Last updated on March 23rd, 2025 at 05:11 pm
At the time of writing, we have visited Phuket six times, and we know we will return to the most popular tourist destination in Thailand many more times in the future! In fact, we love Phuket so much we have brought both our parents and friends to Phuket on their first visit to Thailand.
The largest island of Thailand is renowned for its tropical climate with stunning beaches and turquoise waters. Furthermore, Phuket also offers some of the best day trips in Thailand, and a very lively party scene, yet you will also find quiet secluded beaches where you can escape the hustle and bustle.
Without a doubt, Phuket is one of the top places to visit in Thailand, and for many great reasons. With the second busiest airport in the country after Bangkok, Phuket offers easy access to all types of travelers, whether that’s a newlywed couple, a family with kids, or a single backpacker.
This travel guide covers, the best things to do in Phuket, where to stay based on your travel style, advice for the rainy season, and many more travel tips when visiting Phuket.
Don’t have time to read the full travel guide? This is the BEST all-day tour you must do when in Phuket.
When is the Best Time to Visit Phuket?
The best time to visit Phuket is between November and March when the skies are clear and the weather conditions are perfect for beach activities and day tours. However, this period also coincides with peak tourist season, which means the island will be busier and hotel prices may rise.
Phuket’s monsoon season runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring in September and October. During the monsoon season, you can expect frequent showers and higher humidity.
Thailand travel tip – However, keep in mind that the monsoon season doesn’t mean nonstop rain. Expect occasional downpours, mostly at night, but there are still plenty of sunny hot days and Phuket is still worth visiting in this period. Plus, accommodation and tour prices are usually lower.
Find more details on what is the best time to visit Thailand.
How to get to Phuket
Traveling to Phuket is easy, with international flights arriving at Phuket International Airport (HKT). As of July 2024, Thailand increased the visa-free stay period for citizens of 93 countries from 30 days to 60 days. There are also many domestic flights to Phuket from popular cities in Thailand such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya.
In addition, you can also travel to Phuket by bus or ferry from nearby places like Koh Samui, Krabi, and Koh Lanta. However, there are no train services to Phuket. Here’s how you can travel to Phuket from some of the most popular cities in Thailand, starting with the northernmost location.
From Chiang Mai: We highly recommend flying this route, as the distance is over 1,500 kilometers (900 miles). A direct flight from Chiang Mai to Phuket takes approximately 2 hours. While there is an option for a bus that departs once daily, be prepared for a lengthy journey of about 24 hours.
From Bangkok: The fastest route from Bangkok to Phuket is a direct flight that takes just 1.5 hours, departing from both airports in Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport. However, if you’re backpacking Thailand, you can also opt for a 12-hour bus from Bangkok to Phuket. This option can help you save on a night’s accommodation if you’re traveling on a budget.
From Pattaya: Again, a direct flight is the best choice from Pattaya to Phuket, as it’s faster and more comfortable. Alternatively, taking a bus is the cheaper option, but the journey will take about 14 hours.
From Koh Samui: You can opt for a direct flight to Phuket from Koh Samui that takes about 1 hour, but even though this is the shortest flight when compared to Bangkok or Chiang Mai, it is often the most expensive. Alternatively, there’s the cheaper option of a ferry and bus combination, which will take approximately 6 to 8 hours.
From Krabi: The cheapest way to get to Phuket from Krabi is a 2-3 hour drive in a minibus. Or for a more scenic route take a 2-hour ferry. Check out 12.Go for all options that suit your needs.
From Koh Lanta: The shortest way to get to Phuket from Koh Lanta is by ferry which takes about 2 hours. For a more budget-friendly way take a minibus which takes about 6 to 8 hours.
Jet Lag
Phuket is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT, UTC+7). If you’re traveling from nearby countries like Singapore, Malaysia, or Indonesia, the time difference is minimal or nonexistent. However, if you’re coming from Europe or North America, you might experience jet lag.
Travelers from the US or Canada (UTC-5) will face a 12-hour time difference. From Ireland and the UK (UTC+0), it’s a 7-hour difference, from mainland Europe (UTC+1), it’s a 6-hour difference, and from Australia and New Zealand, it is 3-4 hours ahead of Phuket.
You might feel exhausted after a long flight, but that fatigue will quickly disappear and be replaced by excitement as you arrive in Thailand for the first time!
- We always book our flights with Trip.com because of their great rewards program.
- Once you land at Phuket International Airport, you can avoid the hassle of negotiating with taxi drivers by clicking here to book an affordable transfer to your accommodation.
- For bus and ferry travel in Thailand, 12.go.Asia is the best option.
What time is sunrise and sunset in Phuket?
The sunrise and sunset times in Phuket stay pretty consistent throughout the year, with the sun rising between 6:10 AM and 6:45 AM and setting between 6:10 PM and 6:50 PM, depending on the time of year.
Learn some Basic Thai Phrases
In Phuket, most locals will speak excellent English, as that’s not always the case throughout Thailand. If you are visiting Thailand for the first time, then it’s a nice gesture to learn a few basic Thai phrases. As we say in Ireland, It is nice to be nice!
Simple phrases like “hello” (sawadee kha for women, sawadee krub for men), “thank you” (khob khun kha for women /krub). To affirm something, say “chai” for “yes,” and “mai” for “no.”
And lastly “how much?” (tao rai) can really help you engage with the locals and make your Thailand experience even better!
The Best Things to Do in Phuket
Now, let’s discover the highlights and the best things to do in Phuket! While the vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches certainly make Phuket a must-visit destination in Thailand, there’s so much more to see and do!
1. Phang Nga Bay
Every time we meet friends and family in Phuket, we always take them out on a Phang Nga Bay day tour which in our opinion is the best thing to do in Phuket!
Phang Nga Bay is a breathtaking national park in Thailand, famous for its towering limestone cliffs that rise from emerald-green waters. The scenery is some of the best in the world and brings a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. We have done this tour four times now, and still love it just as much as the first time.
You explore the bay by boat, as well as kayaking through sea caves and hidden lagoons that will bring you to a secret world. Other highlights include James Bond Island, made famous by the movie – The Man with the Golden Gun. You can also opt for a longer tour that stays out past sunset, allowing you to kayak through glowing bioluminescent plankton for a truly magical experience, sounds all pretty amazing right!
We guarantee you that a visit to Phang Nga Bay is an unforgettable experience, and if there is one thing that is a must-do activity in Phuket, it is a tour of Phang Nga Bay.
2. Big Buddha Statue
Visiting the Big Buddha is one of the top things to do in Phuket. Standing 45 meters tall, it’s one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. Perched at the top of Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha offers some of the best views of Phuket, especially at sunset.
Situated within a Buddhist temple complex, this iconic Phuket landmark is a must-visit for those wanting to experience Thailand’s rich Buddhist culture. Since it’s part of a temple, be sure to dress respectfully during your visit. The site is free to enter, and there are plenty of stalls nearby offering souvenirs, drinks, and snacks.
3. Wat Chalong Temple
Only 15 minutes from the Big Buddha Statue and another popular thing to do in Phuket is to visit Wat Chalong Temple, the largest and most important Buddhist temple in Phuket. It’s a serene place to visit, with beautiful architecture, statues, and peaceful surroundings.
A Wat is a temple in the Thai language, and Wat Chalong Temple is dedicated to two monks who helped people during the Chinese rebellion in 1876.
4. Explore Phuket Old Town
Phuket Old Town is a historic area that showcases the island’s colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and vibrant street art. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with cozy cafes, quaint shops, and hidden temples to explore.
Often overlooked by tourists, Phuket Old Town is rich in culture and offers a perfect blend of history and modern-day Thai life, making it one of the most interesting things to do in Phuket.
You can combine a guided private day tour to Phuket Old Town, the Big Buddha Statue and Wat Chalong temple.
5. Food Markets and Souvenirs
Phuket’s night markets are a vibrant part of the local culture, where you can not only sample delicious and budget-friendly street food but also pick up unique souvenirs.
From fresh seafood that will be barbequed in front of you, to traditional Thai dishes like pad thai to tasty snacks and desserts like mango sticky rice, these markets offer a true taste of local life and are one of the most popular things to do in Phuket. Many night markets also sell handmade crafts, clothing, and trinkets, making it the perfect place to find something special to take home.
The best night markets in Phuket are Chillva Market in Phuket Town (open Wednesday – Saturday), as well as Bangla Night Market, OTOP Patong Night Market, and Malin Plaza Market, all located in Patong. And if you’re a seafood lover a must-visit in Phuket is the Rawai Seafood Market.
6. Bangla Road Nightlife
Many people mistakenly associate all of Phuket with Bangla Road. One of the most famous walking streets in Thailand that comes alive at night with neon lights, bars, nightclubs, and street performers. Whether you want to dance, have a drink, or simply people-watch, Bangla Road offers a nightlife experience like no other and is worth walking through at least once just to see the madness!
Yes, Bangla Road is not for everyone, you either love it or hate it. Whatever it is, Bangla Road is still a must-visit place in Phuket. Who knows, you might end up loving it!
7. Thai Boxing Fight Night (Muay Thai)
A Thai Boxing Fight Night (Muay Thai) in Phuket is an exciting way to experience Thailand’s national sport. Watching live matches in one of the local stadiums is a thrilling experience, as skilled fighters from all over the world compete in a display of speed, strength, and technique.
Just like Bangla Road, a Muay Thai Fight Night is not for everyone. We personally thought it was one of the best things in Phuket we did when we went to a fight night with lots of TKOs!
The two most popular venues for Muay Thai Fight Nights in Phuket are Bangla Boxing Stadium, hosting fights every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, and Patong Boxing Stadium, with fight nights on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Both stadiums are centrally located in Patong.
8. Phi Phi Islands Tour
Located just a short boat ride away from Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands are famous for their stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and pristine white-sand beaches. You can also enjoy activities like snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, kayaking in hidden lagoons, and lounging on some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches.
The Phi Phi islands became famous as the filming location for The Beach, and visiting these paradise islands is truly a must-do activity when in Phuket. Whether you’re looking to relax in serene surroundings or embark on an adventurous day trip, a Phi Phi Island tour offers something for everyone.
9. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Thankfully, elephants are no longer exploited in Thailand as they once were. For animal lovers seeking a compassionate way to engage with elephants, the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary focuses on their well-being without taking advantage of these friendly giants.
Visitors can learn about elephant conservation, feed and bathe the elephants, and witness them in a natural, relaxed environment. Visiting the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a wonderful way to interact with these majestic creatures and an amazing thing to do in Phuket.
10. Phuket FantaSea
Phuket FantaSea is a cultural theme park that combines Thai tradition with modern entertainment. The park features a spectacular evening show that includes acrobatics and stunning visuals.
There’s also a large buffet and various attractions to enjoy before the show. If you’re looking for a family-friendly thing to do in Phuket that combines culture, fun, and a bit of magic, the Phuket FantaSea is a great option.
11. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
If you are a nature lover then Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is the best place for you to visit in Phuket. The national park offers a refreshing escape into the jungle with lots of wildlife, waterfalls, and hiking trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
You can explore the park on foot and enjoy the serenity of nature, or visit the Ton Sai Waterfall for a relaxing break in the cool and crystal clear waters. Visiting Khao Phra Thaeo National Park is peaceful and one of the most relaxing things to do in Phuket.
12. Ladyboy Phuket Simon Cabaret Show
The Phuket Simon Cabaret Show is a unique part of Phuket’s entertainment scene. These performances feature talented transgender performers showcasing dazzling costumes, vibrant dance routines, and popular songs.
They’re an enjoyable, colorful experience, and you’ll get a glimpse of Thailand’s rich cultural diversity. If you’re in the mood for some fun and theatrical entertainment, then one of the most fun things to do in Phuket is the Simon Cabaret Show.
13. Water Activities: Jet Skis and Parasailing
Phuket is known for its water sports, with jet skis and parasailing being popular options for thrill-seekers. However, it’s important to be cautious as there are scams in the area.
Some operators may overcharge for rentals or claim damages that were not caused by you. Always ensure you rent from a reputable company and clarify terms before booking. Despite the potential for scams, these activities still offer an exciting way to experience the island’s stunning coastlines and waters.
Click the link below to see a list of all the best things to do in Phuket!
Where to Stay in Phuket
Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach are the three most popular places to stay in Phuket, they all come with their advantages and disadvantages.
Patong Beach
Patong is the most famous and busiest beach in Phuket with lots of hotels in all price ranges. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, plenty of shopping options including both markets and air-conditioned shopping malls, and a wide range of entertainment. The beach itself is lively, with jet skiing, parasailing, and beach bars and restaurants.
Bangla Road, located in the center of Patong, is known for its vibrant party scene, featuring numerous bars and clubs. While it’s a fantastic spot for nightlife enthusiasts seeking a lively atmosphere, it’s important to note that not all of Patong is like Bangla Road. There are still plenty of hotels and resorts where you can unwind and relax, see our recommended hotels below!
Kata Beach
Kata is a more relaxed and scenic alternative to Patong. It has a beautiful beach with soft sand, clear water, and a laid-back vibe. It’s popular with families and couples looking for a balance between relaxation and convenience, as there are still plenty of restaurants and bars, but without the chaos of Patong.
Karon Beach
Karon Beach is quieter than both Patong and Kata, positioned conveniently between the two. It takes 20 minutes by car or tuk-tuk to travel from Patong to Karon.
It’s perfect for those who want a more peaceful beach experience while still having access to restaurants and hotels. Karon Beach features a lengthy stretch of soft, squeaky sand and attracts fewer crowds, making it ideal for those seeking a more tranquil beach experience.
Why You Shouldn’t Stay in Phuket Old Town
Phuket Old Town is the cultural and historical heart of the island, with colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, local markets, and a more authentic Thai feel. However, it is not by the beach.
We definitely recommend a visit to Phuket Old Town but don’t stay there if you want a beach as you’ll have to travel 30 minutes to reach any of Phuket’s famous beaches.
How long to stay in Phuket?
You should plan to spend at least five days in Phuket. This will give you enough time to enjoy three recommended day trips (Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi Islands, and Big Buddha + Phuket Old Town), as well as allow yourself one day for arrival.
It’s a good idea to set aside a few days to simply relax and soak in the beauty of paradise. A week is ideal for fully experiencing all that Phuket has to offer, but you could easily extend your stay to 10 days or even longer.
You might also want to explore the nearby Koh Lanta, which is our favorite island in Thailand for relaxation. Additionally, Ao Nang in Krabi province is another excellent option to consider.
Check out our ultimate three-week Thailand itinerary, showcasing all the best places to visit in Thailand from north to south.
How to get around Phuket
Getting around Phuket depends on your budget, comfort level, and how much freedom you want. The most convenient way to explore the island is by renting a scooter, but take note – You MUST have an international driving license in Phuket when driving a scooter. Rental companies may not ask you, but we have seen plenty of police checkpoints in the last few years where the police fine tourists without this license.
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available, but they tend to be quite pricey compared to everywhere else in Thailand. Be sure to negotiate the fare before you begin your journey. While tuk-tuks can be a fun option for short trips, they are often expensive, especially in tourist hotspots like Patong. For a more dependable and cost-effective way to get around Phuket, we highly recommend using ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt.
For those who want a budget-friendly way to get around, songthaews (blue local buses) run between Phuket Town and major beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon. This is the cheapest way of getting around Phuket but also the slowest and doesn’t operate late at night.
The Best Phuket Hotels On the Beach
Phuket offers a range of accommodations, from beachfront luxury to more budget friendly hostels but for this section we will concentrate on the (very affordable) luxury, because “When in Thailand” right?!
Here are our top picks for the top Phuket hotels with beachfront accommodation so you can get the very best out of your Phuket holidays.
Our choices have been carefully chosen based on value for money, location and review score.
Phuket Hotels: Novotel Phuket Resort
Immersed in lush tropical gardens, Novotel Phuket Resort features stunning views of Patong Beach and Andaman Sea. The Novotel Phuket Resort’s main feature is the uniquely designed 3-level outdoor swimming pool, along with 4 dining options.
Phuket Hotels: Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort
Located only a few steps from Patong Beach, Four Points Beach Resort is offers an stunning outdoor pool, a modern fitness centre and a terrace to enjoy the surrounding views.
Ideal for families with young children, Four Points Beach Resort offers a children’s playground for the little ones and two outdoor pools, along with a beach bar for the parents to unwind.
Phuket Hotels: Novotel Kata Avista Resort and Spa
Located in Kata Beach, Novotel Phuket Kata Avista Resort and Spa is recognized as one of the top family resorts in Phuket and is a recipient of the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice 2023 award. Set on a hillside just a short walk from Kata and Karon Beaches, this lush tropical oasis features three swimming pools, providing an ideal backdrop for a peaceful family vacation.
All Inclusive Phuket Holidays
If you want to really go all out for your Phuket holiday then check out the following resorts within a close distance of Patong Beach each offering all-inclusive Phuket holiday packages to experience the utmost luxury.
All-Inclusive Phuket Holidays: Amari Phuket
Experience world-class service at Amari Phuket, right in the heart of Patong Beach. This five-star luxury resort boasts breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea from its private beach.
Featuring two swimming pools, a world-class spa, as well as two dining options, we are sure you will have everything you need in choosing this stay.
All-Inclusive Phuket Holidays: Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa Merlin Beach
Situated on the peaceful Tri-Trang Beach, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa is still only 3 km from lively Patong.
This family-friendly resort offers 3 stunning pools, eight choices for dining, top-class spa, kids club, various recreational activities and even a private beach.
All-Inclusive Phuket Holidays: Novotel Phuket Resort
Mentioned above for its beach location, Novotel Phuket Resort also offers all-inclusive packages and it is very popular among couples.
Treat yourself to a massage at the spa, exercise at the fitness center, or enjoy a game of tennis. Dine on Asian and Western foods at Pinnacle Sky Bar, visit the Coffee House for a delicious breakfast, and relax with cocktails, pizza, burgers, and more at V Lounge and Herring Pool Bar.
Is Phuket Safe?
Given that Thailand is also known as the “Land of Smiles“, it is here you will encounter some of the friendliest, most welcoming, and yes, smiley people in the world.
We have never experienced any safety issues during our trips to Phuket. However, this is not to say you should not take precautions, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand after all.
Always use your gut instinct regarding your own safety as you would anywhere in the world.
Below are some areas of caution to consider:
- Emergency Number: In Thailand, the emergency number is 191 for general emergencies such as ambulance and police assistance.
- Personal Safety: Thailand is a safe country for tourists to visit. Violent crimes are rare, but petty theft and scams can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. When taking a tuk-tuk, make sure to agree on the fare first.
- Water: We would recommend drinking bottled water only. It is OK to brush your teeth with the tap water,
- Motorbike Rentals: Motorbike accidents happen A LOT in Phuket! So if you rent a motorbike in Thailand, don’t be stupid and wear a helmet. Additionally, it’s important to have an international driver’s license while in Phuket. On our last visit to Phuket, we saw many police checkpoints stopping and fining tourists on motorbikes without it!
- Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local customs, traditions, and cultural practices. Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites and remove shoes before entering sacred places.
Be Aware of ATM’s in Phuket
The most important travel tip for using ATMs in Phuket is to be aware of how they operate. Unlike some countries like Ireland, where cards are returned first, followed by cash. Thai ATMs dispense cash first before returning your card.
Remember to take your card after your transaction, as forgetting it can lead to the ATM swallowing it. If this happens, return to the ATM to note the serial number and then go to a nearby bank branch with that information.
We learned from first-hand experience and left a card in an ATM. Luckily for us, our card was returned two days later after taking the serial number of the ATM and we informed the local bank
While ATMs in Thailand are generally safe, they do charge additional fees on top of your own bank’s fees.
Find all the essential information you need, such as visa requirements, travel tips, and safety precautions for your first visit to Thailand here.
Thailand Travel Tip – Even with the luck of the Irish, things can still go wrong. World Nomads Travel Insurance is our top choice for travel coverage. With the best transparent fine print in the industry, it’s no wonder they’re ranked number one. Don’t let your adventures turn to mishaps and get a free quote today!
Is Phuket Worth visiting?
So, the million dollar question, is Phuket worth visiting? In short, absolutely!
We have included Phuket as part of our Ultimate Thailand Itinerary because it has some of the best day trips and attractions in Thailand that will appeal to every type of traveler.
As mentioned throughout the article, you can indulge in luxury all-inclusive Phuket Holidays, delve into the Thai culture with local food markets and temple visits, or simply use Phuket as the gateway to some of the most tropical paradise islands in the world.
You can really make this place your own and create a trip to completely suit your needs and preferences. All the while surrounded by some of the nicest people in the world and some of the most delicious foods!
We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the links to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. This is at NO EXTRA COST to you. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides.
[…] believe Kamala Beach is the best place to spend time on your Phuket Holidays in Southern Thailand. The sandy beach is in the middle of the western coast of the island. The […]