The 16 Best Things to do in Phuket Old Town

Nestled in the heart of Phuket, away from the island’s busy beaches, lies Phuket Old Town, a place celebrated for its rich history, colourful architecture and lively atmosphere. A walk through the streets reveals a seamless mix of historic character, delicious local food and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie or simply someone wanting to explore Phuket beyond the coastline, Phuket Old Town delivers an experience you won’t forget.

From beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings and bustling night markets to peaceful temples and entertaining adventure parks, Phuket Old Town is full of attractions waiting to be explored. In this post, we share the 16 best things to do in Phuket Old Town to help you make the most of your time in this lively destination.

1. Wander Through the Famous Sunday Street Market

The Sunday Street Market is the highlight of Phuket Old Town, taking over the centre of town every Sunday afternoon. From around 4pm until late in the evening (usually about 10pm), the streets fill with bustling stalls selling everything from local street food and handicrafts to clothes and souvenirs.

The market has a lively atmosphere with live music and performances to enjoy as you wander. Whether you’re there to eat, browse or simply soak up the energy, this is one of the best things to do in Phuket Old Town. Be sure to bring cash, as most vendors only accepted cash payments during our visit in November 2024.

2. Experience the Spiritual Side of Old Town at Wat Mongkol Nimit

Wat Mongkol Nimit is the main Buddhist temple in Phuket Old Town and an important spiritual site for the local community. The temple is easily recognised by its ornate golden front and intricate architectural details that stand out amongst the surrounding Sino-Portuguese buildings. Inside the grounds, you’ll find a peaceful space with many different buildings including the pagoda, the Buddhist temple and the sermon hall.

Unfortunately the temple was closed for construction during our visit but we were able to wander the grounds and take in the beauty of the temple’s exterior. The temple is usually open to visitors throughout the day. If you plan on visiting make sure to dress modestly and as always, make sure to be respectful.

There are no entry fees for Wat Mongkol Nimit, making this a fantastic free thing to see in Phuket Old Town.

3. Step Into the Past at Phuket Museum

Step into the past at the Phuket Museum, a heritage museum housed inside a beautifully restored Peranakan-style former bank building. The architecture itself is worth a visit, with its elegant details reflecting the island’s multicultural history.

Inside, the museum showcases exhibits on Phuket’s past, from its tin mining history to its blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences. It’s a small but informative stop that offers context to the colourful streets of Old Town Phuket and helps you appreciate the history behind its unique culture.

Best of all, admission is free, making it another great free thing to do in Phuket Old Town.

4. Enjoy Sunset at Monkey Hill Viewpoint

Monkey Hill is one of the best spots in Phuket to watch the sunset, with sweeping views over Old Town Phuket and the surrounding area. The trail to the top takes about 30 minutes and while relatively easy, can be quite steep in places so make sure to pace yourself.

The hill is also home to plenty of monkeys, if you’d like to see monkeys during your time in Phuket Old Town this is the place to be. While the monkeys can be fun to see they can also be a little cheeky. They’re known for stealing food, drinks and even bags, so it’s best not to bring anything with you and to give them plenty of space. With a bit of caution, Monkey Hill makes for a memorable sunset stop during your time in Old Town.

Another bonus is that visiting the Monkey Hill Viewpoint is completely free, making it another great free thing to do in Phuket Old Town.

5. End the Day at Khao Rang Viewpoint for Stunning Views

End the day at Khao Rang Viewpoint, another popular spot with panoramic views over Phuket Old Town and the surrounding area. Unlike Monkey Hill, this viewpoint is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient option if you’d rather not tackle a steep walk. There’s an observation deck where you can take in the scenery, as well as a restaurant at the top if you’d like to enjoy a drink or snack while watching the sunset.

For those who enjoy the challenge, walking up is also possible, the walk takes around 45 minutes and is quite steep. Monkeys are present here too, so keep a safe distance and secure any belongings to avoid them getting snatched.

Just like the Monkey Hill Viewpoint, there are no entry fees for the viewpoint, making it another great free thing to do in Phuket Old Town.

6. Wander the Streets of Old Town and Find Hidden Gems

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Phuket Old Town is just to wander the streets and discover its hidden gems. As you stroll the town centre, you’ll be surrounded by beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings, known for their colourful fronts, ornate shutters and intricate architectural details.

Along the way, check out spots like the Instagram-famous Flower Wall on Soi Romanee, pop into one of the many charming cafés and restaurants to sample local treats or spoil yourself at a boutique shop. Whether you’re exploring for food, shopping or simply soaking up the atmosphere, wandering Old Town Phuket is a leisurely way to experience the area’s charm and character.

7. Strike a Pose at The Selfie Experience

Strike a pose at The Selfie Experience, the biggest selfie museum in Asia with over 40 themed photo rooms to explore. Your ticket includes a bluetooth selfie remote and access to selfie photo rings, so you’ll have everything you need to capture creative shots.

Beyond just fantastic photo opportunities, the museum also has a café, an ice cream and gelato shop and even a professional photo studio if you’d like high-quality shots taken. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family or solo, The Selfie Experience is a fun and playful stop in Phuket Old Town.

At the time of writing this (September 2025), admission is 400 THB per adult and 200 THB for children aged 4–12, while little ones under 4 can enter for free.

8. Discover Stamp History at Phuket Philatelic Museum

Discover the fascinating world of stamps at the Phuket Philatelic Museum, housed in a charming former post office. Visitors can explore a collection of Thai stamps dating back to 1951, alongside exhibits of historic communication devices such as early postal scales, postmarks and facsimile signal equipment.

The back of the museum hall serves as a library, offering additional insights into the history of Thai and international postage stamps, the development of Thailand Post and the stories behind these collectibles. Though small, the museum is a unique and informative attraction for anyone interested in history, communications or philately.

Entrance to the Phuket Philatelic Museum is free, making this another fantastic free thing to do in Phuket Old Town.

9. Learn About Phuket’s Chinese Community at the Thai Hua Museum

Learn about Phuket’s Chinese community at the Thai Hua Museum. The museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 1934 building that was originally the island’s first Chinese school. The museum’s galleries showcase the history, arts and culture of Phuket’s Chinese residents, offering insight into their important role in shaping the island’s heritage.

In addition to the exhibitions, the museum has a coffee shop where you can relax after exploring the galleries. It’s a perfect stop for anyone interested in learning more about the people and culture behind Phuket’s vibrant streets.

At the time of writing this (September 2025), admission is 200 THB per person for foreigners and 50 THB per person for locals.

10. Soak Up the Sun at Phuket’s Famous West Coast Beaches

Soak up the sun at Phuket’s famous west coast beaches, just a short drive (or bus ride) from Old Town Phuket. While Old Town itself doesn’t have beaches, the west coast is lined with some of the island’s most popular stretches of sand, including Patong, Kata Beach, Kamala Beach and Karon Beach. Each has its own vibe, from Patong’s lively party atmosphere to Kata’s laid-back scene.

Whether you want to swim, try water sports or simply relax on the sand, these beaches make the perfect escape from the city streets of Old Town. With golden sand, turquoise waters and plenty of beachside cafés and restaurants, Phuket’s west coast is the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy island life.

11. Pose for Optical Illusions at the Trick Eye Museum

If you’re looking for fun and interactive things to do near Phuket Old Town, the Trick Eye Museum is a must-visit. Just a 10–15 minute drive from Old Town, this optical illusion 3D art museum immerses visitors in five themed zones where you can step into creative backdrops. The backdrops are designed to make you part of the artwork, offering plenty of entertaining photo opportunities with your friends and family.

What makes this museum especially unique is how it incorporates augmented reality into the backdrops. Using augmented reality, the exhibits come to life, creating not just great photo opportunities but fantastic video opportunities too.

At the time of writing this (September 2025) entry is 440 THB per adult and 300 THB per child (foreigner rates).

12. Marvel at Phuket’s Iconic Big Buddha

One of Phuket’s most famous landmarks, the Big Buddha is a must-see during your time in the area. Standing 45 meters tall on Nakkerd Hill, it can be seen from majority of the island. Getting there from Phuket Old Town takes around a 30 minute to 1 hour drive depending on traffic. From the top, you’ll get sweeping views over Phuket Town, Chalong Bay and the Andaman Sea, making it not just a cultural highlight but also one of the best viewpoints on the island.

The serene atmosphere, combined with the sheer scale of the statue, makes this a memorable stop whether you’re here for the cultural significance or the incredible vistas. It’s an experience that blends spirituality and natural beauty all in one. Keep in mind that since the Big Buddha is a religious site, modest clothing is required.

Visiting is completely free, making it one of the best free things to do in Phuket Old Town, though there is a donation box to help with upkeep and we’d highly recommend contributing if you can.

13. Relax by the Waterfront at Saphan Hin

Just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Phuket Old Town, Saphan Hin is one of the best places to visit near Phuket Old Town if you’re after a laid-back, local vibe. This chilled waterfront park is a favorite hangout for both residents and visitors, offering open spaces to relax, go for a stroll or simply enjoy the sea breeze.

The area is dotted with unique attractions, including a mining monument, an illuminated mangrove walk, a sandy beachfront and even a quirky tractor swing. You’ll also find a skatepark, sports halls and a scenic walkway that stretches along the coast, making it a great spot to enjoy a leisurely walk.

Relaxing at Saphan Hin is another great free thing to do in Phuket Old Town as there are no entry fees.

14. Flip Your Perspective at the Upside Down House Phuket

Possibly the quirkiest attraction near Phuket Old Town, the Upside Down House offers a playful twist on reality. The 13 metre high house stands on stilts, you’ll enter from the ‘roof’ and make your way up through fully furnished, gravity-defying rooms. It’s a fun spot for creative photos and a lighthearted experience that feels like stepping into a real-life optical illusion.

Beyond the house itself, the surrounding fun park features a variety of activities including a garden maze, an escape room game, a 9D cinema, virtual reality experiences, a rage room and even a ‘drunk box.’

At the time of writing this (September 2025), pricing differs depending on which attractions you choose but entry to just the Upside Down House is 570 THB per adult and 320 THB per child.

15. Immerse Yourself in History and Heritage at Chinpracha House

Chinpracha House is one of Phuket’s best-preserved Sino-Portuguese mansions, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s colonial-era lifestyle. Built in 1903, the elegant residence is still partly lived in by descendants of the original owner, making it feel like stepping into a living museum. Inside, you’ll find antique furniture, vintage photographs and intricate architecture.

You can wander through the home’s rooms and inner courtyard, soaking up its unique charm and historic atmosphere. It’s a peaceful and fascinating stop for those wanting to connect with the heritage of Phuket Old Town.

Entry fees at the time of writing this (September 2025) are 150 THB per person.

16. Swing Through the Trees at Hanuman World

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do near Old Phuket Town, Hanuman World is the place to be. Just a 15–25 minute drive from the Old Town, this rainforest adventure park lets you experience Phuket from above with treetop walkways and thrilling zip lines. Surrounded by lush jungle, it’s the perfect way to add a dose of adrenaline to your Phuket Old Town itinerary.

Whether you’re gliding across the canopy on a high speed zip line or casually strolling along the sky high walkways, Hanuman World offers a unique perspective on Phuket’s natural beauty. There are a range of different activities to suit every adventure level.

At the time of writing this (September 2025), packages range from 350 THB per person for smaller activities up to 3490 THB for multiple longer experiences.

Enjoy Your Time in Phuket Old Town!

A trip to Phuket Old Town is a chance to step back in time and experience the island’s rich cultural heritage. From its beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and colorful street art to its bustling markets and lively food scene, every corner has something special to discover. No matter which attractions you choose to see or activities you decide to do, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this part of Phuket.

We hope that our list of the 16 best things to do in Phuket Old Town has helped you plan your visit. We’re sure you’ll have an amazing time discovering the charm, history and radiant culture of this unique part of Phuket. If you’re interested we’ve also put together some answers for frequently asked questions about Phuket Old Town below.

Where is Phuket Old Town?

Phuket Old Town is located in the southeastern part of Phuket Island, in the heart of Phuket City, in Southern Thailand.

Is Phuket Old Town Worth Visiting?

Yes, Phuket Old Town is definitely worth visiting. The area is unique to Phuket with it’s colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, lively market and excellent food scene. It’s unique mix of history, culture and architecture contrasts with the island’s beach resorts and makes it a fantastic stop on your Phuket itinerary.

How Much Time do you Need in Old Town Phuket?

One full day is plenty to explore Phuket Old Town and nearby attractions in the surrounding area, but if you plan to explore further afield you should allow for at least two days.

Where to Stay in Phuket Old Town?

During our time in Phuket Old Town, we tried out two different hotels. The PeranaKan Boutique Hotel (around $39.51 AUD per night) was our top pick. Located right near the heart of Old Town, it offered clean and comfortable rooms. We’d happily recommend it if you’re looking for a convenient and well-kept place to stay. If you’d like to you can book a stay here with Booking.com

If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, the Pure Phuket Residence Hotel (around $26.92 AUD per night) is also an option. While a bit tatty, dark and outdated, it’s still decent for the price and can work as a budget-friendly base in Old Town. We’ve included some photos of it below. If you’d like to you can book a stay here with Booking.com

How Far is the Phuket Airport from Phuket Old Town?

Phuket Old Town is approximately 34km from the Phuket Airport, which is about a 35 minute-1.5 hour drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).

How to Get to Phuket Old Town from the Airport?

To get to Phuket Old Town from the Phuket Airport, the cheapest option is getting a bus with Airport Bus Phuket. Their 8411 Airport Bus runs from the airport through central Phuket and down to Old Town. Tickets cost 100 baht per person to Old Town, with cheaper fares (30–100 baht) if you’re getting off at earlier stops along the route.

The most convenient option is to book a Grab. At the time of writing this (September 2025), the fare from Phuket Airport to Old Town is around 688 baht, though this can vary depending on the time of day, traffic and whether Grab has any discounts or promotions.

How Far is Phuket Old Town from the Beach?

The closest beach to Phuket Old Town is Saphan Hin, located approximately 3.5 kilometres from Phuket Old Town, which is about a 10-25 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take). While it’s the nearest option, Saphan Hin isn’t considered a great beach. For an iconic Phuket beach experience, it’s worth making the trip across to the island’s west coast, where you’ll find popular beaches like Patong, Kata, Kamala and Karon.

How Far is Patong Beach from Phuket Old Town?

Phuket Old Town is approximately 13km from Patong Beach, which is about a 20-55 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).

How to go to Phuket Old Town from Patong?

To get from Patong Beach to Phuket Old Town, one of the cheapest options is the Phuket Smart Bus. Their Patong Beach Bus costs just 50 THB per person and runs directly to the Phuket Bus Terminal in Old Town. Their website has an interactive map so you can track buses in real time and plan your journey with ease.

The most convenient option is to book a Grab. At the time of writing this (September 2025), a Grab from Patong Beach to Old Town costs around 280 THB, though prices can vary depending on the time of day, traffic and whether you have any discounts available.

What Day is the Phuket Old Town Night Market?

The Phuket Old Town Night Market, takes place every Sunday afternoon from around 4 pm until late in the evening (usually about 10pm).

What are the Best Things to do in Phuket Old Town?

There are plenty of things to do in Phuket Old Town (and the surrounding area) to make your visit unforgettable, including:

1. Attending the Sunday Street Market
2. Visiting Wat Mongkol Nimit
3. Visiting the Phuket Museum
4. Hiking to Monkey Hill Viewpoint
5. Driving to Khao Rang Viewpoint
6. Going to The Selfie Experience
7. Visiting the Thai Hua Museum
8. Wandering through Phuket Old Town
9. Visiting the Phuket Philatelic Museum
10. Going to some of Phuket’s west coast beaches
11. Going to the Trick Eye Museum
12. Visiting the Big Buddha
13. Visiting Saphan Hin
14. Going to the Upside Down House
15. Visiting the Chinpracha House
16. Going to Hanuman World

Watch Us Explore Phuket Old Town

If you’d like to you can watch us explore Phuket Old Town in our YouTube video below. We take a bus from Patong to Old Town Phuket before visiting some of the places listed in this blog, including Wat Mongkol Nimit and the Sunday Street Market.