1 day trip phuket

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Where to Stay in Phuket, Thailand

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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 .

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 .

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.

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.

Recent Blogs

Announcements
Phuket Travel Info
Places to visit
Tips for travellers

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

This post may contain paid links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

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.

Book Phuket Tours and Activities

Share on social media.

The 20 Best Tours in Phuket 🏝️

Best of Phuket , Cruises , Tours , What to Do?
by Phuket 101

What are the most popular tours in Phuket?

There are a lot of Phuket Tours to explore in and around the island, and many places are easy to reach, so what are the best? Some other great places need a boat or a minibus ride and a bit of planning. We list here 10 of the most popular day trip tours you should consider. Of course, we know there are many more, and we will add them as we try them.

The best Phuket tours start with Phang Nga Bay and often include a few nearby islands, such as Phi Phi and Similan Islands. Tours on the island itself include the Big Buddha , the much revered Chalong temple and the exploration of the old streets of Phuket Town .

1. Phang Nga Bay Tour

(With John Gray Hong by Starlight: 3,950 baht – 11:30 am 10:00 pm – Other tours 1,600 baht)

Phang Nga Bay is a fantastic wonder of the world and is an absolute must-do while in Phuket. As with any favourite Phuket tour, Phang Nga tends to become busy, but it’s enormous, and some tours, like the famous John Gray SeaCanoe , know how to take you where and when other tourists don’t go. The massive limestone formations rising above the water seem to come straight out of the movie Avatar (or it was possibly the other way around). The place was even featured as a background in one Star Wars episode (the bad one, I think). Phang Nga Bay is one of the best tours in Phuket. Read more

Kayaking Phang Nga Bay with John Grey Seacanoe

What we like a) As mentioned above, it’s just fantastic. b) The sea is quiet all year round and even looks better with the big rain clouds! c) It’s not very far, and all tour agents will pick you up at your hotel — no stress. What We Don’t a) Not every tour is Eco-friendly; some have no real experience and make lots of noise and shout, disturbing the magical peace.

Popular Ways to Discover Phang Nga Bay

Island hopping with faraway yachting.

Embark on an awe-inspiring sailing journey to the majestic islands of Thailand with the number one, award-winning Phuket yacht charter operator, whose primary mission and focus is on the guest experience. Escape the crowds to the most remote and hidden islands of Thailand and make this the holiday of your lifetime – what are you waiting for?

Advertise on Phuket101!

2. Phi Phi Island Day Trip

(about 2,800 baht – full day)

Phi Phi seems to be the Phuket tour on everyone’s list of islands to visit. It usually is for several reasons: The islands look fabulous, with two bays surrounded by vertical limestone cliffs. The beach parties are notorious and can last all night. Backpackers seem to have made Phi Phi their destination of choice. It also is an excellent snorkelling and diving destination for all levels, from beginners to wreck diving. There is an even more straightforward reason: they saw Maya Bay in the movie “The Beach” and wanted to know the place for themselves. Read more

A typical day trip to Phi Phi :

7.30: Pick up at your hotel 8.30 : Meet and greet at Royal Phuket Marina, short briefing. 9.30 : Departure by speedboat 10.30 : Enjoy snorkelling and swimming at Camel Rock, Monkey Bay Sightseeing 11.45 : Snorkeling near Phi Phi Don 12.30 : Lunch in Tonsai Bay on Phi Phi Don 13.30 : Head to Phi Phi Ley: pass by Viking Cave, swim at Piley Lagoon, and Sightseeing at Maya Bay. 15.30 : Relax, swim and snorkel on Koh Khai Nai, a small island on the way back. 16.30 : Arrive at the pier and depart to your hotel.

What’s good: a) It’s still beautiful a beautiful island, despite being spoiled mainly by unstoppable construction. b) It’s not very far from Phuket and affordable if you go by ferry c) The island being in a bay, it is accessible all year round (unlike Similan) d) Maya Bay is open again!

What’s Not: a) Uncontrolled constructions have spoiled the island, and it keeps extending. b) Phi Phi can get crowded with young backpackers coming here for a serious party, so it may not be your vision of relaxing beaches.

Popular Ways to Discover Phi Phi Island

Private island hopping cruises with 5 star marine.

Island Hopping in Phuket with 5 Star Marine

Join 5 Star Marine's private tropical speedboat tours, and experience island hopping from one idyllic sandy island to the next. For an experience that most people only dream of, allow our experienced crew to tailor the perfect itinerary for your adventure, island hopping in paradise. From snorkelling in Phi Phi, picturesque lunches at Racha, and capturing memories of James Bond Island; to sea canoeing in Phang Nga Bay or even dolphin spotting with a sunset BBQ. The choice is yours with 5 Star Marine.

3. James Bond Island Tour and Koh Panyi Village

(Start at 1,800 baht, including pickup and return to hotel – join trip)

Usually, James Bond and Koh Panyi are part of any Phang Nga Bay tour. If you have time, we recommend dedicating one day to a Canoe in Phang Nga Bay, then another day to James Bond, Koh Panyi, the village on stilts and the reclining Buddha inside a cave. Read more

A typical day trip in Phang Nga Bay with James Bond Island and Koh Panyi Village:

9.00 : Pick up at hotel lobby 10.00 : Arrive at Royal Phuket Marina 10.30 : Visit Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) 12.00 : Buffet Thai lunch at Koh Panyee village 13.00 : Visit Khao Thalu to canoe inside a cave 15.30 : Visit Naka island for swimming 17.30 : Back at the Royal Phuket Marina and back to the hotel

What we like: a) Going there offers amazing photo opportunities; the location and the cruise to get there are jaw-dropping. b) The village on stilts is unique, unusual and fun to explore. What we don’t: a) It’s a major tourist attraction, so expect a lot of people at midday, which spoils a bit the exotic feeling

Popular Ways to Discover James Bond Island

4. south phuket with big buddha and phuket town.

The South Phuket tour is a popular option for visitors to the island, taking in many of the most famous landmarks and attractions in the southern part of the island. The tour is flexible and can be tailored to guests’ preferences, but typically includes stops at beautiful beaches such as Karon and Nai Harn, as well as viewpoints for panoramic views of the island. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Big Buddha Temple, which offers visitors the chance to take in the stunning views and pray for good luck. Another highlight of the tour is the visit to Old Phuket Town, where visitors can explore the charming streets and take in the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture. The tour also includes a stop for lunch at Rawai Beach, known for its delicious seafood and affordable prices.

To book a such day trip, you can ask any travel agent, or even better, hire a local driver with a van to customise the trip according to your own preferences, it is cheap and super comfortable, between 2,400 and 2,700 baht, depending how far your hotel is to the south. See here a list of private vans .

Popular Ways to Discover South Phuket and Phuket Town

5. coral island day trip and racha island.

(about 1,300 baht for both islands – full day)

Often packaged as one Phuket tour day trip, those two beautiful islands have white sandy beaches and the typical atmosphere of small tropical islands. They offer excellent snorkelling opportunities with plenty of fish coming and swimming around you. Racha Island is excellent for diving, especially for first-timers. Read more

A typical Day trip to Coral and Racha Islands by speedboat

8.30 : Pick up from your hotel lobby 09.00 : Depart from Chalong Pier to Racha Island, and enjoy snorkelling and swimming 12.30 : Depart from Racha Island to Coral Island and have lunch at Kahung restaurant 14.30 : Snorkeling, swimming and relaxing on the beach 16.30 : Back to the pier and sent back to your hotel

What we like: a) It’s accessible all year round, and it doesn’t take too long to reach What we don’t: a) It can be bustling and touristic

Popular Ways to Discover Coral and Racha Islands

6. yona floating beach club.

Yona is a floating beach club in the bay of Patong. The boat is 1,200 sqm on three floors, with a central 22-metre-long swimming pool surrounded by trendy loungers and palm trees. At the back of the pool are the DJ station and a bar with a vast choice of fun cocktails to enjoy the party. Read more

7. Phuket Town Tour

(about 900 baht – half day)

In recent years, Phuket town has become a charming city with several historic streets and many beautiful old Sino-Portuguese mansions, some renovated and some partly run down. You might get to see some local markets and even visit some Thai temple and their typical intricate gold, red and green roofs. Exploring the picturesque street now full of little cafes and shops is a popular photo opportunity, mostly since they buried those horrible electric cables. Read more

What we like: a) It’s a good exploration day, especially when the weather is not favourable to be on the beach b) It’s not such a big area, so it’s easy to walk along the streets and between landmarks What we don’t: a) It’s relatively small, so don’t put your expectations too high either

Popular Ways to Discover Phuket Town

8. similan islands day trip.

(about 2,600 baht – full day)

Unique and beautiful, the Similans have the white sand and blue water you only see in postcards. It’s so strikingly beautiful that your friends might believe you photoshopped your photos. But it is that blue even in photos taken with a mobile phone!

It used to be possible to spend the night in a tent or a basic bungalow with air-conditioning, but it seems that this option is not available at this time! Apart from snorkelling, sunning, and a small restaurant, there is not much to do, but it’s a Robinson Crusoe experience you don’t want to miss. Read more

A typical day trip to the Similans

6.00 : Pick up from the hotel lobby 9.00 : Depart to Similan island 10.20 : Visit Miang Island (Koh 4) for swimming and snorkelling 11.30 : Have a Thai lunch box on the island 12.00 : Visit Payu Island (Koh 7 )for swimming and snorkelling 13.00 : Visit Ba-ngu (Koh 9) for swimming and snorkelling 14.00 : Visit Similan island (Koh 8) for swimming and snorkelling and climbing the viewpoint at Sailing rock 15.00 : Back to the pier 16.30 : Transfer back to your hotel

What we like: a) Everything! What we don’t: a) It’s closed half-year during the low season, mostly because of the sea condition. b) It’s quite a long way from Phuket. Usually, a van takes you from Phuket to Takua Pa, then 1.30 hours by speedboat

Popular Ways to Discover Similan Islands

9. island hopping on a sailing catamaran.

(6 days and 5 nights)

Spending a week on a sailing cruise is the most romantic and eco-friendly way to discover the islands near Phuket and south Thailand, an experience like no other!

Day 1 – Chalong Pier, Phuket -> Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi Day 2 – Tonsai Bay, Koh Phi Phi -> Kantiang beach, Koh Lanta Day 3 – Kantiang beach, Koh Lanta -> Koh Rok Nok island Day 4 – Koh Rok Island -> Koh Phi Phi Leh Day 5 – Koh Phi Phi Leh -> Koh Racha Yai Day 6 – Koh Racha Yai -> Chalong Pier, Phuket

10. Andamanda Waterpark

Andamanda waterpark Phuket seen from above

Andamanda Phuket is an immense amusement water park built close to Phuket Town when approaching from Patong Beach. Encompassing an enormous 100,000 square meters, this water park features 25 attractions, incorporating numerous water slides, a 10,000 square meter swimming zone equipped with artificial waves, and the the longest lazy river in southeast Asia, extending to a remarkable 550 meters!

11. Elephant Sanctuaries

There are now many elephant sanctuaries around the island that allow you to interact with the elephants. You can feed them, walk with them and make unforgettable memories. The old-fashioned elephant trekking is over! Ask your hotel or travel agent for one of the sanctuaries but skip the trekking or elephant riding! Read more

What we like: a) It’s fun, unusual and the best way to see real elephants! What we don’t: a) Some of the sanctuaries may feel a little too touristic (they probably switched from trekking to the sanctuary to catch the wave)

Popular Ways to Discover Elephant Sanctuaries

12. phang nga bay private cruises.

Best tours in Phuket - Day trips and excursions

Phang Nga Bay is an amazing destination. With its countless islands and towering cliffs emerging from the sea, the scenery is truly extraordinary. It often ranks at the top for many tourists, however, the popular areas of Phang Nga Bay can become overcrowded, making it difficult to fully appreciate its natural beauty. Therefore, on that particular day, we made a decision along with a few friends to rent a private boat and explore Phang Nga Bay in a more exclusive manner, allowing us to reach each location before the crowds arrived.

13. Koh Khai Tours

(about 1,900 baht – Full day)

This tour goes to the tiny Koh Khai islands, found just a few kilometres off Phuket looks like a cartoon postcard of a tropical island. There is not much to do there apart from sunbathing, snorkelling or swimming with hundred fish and drinking fresh coconuts. It’s so back to basics but isn’t it why you came to Phuket in the first place?

What we like: a) It’s an easy and not far, relaxing day out b) Plenty of photo opportunities to post on your Facebook and drive your friends insane What we don’t: a) Can be really busy

Popular Ways to Discover Khai Island

14. cooking classes.

Due to the immense popularity of Thai cuisine and its frequent portrayal on television and social media, cooking classes have become increasingly favoured in Phuket. The island offers a multitude of cooking schools catering to various budgets, with options available in both hotels and privately run establishments. Certain classes even offer the opportunity to explore local markets, adding an enjoyable aspect to the overall experience. Read more

Popular Ways to Discover Thai Cooking Class

ATV tours in Phuket offer exhilarating off-road adventures for visitors. These tours allow participants to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the island while riding all-terrain vehicles. With various routes available, tourists can discover hidden trails, lush jungles, and scenic viewpoints. ATV tours in Phuket cater to both beginners and experienced riders, providing a thrilling and memorable experience. From navigating through rugged terrains to enjoying breathtaking views, these tours offer an exciting way to explore Phuket’s outdoor beauty.

Popular Ways to Discover ATV Experience

16. zipline.

There are 3 or 4 Ziplines around the island, and we tried Flying Hanuman in the forest near Patong Beach. Zipline is a great way to do something fun and exciting with friends and family. You can do something active, fun and unforgettable in the dense forest in Kathu. It’s enormous, impressive and safe; anyone can do it, even a four-year-old kid! Read more

How to get there : Book directly with them or check with a local travel agent Price : starts at 2,300 baht (16 platforms) and 3,250 baht (28 platforms).

Popular Ways to Discover Zipline Experience

17. carnival magic phuket.

Carnival Magic - The Magical Kingdom of Lights

Carnival Magic is a new 40-acre nighttime Thai carnival theme park, known as the Magical Kingdom of Lights. It features numerous record-breaking attractions. The Kingdom of Lights is an illumination park that boasts a display of over 40 million lights, and The River Palace is an enormous indoor parade show theatre capable of seating over 2,200 spectators. It showcases the world’s largest indoor parade show, known as the River Carnival. Read more

Kingdom of Lights at Carnival Magic Phuket

18. Simon Cabaret Show

(starts 700 baht – 2 hours – Patong beach)

Simon Cabaret is a long-running successful stage performance with beautiful sets and outstanding choreography. Of course, people go to Simon Cabaret for reasons other than the pretty costumes and the show. They want to see the surprisingly beautiful ladyboys with their own eyes! Photos are not allowed during the show, but the ‘girls’ will happily wait for you outside the theatre for a photo session. Read more

What we like: a) Excellent stage performance. b) It’s literally in Patong Beach, so you can enjoy the show and still go out for a party after the show What We Don’t: a) Ladyboys are known to be pushy for a tip if you take photos after the show. They might pick the money from your hand; thank you very much

Popular Ways to Discover Simon Cabaret Show

19. siam niramit.

Siam Niramit Phuket is a surprising show narrating 700 years of Thailand’s history. The stage is immense, and the choreography involving more than a hundred people is spotless. The narration is simple and clear enough for everyone to understand each scene. The superb sound system immerses you in a fantastic world based on centuries of Thai myths and legends. It is seriously impressive.

20. Phuket Fantasea Show

(starts 1,800 baht – from 5 pm – Kamala Beach – closed on Thursday)

This longtime running show is still top-rated. It’s a giant theme park and a professional stage performance with dancers, acrobats and real elephants walking through the audience and then onto the stage. The setting is awe-inspiring, and the exceptionally well-executed show narrates the legend of Kamala, where the park is. Read more

What we like: a) It’s professional and beautifully crafted, including the many buildings in the park. b) There are a lot of fun photo opportunities outside the theatre. What we don’t: a) With 2,500 seats, the buffet is too big to be enjoyable b) The elephants performing in the show or giving tourists a short ride are a little controversial c) You can’t take photos inside, but we understand that it can be annoying

Contact a local tour agent in Phuket

Phuket 101 is not a travel agency, but you can get in touch with a local tour agent to get better prices as well as local information or even custom tours by using this link: https://www.johnwelcometravel.com/

Contact a local tour agent

Fast Facts about Phuket Tours

Faqs about phuket tours.

a. Popular Phuket tours and day trips include island hopping tours, visits to the Big Buddha, exploring Phang Nga Bay, visiting the Phi Phi Islands, and exploring James Bond Island. Here are some favourites: Phang Nga Bay Phi Phi Island Coral Island Samet Nangshee

a. Some nearby islands that are worth visiting on a day trip from Phuket include the Phi Phi Islands, Racha Islands, Coral Island, and James Bond Island. These islands offer beautiful beaches, snorkelling and diving opportunities, and stunning natural scenery: Similan Island Phi Phi Island Coral Island Koh Khai Racha Island Island Hopping

a. If you want to stay on the island only, there are a few interesting ways to explore Rent a van with a driver Self-explore old Phuket Town Phuket Fantasea Show Simon Cabaret Show

a. In most cases, you can book safely from an online tour agent or even buy in the street once in Phuket. It is recommended to book Phuket tours and day trips in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.

a. You should bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing and shoes, a camera, and any necessary medication. You may also want to bring a towel and swimwear if your tour involves water activities.

a. Meals and hotel transfers are often included in Phuket tours and day trips, but it depends on the tour. Be sure to check the tour description or ask the tour operator for details.

a. The best time to take Phuket tours and day trips is from November to April, during the dry season, as the sky is clear and the sea is quiet. However, tours are available year-round and some tours, such as Phang Nga Bay, have a unique charm during the monsoon season.

1-Day Phuket Town Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Phuket Town in 1 day
2-Day Phuket Town Itinerary
3-Day Phuket Town Itinerary
4-Day Phuket Town Itinerary
5-Day Phuket Town Itinerary

1-day itinerary, the big buddha, phuket, wat chaithararam (wat chalong).

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.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

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

Itinerary + map in one view
Live collaboration
Auto-import hotels and reservations
Optimize your route
Offline access on mobile
See time and distance between all your places

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

Meet the Team
Work with Us
Czech Republic
Netherlands
Switzerland
Scandinavia
Philippines
South Korea
New Zealand
South Africa
Budget Travel
Work & Travel
The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
Travel Resources
How to Travel on $10/day

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

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

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

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

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

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.

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

…Enjoy!

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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…

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 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

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

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

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

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 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.

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

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

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

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

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…

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

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

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

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.

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

Share or save this post

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!

1 Day Phuket Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Phuket

by Trip.com

December 19, 2022

Phuket 1-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights to Phuket

Sort by: Lowest Price
Sort by: Earliest Flight

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

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

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

Day 1: Phuket Simon Cabaret, Phuket FantaSea

Phuket Weather

Find What to Do in Phuket in 1 Day Tour

Phuket phang nga national park (up to 8 standard price) charter boat trip to the sea with phoenix elf long tail boat charter day trip.

(1-8 Standard Price) Sylph long tail boat charter, departing from Yamu Pier, customize your trip Depart from the pier at 09:00, arrive at the port at 17:00, and enjoy the 5 islands in Phang Nga Bay in one day

Let's Relax Spa

Thailand famed chain SPA brand. Here you can enjoy cost-effective，highly-rated and various spa treatments. Available in 20+ outlets across 7 cities : Bangkok/Phuket/Chiang Mai/Hua Hin/Krabi/Pattaya/Trang

HANUMAN WORLD Phuket Ziplining Adventure Experience

Exciting and novel Ziplining

Thailand Phuket Diving Certification Scuba OW Certification/AOW Certification/O+A Certification/Scuba Diving Photography 2-4 days [PADI Certification| Hotel Pickup]

OW4 dives will give you 2 dives, PADI standard courses will give you 4 dives, we will give you 2 more dives, and 6 dives will help you learn more solidly. The 5-meter deep teaching swimming pool provides you with a high-quality learning environment Chinese-speaking instructors, barrier-free communication, and a perfect guarantee for your Diving vacation

Early Bird trip to Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Day Tour with Lunch

Hype boat club: phuket 's most unique catamaran experience, <h3>besides phuket itinerary 1 day, people also search for ...</h3>.

Other Services

Investor Relations
Affiliate Program
List My Property
Become a Supplier

Countries visited: 115
Currently in : Singapore 🇸🇬
Partner with us
SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS COMMUNITY

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here . Never leave without travel insurance .

What to do if you only have 1 day in Phuket

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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 .

Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

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.

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.

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

These are the most preferred hotels by fellow travelers to stay on 1 day trip to Phuket. Pick up the ones that best suit you.

Created with Fabric.js 5.2.4

Thinking of a Longer trip to Phuket

If you are thinking of spending more than 1 day in Phuket, look out for travel ideas in Phuket itinerary 2 days in Phuket or 3 days in Phuket . More days will give you more time to spend at attractions you like the most.

Want to Craft a Better Phuket Itinerary 1 day

If you want to craft better itinerary, enter the date and follow simple steps in our planner. Get your customized free Phuket itinerary ready quickly.

Find Out Itineraries for Short Trips in Cities Nearby

1 Day trips in Krabi
1 Day trips in Ko Phi Phi Don

ONE DAY IN THE QUINTESSENTIAL PHUKET OLD TOWN ITINERARY

by Parnashree Devi | Mar 25, 2023 | Best of International Destinations , Blog , Destinations , International , Popular Tourist Destination , Thailand , Travel , Travel Guide & Tips | 15 comments

This post is a tailor-made one-day in Phuket Old Town itinerary, which will guide you on how to spend an entire day exploring the alleyways in the old town of Phuket. It includes the must-see places and things while doing a walking tour on the picturesque streets of Phuket Old Town.

Phuket resonates with the picture-perfect beaches, luxurious beach resorts , enchanting views of pristine landscapes, lush untouched terrains, and of course a happening nightlife. However, Phuket has a plethora of offbeat experiences to offer to the wandering souls. One of them is certainly a walking tour of the Phuket Old Town .

ALSO READ: The latest THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDELINES for you to plan your trip to the “Land of Smiles”.

SINO-PORTUGUESE STYLE houses in Phuket Old Town

ALSO READ: HOW TO SPEND 48 HOURS IN PATTA YA , THAILAND : CITY GUIDE FOR YOU

Most travelers are not aware of this side of Phuket which lets you take a walk on the streets coupled with captivating old mansions, aesthetic tiny cafes, Thai temples and colorful Chinese shrines, Thai boutique restaurants, and a few museums.

Table of Contents

WHERE IS PHUKET OLD TOWN?

Beautiful Phang Nga Road in Phuket Old Town

ALSO READ: DAY TRIP TO PORVOO: THE COLORFUL TOWN OF FINLAND

Phuket Old Town is located in the heart of Phuket. This is the capital of the island. You cannot miss this town due to its most flamboyant character painted by the vibrant streets. This is not just an old colorful town of a popular destination , rather it is a treat to your eyes.

Are you planning a trip to a new country and in the process of Visa application? OneWayFly is the right platform for digital nomads and travelers who want to extend or apply for visas. Through this service, you get the flight and hotel reservations for your Visa application. In case you are required to present a flight reservation at the airport, then this service is what you need. The best part is that it works for everyone worldwide, no matter where you are from.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPERIENCE: PHUKET OLD TOWN ITINERARY

Here is the complete list of places and experiences you should include in your Phuket Old Town itinerary. You will find the top 10 best things to do in the old town of Phuket. Let us find out:

1. VISIT THE SHRINE OF THE SERENE LIGHT

ALSO READ: KRU KUNG MUSEUM: A TREASURE TROVE IN RAYONG, THAILAND

The very first thing on your one-day itinerary of Phuket Old Town is to pay a visit to the sacred Shrine of the Serene Light. This temple is located on Phang Nga Road in the old town of Phuket. Also known as Sang Tham Shrine, the sacred Chinese temple is one of the must-visit places in Phuket Old Town.

Colorful entrance gate of Shrine of the Serene Light

Even though the temple is not located on the main street, a well-decorated vibrant alleyway with a traditional Chinese gate with colorful street art leads you to this hidden temple. Founded in 1891 by the descendants of the Tan Luan Jae family, the Shrine of the Serene Light used to be the finest secret site of Phuket Town at one point in time.

ALSO READ: HOW TO SPEND 24 HOURS IN BANGKOK

Alleyway towards the shrine of serene light

With its distinctive architectural designs like a terracotta-tiled roof and single-storey construction with a red Chinese hanging lamp, the Shrine of the Serene Light certainly gives you a feel as if you are in one of the traditional sacred temples in China.

2. VISIT THE FAMOUS ON ON HOTEL

When you are on the famous Phang Nga road of Phuket Old Town, you cannot miss the iconic landmark of the street, which is the famous ON ON HOTEL. The ON ON Hotel is the first hotel in Phuket town. The hotel was in the spotlight when the famous Hollywood movie, “The Beach” , featuring the famous Hollywood celebrity, Leonardo DiCaprio, was shot here.

But very few know that the hotel is located in the old town of Phuket on Phang Nga Road and not in Bangkok as shown in the movie. The budget hotel got a complete facelift in the year, 2013. The architecture of On On hotel is in the Sino-Portuguese style. The hotel has become a point of interest for the tourists, and no one leaves without taking a few pictures with the iconic hotel.

3. DON’T MISS THE CLOCK TOWER BUILDING ON PHANG NGA ROAD

Intersection of Phang Nga Road in Phuket Old Town

Take a few steps ahead and you reach the unmissable and the most stunning clock tower building. Painted in a striking yellowy-mango shade, the historic building is one of the most photogenic ancient architectures. Located at the intersection of Phang Nga Road, the very distinctive features of the clock tower are the early 1990s four-storey clock tower and a traditional police-cap roof. It used to be a police station and has now been converted into a museum.

4. VISIT PERANAKANNITAT MUSEUM

Just at the intersection of Phang Nga Road, the Phuket Museum is located. It is a must-visit place for history lovers. The tiny two-storey historical building lets you travel to old times through pictures, artifacts, and audiovisual presentation. Also known as Baba Museum, the museum is a good stop to know the history of Phuket.

5. GET AWED BY THE SINO-PORTUGUESE STYLE MANSIONS AND BUILDINGS

If you are a photographer, the Old Phuket Town is nothing less than a playground for you. It does not matter where your eyes travel, you will be stunned by the picture-perfect Sino-Portuguese style mansions and buildings. Whether you are on Phang Nga Road, Thalang Road, Krabi Road, or Dibuk road, your eyes will pop up each time you capture the colorful traditional architecture in Sino-Portuguese style.

6. VISIT BANN 92 CAFÉ

This is one of the beautiful cafes on Thalang road. The classic Bann 92 café is one of the Instagram-able spots which takes you back to a bygone time. The vintage furniture, exotic artifacts, traditional kitchen, and picture-worthy corners make it worth a visit.

This is a coffee shop on Thalang Road, but I had the traditional lunch prepared by the Baba community. The best part of the lunch was that it was served in steel tiffin boxes which reminded me of my school days. Set-up for the delicious lunch was in their backyard garden where I was entertained by a differently-abled talented musician who was playing Koto, a Japanese string musical instrument.

This is the most happening road in old Phuket town which has the striking Sino-Portuguese style buildings, amazing cafes, must-visit restaurants, and heritage buildings turned into shops.

7. LOCAL SHOPPING IN THE OLD TOWN OF PHUKET

You cannot miss shopping in the old town of Phuket. Whether you want souvenirs, beach bags, summer clothing, exquisite artifacts, or anything for that matter, the Thalang road is the ideal spot for that. This road is one of the most bustling roads among other landmarks in the old town of Phuket.

More than anything, it has the most striking Sino-Portuguese-style buildings, tiny cafes, popular restaurants, and heritage buildings. You will find everything here. Thalang road remains one of the busiest streets in the old town of Phuket.

8. CAPTURE THE STREET ARTS

You can’t miss the outstanding street wall arts in Old Phuket Town. One of the most prominent ones is the Alex Face mural graffiti on Soi Romanee Road. The ‘Red Turtle Cake’ mural by Alex Face is probably the most striking one.

Famous Turtle Street art by Alex Face in Phuket Old Town

The artwork often features a childlike character wearing an animal costume and an extra eye. Her name is Mardi. The artist believes that the third eye on Mardi represents a world that can only be seen with an extra eye.

On Phang Nga Road, you will come across an array of colorful Chinese street arts, especially on both sides of the alleyway to the shrine of the Serene Light. One of my favorites is the hand puppet performances to entertain the deities.

Also, the giant lobster and street art with a girl sitting on a ‘Sia Nah’ or Tiffin Carrier are unmissable on Phang Nga Road. I loved the fact that how the entire Phuket Old Town is revamped. It allows tourists to get a feel of an old world in the most pulsating way.

9. TRY STREET FOOD

In your one-day Phuket Old Town itinerary, you must include relishing the best street food. There are lots of cool cafes and heritage buildings that are turned into restaurants where you get the best of Thai cuisine. But the fun of having food on the street is beyond comparison.

While doing the walking tour in Phuket Old Town, look for street food vendors who sell mouth-watering fresh Thai food to suit your palate. If you are a non-vegetarian, you get plenty of food options on the streets.

10. DON’T MISS THE WALKING STREET NIGHT MARKET ON THALANG ROAD

Last but not the least, after exploring the streets of Phuket Old Town, relishing the best Thai food, experiencing museums, and capturing the street arts, it is time to visit the most famous walking street on Thalang road. Visit this night street market and feel the excitement of seeing a completely different side of Thalang road.

The entire street looks like a shopping carnival. Whether you want to have a variety of street food, shopping for home décor, exotic souvenirs, or want to enjoy some great music, you will find everything here. This market is open only on Sunda y. Don’t miss some of the best local handicraft and gift stalls on the buzzing street.

The best part of the walking street is that you can bargain and buy. Mostly local artisans and entrepreneurs come here to sell their products.

What amazed me at the walking street night market is that even though it becomes crowded, it is not chaotic. Everything is quite organized. You will also find local artists drawing on the street or painting. The lively environment of the walking street needs to be experienced in Phuket. This is highly recommended.

Disclaimer :

The reproduction of any of the content, including the photographs without prior consent/permission of the writer, is strictly prohibited and a violation of the same will attract legal action.

Pin it for later

Did you like the post? Follow me on Facebook , Twitter & Instagram, and stay updated and notified about the latest posts.

For any kind of collaboration with My Travel Diary , reach at [email protected]

Be the first one to get notified about new updates from the blog.

15 Comments

I totally agree with your idea of doing research in renovating your home. Now here’s what I can suggest, DIY became so popular nowadays, lots of influencers and content creator spread information about DIY. Home renovations can be so costly, but with proper research and following how others done it, it should not be that difficult. decor

I skipped Phuket on my last trip there. Clearly that was a mistake. The street art looks beautiful! So does the Temple of Serene Light, actually. I’m definitely adding Phuket to my next Thailand trip. Thank you!

I read your article. and your every content is amazing thank you so much

Amazing article, I have always wanted to visin Phuket and specifically the old town, now I know what to look for!

Thank you for this information. I will tell my wife about phuket. Sounds like a beautiful place.

What an amazing and fascinating place to visit. I really didn’t know much about this but after reading this post I will surely visit one day. Thanks for sharing such an amazing post.

Good content and very informative blog.

I must admit that we spent most of our visit to Phuket close to the water. With a great visit one time to the tasty night market. It looks like Old Town Phuket is a spot we will have to plan to enjoy on a return visit. I love all the colour everywhere. As photographers, the town will definitely be a playground for us! Especially with that great variety of street art.

I would definitely want to walk around Phuket old town when in the area. During the day to see the architecture, it is so colorful, and at night for the walking street night market, it looks amazing!

You got me at the Sino-portugese architecture of the Old Town. Loved the vibe. Even the On On hotel is a place where I must visit once in Phuket. Thanks for giving an offbeat information about Phuket.

I visited Phuket a long time ago and had no idea there was an old town. Gorgeous photos and so much color too. I like the Sino-portuguese buildings, the architecture is so unique. The markets, day and night look fabulous too, I’d definitely buy a few things there.

Wonderful photos! The infrastructural designs in Phuket Old Town are particularly striking, thanks to the vibrant color combinations and distinct forms. When I visit Phuket, I will undoubtedly pay a visit to the Shrine of the Serene Light. Any viewpoint you take here is picture-perfect, in my opinion! I’m also a fan of the thought-provoking street art!

Old town Phuket is one of the popular tourist destinations with so much to capture in the heart of the city. The shrine of the serene light, Sino-Portuguese style homes lining the streets, the authentic Bann 92 café, vibrant street art, shopping stalls, to the delicious Thai food, everything wraps up the true essence of Thailand.

You are absolutely right about tourism focusing on the beautiful beaches in Phuket. I had not idea there was such a vibrant old town to be enjoyed here. And, it’s all right up my alley, with the colorful photo opportunities, beachy dresses and hats, and delicious food offerings. I’m so glad I know to plan a day exploring the old town now when I visit!

This is the best article i like it very much. This is very informative and useful content. please keep sharing with us.Thanks for this great post!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

My Travel Diary is an Award Winning Travel Blog about destinations, lifestyles, people and cultures. The blog has been continuously featured by some of the most esteemed publications, TV channels, Radio station, online portals and newspapers.

QUICK LINKS

Destinations, latest posts.

Are you looking for a destination wedding location in India? This is a comprehensive list of top wedding destination locations in India.

Travelling to New Jersey in USA? Here is the complete travel itinerary for your next adventure. FIND OUT MORE

Privacy Policy

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

1 Day in Phuket

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

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
9 Days in Thailand – Highlights of the country
7 days in Thailand: Natural and Cultural Discovery
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:

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

Marvelous Islands in Phuket

Itinerary 1

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

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

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

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

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

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…

attractions in Phuket Town Thailand
photos of Phuket Town
Phuket Town restaurants
Phuket Town Thailand foods
Phuket Town Thailand guide
Phuket Town things to see
Phuket Town Travel Guides

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.

Latest posts

Rocket Festival in Laos: Don’t Miss Boun Bang Fai 2024

March 25, 2024

Fansipan in Vietnam – Guide to conquering the roof of Indochina

March 22, 2024

Luxury Travel in Vietnam in 2024: 6 Most Expensive Activities Not to Miss

March 19, 2024

Kien Trung Palace in Vietnam: Splendid Hue Beauty reopens in 2024

March 15, 2024

Dien Bien Travel Guide – A lyrical and history-rich land in Vietnam

March 12, 2024

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival in Vietnam 2024

March 11, 2024

Top popular Tags

Can Tho, Vietnam: the heart of the Mekong Delta

Halong Bay – A must see destination in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Top 10 Beautiful Beaches in Thailand to Visit

12 Most Famous Temples in Thailand That You Must Visit

Thailand Cuisine: 15 Best Thai Dishes to Savor in Thailand

Tours & Activities ❯
Island Tours
Sightseeing Tours
Night Shows
Adventure Tours
Safari Tours
Half Day Tours & Trips
1 Day Tours
Tourist Attractions
Private Tours
Thai Cuisine Cooking Class
Photographer
Yacht Rental
Jewelry Factories
Pearl Shops in Phuket
Visa Service ❯
All Visa Services in Phuket
Visa Run & Border Run
Student Non-Immigrant Visa
Retirement Visa
Thailand Elite (Privilege Tourist Visa)
Opening an account in Thai Bank
Real Estate ❯
Real Estate Gallery
Types of Real Estate Property Taxes Property Forms for Foreigners How to Buy Property in Phuket Buying an Established Property in Phuket Purchase of Land & Commercial Real Estate Condominiums in Phuket How to Buy Housing in Pattaya? Buying a Villa in Phuket
view all articles...
Transfers ❯
Transfers to Islands
Phuket ↔ Phi Phi Phuket ↔ Krabi Phuket ↔ Koh Pangan Phuket ↔ Koh Tao Phuket ↔ Koh Samui Phuket ↔ Ao Nang Beach Phuket ↔ Koh Lanta
Transfer to Phuket Airport (Shuttle bus)
Phuket Taxi Service Phuket → Airport Airport → Phuket Patong Beach ↔ Phuket Airport Kata Beach ↔ Phuket Airport Karon Beach ↔ Phuket Airport Phuket Town ↔ Phuket Airport Rassada Pier ↔ Phuket Airport Thailand Taxi Service Rent a car with driver
Airline Tickets
Hotel Booking

Online Support

PDF Price list All Tours & Activities Island Tours Sightseeing Tours Safari Tours Adventure Tours Night Shows Extreme Diving Snorkeling Fishing With Kids With Family Private Tours Half Day Tours One Day Tours ">Tours & Activities
Yacht Charters
Phuket Jewelry Factories Amorn Pearl Store Gems Gallery Phuket Wang Talang Phuket Latex Products view all shops... ">Shopping
Phuket Taxi Service Rent a car with driver Airport → Phuket Phuket → Airport Patong ↔ Airport Kata ↔ Airport Karon ↔ Airport Phuket Town ↔ Airport Rassada Pier ↔ Airport all Thailand destinations... ">Taxi
Aphrodite show FantaSea show Ping Pong show Siam Niramit show Simon Cabaret show Flying Hanuman Wake Park Slip N Fly Park Splash Jungle Water Park Bird Park Nemo Dolphins Bay Tiger Kingdom Trick Eye Museum Upside Down House view all tickets... ">Tickets
Phuket → Airport (HKT) Phuket ↔ Phi Phi Phuket ↔ Krabi Phuket ↔ Phangan Phuket ↔ Koh Tao Phuket ↔ Koh Samui Phuket ↔ Koh Lanta Phuket ↔ Ao Nang Beach view all destinations... ">Transfers
All Visa Services in Phuket Visa Run & Border Run Student Visa Retirement Visa Thailand Elite Opening an account in Thai Bank ">Visa Services
Real Estate
Cooking Class
- Thailand - Phuket Pattaya Bangkok Samui - UAE - Dubai ">Other Locations

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!

Book Online

Lots of cool tours.

Terms and Conditions
Privacy Policy
Cookies Policy

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket

Day trips from phuket.

Phuket to Ko Phi Phi Don
Phuket to Ao Phang Nga National Park
Phuket to Chalong
Phuket to Phang Nga
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. Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V.Marine

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Starlight Sea Cave Kayaking and Loy Krathong Floating

9. Phi Phi Islands Day Tour from Phuket

10. Phi Phi and Bamboo Island Snorkeling Tour with Lunch by Speedboat

11. Full Day Guided Tour in Phi Phi and Bamboo Islands with Lunch

12. Premium Phi Phi, bamboo island tour SpeedCatamaran

13. James Bond Island with Canoeing and Lunch by Speedboat

14. ️ Phuket Private Instagram Tour: All-Inclusive

15. Phi Phi Island Private Boat Tour

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

17. ATV Big Buddha Phuket Viewpoint

18. Phi Phi Maya Bay and Bamboo Islands Small Group Tour with Lunch

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

20. James Bond Island Longtail Boat Tour (Private & All-Inclusive)

21. Phuket Jungle Wildlife Canoeing Small Group Tour with Pick up

22. 4-Waters Eco-Adventure Trip from Phuket Including Lunch

23. Sunset Boat Trip To Phang Nga Bay & James Bond - Phuket Sail Tour

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

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

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

27. SHA PLUS Phuket City Tours with Landmark Viewpoints & Noted Attraction

28. Phuket Best Experience City Tour (SHA Plus)

29. Day Trip to James Bond Island by Premium Speedboat includes National Park Fees

30. Hype Yacht : VIP Tour Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay from Phuket

What travelers are saying.

Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Seaview Lunch by V.Marine
Jame Bond, Panyee Island, Hong Island and Naka Island by Speedboat From Phuket
Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island - Big Boat
Phuket City Tour: Karon View Point, Big Buddha & Wat Chalong
Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips
5 Star Marine
Twilight Sea Canoe Phuket
ForeverVacation Phuket
Indepth Dive Centre
Two Sea Tour
Sri Thara Marine - Canoeing & James Bond Island
Coral Seekers
Oceanic Divecenter
Aloha Ocean Adventures
Phuket Tours Transfers
All 4 Diving Scuba Diving Phuket
Paddle Asia - Private Day Tours
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

+66 (0) 76 393724
[email protected]

Your cart is empty

PHUKET THAILAND TRAVEL

Phuket all day tours, things to do in phuket, never run out of attractions in phuket day tours.

PhuketThailandTravel.com offers the Easy Go Package to ensure you have the best time during your holiday in Phuket, especially if it’s your first visit and you want to explore amazing places. This package is designed for travelers who have booked hotels independently but are unsure where to begin their trip in Phuket. The EASY GO PACKAGE guarantees delightful experiences for travelers worldwide. Leveraging our over 10 years of experience in Phuket ground handling, we have carefully selected the most beautiful places for you to discover.

Banana Beach by Speed Boat

Banana Beach+Sunset by Catamaran

Kahung Beach by Speed Boat

Kahung + Racha by Speed Boat

Kahung Beach + Sunset by Catamaran

Kahung + Racha + Sunset by Catamaran

Khai Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi Island by Express Boat

Phi Phi & Khai Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speed Boat

Phi Phi & Bamboo Island by Speed Catamaran

Phi Phi Island by Royal Jet Cruise

Phi Phi & Maiton + Sunset by Power Catamaran

Phang Nga by Big Boat – James Bond Canoe

Phang Nga by Speed Boat

Similan Island by Speed Boat

Similan by Speed Catamaran

Surin Island by Speed Boat

Krabi 3 island by Express Boat

Phuket Fantasea- Best theme park of Thailand

Yacht Party James Bond+Hong Phang Nga

AQUARIA Phuket

Carnival Magic

Phuket Dolphins Show

Siam Niramit Phuket

Phuket Simon Cabaret Show

Thai Boxing

Phuket Tiger Kingdom

Racha + Sunset with Sail Sip Sound Yacht

Bamboo Rafting

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Hanuman World – Adventure tour

White Water Rafting

Andamanda Water Park

ATV Big Buddha + Zipline

Cooking Class At Blue Elephant Phuket

Phuket Explorer Tour – Program 1

Phuket Explorer Tour – Program 2

Phuket Safari City Tour

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary

P huket is the largest island in Thailand and is well known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. In order to see the best of this island, putting together a 5-day Phuket itinerary is a good way to maximise your time.

In five days, you can have enough time to explore the island’s many beaches, such as Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach, as well as immerse yourself in Thai culture by visiting local temples and sacred sites, diving into cooking the Thai cuisine, and exploring the bustling markets.

You can also take advantage of Phuket’s proximity to nearby islands such as the Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island, which allow you to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in Thailand.

If you’re thinking of spending 5 days in Phuket but not sure what to do or where to go, below is the ultimate 5-day itinerary for Phuket.

Is 5 days enough for Phuket?

Where to base yourself in phuket, stop 1: hit the beach or sit by the pool, stop 2: take a traditional thai cooking class with pat, stop 3: visit wat chalong and the big buddha, stop 4: enjoy an indulgent dinner at the hilton, stop 2: catch the sunset at the after beach bar in kata, stop 4: eat street food at the local karon temple night markets, stop 1: indulge in a thai massage, stop 2: old town phuket, stop 3: try water sports such as jet ski or parasailing, stop 4: simon cabaret show, stop 1: maya bay, stop 2: lagoon swim, stop 3: snorkeling spot, stop 4: lunch at don phi phi, stop 5: swimming spot, stop 1: elephant sanctuary, stop 2: bang pae waterfall, stop 3: promthep cape, getting around phuket, best time to visit phuket, save this to pinterest:.

Planning your trip to Phuket last-minute?

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Phuket! Here are some of the top tours, hotels, and useful items you may need before your trip!

Top Experiences and Tours in Phuket

Visit the Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket (a must for animal lovers!)
A day trip to the Phi Phi Islands (see the iconic Maya Bay!)
Watch the Simon Cabaret Show (an unmissable thing to do at night)

Top Accommodation and Hotels in Phuket

Amari Phuket, Patong Beach (luxury resort, near the nightlife but away from the noise)
Ozo Phuket, Kata Beach (a quiet resort, excellent for couples)
Pullman Phuket, Karon Beach (excellent location, ideal for families)

Phuket, Thailand is the perfect place for those wanting an indulgent getaway – whether for just the weekend, or a longer stay.

Personally, I think 5 days is the minimum number of days you need in Phuket as there is so much to see and do, plus you want to have a good amount of time to really enjoy the beaches and top attractions.

We stayed at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa for 6 nights and had a fantastic family holiday enjoying all that was on offer on Thailand’s largest island.

We first visited Phuket 10 years earlier on our honeymoon and were not impressed. That was because we stayed in Patong Beach, the area notorious for wild party nights and a chaotic mess of street markets, pubs, and go go bars.

On our second stay in Phuket, we decided to stay in Karon Beach , which was perfect.

It is a much quieter destination more suited to families and those wanting to relax and appreciate, rather than paint the town scarlet!

We discovered that Phuket attracts many type of travelers, but where you base yourself really impacts your experience. If you stay in Karon Beach, Kata Beach or Kamala Beach, you can avoid the nightlife of Bangla Road and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation.

If you want to party, then Patong Beach is the place to go.

Wherever you stay, you can rent a car or scooter to get around and still be able to see the best of Phuket.

Honestly, all of Phuket’s attractions are within a scooter ride and it really doesn’t matter where you base yourself. You just got to pick an area with the vibe that’s right for you.

In the following Phuket itinerary, we’ve captured all of the highlights of Phuket, allowing you time to really get a sense of the Thai culture, discover the most beautiful scenery and indulge in the laid-back Phuket way.

Day 1: Phuket Town and Karon Beach

We’re going to assume that you arrive in Phuket the night before, so our first day in Phuket on this itinerary will be the first full day you have available.

If you traveled a long way, or if you landed in the morning, use the day that you arrive as a rest day before you start exploring.

On your first full day, rise early for breakfast in your hotel. Depending on where you’re staying, you might want to spend some time in the morning hitting the Phuket beaches and cooling off with a morning swim.

Some excellent beaches for a swim are Karon Beach, Kata Beach (And Kata Noi Beach, a smaller beach near Kata), Nai Harn Beach, Layan Beach or even Patong Beach in the day time.

You might also need to use your morning to get orientated, such as picking up a sim card and hiring a car or scooter, so use this morning as a chilled morning to get yourself ready for a Phuket adventure.

Thailand is full of difficult decisions, like should I drink a beer or a cocktail, or swim at the pool with ocean views or cross the road to swim in the warm ocean, with views?

You will find there is plenty of time to enjoy the beaches or swim by the pool in this 5 day Phuket itinerary, as we want you to have a relaxing vacation and enjoy the number one thing to do in Phuket – visit the beaches.

At the beginning or end of each day, allow some downtime by the pool or on the beach.

After lunch, opt to take a Thai cooking class with Pat. This is your first introduction to Thai culture and a way to mingle with the locals and learn from them.

Visiting Pat’s home and learning to cook Thai food was one of our Phuket highlights.

Pat’s home Thai cooking school first opened in 1996 in Phuket Town and has since been featured in many print media publications and TV programs.

Our experience began in the local market gathering the supplies for the food we were soon to prepare.

We had a lesson in the various uses of vegetables and herbs in Thai cooking as we walked through, picking up each new one to smell and feel the textures.

This introduction was the perfect way to get a feel for the basics of a delicious Thai meal and what sets it apart from the cuisine of its Asian neighbours. I certainly had a better understanding of where I was going wrong with my own attempts of cooking Thai food at home.

Pat’s open aired kitchen is attached to the side of her home and she never has more than 8 people per class , maintaining that small, homely feel.

After a welcome glass of iced lemongrass tea, we donned the aprons and set to work chopping, peeling, mortar and pestle bashing to create some of my favourite Thai meals: tom yum goong, spring rolls, green curry, som tum and banana in coconut milk.

What I loved the most was sharing the experience with Kalyra. She eagerly followed us through the markets learning about the different ingredients and enthusiastically helped me prepare the food. My Junior – Masterchef even rolled a near perfect spring roll.

I was even impressed with my ability to finally produce a delicious Thai meal thanks to Pat’s expert guidance.

Not far from Phuket Town is the stunning Wat Chalong . I was suffering from Bangkok belly on our visit and could barely focus on the aesthetic designs of the temple complex.

We’ve visited a lot of wats in South East Asia, and this one certainly had its own unique flare. Craig was more than impressed and found it to be a perfect temple for those new to Thailand.

The Grand Pagoda dominates the temple grounds–it’s cool and breezy location makes it just as popular as the splinter of Buddha’s bone that rests inside.

The pagoda walls depict Buddha’s life story and immense golden statues of the various Buddha poses sit in the main hall. Choose the one you wish to worship to most.

Pay attention to the fire crackers going off inside the brick oven out the front of the ordination hall. Thai people set them off to celebrate if they receive any good luck.

The Big Buddha sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and is 45 meter high and can be seen far and wide across Phuket.

Not only is it a place of tranquillity to receive your blessings, but it’s one of the best viewpoints in Phuket which has 360 degree views of the island.

The Buddha’s body is layered with Burmese marble which shines in the sun, making it a symbol of hope and a guarding force of protection.

It’s a great place to visit for sunset as it has sweeping views.

I have one rule in Thailand. No Western food allowed.

I would even put it in my black book of crimes you should never commit. My second rule is you should never stop eating, no matter how full you are.

Who cares you cooked up a smorgasbord for lunch, you have had a whole afternoon to digest it. It’s time to top up!

You can have an indulgent Thai dinner at the Thai Thai Restaurant at the Hilton. It’s a great way to ease into Thai cuisine when you’re not ready for street food yet.

Enjoy it, because tomorrow I’m sending you to a night market!

What I love the most about dining out in Thailand – and this restaurant excelled at this – is the outstanding service.

Our head waiter, Pop, was always on hand to ensure we were happy and content. He shared many stories with us of Thailand and his own life, always with an affectionate giggle.

We enjoyed crab cakes and Thai prawn salad for entrees, followed by slow cooked tilapia in coconut milk and Phuket yellow noodles.

I had to finish dinner with my favourite Thai desert—mango and sticky rice; Craig opted for the coconut ice cream and tried unsuccessfully to convince me his was better.

Lucky Kalyra was asleep in the chair or she would have backed him.

Now you can go back to your room and collapse. The pillows will mould around your head so you feel like you are sleeping on clouds.

Day 2: Phang Ngha Bay Boat Tour

Your day will start early so first stop will be the poolside breakfast buffet. Eat up as today is a BIG day!

Stop 1: Go on the James Bond Island Tour of Phang Nga Bay (Full Day)

I never wanted to go on his tour before because it was so James Bond focused, and I have never watched a movie.

Our friend Roger recommended it as one of his favorite things to do in Phuket , so we decided to give it a chance.

James Bond Island was made famous by his movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun ” It does not mean much to me, but the island itself is very picturesque and photo worthy.

Check prices and availability for James Bond Island Day Trips here.

Many of our followers on facebook recommended the Sea Canoes as the best way to enjoy the limestone tunnels and caves.

This was not really an option with our little ones, so we did a full day tour taking in four of the islands in the Phang Nga Bay area.

The seas were a little rough and the water murky, but if you arrived on a day when the Andaman Sea was blazing with its crystal clear emerald waters and the dramatic limestone mountains, I’d imagine it would be stunning.

The floating Muslim village at Koh Paynee was a fascinating stop.

The silted homes joined together in the mud swamps in front of a large limestone rock island was started 200 years ago by 3 Indonesian families now hosts nearly 1700 people and over 300 families.

We really loved our small kayak tour through the mangroves and tunnels of one island and swimming at Naka Island . It’s a full day tour and popular, but an enjoyable day out.

Do not delay in heading straight to the After Beach Bar on the hill behind Kata Noi. This place is legendary for sunset drinks and a relaxed vibe.

We arrived here after a day of cruising the beaches of the West Coast of Phuket. As soon as we arrived and saw the amazing views and felt the cool breeze we were happy.

It didn’t even faze us that we had chosen the one day in our two weeks in Thailand that was cloudy!!

Luckily there was a small break in the clouds so we were able to see a beautiful pink orb poking through.

Sit back with a cocktail and enjoy. Just don’t order a mojito – they were awful and they tried to charge me for three of them!

If you are not too exhausted, head to the Karon temple night markets held every Tuesday and Saturday night for some incredible street food and to shop for souvenirs.

The shopping here is cheap! It is mostly clothes with the odd tourist artifacts like lanterns and Buddha statues thrown in.

You can even pick up a cheap bowl of curry noodles for 30 baht and Thai banana pancake for 40 baht.

Day 3: Culture Day: Thai Massage, Phuket Old Town, Cabaret Show

After a long day on the boat yesterday, you might want to give yourself a little treat. I highly recommend you get yourself a Thai massage at least once on your trip.

Alternatively, you can visit a resort spa and opt for a relaxing hot stone massage or aromatherapy treatment.

You cannot come to Thailand without worshipping your body with a Thai massage. Crime number 10 to never commit in Thailand!

We’d already had our cheap 200 baht massage in Bangkok before arriving to Phuket and would definitely say it’s a good idea to get one before a flight home.

If you’re not familiar with the concept of a Thai massage, allow me to explain.

A Thai massage is a traditional form of bodywork that originated in Thailand over 2,500 years ago.

It is a type of massage that combines acupressure, stretching, and deep tissue techniques to help release tension and promote relaxation.

During a Thai massage, you typically lie on a mat on the floor while the practitioner uses their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure to various points on the body.

The massage therapist may also use gentle stretching movements to help improve flexibility and range of motion.

Essentially it’s a cross between massage and some kind of sports yoga.

Thai massage has many benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving circulation, boosting energy levels, and reducing muscle tension and pain.

Thai massage is often performed fully clothed, without the use of oils or lotions. It is becoming increasingly popular in western countries as a way to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind.

If this doesn’t sound relaxing to you, you can ramp up the feel good factor with a special spa treatment.

They may be expensive in comparisons to the ones you can get on the beach or in a room with 10 other people, but in comparison to Australian prices they’re really quite cheap.

A body scrub and a Thai-herbal-heat massage later we felt like new and improved version of ourselves. We possibly couldn’t get any more relaxed.

Disclaimer: Our stay at Hilton Arcadia was hosted in part by Thailand Tourism and Hilton Arcadia Phuket, though all thoughts, ideas and opinions in this guide are our own.

After a massage, you are probably feeling more energized and ready to explore. So take a trip over to Old Town Phuket, a charming and historic district located in the heart of Phuket.

One of the main reasons to visit Old Town Phuket is its fascinating mix of architecture. The district is home to beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings, some of which date back to the 19th century.

These buildings give visitors a glimpse into Phuket’s colonial past and offer a unique backdrop for exploring the area.

In addition to its stunning architecture, Old Town Phuket is also home to a vibrant street art scene.

Keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti that adorn the walls of many buildings throughout the district.

After exploring Old Town Phuket, head over to Patong Beach to try your hand at some watersports.

Patong Beach is a great place to try parasailing, jet skiing, or even just rent a kayak or stand up paddle board and hit the ocean.

If you’ve never tried any adventurous water sports before, this is a great place to try it because the prices are cheap and the bay is sheltered so you don’t get a huge strong wind blowing you in all directions.

One of the best things to do in Phuket at night is to attend a cabaret show.

A cabaret show in Phuket is a unique and entertaining experience that allows you to dive into Phuket’s long-standing traditions and history.

The shows are known for their elaborate costumes, stunning stage design, and talented performers. They offer a variety of performances, from traditional Thai dances to contemporary pop numbers, the shows cater to all tastes and interests.

The performances are also family-friendly, making them a great activity for travelers of all ages.

Check prices and availability for Simon Cabaret Show here.

Day 4: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip

Another popular day trip from Phuket is to the Phi Phi Islands, which are arguably the most beautiful islands in the Thailand archipelago.

You can stay on the larger of the two islands, Don Phi Phi, if you have more time, but it’s also easy to see the highlights on a day trip.

Check prices and availability for Phi Phi Islands Day Trips here.

The tour departs from Phuket at around 8am in the morning and you will hop into a speedboat or long tail boat and head to Phi Phi Islands. I would suggest getting a speedboat tour as they are faster, so you can visit more stops.

The first stop is Maya Bay, usually. The boat tours may swap these stops around so you can visit Maya Bay at a time when there are less people.

It’s the highlight of a Phi Phi Islands day tour because it’s Thailand’s most beautiful beach. It was made famous after it appeared in the movie The Beach starring Leonardo Dicaprio and is a protected beach.

It was closed for around five years or so due to overtourism, but now it’s open again for day tours only. You cannot swim in the beach, but it’s beauty is worth the journey.

You can sit back and admire the stunning limestone cliffs that surrounding it, and maybe even spot a black-tip reef shark in the water if you’re lucky.

The next stop is Pileh Lagoon, a hidden gem located between tall cliffs. It’s a great place to swim in the emerald-green waters of the lagoon and take in the breathtaking views around you.

If you didn’t see much marine life swimming in the lagoon, then don’t worry. The next stop is a snorkel spot at one of the best spots in Phi Phi Islands.

It’s usually a spot around Viking Cave, a sea cave that looks out into the open waters of the Andaman Sea.

Here is a great spot to discover the colorful coral and marine life that inhabit the waters, and marvel at the beauty of the underwater world.

I mentioned earlier that Don Phi Phi Island is the largest island in the Phi Phi Islands and is much more developed than the others.

It’s a great place for lunch at a local restaurant and to browse the market shops that line the two streets on the island.

Usually, if the weather is good, the tour will end with a swimming spot at a remote uninhabited island.

Usually, you will visit Bamboo Island, a small and secluded island with clear waters perfect for swimming.

Soak up the sun on the white sandy beach or swim in the crystal clear waters before you relax on the boat and enjoy the ride back to Phuket.

Day 5: Elephant Sanctuary, Bang Pae Waterfall, Promthep Cape

On the last day, we will visit some of the lesser known attractions and wildlife sanctuaries.

Visiting an elephant sanctuary is one of the most popular and rewarding experiences in Thailand, and allows tourists to see these majestic animals up close while supporting their welfare and conservation efforts.

One of the main reasons to visit an elephant sanctuary in Phuket is the opportunity to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

However, not all sanctuaries provide a safe and ethical environment for elephants, so you do need to do your research carefully.

An ethical sanctuary allows you to observe them roaming freely, socializing with other elephants, and engaging in natural behaviors such as bathing and grazing but without getting involved.

Most of the elephants have been rescued from the tourism or logging industries.

Check prices and availability for Elephant Sanctuaries here.

Bangae Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction in Phuket’s Khao Phra Thaeo National Park.

One of the main reasons to visit Bang Pae Waterfall is its breathtaking beauty.

It is the largest and most impressive waterfall on the island, with water cascading down a series of rocky tiers.

You can cool off in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls or take a dip in the natural pools along the trail.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bang Pae Waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest, making it a great place to explore and hike.

Another great sunset spot in Phuket is Promthep Cape, located at the southernmost point of Phuket island.

One of the main reasons to visit Promthep Cape is its breathtaking views. The cape overlooks the Andaman Sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and surrounding mountains.

The sunset views from Promthep Cape are particularly stunning and draw large crowds of visitors every evening.

The best way to get around Phuket is to hire a scooter and drive yourself. It’s going to save you money, and also allows you the freedom to travel at your own pace.

With a family, a scooter isn’t a good option, but you can also hire a car as well.

Alternatively, you can take taxis. This is a convenient and reliable way to get around Phuket. They can be found at Phuket International Airport, major hotels, and tourist areas.

However, taxi fares in Phuket can be expensive, especially for long distances, so you might want to use a ride-share app such as Grab or Bolt.

Tuk-tuks are an experience in Thailand. They are three-wheeled vehicles that are a popular mode of transportation in Phuket.

They are cheaper than taxis, but prices can be negotiated, so it’s important to agree on a price before getting in.

Songthaews are like bus versions of tuk tuks. They are converted pickup trucks that operate as shared taxis.

They are a budget-friendly option, but routes and schedules can be limited, and they also take a long time to get from A to B, making them less convenient for travelers with specific plans.

The best time to visit Phuket depends on your preferences and travel plans, but winter is our prefered time of year to visit.

Phuket has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year, though it does have a long rainy season from June to October which can get in the way of your beach time.

The peak tourist season in Phuket is from November to February, when the weather is generally sunny and dry. December is the busiest month and can be crowded, so book accommodation and tours in advance.

The temperatures during this time are milder, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach hopping.

The sea is also calm during these months, making it ideal for water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

March to May is the hot season in Phuket, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C.

April is also a time when you see pollution from the north come down to the south, which doesn’t usually reach Phuket, but it does mean you get a lot of people fleeing the north to escape the pollution and residing in Phuket.

So, expect accommodations to be booked up in these months as well.

This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable during the day, but the evenings are cooler and perfect for exploring the island’s nightlife scene.

Final Thoughts on This 5 Day Phuket Itinerary

Phuket is an island that offers so much to see and do, and 5 days is the perfect amount of time for those looking to explore the island’s diverse attractions and experiences.

I hope this Phuket itinerary gave you some inspiration about what to do and how to spend your days in Phuket.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us in the comments.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is well known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. In order to see the best of this island, putting together a 5-day Phuket itinerary … The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary Read More »

IMAGES

10 Best Day Trips from Phuket 2021
Tailor-Made Vacations In Phuket, Thailand
8 Best Tours in Phuket
10 Best Things To Do In Phuket To Make The Most Out Of Your Island Trip
Phuket, Thailand Travel Guide
27 Amazing Things To Do In Phuket, Thailand

VIDEO

4 days in Phuket with ITINERARY + COST
Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket, Thailand
PHUKET, THAILAND (2023)
How to plan Phuket Pattaya Bangkok Trip in Rs. 42,000 including Flights, Visa, Hotel & Food
How to Spend 5 Days in PHUKET Thailand Perfect Itinerary
Phuket Trip

COMMENTS

One day in Phuket, Thailand (Guide)
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.
Phuket Itinerary ☀️ What to do in Phuket in 1 day?
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.
One-Day Phuket Itinerary: What to Do in Phuket in 1 Day?
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.
THE TOP 10 Phuket Day Trips (w/Prices)
Phi Phi Island by Speedboat w/ Buffet Lunch & National Park Fees. 219. Visit the Phi Phi Islands by speedboat on a full-day tour from Phuket. Go to three different islands with a local guide who shares stunning views of top spots such as Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Leh, and the Blue Lagoon.
One Day in Phuket Old Town Itinerary for a Perfect Day
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 ...
The 19 Best Tours in Phuket ️ Phuket Tours and Day Trips
A typical day trip in Phang Nga Bay with James Bond Island and Koh Panyi Village: 9.00: Pick up at hotel lobby. 10.00: Arrive at Royal Phuket Marina. 10.30: Visit Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) 12.00: Buffet Thai lunch at Koh Panyee village. 13.00: Visit Khao Thalu to canoe inside a cave.
1-Day Phuket Town Itinerary
Make the most out of your 1 day in Phuket Town by exploring these top visited places: Mingmongkol Big Buddha, Chaithararam Temple - Wat Chalong, Pure Vegan Heaven, and Go Benz Rice Porridge Phuket ... This site and app let me do all the planning for our 15 day trip in a little over 6 hours! I can't recommend it enough! A. Amanda W. Amazing ...
1 Day in Phuket for First Timers
Water sports, shopping, and the city's famous shows are just a few of the ways to experience Phuket. With just one day, it's best to stick to focus on the highlights—here are some ideas. ... Luxury Small Group Phi Phi Sunrise from Phuket by Simba Sea Trips. 941. 8 hours; Free Cancellation; from
Phuket Day Trip: Beaches and Fantasies
Discover how Trip.com makes your one-day escape to Patong Beach and Phuket FantaSea unforgettable! Hotels; Flights; Trains; Cars. Car Rentals; Airport Transfers ... Our itinerary ensures you experience the essence of Phuket's charm in just one day, leaving you with memories to cherish and stories to tell. Shanghai Phuket. From US$99. Cheap ...
Phuket One Day Itinerary
A 1 day Phuket Itinerary by car takes you to Old Phuket Town, The Big Buddha Phuket, Rang Hill (Monkey Hill), Wat Chalong, and more. Our Travel blog helps you rent a driver in Phuket, find Phuket Temples, Hike in Phuket, See a waterfall in Phuket, Do some Phuket shopping and even visit a giant Phuket open market. All in One day in Phuket.
The BEST PHUKET ITINERARY in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)
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.
1 Day Phuket Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Phuket
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. ... One-day Sailing trip on Emperor Island in Phuket, Thailand [Highly recommended self-operated Rhapsody: Esquire Bubble ...
What to do if you only have 1 day in Phuket
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 ...
Phuket Day Trips
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.
One Day in The Quintessential Phuket Old Town Itinerary
1. VISIT THE SHRINE OF THE SERENE LIGHT. ALSO READ: KRU KUNG MUSEUM: A TREASURE TROVE IN RAYONG, THAILAND. The very first thing on your one-day itinerary of Phuket Old Town is to pay a visit to the sacred Shrine of the Serene Light. This temple is located on Phang Nga Road in the old town of Phuket.
9 Top-Rated Day Trips from Phuket
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.
1 Day in 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.
One Day Tours & Trips in Phuket
1, 2 or 3-day tours from Phuket with overnight stays. 4.8 . Water Park Splash Jungle in Phuket. Working hours 10:00-17:45 Meeting point in Phuket Organize a perfect weekend for your kids! 4.8 . Quad Biking & ATV Tours in Phuket. Start at 09:00, 12:00, 14:30 Transfer from Kata, Karon, Patong ...
Top 10 Phuket Tours 2024
Discover and book amazing Tours in Phuket on Klook. Find great deals and discounts on packages with instant confirmation! Top Phuket Tours. Phi Phi, Maya Area, Khai & Bamboo Island Day Trip from Phuket. 4.8 (8,823) 200K+ booked Bestseller. Easy refund. Instant confirmation. Book now for tomorrow. US$ 45.85 Best Price Guarantee.
THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Phuket (UPDATED 2024)
Phuket is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. Book the best day trips from Phuket, Thailand directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Read 1,344,664 traveler reviews and view photos of different trips from Phuket to various destinations. Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend ...
Phuket Day tours, Phuket one day trip, Day Trip in Phuket
Phuket Safari City Tour. No Review. 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.
Phuket Surin Island One Day Trip
For a convenient and hassle-free start to your Phuket Surin Island one-day trip, the company provides hotel pickup and drop-off services. The pickup time for the tour is at 07:30 AM, and you can contact the company after booking to get the exact pickup time in your hotel area.. Transfers are provided for hotels in the main city center area, ensuring that you don't have to worry about ...
Similan Islands Tour From Phuket 1 Day ️ Prices, Review
Phuket to Similan Islands Snorkeling, 1 Day Trip by Speedboat☝ Video, Prices, Review, Insurance ️ Book Online 24/7 +66 65 402 20 38. Tropic Tours +66 65 402 20 38. ... We want to show you the highlights of the Similan islands day trip with the least number of other tourists, ...
The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary
Day 1: Phuket Town and Karon Beach. ... Day 4: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip. Another popular day trip from Phuket is to the Phi Phi Islands, which are arguably the most beautiful islands in the ...