If there’s one place that always manages to capture the heart of every Indian traveler, it’s Thailand. And while Bangkok and Pattaya are the usual suspects, there’s something truly magical about Phuket City that often gets overlooked. Tucked away in the Andaman Sea, Phuket offers a soul-stirring mix of history, street food, colorful architecture, local markets, and of course — beaches that look like desktop wallpapers come to life.
Whether you’re a backpacker, honeymooner, or a family from Mumbai looking for a long weekend getaway, this Phuket City tour will surprise you with its old-world charm and island vibes.
Morning: Exploring Old Phuket Town
Start your day early, around 8 AM, before the heat kicks in. Head straight to Old Phuket Town, a historic neighborhood that feels like Goa met Penang and decided to stay forever. Walk along Thalang Road, where pastel-hued Sino-Portuguese buildings line the street, and vintage cafes serve up strong Thai coffee with a side of history.
Must-Visit Spots:
- 🏛️ Thai Hua Museum – A beautiful 1930s colonial building turned museum
- 📸 Street Art Tour – Insta-worthy murals tucked into alleyways
- ☕ Bookhemian Cafe – Ideal for a coffee break and browsing local books
📝 Tip: Wear comfy shoes and light cottons. Phuket gets humid, and trust me, you’ll want to explore every corner of this place.
Midday: Market Bites and Local Lunch
By noon, your stomach (and nose) will guide you to Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market) if it’s a Saturday or Sunday, or the local Ranong Road Market on weekdays. From grilled skewers to Thai mango sticky rice, it’s a food lover’s paradise.
Recommended Dishes:
- 🥘 Tom Yum Soup – Spicy, sour, and soulful
- 🍢 Satay Skewers – Grilled chicken/pork with peanut sauce
- 🍹 Thai Iced Tea – A creamy, sugary caffeine fix for the road
👀 Vegetarians? Try stir-fried morning glory and mango salad. Thai cuisine has something for everyone.
Afternoon: Cultural Soak at Temples and Viewpoints
After lunch, it’s time to slow things down. Visit Wat Chalong, the largest and most revered Buddhist temple in Phuket. Respect the dress code: cover your shoulders and knees.
From there, take a 30-minute drive to the iconic Big Buddha — a serene white marble statue sitting 45 meters tall atop Nakkerd Hill. The views from here? Mind-blowing.
Don’t Miss:
- 🙏 Lighting incense at Wat Chalong
- 🌅 Panoramic selfies from Big Buddha viewpoint
- 📿 Pick up handmade bracelets from monks as souvenirs
Evening: Street Shopping & Sunset Magic
As golden hour sets in, make your way to the Saphan Hin Park area or the beachside Promthep Cape for a sunset that could rival Goa’s best. After soaking in the view, end your city tour at Limelight Avenue or Chillva Market for souvenir shopping.
Shop For:
- 👜 Handmade bags
- 🎨 Local art
- 👗 Boho-chic clothing
- 🎁 Spices and Thai herbal soaps (great for gifting back home)
Night: Phuket City After Dark
If you’ve still got energy left, treat yourself to a quiet dinner at Tu Kab Khao, a Michelin-rated local Thai restaurant housed in a colonial-style building. Want something more upbeat? Hop on to Dibuk Road and explore Phuket’s buzzing nightlife.
🍹 Mocktail lover or cocktail explorer — Phuket has rooftop bars, speakeasies, and beach clubs for all vibes.
As someone who’s explored every corner of India and now seeks joy in international gems, I can say with confidence — Phuket City isn’t just a stopover, it’s a full experience. It blends culture, food, history, and scenic beauty so effortlessly that you’ll leave with your phone full of photos and your heart full of stories.
So the next time you plan your Thailand trip, don’t just hit the beaches. Give Phuket City its due. Trust me, it’s worth every baht and every bite.
