Best Ways to Travel From Patong to Old Phuket Town
If you are planning to visit Phuket, one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, you might be wondering how to get from Patong, the lively beach resort area, to Old Phuket Town, the historical and cultural center of the island. There are several options available, depending on your budget, time, and preference. In this blog post, I will share with you the best ways to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, based on my personal experience and research. Whether you want to take a bus, a taxi, a tuk-tuk, or a motorbike, I have the answer for you. Read on to find out more!
The best way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town is to take a public bus, also known as a songthaew. A songthaew is a converted pickup truck with two rows of seats in the back. The bus fare is only 30 baht per person, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. The bus operates from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and departs every 30 minutes from the beach road near Bangla Road in Patong. The bus stops at several places along the way, including Central Festival Mall, Phuket Bus Terminal, and Phuket Weekend Market. The bus terminal in Old Phuket Town is located near the clock tower on Phang Nga Road. From there, you can easily explore the charming streets and buildings of the old town by foot or bicycle. Taking a public bus is the cheapest and most convenient way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town.
How to Get From Patong to Old Phuket Town
Patong and Old Phuket Town are two of the most popular places to visit in Phuket, Thailand. Patong is known for its lively nightlife, shopping, and beach activities, while Old Phuket Town is known for its historical and cultural attractions, such as the Sino-Portuguese architecture, the temples, and the museums. If you want to experience both the modern and the traditional sides of Phuket, you might be wondering how to get from Patong to Old Phuket Town, or vice versa.
There are several options available for your transportation, depending on your budget, time, and preference. You can choose from public bus, taxi, tuk-tuk, or motorbike. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as cost, speed, comfort, and fun. In this blog post, I will help you compare and contrast these options, and give you some tips and recommendations on how to make the best decision for your travel style.
The distance between Patong and Old Phuket Town is about 10 kilometers (6 miles), and the travel time varies depending on the traffic conditions and the mode of transportation. The current travel time by car is about 44 minutes, with medium traffic congestion. However, this can change depending on the time of day and the season. The best way to check the current traffic conditions is to use a reliable online service such as Google Maps or Rome2Rio.
The most common route to take from Patong to Old Phuket Town is via Route 4029 and Route 4024. This route passes through some of the main landmarks and attractions in Phuket, such as Central Festival Mall, Phuket Bus Terminal, and Phuket Weekend Market. You can also take a detour to visit other places of interest along the way, such as Kathu Waterfall or Wat Chalong Temple.
In the following sections, I will explain each option in more detail, and provide you with some useful information such as fares, schedules, locations, and safety tips. I hope this blog post will help you plan your trip from Patong to Old Phuket Town more easily and enjoyably. Let’s get started!
The Cheapest Way to Travel From Patong to Old Phuket Town: Taking a Public Bus
If you are looking for the cheapest way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, taking a public bus is your best option. A public bus, also known as a songthaew, is a converted pickup truck with two rows of seats in the back. The bus fare is only 30 baht per person, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. The bus operates from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and departs every 30 minutes from the beach road near Bangla Road in Patong. The bus stops at several places along the way, including Central Festival Mall, Phuket Bus Terminal, and Phuket Weekend Market. The bus terminal in Old Phuket Town is located near the clock tower on Phang Nga Road. From there, you can easily explore the charming streets and buildings of the old town by foot or bicycle.
Taking a public bus is not only the cheapest way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, but also a great way to experience the local culture and scenery. You can mingle with the locals, enjoy the views of the mountains and the sea, and observe the daily life of Phuket. You can also hop on and off the bus at any point along the route, if you want to visit other attractions or take a break.
However, taking a public bus also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. First of all, the buses are not air-conditioned, so they can get very hot and stuffy, especially during the peak hours or the summer season. You might want to bring some water, a fan, or a hat to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Second, the buses are not very comfortable, as they are often crowded, noisy, and bumpy. You might not have enough space to sit or store your luggage, and you might have to endure some loud music or chatter from the driver or other passengers. Third, the buses are not very reliable, as they can be delayed by traffic jams, breakdowns, or detours. You might have to wait longer than expected for the bus to arrive or depart, or you might have to change buses along the way.
Therefore, taking a public bus from Patong to Old Phuket Town is a good option if you are on a tight budget, have plenty of time, and don’t mind some discomfort and inconvenience. However, if you prefer a faster, more comfortable, or more fun way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, you might want to consider other options such as taxi, tuk-tuk, or motorbike.
Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of taking a public bus from Patong to Old Phuket Town:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheap (30 baht per person) | Hot and stuffy (no air-conditioning) |
| Cultural and scenic (mingle with locals and enjoy views) | Uncomfortable (crowded, noisy, and bumpy) |
| Flexible (hop on and off at any point) | Unreliable (delayed by traffic jams, breakdowns, or detours) |
If you decide to take a public bus from Patong to Old Phuket Town, here are some tips and recommendations that will help you make your trip more enjoyable:
- Check the current traffic conditions before you leave by using Google Maps or Rome2Rio. These online services will show you the best route to take, the estimated travel time, and any possible delays or disruptions.
- Have exact change ready for the bus fare. The driver will not give you any change back if you pay more than 30 baht per person.
- Sit on the left side of the bus if you want to have a better view of the sea. Sit on the right side of the bus if you want to have a better view of the mountains.
- Be alert and attentive when you are on the bus. The driver will not announce the stops or destinations. You will have to look out for signs or landmarks along the way. If you are not sure where to get off, ask the driver or other passengers for help.
The Fastest Way to Travel From Patong to Old Phuket Town: Taking a Taxi
If you are looking for the fastest way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, taking a taxi is your best option. A taxi is a four-wheeled vehicle that can carry up to four passengers. Taxis are widely available in Patong and Old Phuket Town, and you can easily hail one on the street or book one through an app. The journey takes about 30 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. The taxi fare is fixed, but it varies depending on the type and quality of the taxi, but it usually ranges from 500 to 1000 baht per trip.
Taking a taxi is not only the fastest way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, but also a comfortable and convenient way to experience the ease and efficiency of Phuket. You can relax and enjoy the air-conditioned and spacious interior of the taxi. You can also chat with the driver, who might give you some tips and recommendations on where to go and what to do in Phuket. You can also customize your route and stop at any point along the way, if you want to visit other attractions or take some photos.
However, taking a taxi also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. First of all, the taxis are not very cheap, as they often charge higher prices than other modes of transportation. You might have to pay more than you expected for your trip, especially if you encounter some traffic jams, tolls, or surcharges. You might also have to deal with some dishonest or unprofessional drivers who might try to rip you off or cheat you. Second, the taxis are not very fun or exciting, as they are boring and ordinary. You might not have much interaction or adventure on the road, as you are isolated and passive in the taxi. You might also miss some of the cultural and scenic aspects of Phuket, as you are limited by the windows and doors of the taxi. Third, the taxis are not very easy to find or book, as they are often in high demand or low supply. You might have to wait longer than expected for a taxi to arrive or depart, or you might have to compete with other travelers or locals for a taxi.
Therefore, taking a taxi from Patong to Old Phuket Town is a good option if you prefer a fast, comfortable, and convenient way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town. However, if you prefer a cheaper, more fun, or more adventurous way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, you might want to consider other options such as public bus, tuk-tuk, or motorbike.
Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of taking a taxi from Patong to Old Phuket Town:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast (30 minutes) | Expensive (500 to 1000 baht per trip) |
| Comfortable (air-conditioned and spacious) | Can be boring sometimes (ordinary and passive) |
| Convenient (customizable and flexible) | Difficult (hard to find or book) |
The Most Fun Way to Travel From Patong to Old Phuket Town: Taking a Tuk-Tuk
If you are looking for the fastest way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, taking a tuk-tuk is your best option. A tuk-tuk is a three-wheeled motorized vehicle that can carry up to four passengers. Tuk-tuks are widely available in Patong and Old Phuket Town, and you can easily hail one on the street or book one through an app. The journey takes about 30 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. The tuk-tuk fare is negotiable, but it usually ranges from 300 to 500 baht per trip.
Taking a tuk-tuk is not only the fastest way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, but also a fun and exciting way to experience the thrill of Phuket. You can enjoy the breeze and the views as you zoom through the streets and alleys of Phuket. You can also chat with the driver, who might give you some tips and recommendations on where to go and what to do in Phuket. You can also customize your route and stop at any point along the way, if you want to visit other attractions or take some photos.
However, taking a tuk-tuk also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. First of all, the tuk-tuks are not very safe, as they have no seat belts, doors, or windows. You might have to hold on tight and watch out for other vehicles, pedestrians, or animals on the road. You might also have to wear a mask or sunglasses to protect yourself from the dust, smoke, or sun. Second, the tuk-tuks are not very comfortable, as they are noisy, bumpy, and smelly. You might not have enough space to sit or store your luggage, and you might have to endure some loud music or horn from the driver or other tuk-tuks. Third, the tuk-tuks are not very cheap, as they often charge higher prices than taxis or buses. You might have to bargain hard with the driver or compare different offers before you agree on a fare.
Therefore, taking a tuk-tuk from Patong to Old Phuket Town is a good option if you are in a hurry, want some adventure, and don’t mind some risk and discomfort. However, if you prefer a cheaper, more comfortable, or more relaxing way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, you might want to consider other options such as public bus, taxi, or motorbike.
Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of taking a tuk-tuk from Patong to Old Phuket Town:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast (30 minutes) | Unsafe (no seat belts, doors, or windows) |
| Fun and exciting (enjoy breeze and views) | Uncomfortable ( can be noisy, bumpy, and smelly) |
| Customizable (choose your route and stop at any point) | Expensive (300 to 500 baht per trip) |
The Most Adventurous Way to Travel From Patong to Old Phuket Town: Renting a Motorbike
If you are looking for the most adventurous way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, renting a motorbike is your best option. A motorbike is a two-wheeled vehicle that can carry one or two passengers. Motorbikes are widely available in Patong and Old Phuket Town, and you can easily rent one from various shops or online platforms. The journey takes about 20 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions and your driving skills. The motorbike rental fee varies depending on the type and quality of the motorbike, but it usually ranges from 150 to 500 baht per day.
Renting a motorbike is not only the most adventurous way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, but also a rewarding and liberating way to experience the beauty and diversity of Phuket. You can drive at your own pace and explore the island according to your interests and preferences. You can discover hidden gems and secrets that are not accessible by other modes of transportation. You can also enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing your route and stopping at any point along the way, if you want to visit other attractions or take some photos.
However, renting a motorbike also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. First of all, the motorbikes are not very safe, as they are prone to accidents, thefts, or damages. You might have to face some risks and challenges on the road, such as bad weather, poor road conditions, reckless drivers, or police checkpoints. You might also have to pay for any repairs or fines that might occur during your rental period. Second, the motorbikes are not very easy to drive, as they require some skills and experience. You might have to deal with some difficulties and inconveniences on the road, such as traffic jams, parking issues, or navigation problems. You might also have to follow some rules and regulations that might differ from your home country. Third, the motorbikes are not very cheap, as they often involve some hidden costs or scams. You might have to pay more than the advertised price or deposit for your rental. You might also have to deal with some dishonest or unprofessional rental shops or agents that might try to rip you off or cheat you.
Therefore, renting a motorbike from Patong to Old Phuket Town is a good option if you are confident, experienced, and adventurous enough to handle a motorbike on Phuket roads. However, if you prefer a safer, easier, or more relaxing way to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, you might want to consider other options such as public bus, taxi, or tuk-tuk.
Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of renting a motorbike from Patong to Old Phuket Town:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adventurous (discover hidden gems and secrets) | Unsafe (prone to accidents, thefts, or damages) |
| Rewarding (experience beauty and diversity of Phuket) | Difficult (require skills and experience) |
| Liberating (drive at your own pace and explore according to your interests) | Expensive (involve hidden costs or scams) |
Choosing the Best Option for Your Style
In this blog post, I have shared with you the best ways to travel from Patong to Old Phuket Town, which are two of the most popular places to visit in Phuket, Thailand. You have learned about the pros and cons of each option, such as public bus, taxi, tuk-tuk, and motorbike. You have also learned some tips and recommendations on how to make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Now, it is time for you to choose the best option for your travel style. Depending on your budget, time, and preference, you might prefer a different option than others. Here is a table that summarizes the main features of each option, such as cost, speed, comfort, and fun:
| Option | Cost | Speed | Comfort | Fun |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus | Low (30 baht per person) | Slow (45 minutes) | Low (hot and stuffy) | Medium (cultural and scenic) |
| Taxi | High (500 to 1000 baht per trip) | Fast (30 minutes) | High (air-conditioned and spacious) | Low (boring and ordinary) |
| Tuk-Tuk | Medium (300 to 500 baht per trip) | Medium (30 minutes) | Low (unsafe and uncomfortable) | High (fun and exciting) |
| Motorbike | Medium (150 to 500 baht per day) | Fast (20 minutes) | Low (unsafe and difficult) | High (adventurous and rewarding) |
You can use this table as a guide to help you decide which option suits you best. You can also combine different options for different parts of your trip, if you want to have a more varied and balanced experience. For example, you can take a public bus from Patong to Old Phuket Town in the morning, explore the old town by foot or bicycle in the afternoon, and take a taxi back to Patong in the evening.
Whatever option you choose, I hope you will have a wonderful time in Phuket. Patong and Old Phuket Town are two amazing places that offer a lot of attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers. You will surely find something that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.
Thank you for reading this blog post. I hope you have found it useful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please let me know in the comments section below. I would love to hear from you!
