Best Guided Tours in Old Phuket Town: Everything You Need to Know
Old Phuket Town is one of the most historic and cultural places in Phuket and if you’re planning on visiting Old Phuket Town, you may be stuck on figuring out how to explore this beautiful place. If you’re stuck, then you might want to consider booking a guided tour in Old Phuket Town. These are tours that are led by and expert and they will take you to many different places in Old Phuket Town. Don’t worry if you don’t know which guided tours to book because this blog post will tell you the best guided tours in Old Phuket town including the prices and what they include and the destinations.
The best guided tours in Old Phuket Town are those that offer a combination of historical, cultural, and gastronomic experiences. Some of the most popular tours are:
- Phuket Old Town Food Tour for 8 Exclusive Guests: This tour takes you to sample various dishes from different cuisines that influenced Phuket’s heritage, such as Burmese, Hokkien, Malay, and Portuguese. You will also learn about the history and architecture of Old Phuket Town along the way. The tour lasts for 4 hours and costs $59 per person.
- Private Customized Phuket Tour with Driver: This tour allows you to create your own itinerary and explore Old Phuket Town at your own pace. You can choose to visit the temples, museums, shophouses, street art, and markets that interest you. You will also have a private driver who can provide information and recommendations. The tour duration is flexible and the price varies by group size.
- Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha: This tour covers the main attractions of Phuket Island, including Old Phuket Town, where you will see the Sino-Portuguese buildings and the colorful Soi Rommanee. You will also visit the Karon View Point, the Big Buddha statue, and the Wat Chalong temple. The tour lasts for 5.5 hours and costs $28.68 per person. Please note that this tour is not specifically in Old Phuket Town but will explore Old Phuket Town along with some other areas in Phuket.
- Phuket Heritage Trails: This tour is a walking tour that explores the cultural and historical landmarks of Old Phuket Town. You will see the old mansions, the Chinese shrines, the Thai temples, and the street art that tell the stories of Phuket’s past. You will also enjoy some local snacks and drinks along the way. The tour lasts for 3 hours and costs $35 per person.
- Phuket Old Town Night Market Tour: This tour is a night tour that takes you to the lively and vibrant night market of Old Phuket Town. You will experience the local atmosphere, taste the street food, shop for souvenirs, and watch some live performances. You will also visit some hidden gems that are only open at night. The tour lasts for 4 hours and costs $45 per person.
As you can see, there are many options for the best guided tours in Old Phuket Town that suit different preferences, budgets, and schedules. However, choosing a tour is not the only thing you need to know before you visit this charming and historic place. There are also some tips and tricks that can help you make the most of your experience, such as how to get there, what to wear, what to avoid, and what to do after the tour. In the next section, I will share with you some of these useful insights that will make your trip to Old Phuket Town more enjoyable and memorable. Stay tuned!
Phuket Old Town Food Tour for 8 Exclusive Guests
One of the best ways to experience the culture and history of Phuket is through its food. Phuket’s cuisine is a melting pot of influences from different regions and countries, such as China, Malaysia, Burma, and Portugal. Each dish has its own story and flavor that reflects the island’s heritage.
If you are a food lover who wants to explore the hidden gems of Phuket’s gastronomy, you should join the Phuket Old Town Food Tour for 8 Exclusive Guests. This tour is offered by A Chef’s Tour, a company that specializes in authentic and immersive food tours in Asia. You will be led by a professional foodie guide who will take you to the best local eateries in the historic district of Old Phuket Town.
The tour lasts for 4 hours and includes 14+ food tastings, more than any other Phuket food tour. You will sample a variety of dishes from different cuisines that influenced Phuket’s culinary scene, such as:
- Burmese curries: These are rich and creamy curries made with coconut milk, turmeric, and spices. They are usually served with roti (flatbread) or rice noodles. You will try two types of Burmese curries: ohn no khao swe (chicken noodle soup) and mohinga (fish noodle soup).
- Hokkien noodles: These are stir-fried noodles with pork, seafood, vegetables, and soy sauce. They are a legacy of the Chinese immigrants who came to Phuket in the 19th century. You will taste the famous mee hokkien pad thai, which is a fusion of Hokkien and Thai flavors.
- Malay satay: These are grilled skewers of meat marinated in spices and served with peanut sauce. They are a staple of Malay cuisine, which is prevalent in southern Thailand. You will enjoy chicken, beef, and lamb satay with cucumber salad and ketupat (rice cakes).
- Portuguese egg tarts: These are flaky pastry shells filled with custard and baked until golden. They are a dessert that originated from Portugal and spread to its former colonies, including Macau and Phuket. You will savor the crispy and creamy egg tarts from one of the oldest bakeries in town.
These are just some of the dishes you will try on this tour. You will also discover other delicacies such as dim sum, roti pancakes, ice cream, and tropical fruits. Along the way, you will learn about the history and architecture of Old Phuket Town, as well as the stories behind each dish.
The tour costs $59 per person and has a maximum of 8 exclusive guests on each tour. This ensures a personalized and intimate experience for everyone. The tour also includes bottled water and local soft drinks, but alcoholic drinks are excluded. You can book the tour online through Tripadvisor or Viator, or directly through A Chef’s Tour website.
This tour is not suitable for vegetarians, pescatarians or no pork diets due to street vendors’ limited menus. Other dietary restrictions may require some dishes to be missed. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so please dress appropriately and bring an umbrella in rainy season. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
If you are looking for a fun and delicious way to explore Old Phuket Town, you should not miss this tour. It will give you a taste of the diversity and richness of Phuket’s cuisine, as well as a glimpse into its culture and history.
Private Customized Phuket with Driver
If you are looking for a flexible and personalized way to explore Old Phuket Town, you might want to consider booking a Private Customized Phuket Tour with Driver. This tour allows you to create your own itinerary and visit the places that interest you the most. You will have a private driver who will take you around the city in a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle. You will also have the freedom to decide how long you want to spend at each location and when you want to start and end your tour.
Some of the benefits of booking a Private Customized Phuket Tour with Driver are:
- You can choose from a range of tour durations, from 4 hours to 8 hours, depending on your schedule and budget. The price varies by group size, starting from $28.97 per person for a 4-hour tour for up to 9 people.
- You can visit the attractions that suit your interest and need, such as temples, museums, shophouses, street art, markets, and more. You can also ask your driver for recommendations and tips on where to go and what to see.
- You can enjoy the convenience and safety of having a private driver who will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or any other location in Phuket. You will also have bottled water and parking fees included in the tour price.
- You can learn more about the culture and history of Old Phuket Town from your driver, who can provide some information and stories along the way. However, please note that the driver is not a licensed guide and may not speak fluent English.
To book a Private Customized Phuket Tour with Driver, you can use one of the following platforms:
- Tripadvisor: You can read reviews from other travelers who have taken this tour and see their ratings and photos. You can also compare prices and availability with other similar tours.
- Viator: You can find detailed information about the tour, such as what’s included, what’s excluded, what to expect, and what to bring. You can also see the cancellation policy and contact details of the tour operator.
- Phuket Best Taxi Driver: This is the website of the travel agency that offers this tour. You can see their other services, such as airport transfers, island tours, and car rentals. You can also contact them directly by phone or email.
A Private Customized Phuket Tour with Driver is a great option for travelers who want to explore Old Phuket Town at their own pace and preference. It will give you the opportunity to see the places that interest you the most and learn more about the island’s heritage.
Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour and Big Buddha
If you want to see the best of Phuket Island in one day, you should join the Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha. This tour is offered by IAsia Thailand, a travel agency that specializes in providing quality and affordable tours in Thailand. You will be accompanied by a professional local guide who will show you the main attractions of Phuket Island, including Old Phuket Town.
The tour lasts for 5.5 hours and covers the following highlights:
- Karon Viewpoint: This is a scenic spot that offers panoramic views of the three most beautiful beaches in Phuket: Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon. You will be amazed by the contrast of the blue sea, the white sand, and the green hills.
- Promthep Cape: This is the southernmost point of Phuket Island and one of the most popular sunset spots. You will enjoy the breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. You will also see a shrine dedicated to Brahma, the Hindu god of creation.
- Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong): This is the largest and most revered temple in Phuket. It is famous for its pagoda that contains a splinter of Buddha’s bone. You will admire the beautiful architecture and decorations of the temple and learn about its history and significance.
- Big Buddha Phuket: This is a 45-meter tall statue of Buddha made of white marble that sits on top of Nakkerd Hill. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Phuket and a symbol of peace and harmony. You will have a close look at the statue and enjoy the panoramic views of Phuket from its base.
- Cashew Nut Factory: This is a place where you can learn about the production and processing of cashew nuts, one of Phuket’s main exports. You will also have a chance to taste some samples and buy some products at your own expense.
- Gem Gallery: This is a place where you can see a large collection of precious stones and jewelry from Thailand and other countries. You will also have an opportunity to buy some souvenirs at your own expense.
The tour costs $28.68 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned minivan, bottled water, entrance fees, and insurance. The tour does not include lunch, gratuities, or any personal expenses. You can book the tour online through Viator or Tripadvisor, or directly through IAsia Thailand website.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so please dress appropriately and bring an umbrella in rainy season. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not wheelchair accessible. The tour has a minimum number of 4 adults required for it to operate.
The Amazing Phuket Island Guided Tour & Big Buddha is a great way to discover the main attractions of Phuket Island, including Old Phuket Town. It will give you a comprehensive and enjoyable overview of the island’s culture, history, and nature.
Phuket Heritage Trails
If you are interested in learning more about the culture and history of Old Phuket Town, you might want to join the Phuket Heritage Trails. This is a walking tour that explores the historical and cultural landmarks of Old Phuket Town, such as the old mansions, the Chinese shrines, the Thai temples, and the street art. You will be guided by a local expert who will share with you the stories and secrets behind each place.
The tour lasts for 3 hours and covers the following attractions:
- Thalang Road: This is the main street of Old Phuket Town and the oldest commercial road in Phuket. It is lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses that date back to the 19th century. You will see how these buildings have been preserved and transformed into cafes, galleries, boutiques, and museums.
- Soi Rommanee: This is a narrow alley that was once a notorious red-light district during the tin mining era. It is now a charming and photogenic spot with pastel-colored houses and murals. You will learn about the history and culture of this area and its residents.
- Baan Chinpracha: This is a beautiful mansion that was built in 1903 by a wealthy tin baron. It is one of the few remaining examples of Sino-Colonial architecture in Phuket. You will admire the elegant interior and exterior of the house and see how the owner’s family lived in the past.
- Jui Tui Shrine: This is a Chinese Taoist temple that was founded in 1911. It is dedicated to Tean Hu Huan Soy, the god of performing arts and dancing. It is also one of the main venues for the annual Vegetarian Festival, a religious event that involves firewalking, piercing, and processions. You will see the intricate carvings and decorations of the temple and learn about its rituals and ceremonies.
- Wat Mongkol Nimit: This is a Buddhist temple that was built in 1880. It is the only royal temple in Phuket and has a distinctive Thai-style architecture. You will see the impressive pagoda that contains a relic of Buddha and the beautiful murals that depict scenes from his life.
The tour costs $35 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned minivan, bottled water, entrance fees, and insurance. The tour does not include lunch, gratuities, or any personal expenses. You can book the tour online through Easy Day Phuket website or Tripadvisor.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so please dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is wheelchair accessible.
The Phuket Heritage Trails is a great way to walk through the cultural and historical landmarks of Old Phuket Town. It will give you a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage and diversity.
Phuket Old Town Night Market Tour
If you are looking for a fun and exciting way to experience the nightlife of Old Phuket Town, you should join the Phuket Old Town Night Market Tour. This tour is offered by Phuket Let’s Go, a travel agency that specializes in providing unique and adventurous tours in Phuket. You will be guided by a friendly and knowledgeable local who will show you the best of the night market and the surrounding area.
The tour lasts for 4 hours and includes the following activities:
- Visit the Sunday Walking Street Market: This is the most popular night market in Old Phuket Town, where you can find a variety of local food, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, crafts, and more. You will sample some of the delicious street food, such as dim sum, roti pancakes, ice cream, and tropical fruits. You will also enjoy the lively atmosphere, the live music, and the street performances.
- Explore the hidden gems of Old Phuket Town: After the night market, you will walk around the historic district and discover some of the hidden gems that are only open at night. You will see the colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, the street art, and the local culture. You will also visit some of the coolest bars and cafes in town, where you can have a drink and chat with the locals.
- Experience the nightlife of Phuket Town: To end the night, you will head to one of the most happening spots in Phuket Town, where you can party with the locals and other travelers. You will have a choice of different venues, such as a rooftop bar, a live music club, or a karaoke lounge. You will have a blast dancing, singing, and having fun.
The tour costs $45 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned minivan, bottled water, food tastings, entrance fees, and insurance. The tour does not include alcoholic drinks, gratuities, or any personal expenses. You can book the tour online through Viator or Tripadvisor, or directly through Phuket Let’s Go website.
The tour operates only on Sundays, when the night market is open. The tour starts at 6 pm and ends at 10 pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
The Phuket Old Town Night Market Tour is a great way to experience the lively and vibrant nightlife of Old Phuket Town. It will give you a chance to taste the local food, see the local culture, and have fun with the local people.