section. There are more places to eat, and it makes the next section of your journey shorter.

Sit back, relax, grab some lunch, and then spread out the beach towel for a little early afternoon sunbathing.

  • Cost – Free!
  • How long should I stay here? About 2 hours
  • Getting there – Just head due south down the coast, it’s on the way to Patong beach. Takes around half an hour.

4:30 pm – The Banzaan Market

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Get swept into the energetic and vibrant mass energy here and explore a new way of shopping. The Banzaan Market is a modern-looking Thai fresh market found on Sai Kor Road, behind the Jungceylon.

Take the time to check into your Patong beach accommodation, and then head back out to the Banzaan market!

You will basically come across all kinds of produce and crafts that you could expect at any other street market, but the Banzaan Market is hosted in a much more pleasant envious mentioned and is famous for being so well organized.

The locals go all out to showcase their best products, and you will be amazed at the bargains you can hunt for! This is a cultural way to end the last of your 2 days in Phuket!

  • Cost – Entrance is free
  • How long should I stay here? About 1 hour
  • Getting there – Short taxi (or walk), after a half-hour drive from Bang Tao beach.

6 pm – Paradise Beach

Paradise Beach

The drinks are delicious, but the food is even better. Choose from their vast range of both Indian and Thai cuisine! We suggest going wild here and trying as many different dishes as you can!

Welcome to paradise! This magnificent and rather private beach is less than 200m in length and hosts a little rocky headland that kind of makes it two beaches if you want to get technical. Paradise Beach is a cosy and tiny cove near Patong and is famous for having lush and calm waters that feature a soft seabed mostly throughout the year.

Sunbathe or stroll the pristine white sand and be shaded by nodding palm trees, you will feel as if you are part of a photo shoot for a holiday brochure! Laze and allow yourself to emerge into the peaceful, picturesque environment that Paradise Beach provides.

Being the home of Paradise Beach Club, this magical cove even has a great choice of facilities, including upbeat restaurants, bars, sea kayaks, beach chairs and so much more. You can even get your party on and join one of Phuket’s only Koh Phangan-style beach parties !

I’d recommend grabbing dinner here, before heading back to Patong to experience the night life.

  • Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) per person.
  • How long should I stay here? Around 2 hours
  • Getting there – Paradise beach is about 20 minutes from the Banzaan Market, on the West coast.

10 pm – Bangla Road

Bangla Road

Bangla Road in Patong is notoriously named for its highly energetic and lively nightlife! Bangla Road is a  must-visit while you’re in Phuket and you will find the experience to be unforgettable. The nightlife is at the top of its game and offers more clubs than anywhere else in Phuket! Bangla Road is also packed with a ridiculous amount of vibrantly lit bars, go-go bars, girly bars, and relaxed ex-pat bars – think lots of drinks, bizarre spectacles and music!

As the sun goes down, Bangla road becomes closed off to traffic, making it a wonderful space for easy pub-hopping! The neon lights and bars start to come alive and the music from all the bars starts to intertwine with each other.

Have a noisy, fun and energetic night out in this famous street and have a night that will open your eyes to a whole new world! This road in itself is an experience to be had and it can feel like you’re headed into a fantasy land. There are many side roads (called Soi’s in Thai) that lead off from Bangla Road. Here you will find even more bars, as well as mini clubs.

  • How long should I stay here? All night, all day who knows? Tomorrow does happen at some point though so try and get a little sleep xx
  • Getting there – Back to the hotel from Paradise beach (car/taxi 20 minutes), then walk out to the town from your hotel!

Insider Tip: When partying the night away, expect to be hit on by a few ‘women of the night’ and even ‘men of the night’ as Bangala Road is also the sex capital of Phuket. I would strongly recommend that you turn them down, as not all of it is hugely ethical.

Phuket Itinerary

Lub D Phuket Patong

Lub D Phuket Patong Is one of the most EPIC hostels in Phuket! This magnificent Hostel was Voted in 2017 as the “Best New Hostel” in the world, and it must be seen to be believed.

  • Large see-through swimming pool

Patong Beach | Phang Nga Bay | Koh Panyi | James Bond Island

Day 3 is when we ditch the land and look seawards. Think island hopping, but better because I’m in charge…

Accommodation is up to you here, but staying near Phang Nga Bay might be easiest!

9 am – Patong Beach

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A lazy morning is probably not just desired but needed after the previous evening’s revelry. Take an easy stroll down to the beach for a morning swim to wake you up. Grab some street food or breakfast too!

An army marches on its stomach, and there is still lots to do today! Rent a beach chair, drool on the sand a little, but ready yourself! If you’re feeling refreshed already, there is paragliding, jet skiing, and other beachy activities to get you pumped.

Take advantage of a beach massage if you really want to get the ball rolling, and there are always people who will sell you a smoothie by the side of the road. Try one! Patong beach is very much a love-or-hate thing. It is busy but super beautiful. If you don’t mind other people, then you should have a great time.

  • Getting there – Short taxi, or walk from your Patong Beach accommodation.

12:00 am – Phang Nga Bay

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Okay, this is where a visit to Phuket (although already brilliant) becomes truly legendary. Phang Nga Bay itself is made up of hundreds of different points of interest, and choosing which ones to do is entirely up to you!

I’ve included Koh Panyi and James Bond Island on the itinerary list because they are must-haves, but get exploring and you’ll have an awesome time here!

The cave of the reclining Buddha is a great place to start before heading over to Koh Panyi for some lunch. After James Bond Island, think about heading to Laem Haad Beach, Koh Panak, Koh Hong, Kudu Yai or the Koh Yao Islands. Since Phang Nga Bay has so much to do, and it’s relatively spaced apart, it’s worth getting either a private tour boat or joining one with others. There’s so much to see, and it’s not worth missing out on!

  • Cost – 200 Baht ($6) for entrance, plus boat costs
  • How long should I stay here? All day, but try the reclining Buddha first (around 1 hour)
  • Getting there – Sadly, transfer over to Phang Nga from Patong takes around 2 hours. It is super worth it though! Hotels will often offer tours of Phang Nga bay, or you can join a private one!

1:30 pm – Koh Panyi

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This fishing village is almost entirely built on stilts. There is brilliant seafood, which makes it a great lunchtime stop, but people know about it (so it can get crowded too). It’s up to you if you want to luncheon here, but sitting down and taking an easy lunch can be a great way to ease the effects of the two-hour drive in the morning.

It’s a pretty crazy village, and the natural scenery surrounding it is absolutely stunning. There is even a mosque on the island, which is worth having a look at. However, aside from walking the town and trying the seafood, there is not much else to do. Enjoy the environment and prepare for bigger and better things!

  • Cost – To hire a private boat to the island it’s 1500 Baht (around $40). There are regular ferries which are much cheaper.
  • How long should I stay here? under 2 hours
  • Getting there – You can catch a longtail boat from Surakul pier, which takes around 20 minutes.

3:00 pm – James Bond Island

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The famous James Bond Island (or Khao Phing Kan) gathered a lot of international interest, and now gets swarmed with tourists…

But that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it! It is a stunning place to be, and the cute coves and beaches make a visit very enjoyable. There are some interesting things to buy too, as vendors inevitably follow the tourist crowd.

James Bond island gets mixed reviews since many people go there. Like the Colosseum or Eiffel tower, people just want a money shot before clearing off. However, it is super pretty, and it’s worth going if you’re in the area anyway.

After you’ve enjoyed this tourist trap, I’d recommend chilling at a more relaxed beach until the bay closes at six, or going back to your hotel. If you fancy something active, there is a great range of outdoorsy ways you can explore the magical environment of Phang Nga Bay!

  • Cost – Boats can range between 400 and 2000 Baht (for a private)
  • How long should I stay here? an hour or less
  • Getting there – Boat from Koh Panyi

If you have the time, here are some things that you might want to squeeze in. Alternatively, substitute (or add in) some of these amazing gems to give your trip a distinctly “you” factor…

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Koh Racha, AKA Raya Island, is an island about 20 km south of Phuket. There aren’t any roads or cars, which makes this a haven for naturists. Lots of swimming, snorkelling and beaching is clearly on the cards.

Whilst you can certainly cover most of Raya Island in a single-day trip, if you really want to get a handle on this island, then I’d suggest staying over. There are some really really nice resorts, hotels and hostels that will have everything you need for a great stay.

The amazing Patok beach is a great place to sunbathe, and there are plenty of other things to take part in on the island. Fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, and jet skiing could form part of a top-class day.

  • How long should I stay here? All day?
  • Getting there – 30 minute speedboat from Phuket

Phi Phi Islands

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The Phi Phi Islands were popularised by Leonardo Dicaprio and his pretty face. After he had been there, suddenly everyone else wanted to be there too, and it quickly became a tourist hotspot.

There are several islands in the Phi Phi archipelago, including the main island of Phi Phi Don. Bamboo Island is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, pristine natural state, and amazing snorkelling and diving. Ko Yung (Mosquito Island) is similar but slightly larger. Both these islands are uninhabited.

If you’re looking for some truly unbelievable beaches and marine life, then the Phi Phi Islands are a top destination for you.

  • How long should I stay here? Worth spending a night here. Lots to do!
  • Getting there – Boat from Phuket City

Phuket Simon Cabaret

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Experience something that you have never seen before with this intimate theater extravaganza! The show is a must-see attraction during your travels in Phuket! Witness an extravagant cabaret show with dancers in sparkly attire and even sparklier headdresses.

One of the oddest aspects that makes this show unusual is that it is probably the biggest “transvestite” cabaret show to be found in Phuket. This show features a spectacular musical floor show being performed by the world-famous “ladyboys” of Simon Cabaret.

See for yourself! You will be surprised how elaborate the costumes and makeup are, and how hard it becomes to tell the difference! Stunning costumes, bright lights, an excellent sound system, and expensive decorative sets are all part of this theatrical event that is not to be missed!

One of the coolest things to do in Phuket is to have a glamorous night out at the Simon Cabaret Show. See a variety of acts by dazzling men dressed as beautiful women complete with eye-catching costumes!

  • Cost – Tickets are THB 600 ($18,83).
  • How long should I stay here? 2 hours
  • Getting there – Taxi, or walk in Phuket City

Phuket Sunday Night Market

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The Phuket Sunday Market is known for having a hugely varied selection of curios and secondhand items on sale in a bustling market atmosphere! This is very different from the usual local markets where you can find copied T-shirts and cheap jeans. Hosted from the starting point at Thepkasattri Road and stretching all along the streets to Phuket Road.

All of the old Sino-Portuguese houses along Thalang road are brightly lit with ever-changing colours that add an extra spark to the festive mood created by this one-of-a-kind market! This beautiful historical street is very proud to be the first road on the entire island that is completely free of any large and ugly electric cables hanging around looking like a gigantic mess.

The market is an opportunity for you to try one of the Phuket specialities and explore your boundaries with cuisine! You can find a good mix of sweets and snacks to nibble as you walk. One of the most strange things is the horseshoe crab salad, which is not for the light-hearted!

  • How long should I stay here? No more than an hour or two. The market is open from 4 pm til 9 pm
  • Getting there – Taxi or walk

a girl sleeping in a hammock on a tropical beach in thailand

Phuket has a welcoming, warm and tropical climate. The beautiful temperatures are wayyy hotter than they are cold, and even when it’s cold, it’s really still quite humid.

The extremely rainy Monsoon season begins mid-May and goes on till October, but don’t let this deter you. This is when Phuket is quiet, so you can experience a more authentic cultural side of the places you visit. It’s the perfect time to visit Phuket’s museums too.

Phuket’s high tourist season is from November to February. During this time, the days are sunny and you won’t have a drop of rain! Making it perfect for lazy afternoons, sightseeing, hiking and water sports.

When getting from place to place in Phuket, there are several options to consider. Tuk-tuks are found everywhere in Thailand, so you will easily be able to hire one at any given time to get you from A  to B. Be sure your driver understands where you want to go and check for an authentic license before you accept your ride!

Hiring out a bike is an excellent option when travelling in Phuket, and is ideal for couples or solo travellers. There are many businesses that hire out bikes, and most hotels offer this service or will know a company.

a girl taking a selfie wearing a helmet as she rides on the back of a scooter.

Taxis are found easily, so hiring one is a good option and the prices are usually very reasonable! The locals are very used to tourists visiting Phuket, and can share some knowledge with you on the coolest places.

Walking in Phuket is beautiful, each place is pumping with vibrancy and culture! Meet the locals, find new spots and enjoy the street food. A lot of places in Phuket are easy to walk to, and it is well worth taking a stroll in some of the more culturally rich and scenic areas.

Packing for a tropical climate is the easiest packing you can do – couple of shorts and a t-shirt, and you’re good to go. Packing for thailand is usually straightforward.

The vast majority of the time, Phuket is a very safe place to visit, but it is good to know a few safety tips too. Be sure to keep your wits about you when dealing with locals after a few drinks, as things can get ugly if you lose your cool and start shouting or behaving like an ass. For the ladies, don’t drink alone or walk the streets at night by yourself, and watch out for drink spiking.

a traditional Thai boat in the ocean of Krabi, Thailand

There are also some safety precautions to heed when swimming in the famous ocean waters of Phuket. Although Phuket’s main beaches are now well-staffed with lifeguards, there are still a number of drownings that occur each year. When the beaches are lined with red flags, these are a warning of strong waves and undertow.

Other safety measures would be simple things like, wearing a helmet if you rent a motorbike in Phuket, driving cautiously and never driving drunk as Phuket has the highest rate of car accidents in Thailand.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Phuket

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

1 day trip phuket

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us when they plan their Phuket itinerary.

Is a Trip to Phuket a Good Idea?

Probably one of the best you’ve had I’d say. Phuket is magical in every capacity, and taking the time to visit Phuket will boost your Thailand trip into the stratosphere. Not only is it relatively cheap, but it’s super beautiful too!

How long should I spend in Thailand, Phuket Island?

Ideally, you should spend around a week getting to know Phuket, but anything 3 days or above is great too. There is so much to do here, and it’s easiest to get fully comfortable here if you spend a little longer.

What are some awesome free things to do in Phuket?

There are heaps to do for free. Explore the fascinating streets of Phuket Old Town before hitting up one of the many beaches.

What are the best Phuket things to do at night?

Bangla Road is the epicentre of the nightlife scene in Phuket. Alternatively, try the Phuket Sunday Night Market if you want a different vibe.

Phuket is not only a beautiful paradise of long-stretching beaches but also a hub of cultural experiences and friendly locals just waiting to share their stories with you! Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and enjoy moments that take your breath away.

It doesn’t matter how many days in Phuket you spend, you are bound to take something back from the experience. Laze around and allow these lifelong memories to soak in, as you will fall in love with everything about the astounding and magical island!

With our Phuket travel guide, you will have the most amazing time of your life in this mesmerizing part of Thailand as each moment will be full of new experiences and wonderment!

a girl at a secluded beach in Krabi, Thailand as the sun sets

Clair Cathryn

Phuket Itinerary Pinterest Image

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1 day trip phuket

It’s my second time in Phuket, and I love it! I haven’t visited the Elephant Sanctuary and the Big Buddha yet. Thanks for the tips!

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Banana Beach by Speed Boat

Banana Beach by Speed Boat

Banana Beach+Sunset by Catamaran

Banana Beach+Sunset by Catamaran

Kahung Beach by Speed Boat

Kahung Beach by Speed Boat

Kahung + Racha by Speed Boat

Kahung + Racha by Speed Boat

Kahung Beach + Sunset by Catamaran

Kahung Beach + Sunset by Catamaran

Kahung + Racha + Sunset by Catamaran

Kahung + Racha + Sunset by Catamaran

Khai Island by Speed Boat

Khai Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi Island by Express Boat

Phi Phi Island by Express Boat

Phi Phi & Khai Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi & Khai Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speed Catamaran

Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speed Catamaran

Phi Phi Island by Royal Jet Cruise

Phi Phi Island by Royal Jet Cruise

Phi Phi & Maiton + Sunset by Power Catamaran

Phi Phi & Maiton + Sunset by Power Catamaran

Phang Nga by Big Boat – James Bond Canoe

Phang Nga by Big Boat – James Bond Canoe

Phang Nga by Speed Boat

Phang Nga by Speed Boat

Similan Island by Speed Boat

Similan Island by Speed Boat

Similan by Speed Catamaran

Similan by Speed Catamaran

Surin Island by Speed Boat

Surin Island by Speed Boat

Krabi 3 island by Express Boat

Krabi 3 island by Express Boat

Phuket Fantasea- Best theme park of Thailand

Phuket Fantasea- Best theme park of Thailand

Yacht Party James Bond+Hong Phang Nga

Yacht Party James Bond+Hong Phang Nga

AQUARIA Phuket

AQUARIA Phuket

Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic

Phuket Dolphins Show

Phuket Dolphins Show

Siam Niramit Phuket

Siam Niramit Phuket

Phuket Simon Cabaret Show

Phuket Simon Cabaret Show

Thai Boxing

Thai Boxing

Phuket Tiger Kingdom

Phuket Tiger Kingdom

Racha + Sunset with Sail Sip Sound Yacht

Racha + Sunset with Sail Sip Sound Yacht

Bamboo Rafting

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

  • Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
  • Phuket to Chalong
  • Phuket to Phang Nga
  • Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • Likely to Sell Out
  • Special Offers
  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1 day trip phuket

1. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V.Marine

1 day trip phuket

2. Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island - Big Boat

1 day trip phuket

3. Luxury Boat to James Bond Islands with Lunch and Sunset Dinner

1 day trip phuket

4. Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips

1 day trip phuket

5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket

1 day trip phuket

6. Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha, Wat Chalong

1 day trip phuket

7. Phuket Jet Ski Tour to 7 Islands with Pickup and Transfer

1 day trip phuket

8. Private Phuket City Tour with Guide

1 day trip phuket

9. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

1 day trip phuket

10. Starlight Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

1 day trip phuket

11. Phi Phi and Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour with Lunch by Speedboat

1 day trip phuket

12. Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands Snorkeling Tour with Lunch by Speedboat

1 day trip phuket

13. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

1 day trip phuket

14. ATV Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

1 day trip phuket

15. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

1 day trip phuket

16. James Bond Island with Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

1 day trip phuket

17. Similan Island Sunrise: Early Bird Adventure in Tropical Paradise

1 day trip phuket

18. Travstore Original Phuket Discovery Tour - Shared Half Day City Tour

1 day trip phuket

19. Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, Khai Nai Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

1 day trip phuket

20. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

1 day trip phuket

21. Small Groups of 20 people - Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands with Lunch

1 day trip phuket

22. Full-Day Phi Phi and Maiton islands Tour by Speed Catamaran

1 day trip phuket

23. Private Phi Phi and Khai Islands Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat

1 day trip phuket

24. Khai Island Half Day Tour in 3 Islands (Khai Nai,Khai Nok,Khai Nui) from Phuket

1 day trip phuket

25. Hype Boat Club: Phuket 's Most Unique Catamaran Experience

1 day trip phuket

26. Private Customized Phuket Tour with Driver

1 day trip phuket

27. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

1 day trip phuket

28. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes Lunch

1 day trip phuket

29. Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island with Canoeing By Big Boat

1 day trip phuket

30. Half-Day Countryside Cycling Small-group Tour in Phuket

What travelers are saying.

Claire M

PlanetWare.com

9 Top-Rated Day Trips from Phuket

Written by Karen Hastings Mar 27, 2019 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Phuket sits amid some of the world's most ravishing scenery. Lush limestone peaks jut from the emerald Andaman Sea and punctuate the dense jungles on land, providing superb options for day trips. The most popular Phuket tours are multi-island boat tours, where you can skim the clear waters through towering rock formations on a speedboat or traditional longtail boat and explore nearby archipelagos.

Not far from all the things to do in Phuket lie the famous Phi Phi Islands , with Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, and Phang Nga Bay , home to the distinctive pinnacle made famous in a James Bond film. Further afield are the Similan Islands , a favorite diving location. All this beauty lures hordes of tourists, but just a short hop from Phuket are a few sleepy islands, where the locals still follow their traditional way of life, and you can step back in time and soak up a more authentic Thai vibe.

Eco adventures are also a highlight. In Khao Sok National Park , you can spend time with elephants; canoe down the serene Sok River; and trek through the jungle, where monkeys and gibbons swing through the treetops, and tigers and bears still roam. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top day trips from Phuket.

1. Phi Phi Islands

2. phang nga bay, 3. khao sok national park, 4. coral island, 5. racha islands, 6. khao lak, 7. mu ko similan national park, 8. koh yao yai, 9. koh yao noi, map of day trips from phuket.

Phi Phi Islands

Hands down the most popular day trip from Phuket are the Phi Phi Islands. About 45 to 60 minutes away by speedboat from the Royal Phuket Marina, these six dazzling islands are famous for their dramatic limestone karst formations, cloaked in lush foliage, which jut from the jade-green sea.

Here, you'll find famous sights, such as Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Ley, the location of the famous film The Beach, and Koh Phi Phi Don , the archipelago's only inhabited island. Packed with resorts, this island is famous for the crab-eating macaques at Monkey Beach and the white sands of Laem Thong . Snorkeling is excellent in the crystal-clear waters around the islands.

A great way to visit Phi Phi Island without the crowds is on the Morning Phi Phi Island with Maya Bay Snorkeling Tour. This 10-hour excursion departs at sunrise, arriving before the big tourist groups, and you'll have a chance to snorkel in the luminous waters of Maya Bay and see the macaques of Monkey Beach.

James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay

More than 100 steep, jungle-cloaked rock islands dot the clear, green waters around Phang Nga Bay, creating a breathtaking seascape that is best viewed from the water. A large area of the bay is protected as the Ao Phang Nga National Park .

The most famous island is Koh Tapu (meaning "Nail Island" in Thai) more commonly known as James Bond Island, thanks to its distinctive top-heavy pinnacle made famous in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun . Koh Ping Ghan is another popular stop and a great place to snap a photo of James Bond Island's famous rock formation.

Many boat tours also include a lunch stop at the Muslim fishing village of Koh Panyee, which is home to wooden shops and homes built on stilts above the island's fringing shallow waters. Other tour highlights include swimming at Naka Island and kayaking through the limestone sea caves or Hong ("rooms") at Koh Panak and Koh Hong . Try to pick a tour that leaves in the early morning or after lunch, as tourists clog the islands in the middle of the day.

A rewarding way to explore this breathtaking bay is on the ten-hour Hong by starlight tour with sea cave kayaking, which includes a powerboat ride from Phuket and a paddle around the caves and cliffs of Phang Nga Bay. Top off your day with a seafood buffet dinner under the moonlight.

If you also want to explore the beauty under the water, the eight-hour Phang Nga Bay Kayaking tour combines a kayaking tour with a chance to swim, snorkel (bring your own gear), and sunbathe at Lawa Island.

Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park

About 150 kilometers from Phuket, Khao Sok National Park is a visual symphony. Lush greens, deep blue lakes, waterfalls, and towering limestone peaks provide eye-popping scenery, all set in 738 square kilometers of one of the planet's oldest rainforests. Nature lovers will be in heaven here. Favorite things to do include canoeing and kayaking down the Sok River, elephant experiences, exploring bat-filled caves, and jungle trekking.

Deep in the national park, man-made Cheow Lan Lake is a top attraction, with floating raft houses and luxury camps with tents perched on pontoons above the water. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna. Wildlife includes spectacled langurs, wild elephants, tigers, deer, boar, bear, and marbled cats. If you're lucky, you might even spot wild gibbons swinging through the jungle canopy. The park is also home to more than 300 species of birds, including the impressive hornbill.

This is one of Thailand's rainiest areas, so the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December through April.

Official site: http://www.khaosok.com/index.php

Coral Island

Called Koh Hae by the locals, Coral Island lies about six kilometers southeast of Phuket and is a popular day trip destination for snorkelers and beach lovers, although the coral here has seen better days. You'll find two lovely but typically crowded stretches of soft, white sand here: Long Beach , where many of the tour boats land, and Banana Beach , a rugged fifteen-minute walk through the jungle from the eastern end of Long Beach.

The day trippers who come here love to feed the many fish that congregate in the clear water, or kick out to the offshore coral reefs to snorkel with the tropical fish, including parrotfish, butterfly fish, and trumpet fish. Parasailing, kayaking, banana boat rides, and massages on the beach are other popular activities.

Deck chairs are available along the shore, and you can also enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. This is one of the cheap Phuket tours that gives you a taste of a different island.

Racha Yai

Translucent turquoise water and white sands lure crowds of day trippers to the two Racha Islands, about 12 kilometers south of Phuket. Racha Yai (Big Racha) is the most popular, with its beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay, called Ao Tawan Tok, and luxury villa-style resort The Racha . Ao Siam, the island's other large bay, tends to be a little quieter. The main activities here are snorkeling and swimming in the warm, clear waters and basking on the white sands.

Racha Noi (Little Racha) is uninhabited and has no tourist infrastructure, but the surrounding waters offer some decent diving. Phuket sightseeing tours usually depart from Chalong Pier or Rawai, and the trip takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of boat. This day trip is often combined with a stop at Coral Island.

Khao Lak

On the mainland, about 80 kilometers north of Phuket, laid-back Khao Lak features about 20 kilometers of silky golden-sand beaches stretching along the north Andaman coast. On the road trip from Phuket, you'll pass through quiet little coastal towns, which seem a world away from the crowds of the big resorts.

Devastated by the 2004 tsunami, much of Khao Lak has been rebuilt, and it's still a popular holiday destination in itself, with a much slower pace than Phuket. You'll find many upscale, low-rise resorts and a family-friendly vibe.

Day trippers will find plenty to do here. Top on the list is basking on the beautiful beaches, lapped by calm blue waters and lined with coconut palms, casuarinas, and rustic cafés. Lush mountains form a beautiful backdrop to the region, and three national parks, including Khao Sok , sprawl in the hinterland.

Popular attractions and things to do in the area include elephant encounters, bamboo rafting trips, waterfalls, tourist markets, and a tsunami memorial. Khao Lak is also an excellent jumping-off point to explore the relatively unspoiled Surin Islands and Similan Islands , with some of the region's best diving.

Soft coral colony, Similan Islands

About 90 kilometers offshore from Phuket, this 70-square-kilometer national park encompasses eleven uninhabited islands. It is usually the domain of avid divers and tourists hoping to escape the crowds of Phang-Na Bay and the Phi Phi Islands.

Despite their distance from Phuket (more than two hours each way in a speedboat), greater numbers of day trippers are visiting the Similan Islands, and their numbers tend to swell around lunchtime. The scenery is stunning - striking turquoise seas, white sand, and smooth granite boulders rim their shores, and hiking trails lead to lookouts in the lush hills behind the beaches.

Sharks, rays, and vast schools of smaller fish swim in these crystal-clear waters, but unfortunately some of the hard corals have been damaged by coral bleaching and the onslaught of tourist boats. In 2016, the Thai government closed one of the archipelago's most popular islands, Koh Tachai, indefinitely due to environmental damage.

Try to pick a calm day for a tour to the islands, as the return boat trip can be choppy when the winds pick up, and note that the park is only open from October 16 to May 15.

If you prefer a more remote outer island experience, the Surin Islands , north of the Similan Islands, are also accessible from Phuket, but it's a long day trip.

Official site: https://www.thainationalparks.com/mu-ko-similan-national-park

Koh Yao Yai

Only 20 kilometers east of Phuket (about 30 minutes by longtail boat), Koh Yao Yai ("big long island") offers Phuket day trippers a laid-back pace and a more traditional Thai vibe. Its peaceful, secluded white-sand beaches are one of its finest features; Loh Paret in particular is ideal for swimming, and Laem Had beach, on Yao Yai's northeast corner, is also lovely.

Rice fields, rubber plantations, and coconut groves cloak the countryside, and a single concrete road through the center of the island is the main thoroughfare. (Bicycles and motorbikes are the most popular modes of transport.) Most day trippers rent a motorbike to explore the island, stopping off to visit the little villages or take a cool dip in the sea.

Koh Yao Noi

Like its sister island (Koh Yao Yai) but a little more developed, Koh Yao Noi ("small long island") in Phang Nga Bay, feels like the slower-paced Thailand of 20 years ago. This island is farther away from Phuket, about one hour by long tail boat, but the views of Phang Nga Bay on the way are worth the extra travel time. The locals still follow their traditional way of life here, fishing, farming, and running small shops out of rustic buildings in the Muslim village.

Many travelers come here to escape the crowds of the big resorts, soak up some authentic local culture, and relax on the relatively clean palm-fringed beaches. Along the coast, you can see beautiful views of Phang Nga Bay's limestone rock formations rising from the sea.

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Beaches and Resorts: If you are traveling through this area of Thailand, chances are, you are a beach lover. For more inspiration, see our article where to find the Best Beaches in Thailand .

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One Week Itinerary in Phuket – What to Do in Phuket in a week or two?

  • 1st Time in Phuket , Information , Phuket Itineraries , What to Do?
  • Last updated 30 June 2022 22 January 2024

How to plan a week one Phuket?

One week in Phuket (or two) offers a lot of opportunities. Considering the island’s size, there is so much to do here; 2 or 3 days would give you a glimpse at best. In a week, you will have enough time to go around Phuket, explore islands nearby, relax on the beach, and even treat yourself to a spa treatment to recover!

Here we suggest itineraries for each day; you can mix and match as you see fit. Everyone likes their holiday differently; some prefer to relax first to recover from work. Some want to go around as soon as possible, then relax and recover before heading home. Some like it all and will pack every day with experiences and exploration. We didn’t include night activities because these will mostly depend on how tired you will be and which beach your hotel is.

A good way to plan one week in Phuket is to mix and match the following:

  • 2 or 3 days to explore the island itself
  • 2 days on an island nearby
  • 1 day to Phang Nga Bay
  • 1 day trip to another island
  • 1 day to visit less known places
  • 1 day to enjoy the many beaches of Phuket

Day 1 – South Phuket

The Big Buddha

This day can include The Big Buddha , Wat Chalong , Karon Viewpoint , Promthep Cape , Windmill Viewpoint , and Phuket Town .

The south of the island is rich with landmarks and beautiful beaches. A good way to explore is to drive down along the west coast and stop at the Karon Viewpoint to admire the three bays of Kata Noi, Kata and Karon Beach. Keep going and stop at Nai Harn Beach and Ya Nui Beach until you reach Promthep Cape , then stop at Rawai , where you can enjoy a seafood lunch by the ocean. There are a few restaurants to enjoy in the south of Phuket: the Rawai Seafood Market is very popular for seafood, but it can get very busy during the high season, spoiling the mood. We prefer eating in a local restaurant on the roadside by the ocean ( Aek Seafood ), or Rock Salt at the Nai Harn Resort is a real treat for a more fancy lunch.

aek seafood restaurant

After lunch, drive up north, stop at the Big Buddha , enjoy the monument and the superb panoramas, and then the nearby Wat Chalong , the most important Thai temple on the island. If you hired a van with a driver , ask him to stop at Chalong Bay Rum Factory to try fun cocktails with locally produced rum. On the way back, exploring Old Phuket Town for a couple of hours is a good way to end the ride.

wat Chalong

A great way to explore the south of Phuket is to hire a knowledgeable van with a driver . It is stress-free and very affordable.

A typical day would look like this: 9 am pickup at the hotel > Karon Beach > Kata viewpoint > Nai Harn Beach > Windmill Viewpoint > Rawai Beach > Big Buddha > Lunch at Mountain Breeze > Chalong Temple > Visit the Old Town > 5 pm back to the hotel.

Such a day costs between 2,000 to 2,500 baht, depending on your hotel location (2,500 is when you stay in the island’s north, such as Surin, Bangtao or Maikhao beaches).

Karon Viewpoint in Phuket

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Day 2 – Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay Kayaking

This day can include James Bond Island , Koh Panyi , Kayaking around the cliffs , Reclining Buddha in a cave , and Samet Nangshee viewpoint .

Phang Nga is a jaw-dropping natural wonder, an absolute must-see on a first visit! There are many ways to spend a day there. You can book a day trip to go there by boat or drive there. The boat is easygoing, and since Phang Nga is a bay, the sea is always calm, and no one ever gets seasick. Each tour may use a slightly different itinerary but always include some easygoing kayaking. You won’t have to paddle yourself; your guide will do the paddling. You will explore some amazing enclosed lagoons surrounded by immense cliffs covered with vegetation and intricate passages to go around islands.

James Bond Island

Later you will get a chance to visit the famous James Bond Island . The movie is old, but the location is unique. Most of the time, you will have lunch at Koh Panyi , usually seafood, an amazing village built entirely on stilts. Exploring the wooden maze of walkways of the village after lunch is worth it.

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint - View of Phang Nga Bay

If you travel with friends or can afford it, the best way to explore the many wonders of Phang Nga is to rent a small private cruise . Glide from island to island in the comfort of your private deck with a drink in your hand, have a picnic on a small island beach and visit the popular spot before other tours arrive.

beach peninsula

If you drive or use the services of a van with a local driver , you will have a slightly different experience. Usually, such a day includes James Bond Island, Koh Panyi, a visit to Wat Suwan Kuha , a giant reclining Buddha in a cave, a refreshing stop at a waterfall and the last highlight of the day is a to drive up to the beautiful Samet Nangshee viewpoint .

Koh Panyi Village (Koh Panyee)

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Experience the iconic James Bond Island, stunning rock formation and famous film location.

Day 3 and 4 – Spend a night on an Island

Loh Dalum Bay

There are 6 or 7 islands near Phuket where you can spend a night or more. Each has a unique character; Phi Phi island is usually popular with backpackers in the central area; some other islands can be isolated with a unique exotic charm.

Phi Phi Island

Staying at least a night on Phi Phi island is a great way to enjoy what this amazing archipelago offers. Of course, you can go there on a day trip, but you will soon realise you have so little time to explore! There are many hotels for all budgets to choose from. The central area is usually very busy, with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. When life is fully back, and you prefer to stay away from busy streets and young crowds, consider staying on another beach further north.

Sunset from Phi Phi Viewpoint

By staying a night in Phi Phi, you can rent a longtail boat and go to Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Bamboo Island and many other places a day trip would not allow. Don’t forget to enjoy the sunset from Phi Phi Viewpoint .

Racha Island

the racha resort bar

Racha Island is a little gem southeast of Phuket. The island has 3 or 4 hotels, but The Racha is a great romantic hideaway. The sea in front of the hotel is incredibly blue, great for kayaking and snorkelling, and the villas are perfect for a lazy stay.

Coral Island

coral island resort restaurant

Coral Island is near Phuket (6.5 km, which is about 15 mn by boat) and can therefore get very busy during the day. A good way to enjoy it is to stay overnight at Coral Island Resort, a modest hotel with bungalows on the beach.

Koh Yao Islands

koh yao noi thailand

Koh Yao Noi is a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation in a green surrounding. Nestled northeast of Phuket it offers swaying palm trees and a laid-back atmosphere. Explore lush jungles and bike through picturesque fishermen’s villages. The island’s friendly locals and vibrant culture add to its charm. Koh Yao Noi offers a blend of natural beauty and activities, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway from the busy beaches of Phuket.

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Don't miss out on the famous Maya Bay and other fun activities.

Day 5 – North Phuket

Naithon beach stairs

This day can include Kamala Beach , Banana Beach , Nai Yang , Naithon beach , Samet Nangshee , and Bangpae Waterfall .

North Phuket is slightly toned down and has fewer striking landmarks than the south. Mainly the north is a chance to see less crowded beaches and enjoy the rare luxury of starting with a breakfast on the beach in Kamala. The hop from beach to beach to Layan, Bangtao, Nai Yang and Naithon. The day’s highlight is probably taking a selfie with those immense planes.

International Airport

If you feel like driving to the very north, you will be rewarded with the deserted Haad Sai Kaew beach and eat lunch with locals in a bamboo hut by the sea or at Rimpan Seafood next to the Sarasin Bridge that connects Phuket to the mainland. If you want to add a highlight to your trip, and have not yet done it on your Phang Nga Bay day out, keep driving 25 km (30 mn drive) past the Sarasin Bridge and go up to Samet Nangshe ; it’s worth it.

Bang Pae Waterfall

On the way back, stop at the small Bang Pae Waterfall, but it is better to do this during the rainy season when there is more water. If hungry, enjoy excellent local Thai food at Piang Prai Restaurant or local seafood specialities at Bangpae Seafood , a restaurant near the mangrove. If you still have energy and haven’t done it the previous day, end the day in Old Phuket Town .

Sai Kaew Beach Phuket

Day 6 – Similan Islands

Similan Islands

Going to the Similan Islands is a full-day trip, but it is worth it. The archipelago is beautiful, and the shallow waters on white sand produce this incredibly blue colour. Snorkelling in those such crystal clear water is amazing. There is plenty of coral and tropical fish to admire, and the water is always warm. Note that the Similans are only open between October 15 to May 15.

Similan Islands by Speedboat

Similan Islands Popular Tours

Stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, mesmerizing underwater world, and more...

Day 7 – Explore less known Phuket

This day can include Banana Beach , Layan Beach , Laem Singh Beach , Naithon Beach , Wat Khao Rang , and Bon Island .

Once you have seen all the famous attractions around the island, take the time to find lesser-known spots. Some beaches are hard to reach, but the braves will be rewarded with almost deserted beaches . Surprisingly, some quiet beaches, such as Freedom Beach , are not far from the busy ones, but they are hard to reach, and most people are unwilling to make an effort. The best quiet beaches are those north of Phuket, past Bangtao Beach: Layan Beach , Banana Beach , Naithon , Nai Yang and Sai Kaew Beach .

Wat Khaorang

Some are remote temples or viewpoints away from the busy roads. Of course, those places might be less striking, but we love them: they are more laid back and peaceful, addressing more to travellers who want to see what the real Phuket is like without tourists. There are a couple of waterfalls to explore during the rainy season. They may not be very impressive, but this is where Thai families and friends come on the weekend to splash in the water.

Freedom Beach - Phuket

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Day 8 – Activities and Phuket Town half day

Water Parks in Phuket

This day can include Spa treatments , Zipline , Wakeboarding , Blue Tree Waterpark , Phuket Town , and Sunday Walking Market .

If you spend a week in Phuket, you will be able to visit the very interesting Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market . A great way to organise your holiday around it is to spend the morning on the beach, or even better, try one of the many activities available everywhere, from Zipline at Hanuman to Wake Board at Wake Park , or try one of the Waterparks around the island.

Sunday Walking Street Market

After lunch, move to Phuket Town and explore the old streets, Sino-Portuguese shophouses and mansions, Thai temples and Chinese shrines until 5 or 6 pm, then move to Thalang Road to end the evening browsing the items on sale at the street market and enjoy the vast choice of street food. Many excellent Thai and Italian restaurants are nearby if you don’t feel brave enough to try southern specialities.

Flying Hanuman Phuket

Day 9 – Relax on the many beaches of Phuket .

Nai Harn Beach Phuket

You probably booked your hotel on one of the many beaches and after such an intense week exploring, you will want to spend a slow day swimming, sun tanning and enjoying the good life before returning home. If you have your transportation, you can try several beaches around. Those with the most beautiful setting, sand and water are Kata and Kata Noi , Karon , Nai Harn , Bangtao and Naithon Beach .

Kata Beach

In addition, you really should try some snorkelling as some spots are known to have a lot of coral, life and fish to admire. During the rainy season, try some surfing or kite surfing too!

Yanui Beach

Rent a van with a driver

Renting a van with a driver for the day is one of the best ways to explore Phuket without stress. They can speak English and customise the places to visit as you wish.

More Phuket itineraries

One Day Itinerary in Phuket

  • Similan Islands Tour
  • Phuket tours
  • Phuket Island Tours
  • Phi Phi + Khai Island Tour by speedboat
  • Phi Phi + Bamboo Island Tour by speedboat
  • Phuket to Phi Phi Ferry
  • Phi Phi Islands Tour by Cruise Boat
  • Phi Phi Overnight Tour (2 Days 1 Night)
  • 4 Pearls of Andaman (2 Days 1 Night)
  • James Bond Island Tour by Cruise Boat
  • James Bond Island Tour by Speed boat
  • Coral Island Tour
  • Racha Island Tour
  • Raya and Coral Island Tour
  • Racha - Coral - Maithon Islands tour
  • Maithon Island Tour
  • Koh Phangan – Full Moon Party, 3 days 2 night
  • Phuket Half Day City Tour
  • Elephant Trekking Phuket
  • Elephant Bathing Phuket
  • Bamboo Rafting Tour
  • Amazing Phang Nga Tour
  • Khao Sok + Cheow Lan Lake
  • Overnight Tour to Cheow Lan Lake Khao Sok
  • White Water Rafting Tours
  • Jet Ski Adventure
  • ATV Tours Phuket
  • Hanuman World Phuket
  • Water park Phuket
  • Phuket Fishing Tours
  • Phuket diving
  • Simon Cabaret Phuket
  • Phuket FantaSea Show
  • Siam Niramit Phuket Show
  • Sex Show on Phuket

1 day trip phuket

  • Arrival at the pier, meeting your guide, tea and coffee break
  • Departure to Similans islands by speedboat
  • Arrival at Ba Ngu Island Island 9 for swimming and snorkeling
  • Arrival at Similan Island Island 8 for simply relax on the beach or you may climb to the viewpoint at sailing rock
  • Depart for Payu Island Island 7 for swimming and snorkeling
  • Arrival at Koh Miang Island 4 with it white sandy beaches and many species of marine life
  • Enjoy Delicious Thai lunch box
  • Departure for the Tap Lamu Pier
  • Relax and Enjoy fresh fruits and snacks at the pier

1 day trip phuket

  • Departure to the Similan islands
  • Arrive Similan Islands, first snorkeling and appreciating the underwater world, viewing beautiful fishes and colorful corals at Island No.5 and No.6
  • Take you to Island No.4 (Koh Miang) , relaxing at Princess Bay with your own leisure on the beach
  • Enjoy with quality lunch box set on Island No.4(Koh Miang)
  • Depart from Island No.4 to Island No.9(Koh Ba Ngu) for snorkeling at Christmas Point or Namchai bay, the highlight area where there are attractive coral reefs and a variety of colourful fishes
  • Take you to visit a Sailing rock which is the landmark of “Similan Island” at Island No.8 (Koh Similan) where you can relaxing, swiming, take pictures or climbing up to a view point on the top of a Sailing rock
  • Depart from Similan Island with a smile and impression
  • Take you to visit a Sailing rock which is the landmark of “Similan Island” at Island No.8 (Koh Similan) where you can relaxing, swiming, take pictures or climbing up to a view point on the top of a Sailing rock

1 day trip phuket

Attention!!!  

  • child 4-10 year
  • infant 0-3 year
  • Pregnant women
  • Children under 1 year old
  • Senior citizen over 70 years old
  • People suffering from physical disability or serious medical conditions

Cancellation & No-Show Policy

  • 24 hour free cancelation
  • Any cancellation less than 24 hours before the program starts - charge 100%
  • Full charge will be applied for a no–show
  • In case of partial payment of the ticket and absenteeism on the tour, the tourist undertakes to pay the agent the remaining part of the cost of the tour (cash on tour)
  • In bad weather conditions, the marine police may not allow tour boats to leave the pier - a full refund will be given
  • Transfer hotel-pier-hotel
  • Tea/ coffee break at the pier
  • English speaking guide, experienced captain and crew
  • Soft drinks on board 
  • Fresh fruits
  • Accident insurance
  • Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, life jackets)

Not included

  • Transfer from remote areas of Phuket 
  • National park fee

What to bring

  • Swimsuits, swimming trunks
  • Clothes to change
  • Sun cream (is better with protection 50)
  • Hats, long sleeved shirts, pareos
  • Photo and video cameras
  • Money for souvenirs and tips
  • Beach towels
  • Coral shoes
  • Waterproof phone case

During the reason that the Similan National Park welcome you only from November to April – the islands are visited by thousands of people every day so don't miss a chance to see and enjoy it. 

Send request

1 day trip phuket

10 Unmissable Things to Do in Phuket with Kids and Tips for Visiting in 2024

P huket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, known for its stunning white sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, it’s not just a destination for adults, there are many things to do in Phuket with kids, making it an ideal destination for the whole family.

With plenty of family-friendly activities and accommodations to choose from, there’s something for everyone. 

If you’re thinking of visiting Phuket with kids, this guide will provide you with tips and ideas on how to make the most of your family trip to Phuket.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Is Phuket a good place to visit with kids?

When people think about  what Phuket is famous for , they usually conjure up images of Patong Beach and Bangla Road which is known for its wild nightlife and seedy tourism.

However, this is only a small part of Phuket, and the rest of the island is a fantastic destination for families with kids. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and adventurous attractions, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. 

The island of Phuket has many family-friendly accommodations ranging from luxurious beach resorts to budget-friendly hotels, that cater to the needs of families. 

It also has plenty of activities that are perfect for kids, including visiting elephant sanctuaries, splashing around in water parks, and zipping through the jungles on an ATV tour. 

Families can enjoy quality time together while exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of this amazing destination. 

With its warm weather, friendly people, and welcoming atmosphere, Phuket is a great place to create unforgettable memories with your children.

Things to Do in Phuket With Kids

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in Phuket to choose from. Here are some of the best things to do in Phuket with kids.

1. Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Visiting an elephant sanctuary is one of the top things to do in Phuket but you should choose the sanctuary with care. Not all sanctuaries offer ethical experiences, by allowing visitors to ride, feed, bathe, and play with elephants.

The  Phuket Elephant Sanctuary  allows visitors to observe but not interact with the elephants, allowing them the freedom to go about their day undisturbed.

As you observe these gentle giants, you will learn about where the elephants were rescued and learn about the conservation efforts.

Don’t miss a chance to walk along Thailand’s longest canopy walkway, walk the nature trails through the park, and watch the environmental documentary in the Tree Top Lounge.

2. Take a Boat Tour of Phang Nga Bay

The whole family will enjoy a boat tour of this stunning bay, known for its towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. This tour also includes a visit to James Bond Island, which was featured in the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun,” as well as Panyee Island, which is where you will find the famous floating village which was built on stilts.

Perhaps the best part of this tour is when you visit a lagoon where you can enjoy canoeing around the limestone formations, looking out for monkeys and sea birds, and exploring sea caves.

3. Visit Phuket Old Town

Take a walk through the historic streets of the charming Old Town, known for its Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful markets.

Cool down with a refreshing Thai Milk Tea in one of the boutique cafes, or visit one of the markets and shop for souvenirs. 

Don’t miss the Naka Weekend Market if you’re visiting on a weekend, which runs from 4 pm – 10 pm. The night markets are a great place to try traditional Thai street food.

This is a great first-day activity if you are feeling jet-lagged or tired from traveling.

4. Hit the Beaches

Phuket has some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. You will find a more relaxing atmosphere at beaches like Kata Beach and Karon Beach where you can swim in the sea and spend quality time on the beach.

If you have kids who need more entertainment, head to Patong Beach or Kamala Beach where you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, go parasailing, jet skiing, and more. 

Most of the towns in Phuket have convenience stores where you can buy buckets and shovels, footballs, and volleyballs, so take your kids to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

5. Watch a Cultural Show at Siam Niramit

If you’re looking for things to do in Phuket with kids at night, then check out Siam Niramit.

Famous for its cultural show, visitors get to watch live entertainment themed around Thailand’s history, traditions, culture, and mythology through dance and music. The show also features spectacular special effects, elaborate costumes, and music.

Visiting Siam Niramit is a unique way to experience Thai culture and enjoy a fun-filled evening out with your family whilst enjoying a buffet dinner.

6. Splash Around in Splash Jungle Water Park

Splash Jungle Waterpark  is a must-visit attraction in Phuket. It is perfect for families looking for a fun and exciting day out. 

Located in Mai Khao Beach, the water park features a range of water slides, pools, and attractions suitable for all ages. There are thrilling rides like the Whizzard, a waterslide with a 360-degree loop, and Boomerango, which has a 15-meter vertical wall.

Younger kids will enjoy the relaxing Lazy River, Wave Pool, or Splash Park, or the whole family can go on the raft ride. There is something for everyone. 

The water park also offers dining options, lockers, and shower facilities, making it easy to spend the whole day there.

Another water park that’s worth checking out if you have more time and enjoy Splash Jungle Waterpark is Andamanda Park .

7. Visit Aquaria, The Phuket Aquarium

Located in Cape Panwa, this aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.

Aquaria is a magical underwater experience, where you can get up close to 25,000 marine animals and learn about Thailand’s marine ecosystem from the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Don’t miss a chance to visit the aquarium’s Trick of the Eyes exhibit , an AR exhibit that allows you to awaken all of your five senses.

8. Go ziplining

Ziplining in Phuket is an exhilarating activity that is perfect for families with older kids. The island offers a range of zipline parks, including  Flying Hanuman  and Jungle Xtrem Adventures , which offer a unique way to experience the beauty of Phuket’s natural surroundings. 

Ziplining is an  adventurous outdoor activity in Thailand  that not only allows you to feel the thrill of the experience but also to be in touch with Phuket’s nature.

The parks offer a variety of zipline courses suitable for different ages and skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. 

9. Take an ATV tour 

An ATV tour in Phuket is an exciting experience that the whole family can enjoy. Driving around on an ATV allows you to experience the island’s nature in a unique way, and get off the beaten path.

Not only is riding an ATV a thrilling way to get your children excited about outdoor adventures, but it’s also a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery of Phuket. You can choose between riding around jungle trails, along beachside paths, or around the mountainside. 

An ATV tour in Phuket is a fun way to create unforgettable memories with your family that you’ll cherish for years to come.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are one of the most beautiful spots in Thailand and are the scene on many postcards. It’s an easy day trip from Phuket and makes for an exhilarating experience the whole family can enjoy.

The Phi Phi Islands are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thriving marine life. 

On a day tour, you get to visit the famous Maya Bay, a pristine beach made famous by the Leonardo Dicaprio movie, The Beach , as well as visit lagoons for swimming and snorkeling.

Tour operators provide safe and comfortable boats with knowledgeable guides to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family. 

Phi Phi Islands Tours

  • Get Your Guide Phi Phi, Maya, and Bamboo Island – CLICK HERE
  • Best of the Phi Phi Islands Snorkeling tour with Viator – CLICK HERE

Where to Stay in Phuket

When visiting Phuket with kids, it’s important to choose accommodation that is safe, and comfortable and offers the amenities and services that families need. Fortunately, Phuket has a wide variety of options available to suit different budgets and preferences. 

Some of the best areas to stay in Phuket with kids are Kata Beach, Kamala Beach, and Karon Beach. Patong Beach is where you will find parties and nightlife, so it’s not recommended to stay here with young kids, however, it’s a great place to visit in the daytime as the beach has lots of watersports on offer.

Popular family-friendly hotels in Phuket

  • Holiday Inn Resort Phuket – This beachfront resort is located in Patong Beach and offers a range of family-friendly facilities, including a kids’ club, swimming pools, and a family suite with separate bedrooms and living areas.
  • Pullman Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa – Located in Karon Beach, this resort offers a range of fun activities for families, including a kids’ club, waterslides, and a pool with a two-level water slide.
  • Novotel Phuket Resort – Located in Patong Beach, this resort offers a range of family-friendly activities, including an outdoor swimming pool and a children’s playground.
  • JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa – This 5-star beach resort is located on Mai Khao beach and it’s fairly close to the airport. Guests have access to a spa, three outdoor pools, a modern fitness center, and activities such as Thai cooking classes. Most rooms have a terrace or balcony and there are several room configurations that work for families.

Getting Around Phuket With Kids

When traveling with kids, it’s important to plan how you will get around. While taxis and tuk-tuks are available, they may not be the most convenient option (or cheapest option), especially if you have young children. 

Ways to Travel Around Phuket with Kids

  • Rent a Car : Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore Phuket at your own pace. Most car rental companies offer child seats for an additional fee.
  • Hire a Driver : Hiring a driver can be a good option if you don’t want to drive yourself. Drivers are often available for hire by the hour or day.  Click here to book a driver .
  • Use Public Transport : If you’re on a tight budget, public transport such as a tuk-tuk and songthaews (local buses) are a good option. Keep in mind that public transport is very slow as it stops at multiple places, and there isn’t really a set timetable. It’s important to plan ahead if you plan on taking public transport with children and allow extra time.
  • Use Grab : Grab is the most famous  riding-sharing app in Phuket . It allows you to book a driver and take you from A to B quickly and efficiently. They can be more expensive than public transport, but they are much faster.

Tips for Visiting Phuket with Kids

When traveling in Phuket with kids, it’s important to take extra precautions and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. 

Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Phuket with kids:

  • Arrive before your kid’s bedtime – Depending on where you are flying from, your kids may be cranky and tired when they arrive. You should try to arrive just before their bedtime so they can go straight to sleep. Try not to arrive in the dead of night as it’s not always easy to find taxis at the airport.
  • Stay hydrated – The weather in Phuket can be hot and humid, so it’s important to keep your family hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids.
  • Dress appropriately – When visiting temples or other cultural sites, remember to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing clothing.
  • Look out for your kids – Phuket can be quite busy, so it’s important to keep an eye on your children at all times, especially around the pool or on the beach.
  • Try the local food – Thai cuisine is delicious and there are many kid-friendly dishes to choose from. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Phuket with Kids

Phuket is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. The island boasts stunning beaches, beautiful natural habitats, exciting theme parks, and a range of water sports and outdoor adventures. 

Phuket is a safe place to visit, with friendly locals and excellent medical facilities. 

The island’s warm weather and tropical climate make it an ideal year-round destination. 

Phuket is a fantastic place to create unforgettable memories with your family while enjoying the beauty and culture of Thailand.

About the author: This is a guest post contributed by Louisa from  Travel Thailand Together . Travel Thailand Together is a site dedicated to everything Thailand, run by ex-pats and frequent travelers to Thailand, offering recommendations for things to do, see, stay, and explore. 

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, known for its stunning white sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. However, it’s not just a destination for adults, there are many things to do in Phuket with kids, making it an ideal destination for the whole family. With plenty of family-friendly activities and accommodations to choose from, there’s something for everyone.  If you’re thinking of visiting Phuket with kids, this guide will provide you with tips and ideas on how to make the most of your family trip to Phuket. Is Phuket a good place to visit with kids? […]

IMAGES

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    The morning program for our Private Half-Day Phuket Elephant Adventure runs from 9 am to 12:30 pm and includes a cooking demonstration and lunch. If you are a morning person and you want to explore Phuket's beautiful countryside in cooler temperatures, consider joining a Private Guided Adventure Hike here at our sanctuary.

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    Most tours will take you back to your hotel around 5 or 6 pm, but if you are on your own, you can also plan some evening activities to make the most of your day out. 11. Chillva Market or Phuket Street Market. 12. Simon Cabaret or Phuket Fantasea.

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    For Phuket, a 1-day TAGTHAi pass costs around 45 USD, and a 3-day TAGTHAi pass costs 92 USD. ... s a whole different feeling ziplining through the dense canopy of trees and I'm sure will be the highlight of your trip to Phuket. This activity needs to be reserved one day in advance. I'd suggest you reserve 8:00-9:00 on your preferred date ...

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    Day 1 | Morning. Phuket Simon Cabaret. Opening Hours: Open from 6:30pm-7:45pm,8:00pm-9:15pm. Ticket Price: Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours. Location: 8 Sirirat Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150. As a veteran ladyboy show in Phuket, the Simon Cabaret has evolved into a professional entertainment venue in Phuket since its 1991 opening.

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    Sightseeing Tours and Activities for 1-Day in Phuket. Apart from the general sightseeing, your vacation to Phuket can be enriched by booking tours such as . Dive Trip to Phi Phi from Phuket for certified divers. 1 Day. 5 Reviews. USD 3200. Full-Day Racha Noi and Racha Yai Snorkeling from Phuket.

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    Strolling on Bangla Road. This street is the main artery of Patong. It is revealed at dusk and its wandering has become a must-visit for 1 day in Phuket. You can have so much fun at many bars, restaurants, clubs with all in a symphony of colorful neon lights and music on this special road.

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    Phuket Safari City Tour. Full Day Trip. from 2,000 ฿. Booking Phuket day tour in 1 day by join group or private tour as per your budget. Phi Phi island, Jame Bond, Fantasea, Similan Island.

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    No.5 City Tour Phuket Island. No.6 James Bond Island. No.7 Coral Island and Racha Island. No.8 Koh Yao Noi Biking Tour. No.9 4-Waters in one day. No.10 Similan island by ferry. The Pearl of the Andaman Sea is how it is often called, this amazing island has a myriad of different plans and activities to do in order to please everyone's desires.

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    5. Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket. 231. Full-day Tours. 8-9 hours. The world's most famous international spy and stunning island to visit is a Khao Ping Khan, also known as James Bond Island…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 93% of travelers. from.

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    1. Phi Phi Islands. Hands down the most popular day trip from Phuket are the Phi Phi Islands. About 45 to 60 minutes away by speedboat from the Royal Phuket Marina, these six dazzling islands are famous for their dramatic limestone karst formations, cloaked in lush foliage, which jut from the jade-green sea.

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