Staying in Phuket Old Town
Sino-Portuguese shophouses, cafés and local food in Phuket's historic centre. Who should stay in town instead of on the beach.
Phuket Town is the island’s capital and commercial centre, on the east side away from the beaches. Its Old Town grew rich from tin mining in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and its streets of colourful Sino-Portuguese shophouses and mansions are among the best-preserved in Thailand. Phuket was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2015, and the town is the best place on the island to eat local food.
What it is like
- Thalang Road, Dibuk Road, Krabi Road and Soi Romanee have restored shophouses, cafés, galleries and small boutique hotels.
- The Sunday Walking Street market (Lard Yai) takes over Thalang Road on Sunday evenings.
- Chinese shrines such as the Jui Tui and Bang Niew shrines are the focus of the Vegetarian Festival in the ninth lunar month, usually around October.
- Rang Hill has a viewpoint and restaurants overlooking the town.
Who it suits
Phuket Town suits food lovers, culture-focused travellers and long-stay visitors, and anyone who wants good value. The nearest beaches are about 20–30 minutes away by road, so it is not the place for a pure beach holiday.
Getting around
Local songthaew buses run from the town’s main market area to many beaches. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available. The airport is about 45 minutes away by road.