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Phuket, Thailand
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Phuket, Thailand
1. Big Buddha
Iconic marble Buddha towering over Phuket, offering sweeping island views. Walk the serene grounds, admire detailed statues and photograph dramatic sea vistas.
2. Wat Chalong
Spiritual heart of Phuket with ornate chedis and a revered Buddha relic. Wander gilded halls, watch local worship, and capture golden pagodas from close range.
3. Old Phuket Town
Sino-Portuguese streets and bustling markets make Old Phuket Town worth visiting. Wander colorful shophouses, street art, cafes and local food stalls.
Book a FREE walking tour in Phuket, Thailand
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Kata Beach
Soft sand and reliable waves make Kata Beach ideal for relaxed sunbathing and surf lessons. Expect calm swimming at the north end, lively beachfront cafés, and vivid sunset colours.
5. Karon Beach
Long golden sand and gentle surf, ideal for swimming and sunsets. Expect beachside cafes, seafood stalls, pleasant walks and relaxed nightlife.
6. Promthep Cape
Phuket's most famous sunset viewpoint with sweeping Andaman Sea views. Watch the sun sink past limestone islets, visit the lighthouse, and browse local stalls.
7. Phang Nga Bay
Towering limestone karsts and emerald water create cinematic views in Phang Nga Bay. Kayak through sea caves and floating villages while photographing dramatic cliffs.
8. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Meet rescued elephants thriving in a cruelty free sanctuary. Watch them forage, bathe and socialize in a quiet natural setting while guides explain their care.
Things to Do in Phuket, Thailand
Popular activities and local experiences recommended by travelers
Additional popular things to do in Phuket, Thailand
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
O-Aew
A shaved-ice dessert made from a jellied mix of banana-flour and bean starch, served with syrup and red beans, O-Aew is unique to Phuket and reflects the island's Hokkien Chinese heritage.
Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niao Mamuang)
A Thailand-wide favorite, in Phuket fresh tropical mangoes and beachside vendors make this sweet coconut-glutinous rice dish an especially beloved treat for visitors and locals alike.
Khanom Krok
These small coconut-rice pancakes are a classic southern Thai street snack in Phuket, crisp on the outside and creamy inside, and commonly sold at markets and night stalls.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Mee Hokkien
Hokkien-style stir-fried egg noodles brought by Chinese immigrants, Mee Hokkien in Phuket is often tossed with seafood and prized for its smoky wok hei flavor.
Moo Hong
A Phuket specialty of slow-braised pork belly flavored with soy, rock sugar, garlic and white pepper, Moo Hong highlights the island's Chinese and southern Thai culinary fusion.
Oh Tao (O-A-Tao)
A distinctive Phuket street-food omelette made with mussels or oysters, sticky rice batter, taro and bean sprouts, Oh Tao is a must-try local comfort dish.
Traditional Beverages
Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen)
Bright orange, sweet and creamy, Thai iced tea is sold everywhere in Phuket and is a popular, refreshing drink for beachgoers and market visitors.
Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang)
Strong, slightly sweet and served over ice with milk, Oliang blends Thai and Chinese coffee traditions and is a common morning pick-me-up in Phuket markets.
Fresh Coconut Water
Chilled coconuts are sold on beaches and at roadside stalls across Phuket, making fresh coconut water the quintessential tropical drink for hydration and refreshment.
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Day trips
Phi Phi Islands
Iconic limestone cliffs, snorkeling and Maya Bay views.
Google MapsPhang Nga Bay (James Bond Island)
Karst islands, sea caves, canoeing and James Bond Island.
Google MapsKhao Sok National Park
Ancient rainforest, Cheow Lan Lake, wildlife and trekking.
Google MapsSimilan Islands
World-class diving, clear water and granite islets.
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Getting there
Airports
Train stations
State Railway of Thailand, Southern Line to Bangkok and Hat Yai
Southern Line connections to Trang, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Hat Yai
From Phuket Airport take a metered taxi or airport bus to Phuket Town or Patong; book ahead in high season.
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The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.