Phuket travel guide
Best Things to Do in Phuket
The number one thing to do in Phuket is a boat day trip into Phang Nga Bay — limestone karsts, hidden lagoons and sea caves an hour from the island. Back on land, the unmissable free sights are the Big Buddha viewpoint and the pastel shophouses of Old Phuket Town.
What to do in Phuket
Phuket rewards a split personality: beach and boat days on the coast, culture and food in the Old Town, and at least one sunset from a southern viewpoint.
The best things to do in Phuket
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Old Phuket Town · Historic district
Pastel Sino-Portuguese shophouses, cafés, murals and the Sunday Walking Street market
Area: Phuket Town · Time needed: 2–3 hours · Cost: Free
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Big Buddha · Landmark
A 45-metre white marble Buddha on Nakkerd Hill with 360° island views
Area: Chalong · Time needed: 1–1.5 hours · Cost: Free (donations welcome)
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Wat Chalong · Temple
Phuket’s largest and most revered Buddhist temple, glittering with glass mosaics
Area: Chalong · Time needed: 1 hour · Cost: Free
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Phang Nga Bay day trip · Boat tour
Limestone karsts rising from emerald water, sea caves and the “James Bond Island”
Area: Departures from the north · Time needed: Full day · Cost: ฿1,500–3,500
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Promthep Cape · Viewpoint
The island’s classic sunset spot at its southernmost tip
Area: Rawai · Time needed: 1 hour (arrive before dusk) · Cost: Free
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Kata & Karon beaches · Beach
Two long, swimmable west-coast bays with softer sand than Patong
Area: West coast · Time needed: Half a day · Cost: Free
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best things to do in Phuket — FAQs
What is the number one thing to do in Phuket?
The number one thing to do in Phuket is a boat day trip into Phang Nga Bay — limestone karsts, hidden lagoons and sea caves an hour from the island. Back on land, the unmissable free sights are the Big Buddha viewpoint and the pastel shophouses of Old Phuket Town.
How many days do you need in Phuket?
Three to five days is ideal for Phuket: two for the west-coast beaches and Old Town, one for a Phang Nga Bay or Phi Phi boat trip, and one for the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong and a Promthep Cape sunset. Add days if you plan to dive or island-hop the Similans.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.