Discover Old Phuket Town - Phuket

Overview

Even if the city of Phuket has changed since modernization ushered in Thailand, there lies within its borders, a place that somehow withstood the ebb and flow of the 21st century. Located along Thalang Road, travelers will get a glimpse of this city’s past by simply walking through the roads of Old Phuket Town. Although this UNESCO heritage site has been refurbished, repainted, and/or rebuilt overtime, it is still able to translate the city’s past to those who wander by.

With the numerous Sino Portuguese themed houses and the beautifully preserved shophouses that neatly form a line beside the town’s sidewalks, visitors will never have to worry about keeping their mind’s eye busy. Travelers, who have been in this town more than once, will have no difficulty roaming around Old Phuket’s streets, but for the first timers, we, at Trip Guru, suggests that you take your time and explore the town’s hidden secrets by walking through its roads.

Although the heart of Old Phuket Town lies on Thalang road, you can explore its wonders by taking one of eight roads. On Ranong road, you can find the town’s market, and Jui Tui shrine – an important Chinese temple that is used during the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. If you prefer looking at old fashioned houses and stores, stroll along Yaowarat road, and you will find the mysterious abandoned home called, the Limpanon House, while Krabi road, on the other hand, is where you can find the story and culture of Old Phuket by visiting the Thai Hua Museum and the Chinpracha mansion. For a more gastronomic adventure, take Dibuk or Thalang road, and dine in one of their locally operated cafes or restaurants. If you want to continue viewing the town’s unique architecture, head to Soi Romanee, and marvel at the colorful houses that stand shoulder-to-shoulder. If you wish to continue your museum journey, take Rastada road and visit the Thavorn museum – located in the hotel that shares the same name – but, if temples are more your thing, head down to Phang Nga road and bathe in the Shrine of Serene Light’s tranquil atmosphere.

The easiest way to get to Old Phuket Town is by bus or songthaew. Once you are there, most of the exploring will be done through walking. If you want to experience the town at its most comfortable hour the best time to visit Old Phuket Town is during the day when the sun is not in its hottest temperatures.

Location

Reviews

What our experts tell about this experience.

Eva
04. 09. 2016
Was a nice afternoon walk. All was such a sight. The temperature outside was a desert when I was there, but once I walked into the buildings the heat disappeared. You could feel the coolness from the walls and the tiles under your feet. How the buildings structure will amaze you, you must come and see for yourself. We also had a pancake (My father and I went together on this trip) but the flour they use here is different. It’s more light.. more yellow. You can have it sweetened or eat it with a beef/ chicken curry, was delicious! I heard that they have been here as long as Old Town has been around. This “Rotee” place is super popular and is well known among the locals and even Thai superstars here.
Iliana
04. 09. 2016
My mother and I think that this is one of the best attractions of Phuket. The Old Town is unique. Classic and leaves you with an impression. The cafes that they have around here are stylish and make tasty bakeries. There are a lot of buildings here that have been persevered of it’s original Chino-Portuguese beauty. That’s what I like most. The origin of things. I also took my mother to the famous Chinese Shrine they have there. Everyone was wearing white! It was vegetarian festival week and it was a a ceremony I’d never forget. They cut themselves. Some bleed, some don’t but that fact is, these people who the god possess, don’t feel a thing. I felt that the shrine was .. Mystique, powerful.. And that is why you must see Phuket Old Town. The vegetarian festival usually starts in October.. What an experience we had!!
Katherine
24. 08. 2016
Came to Old Town in the evening on a Sunday. Shopped for good street food and my sisters really enjoyed the vintage clothes that they sold. The market is called "Lad Yai" and it's near "Rommanee" Street. After that it was getting quite late and the girls wanted to see how the locals drink their nights away. Went to a club called "At Time" Enjoyed the lock Thai night club with alllll the people dancing and asking for a "Cheers" at out table. Had lots of fun and will visit again soon!
Donovan
24. 08. 2016
Visited Phuket Old Time at night as was a beauty. The Shino-Portuguese design is quite an elegant old day style. Took lots of pictures and went to a local bar called Hau Pan. All the Thai locals are at this place. They have live music singing both foreign and Thai hits. Some of the foreign hits are quite real old songs and sang really well! Buy a bottle of Thai whiskey at 7-11 and hit it off in this place! Chilled, relaxing and great live music.
Charlie
14. 04. 2016
Old Phuket Town is really charming, it's worth a visit. I also enjoyed the tranquility of the Shrine of Serene Light. The food is delicious and walking through the town and seeing the local people live makes me feel really happy. I'm already planning my second trip, but bringing along a few friends for more fun.