A Guide to Old Phuket Town: Everything You Need to Know Before Going

If you are planning to visit Phuket, Thailand, you might want to explore the historical and cultural side of this popular island destination. One of the best places to do that is Old Phuket Town, a charming area that showcases the rich heritage of Phuket. In this blog post, I will guide you through everything you need to know before going to Old Phuket Town, including how to get there, what to see and do, where to eat and shop, and more. Whether you are interested in architecture, art, religion, or cuisine, you will find something to enjoy in Old Phuket Town. Read on to discover why this place is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the authentic and diverse culture of Phuket.

Old Phuket Town is the historical and cultural center of Phuket, an island province in southern Thailand. It is located in the eastern part of Phuket City, the capital of the province. Old Phuket Town was established in the 19th century as a trading hub for tin mining, which attracted merchants and immigrants from China, India, Europe, and other regions. The town is known for its distinctive Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful street art, religious temples, museums, and local markets. Old Phuket Town offers visitors a glimpse into the past and present of Phuket’s diverse and vibrant culture.

Now that you have a general idea of what Old Phuket Town is and why it is worth visiting, you might be wondering how to make the most of your time there. In the following sections, I will share with you some of the best tips and tricks to enjoy Old Phuket Town, such as when to go, how to get around, what to see and do, where to eat and shop, and more. You will also learn some interesting facts and stories about the history and culture of this fascinating place. By the end of this blog post, you will have all the information you need to plan a memorable and enjoyable trip to Old Phuket Town. So, let’s get started!

What is Old Phuket Town and Why You Should Visit

Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, attracting millions of visitors every year. But while many people come to Phuket for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and luxury resorts, there is another side of the island that is often overlooked: the Old Phuket Town.

The Old Phuket Town is the historical and cultural heart of Phuket, where you can experience the authentic and diverse heritage of the island. The town was founded in the 19th century as a trading hub for tin mining, which brought merchants and immigrants from China, India, Europe, and other regions. The town’s architecture reflects this influence, with a mix of Chinese and European styles that create a unique aesthetic. Walking along the streets, you can admire the intricate designs and details of the buildings, some of which have been beautifully restored.

But the Old Phuket Town is not just about the buildings. It is also a place where you can discover the local culture, cuisine, religion, and art. The town is home to many temples, shrines, museums, and markets that showcase the rich traditions and beliefs of the people. You can also find a variety of local dishes and snacks that will tantalize your taste buds. And if you are looking for some entertainment, you can enjoy the nightlife and festivals that take place in the town.

The Old Phuket Town is a place where you can learn about the past and present of Phuket’s diverse and vibrant culture. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life and feel the charm and spirit of the island. It is a place that you should not miss when you visit Phuket. In this blog post, I will show you why.

How to Get to Old Phuket Town From Different Parts of Phuket

Old Phuket Town is located in the eastern part of Phuket City, the capital of the island province. Depending on where you are staying in Phuket, there are different ways to get to Old Phuket Town, such as by bus, taxi, tuk-tuk, car, or motorbike. You can read my article about how to get from the airport to Old Phuket Town here and you can read my article about how to get from Patong to Old Phuket here. Here are some of the best options for getting to Old Phuket Town from different parts of Phuket:

• From Phuket International Airport: The airport is about 32 km north of Old Phuket Town. You can take a taxi, a Grab car, or a limousine service from the airport to Old Phuket Town. The fare is around 600-800 baht and the journey takes about 45 minutes. You can also take the airport bus, which costs 100 baht and takes about an hour and a half. The bus runs every hour from 6:30 am to 9:30 pm and stops at various locations along the way, including Phuket Bus Terminal 1 in Old Phuket Town.
• From Patong Beach: Patong Beach is about 15 km west of Old Phuket Town. You can take a taxi, a Grab car, or a tuk-tuk from Patong Beach to Old Phuket Town. The fare is around 400-600 baht and the journey takes about 30 minutes. You can also take a songthaew (blue local bus) from Patong Beach to Phuket Bus Terminal 1 in Old Phuket Town. The fare is 30 baht and the journey takes about an hour. The songthaew runs every 30 minutes from 7 am to 6 pm and stops at various locations along the way.
• From Karon Beach: Karon Beach is about 20 km southwest of Old Phuket Town. You can take a taxi, a Grab car, or a tuk-tuk from Karon Beach to Old Phuket Town. The fare is around 500-700 baht and the journey takes about 40 minutes. You can also take a songthaew (blue local bus) from Karon Beach to Phuket Bus Terminal 1 in Old Phuket Town. The fare is 35 baht and the journey takes about an hour and a half. The songthaew runs every hour from 7 am to 6 pm and stops at various locations along the way.
• From Kata Beach: Kata Beach is about 22 km south of Old Phuket Town. You can take a taxi, a Grab car, or a tuk-tuk from Kata Beach to Old Phuket Town. The fare is around 600-800 baht and the journey takes about 45 minutes. You can also take a songthaew (blue local bus) from Kata Beach to Phuket Bus Terminal 1 in Old Phuket Town. The fare is 40 baht and the journey takes about an hour and a half. The songthaew runs every hour from 7 am to 6 pm and stops at various locations along the way.
• From other parts of Phuket: If you are staying in other parts of Phuket, such as Kamala, Surin, Bangtao, Nai Yang, Rawai, or Chalong, you can also take a taxi, a Grab car, or a tuk-tuk to Old Phuket Town. The fare and the journey time will vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can take a songthaew (blue local bus) or a smart bus (air-conditioned bus) to Phuket Bus Terminal 1 in Old Phuket Town. The fare and the journey time will also vary depending on the route and frequency of the buses.

If you prefer exploring Phuket on your own, you can also rent a car or a motorbike from various rental shops around the island. However, you should be aware of the traffic rules and regulations in Thailand and have an international driving license or a Thai driving license. You should also be careful of the road conditions and other drivers in Phuket, as driving can be quite challenging and risky.

The Best Time to Visit Old Phuket Town and What to Expect

Old Phuket Town is a place that you can visit all year round, but depending on the season, you may have a different experience. Here are some of the factors that you should consider when planning your trip to Old Phuket Town:

• Weather: Phuket has a tropical monsoon climate, which means that it has three seasons: rainy, winter, and summer. The rainy season lasts from mid-May to mid-October, and it is characterized by hot and humid weather, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. The winter season lasts from mid-October to mid-February, and it is the best time to visit Phuket, as the weather is cool, dry, and sunny. The summer season lasts from mid-February to mid-May, and it is also a good time to visit Phuket, as the weather is hot but relatively rain-free.
• Crowds: Old Phuket Town tends to be busier during the peak season between November and March, when many tourists come to enjoy the sunny weather and the beaches. The crowds peak in December and January, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit Old Phuket Town in the low season from May to October, when the rains and humidity scare away most of the tourists. However, some attractions may be closed or have limited hours during this time.
• Events: Old Phuket Town hosts several events throughout the year that showcase its culture and heritage. Some of the most popular events are:
  • Phuket Old Town Festival: This festival takes place in February, usually around the Chinese New Year. It celebrates the history and culture of Old Phuket Town, with street performances, parades, food stalls, cultural shows, and more.
  • Phuket Vegetarian Festival: This festival takes place in October, usually around the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar. It is a religious festival that involves vegetarianism, purification rituals, firewalking, and other extreme acts of devotion by some participants.
  • Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market: This market takes place every Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm on Thalang Road, the main street of Old Phuket Town. It is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, accessories, and more. You can also enjoy live music, street art, and delicious street food.

Depending on your preferences and interests, you can choose the best time to visit Old Phuket Town and what to expect when you get there. No matter when you go, you will surely have a memorable and enjoyable time in this charming place.

How to Explore Old Phuket Town: Walking, Cycling or Taking a Tour

Old Phuket Town is a relatively small area that can be easily explored on foot, by bike, or by joining a tour. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences, budget, and time. Here are some of the pros and cons of each option:

• Walking: Walking is the cheapest and most flexible way to explore Old Phuket Town. You can walk at your own pace, stop whenever you want, and take as many photos as you like. Walking also allows you to appreciate the details and charm of the architecture, street art, and local life. However, walking can also be tiring, especially in the hot and humid weather. You may also get lost or miss some hidden gems if you don’t have a map or a guide. If you choose to walk, make sure you wear comfortable shoes, bring water and sunscreen, and follow a walking guide or map.
• Cycling: Cycling is another fun and eco-friendly way to explore Old Phuket Town. You can cover more ground than walking, but still enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing your own route and stops. Cycling also gives you a different perspective of the town, as you can access some narrow alleys and side streets that cars or buses can’t. However, cycling can also be challenging, especially if you are not used to riding on the left side of the road or in busy traffic. You may also need to find a safe place to park your bike when you want to visit some attractions or shops. If you choose to cycle, make sure you rent a good-quality bike from a reputable shop, wear a helmet and reflective clothing, and follow the traffic rules.
• Taking a tour: Taking a tour is the most convenient and informative way to explore Old Phuket Town. You can sit back and relax while a professional guide takes you to the best spots and tells you interesting stories and facts about the town’s history and culture. You can also learn more about the local food, religion, art, and lifestyle from an insider’s perspective. However, taking a tour can also be more expensive and less flexible than walking or cycling. You may have to follow a fixed itinerary and schedule, share your experience with other tourists, and deal with potential delays or cancellations. If you choose to take a tour, make sure you book in advance from a reliable operator , check the reviews and ratings, and compare the prices and services.

The Top Attractions and Activities in Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is not only a place to admire the architecture and culture, but also a place to have fun and enjoy various attractions and activities. Whether you are interested in history, art, religion, or entertainment, you will find something to suit your taste in Old Phuket Town. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that you should not miss when you visit Old Phuket Town:

If you want to learn more about the history and heritage of Phuket, you should visit some of the museums in Old Phuket Town. One of the best museums is the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, which is housed in a beautiful Sino-Portuguese mansion that used to be the first Chinese language school in Phuket. The museum displays various exhibits and multimedia presentations that tell the story of the Chinese immigrants and their contribution to Phuket’s development. Another museum worth visiting is the Thavorn Museum, which is located inside the Thavorn Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Phuket. The museum showcases a collection of antiques and memorabilia that reflect the lifestyle and culture of Phuket in the past century.

If you are a fan of street art, you will love exploring Old Phuket Town and finding some amazing mural paintings and graffiti on the walls of old buildings. The street art scene in Old Phuket Town started in 2016, when a group of local and international artists participated in the Baba Street Art Festival and created some stunning artworks that depict the history, culture, and identity of Phuket. Some of the most popular street art pieces are located on Thalang Road, Soi Romanee, Krabi Road, and Phang Nga Road. You can also find some hidden gems in the side streets and alleys if you look closely.

Old Phuket Town is home to many temples and shrines that reflect the religious diversity and harmony of Phuket. You can find Buddhist temples, Taoist shrines, Hindu temples, and even a Sikh temple in Old Phuket Town. One of the most impressive temples is Wat Mongkol Nimit, which is located on Dibuk Road. The temple features a magnificent white chedi (stupa) that can be seen from afar, as well as a large golden Buddha statue inside the main hall. Another temple worth visiting is Wat Putta Mongkon, which is located on Ranong Road. The temple has a unique design that combines Thai and Chinese styles, as well as a beautiful garden with a pond and a fountain. One of the most popular shrines is the Shrine of the Serene Light, which is located on a hidden alley off Phang Nga Road. The shrine is dedicated to Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy, and has a colorful facade with intricate carvings and paintings.

If you are looking for some souvenirs, handicrafts, or local products, you should visit some of the local markets in Old Phuket Town. One of the best markets is the Phuket Weekend Market, which is also known as Naka Market or Talad Tai Rot. The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 4 pm to 10 pm, and it sells everything from clothes, accessories, electronics, antiques, to food, drinks, and live animals. You can find some bargains and unique items here, but be prepared to bargain and haggle with the vendors. Another market worth visiting is the Phuket Indy Market, which is also known as Lard Yai or Thalang Road Walking Street. The market is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 4 pm to 10 pm, and it sells mainly handmade and creative products from local artists and designers. You can also enjoy live music, street performances, and workshops here.

Old Phuket Town is not only a place to explore during the day, but also a place to have fun at night. You can find many bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues in Old Phuket Town that cater to different tastes and moods. Some of the most popular places are Timber Hut, which is a cozy and friendly bar that plays live music every night; Rockin’ Angels Blues Cafe, which is a cool and funky cafe that plays blues and rock music; and Ka Jok See, which is a quirky and lively restaurant that turns into a dance club after 10 pm. You can also watch some cultural shows and performances in Old Phuket Town, such as the Siam Niramit Show, which is a spectacular show that depicts the history and culture of Thailand; and the Aphrodite Cabaret Show, which is a glamorous show that features stunning ladyboys in dazzling costumes.

Where to Stay, Eat and Shop in Old Phuket Town

Old Phuket Town is not only a place to admire the architecture and culture, but also a place to indulge in some of the best accommodation, dining, and shopping options in Phuket. Whether you are looking for a cozy boutique hotel, a mouthwatering Thai restaurant, or a unique souvenir shop, you will find it in Old Phuket Town. Here are some of the best places to stay, eat, and shop in Old Phuket Town:

Best Places to Stay

Old Phuket Town has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You can find some of the most charming and elegant boutique hotels in Old Phuket Town, such as The Memory at On On Hotel, which is the oldest hotel in Phuket and has been featured in the movie The Beach; Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel, which is a stylish and cozy hotel with a lovely pool and garden; and The Besavana Phuket, which is a modern and minimalist hotel with a rooftop terrace and jacuzzi. 

You can also find some budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels in Old Phuket Town, such as Baan Baan Hostel, which is a hip and colorful hostel with a cafe and art gallery; Quip Bed & Breakfast, which is a quirky and fun hostel with a rooftop bar and restaurant; and Ai Phuket Hostel, which is a cozy and friendly hostel with a common kitchen and lounge. You can read my article about the best places to stay here.

Best Places to Eat

Old Phuket Town is a foodie’s paradise, where you can taste some of the most delicious and authentic Thai food in Phuket. You can find a variety of cuisines and dishes in Old Phuket Town, from street food to fine dining, from local specialties to international favorites. Some of the must-try restaurants in Old Phuket Town are Raya Restaurant, which is a legendary restaurant that serves traditional Phuket dishes such as crab curry, pork belly, and fish cakes; Tu Kab Khao Restaurant, which is a chic and elegant restaurant that serves fusion Phuket dishes such as lobster pad thai, pineapple fried rice, and massaman curry; and Kopitiam by Wilai, which is a cozy and rustic cafe that serves Peranakan dishes such as laksa, mee goreng, and kaya toast.

You can also find some amazing cafes, bakeries, and ice cream shops in Old Phuket Town, such as Bookhemian Arthouse Cafe, which is a creative and artsy cafe that serves coffee, tea, cakes, and books; Macaron Cafe, which is a cute and colorful cafe that serves macarons, cupcakes, waffles, and smoothies; and Torry’s Ice Cream Boutique, which is a charming and vintage ice cream shop that serves homemade ice cream in various flavors. You can read my article about the best places to eat here.

Best Places to Shop

Old Phuket Town is also a great place to shop for some unique and quality products that reflect the culture and heritage of Phuket. You can find some of the best souvenir shops, handicraft shops, art galleries, and antique shops in Old Phuket Town, such as Ban Boran Textiles, which is a beautiful shop that sells handwoven fabrics, clothes, bags, and accessories; China Inn Cafe & Art Gallery, which is a lovely shop that sells ceramics, paintings, sculptures, and jewelry; and Siam Antique & Art Gallery, which is an impressive shop that sells antiques, furniture, statues, and artifacts.

You can also find some of the best local markets in Old Phuket Town, such as the Phuket Weekend Market, which is the largest market in Phuket that sells everything from clothes to food; the Phuket Indy Market, which is a hip market that sells handmade and creative products; and the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market, which is a lively market that sells local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, and food.

Some Fun Facts and Stories about Old Phuket Town’s History and Culture

Old Phuket Town is not only a place to admire the architecture and culture, but also a place to discover some fun facts and stories about its history and culture. Here are some of the most interesting and surprising things that you may not know about Old Phuket Town:

• The oldest hotel in Phuket is the On On Hotel, which was built in 1929 and is located on Phang Nga Road. The hotel is famous for being featured in the movie The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, as the backpacker hostel in Bangkok where he meets his fellow travelers. The hotel has been renovated and renamed as The Memory at On On Hotel, but it still retains its original charm and character.
• The most colorful street in Old Phuket Town is Soi Romanee, which is lined with pastel-pink shophouses and Chinese paper lanterns. The street was once notorious for being the red-light district of Phuket, where sailors and miners would come to seek entertainment and pleasure. The street was also the scene of a violent riot in 1916, when a group of Chinese workers attacked the police station and burned down several buildings. Today, the street is a peaceful and picturesque place, where you can find cafes, bars, boutiques, and art galleries.
• The most sacred shrine in Old Phuket Town is the Jui Tui Shrine, which is located on Ranong Road. The shrine is dedicated to Tean Hu Huan Soy, the god of performing arts and dancing. The shrine is also the main venue for the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, which is a religious festival that involves vegetarianism, purification rituals, firewalking, and other extreme acts of devotion by some participants. The festival is held in October, usually around the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar.
• The most unusual museum in Old Phuket Town is the Thavorn Museum, which is located inside the Thavorn Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in Phuket. The museum showcases a collection of antiques and memorabilia that reflect the lifestyle and culture of Phuket in the past century. Some of the items on display include old telephones, typewriters, radios, cameras, bicycles, toys, dolls, masks, weapons, coins, stamps, and even animal skulls and stuffed animals. The museum is free to enter, but you have to ask for permission from the hotel staff.
• The most delicious food in Old Phuket Town is the local cuisine that combines Thai, Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences. You can find a variety of dishes and snacks in Old Phuket Town, such as dim sum (steamed dumplings), mee hokkien (fried noodles with seafood), moo hong (braised pork belly), roti (flatbread with curry or sweet toppings), khanom jeen (rice noodles with fish curry), oh-aew (shaved ice with jelly and syrup), and kuey teow lod (rice noodles with soy sauce and pork). You can also try some Peranakan dishes that are unique to Phuket’s Baba culture, such as laksa (noodle soup with coconut milk), mee goreng (fried noodles with tomato sauce), kaya toast (toast with coconut jam), and ang ku kueh (steamed glutinous rice cakes with filling).