phuket walking tour

• 20 MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
• ⛱️ Patong Beach
• ⛱️ Kata Beach
• ⛱️ Karon Beach
• ⛱️ Kamala Beach
• ⛱️ Bang Tao Beach
• ⛱️ Nai Harn Beach
• ALL 45 Phuket Beaches
• 62 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET
• 20 Best Tours
• 24 Best Things to Do in Phuket with Kids 🧸
• Walking Guide to Old Phuket Town
• Phi Phi Island 🏝️
• Phang Nga Bay
• Best Hotels in PATONG BEACH 🧳
• Best Hotels in KATA BEACH 🧳
• Best Hotels in KARON BEACH 🧳
• Best Hotels in KAMALA BEACH 🧳
• Best Hotels in BANG TAO BEACH 🧳
• Best Hotels in MAI KHAO BEACH 🧳
• Best Hotels in PHUKET TOWN 🧳
• Best Hotels in PHI PHI ISLAND 🧳
• 41 Best Hotels in Phuket
• 22 Best Beachfront Hotels ⛱️
• 13 Best Family Hotels 🧸
• 10 Things to Do in Phuket at Night
• Patong Nightlife
• Bangla Road Walking Street
• 21 Best Beach Clubs 🏖️
• 22 Best Rooftop Bars
• 38 Best Local Restaurants in Phuket
• 18 Best Restaurants in Phuket
• Michelin Restaurants in Phuket 🍽️
• Phuket Restaurants Directory ✳️
• 10 BEST NIGHT MARKETS
• 8 Best Shopping Malls 🛍️
• Jungceylon Phuket
• Phuket LIVE WEBCAM
• Phuket WEATHER ☀️☁️🌧️
• Phuket Event Calendar 2024
• Car Rental 🚙
• Scooters Rentals 🛵
• Airport Transfers 🚐

Phuket Town – A Walking Guide to Old Phuket Town

• Budget Travel , History , Hot Pages , Phuket Town , What to Do?
• Last updated 7 August 2023 17 June 2024

What to Do in Phuket Old Town?

Our Phuket Old Town and Old Street Walking Guide will save you time and effort! The historical part of Phuket is not huge but is rich and exciting enough to explore in half a day. On this page, we break it down by streets and describe the main points of interest, significant landmarks and, of course, the best places to eat Thai food ! It’s easy and fun to explore, even on a rainy day, plus there are plenty of little cafes and restaurants to take a break and enjoy lunch or dinner. Phuket Old Town has always been one of the most popular items on our list of Best Things to Do in Phuket .

Phuket Old Town Video

Subscribe to our YouTube for more videos!

Quick Jump to Phuket Town Pages

WHAT TO DO IN PHUKET OLD TOWN?

Expect to see a lot of Sino-Portuguese style shophouses on each side of the streets, small and colourful shops, some excellent local Thai restaurants, and lately, many young coffee shops . Walking around town will also be a chance for you to visit both Thai temples and colourful Chinese shrines , as well as a couple of Museums and some beautiful old mansions .

Lately, you also can enjoy a lot of beautiful mural paintings and street art ornating the walls of old buildings. It looks even better since Phuket municipality buried all electric cables underground on Thalang and Dibuk roads.

Popular Ways to Discover Phuket Town

Phuket town historical centre.

The city centre and the famous Thalang Road are the most exciting part of Phuket Town, but other streets are full of things to discover

Street names to remember:

Our suggested walking map, starting from the famous thalang road, 1. thalang road.

Thalang Road (east) is where you probably will start and spend a lot of time. It’s charming and a popular Instagram playground , especially if you visit during the Sunday Walking Street Market .

Don’t miss the little coffee shop at the intersection called Chino Cafe Gallery (L) . Not only do they serve a good coffee with sweet Phuket round cakes, but you also can admire some excellent photographs hanging on the wall, all taken by Phuket photographers (apparently, there will be a gallery soon on the second floor).

Walk further to find three famous restaurants, Wilai and Kopitiam (M) are two small local and affordable restaurants serving excellent Thai food. The famous China Inn Cafe (N) has a more elaborated but expensive meal in a superbly renovated Chinese-style shophouse, which also happens to be a handicraft shop.

Near China Inn, Cafe (N) is a little Chinese shrine hidden inside an unassuming entrance. From there, you will walk past many Muslim fabric shops and tool shops whose owners are trying to continue their trade, just as if nothing ever happened in Phuket. Look around for all the charming little guesthouses, bookshops, lovely small boutiques and plenty of little coffee shops.

Don’t miss Oasis Walking Street , a long and narrow passage connecting Thalang and Phang Nga Road ! It’s full of stalls selling original souvenirs and local snacks and is a great escape from the heat or the rain. Read more about Thalang road .

2. Soi Romanee

Just off the famous Thalang road is Soi Romanee (P), with all the colourful buildings that make it the most photographed street in Phuket. However, the most beautiful part of Phuket Town was the red light street and the gambling area. You can now stay at one of the small guesthouses or have a drink at a cafe while watching the permanent Instagram competition going on here.

Don’t miss a chance to visit some temples: at the end of Soi Romanee (P) is Wat Mongkol Nimit (Q) , a significant place for Phuket people, where locals frequently hold ceremonies. It’s a beautiful temple with a golden Chedi (stupa) in the back and some beautiful heritage houses monks use as dormitories.

Go back through Soi Romanee (P) and turn left again into Thalang Road, where you can admire a few more renovated shophouses, especially the Honda motorbike showroom combined with a new coffee shop.

3. Phang Nga Road

The three highlights of Phang Nga Road are the Shrine of the Serene Light (W) , the amulet market and the On On Hotel (V) . On On Hotel (V) has an exciting story, and almost everyone saw it in the movie The Beach, but not many people know that the hotel is not in Bangkok as shown in the film, but right here in Phuket Town. Until recently, the On On hotel was almost as bad as in the movie and only cost 200 baht a night! In 2013 it was entirely renovated with great skill and sense, keeping the hotel’s spirit and still relatively cheap, but it is not a beautiful budget hotel.

Adjacent to On On Hotel, the Shrine of the Serene Light (W) also has an anecdote. For a long time, the shrine was hidden in the back of a building, and only locals knew about it. It was a secret no one wanted to share. Finally, they did a great job renovating and widening the ornamented gate, and the shrine itself was left mostly untouched, and it is now a famous landmark.

Opposite on the same street is the amulet market (X), an extended covered alley where amulet aficionados come mostly on weekends to exchange and discuss amulets. It is a mysterious topic for us, but some rare charms have very high value depending on their age, origins and the monk who gave them.

Keep walking until the end of Phang Nga Road until you reach The Clocktower building (S) , which I think used to be a police station and is now the Peranakanittat Museum . Across the street is the old Standard Chartered Bank (R) which is also a museum.

4. Dibuk Road

Continue on Dibuk Road to enjoy more shophouse architecture with its typical archways, designed to keep walkers sheltered from sun and rain. Keep your eyes open and look for the shops selling some typical Phuket sweets and bread. If you happen to be on this part of Dibuk Road at dinner time, don’t miss a chance to try excellent Phuket food at the newly renovated ‘ The Charm Phuket .’

Then at the intersection of Dibuk and Yaowarat Roads , you will find a trendy local food court called Lock Tien Restaurant (I) , serving some unique Phuket specialities. Opposite Lock Tien has a beautiful shop called Pink Flamingo Cafe (J), found inside an old corner shop that was initially the former headquarters of the Kian Nguan Mining Company when tin mining was Phuket’s primary industry. Read more about Dibuk Road (a lot more!)

Get listed or advertise on Phuket101: contact us here!

5. Yaowarat Road

To reach Yaowarat from the bus station, walk against the traffic flow toward the fountain circle (C) and turn left. If you are lucky, on the left, you will find a dark passage leading to the mysterious Limpanon House (D) , a fantastic abandoned Sino Portuguese Mansion . Unfortunately, lately, the gate appears to be closed, but there is a way to admire the mansion from above. (contact us on Instagram to find out how).

On the opposite side are antique shops worth stopping at. One is an old Kanom Jeen shop (Y) run by a young guy who was smart enough to keep the shop in its original condition, making it an exciting photo opportunity. Next to it is also an ancient pharmacy (Y) with surprisingly dry roots and ingredients kept in a hundred wooden drawers. If you plan to take photos there, know that the owner can but grumpy as he probably gets more photographers than shoppers in a day, so buy something if you plan to take photos! 😀

Continue straight until you reach the Thalang intersection. If you don’t have much time, turn right into the famous Thalang Road and jump to #6. If you continue straight, things get a little less exciting, but you will be able to admire a few more heritage mansions.

Next to Flamingo Shop (J) are several other shops worth mentioning where some elderly ladies sit all day, selling some delicious Phuket speciality cakes and pastries. Try the famous Ice Kachang, shaved ice with syrup on top and red beans inside, a perfect way to cool down from the heat and long walks. On the opposite side is the ancient Lock Tien food court , a place worth stopping at for a light local lunch.

If you cross the intersection and continue on the other side of Yaowarat road, you will find three small mansions well maintained. One of them is the lovely Endless Summer coffee shop and boutique (K) . Many shophouses around old Phuket Town became coffee shops , heritage hotels and guesthouses .

6. Krabi Road

Turn left to enjoy the superb shophouses all along Krabi road, notably the surprising Thai Hua Museum (E) . You can stop and visit it; it describes how Phuket became what it is today.

If you continue further, you will reach the Satun road intersection, where you will find two major Phuket landmarks:

The Blue Elephant Restaurant (F) is a magnificent mansion built in a vast park that used to be the governor’s residence. It is now a fancy Thai restaurant and an upmarket cooking class. The price for a meal is relatively high, but you are welcome to drink at the bar or even browse the souvenir shop for free.

Just next to it, the Chinpracha mansion (G) is a privately owned museum that appeared in several famous movies. It is relatively modest, but you should visit it as it might disappear anytime as the owner passed away not long ago.

To go back, turn right before Blue Elephant (F) into Satun Road. From there, take the next right back into Dibuk Road , where you will find Luang Amnart Nararak Mansion (H) , another beautiful Sino Portuguese still in its original condition.

7. Ratsada Road

If you choose to walk back through Phuket Road , you will step back to two buildings that are impressive in an unusual way. The first one is the quirky Thavorn Museum (T), hidden inside the Thavorn Hotel, probably the first hotel on the island. The museum consists mostly of a weird collection of old toys, photos and a mountain of objects from a vague past time of Phuket, most of which are the old apparatus used and the hotel’s history. It’s rather fun and very dusty!

Behind the Thavorn Museum, don’t miss the next U-shaped street on your left as a fantastic old mansion (U) still stands proudly beyond a wall. Most of the time, the villa’s gate is open, so if you are not shy, walk in and act normal, just as I did countless times to get my photos. After this mansion, you will be pretty much on your way back to the fountain circle (C) .

8. Phuket Road

Phuket Road doesn’t have many significant landmarks, but it connects Thalang Road to Ratsada Road. It is mostly known for the Casa Blanca hotel, Quip rooftop bar , and the excellent One Chun local restaurant mentioned in the Phuket Michelin Guide . And the much-loved Wanlamun Shop , a very local place serving a surprisingly large amount of delicious Thai sweets.

9. Ranong Road

If you come to town on a local blue bus , you will arrive on Ranong Road, next to the Phuket City Market (A), which could be your list’s first or last item. The market consists of the main building where the buses stop and the old open-air market just across the street. Both are fun to explore as you will see veggies, fruits and spices you might never have seen before.

Don’t miss the Thai Airways office (B) in the same area, a superbly renovated white Sino-Portuguese house. Unfortunately, you can only take exterior photos from the parking, as the building is not open to the public.

If you continue walking following the traffic flow, you will reach the Jui Tui shrine (Z) , a significant Chinese temple, during the Phuket Vegetarian Festival . Further, the unique Lor Rong market (a) sells Phuket foods and confectioneries.

WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET TOWN?

Phuket has a wide range of budget hotels and guesthouses, including some in Sino-Portuguese houses. The most famous is, of course, The Memory at On On Hotel which appeared in the movie ‘The Beach’ with Leonardo DiCaprio. There are also a few more luxurious hotels near the Old Town.

The Memory at On On Hotel

The On On Hotel is a renowned heritage hotel on Phuket Island, famous for its rich Sino-Portuguese history dating back to 1927 when it was originally named Un Un Hotel. Located in the bustling Phang Nga Road of old Phuket Town, the hotel was later renamed On On and became a popular backpacker destination, contributing to its selection as a filming location for the movie ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio in 2000. Read more

Other popular hotels in Phuket Town

Don't see the hotel you are looking for? Check the full list here:

WHERE TO EAT IN PHUKET TOWN?

Tu kab khao.

Address : 8 Phang Nga Road, Phuket Town (the restaurant with a giant lobster hanging on the side) Open : Daily 11 am – 12 midnight Phone : 076 608 888 Speciality : Southern Thai Food Price : Affordable

Raya Restaurant

Raya Restaurant serves a unique local southern and Phuket cuisine that blends together all the essential elements for a truly authentic lunch or dinner in a well-preserved, traditional Thai house. Raya has a genuine and unassuming atmosphere, making guests feel as though they have been warmly welcomed into a Thai home for a delightful meal.

Address : 48/1 Dibuk Road, Tambon Talat Yai, Phuket Town, Phuket 83000 Open : 10 am – 10 pm Phone :076 218 155 Price : a little expensive

The Charm Dining Gallery

Address: 93 Dibuk Rd, Tambon Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000 Open : 11 am – 9 pm, Wednesday closed Phone : 076 530 199 Price : a little high

WHERE TO SHOP IN PHUKET TOWN?

Sunday walking weekend market.

The Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market located in Phuket Town is a highly sought-after tourist attraction. This 360-meter-long marketplace has become an instant hit, providing a much-needed event in the historic district. Thalang Road, which was previously tranquil, transforms into a bustling street every Sunday from 4 pm to 9 pm, and sometimes even beyond. The Sino-Portuguese houses that line Thalang Road are adorned with ever-changing colour lights that contribute to the festive atmosphere. Delicious food, ice cream, and drinks are available on both sides and in the middle of this lively street.

Chillva Market

Chillva Market Phuket is one of the best weekday night markets on the island, located on the outskirts of town, on the way to Patong Beach. The atmosphere at Chillva Market is youthful and enjoyable. The majority of items for sale are locally produced and unique, such as clothing, jewellery, athletic shoes, accessories, and gadgets that you may not need but will still purchase. The primary reason locals flock to this market is for the delicious local cuisine on offer. Furthermore, Chillva Market Phuket has cleverly repurposed old metal containers, which is a current trend in Thailand.

Endless Summer Boutique

Located on Yaowarat Road, the heart of Phuket town, Endless Summer is a magnificent heritage house that serves as both a coffee shop and a fashion boutique. The beauty of this building is so captivating that anyone who passes by it will stop for a photo without hesitation. Despite being easily accessible and close to most travellers’ itineraries, many visitors overlook it and rush straight to the famous Thalang Road nearby. Therefore, if you find yourself in Phuket Town, make sure to turn right onto Yaowarat Road and step inside Endless Summer.

Naka Market

The Phuket Naka Weekend Market, previously called the Chaofa Variety Weekend Market, is a large night bazaar located near Central Festival on the outskirts of Phuket Town, driving south. This market is big, crowded, and full of fun, making it a bit overwhelming. You can spend hours wandering around and looking at all the different things for sale, even though most of it is not genuine.

HIDDEN PHUKET TOWN

Phuket Town is a trove of little gems, and while most people hang around the tourist streets of Thalang, Dibuk and Phang Nga Roads, there are many little places to look for, whether it is for a photo, a coffee or even a lunch (this section will keep growing).

The Chair Cafe

Chair Cafe on itself is not an exceptional coffee shop, but most people don’t know there is a terrace in the back with a superb view of a mysterious hidden mansion. The cafe is on Yaowarat Road. (story to come soon)

Address : 19 Yaowarad Rd, Tambon Talat Nuea, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000 Hours : 8 am – 6 pm Phone: 089 730 8335

Khao Rang Hill

Khao Rang Hill is not in the old part of town but if you have time, it is a nice panoramic viewpoint over the city as well as a great place to eat lunch or dinner. You can even see some monkeys up there, but remember not to approach them as they can be unpredictable.

Phuket Street Art

Phuket Street Art is a collection of impressive mural paintings created by both local and Thai artists throughout Phuket Town. Some are easily visible, while others are very hard to find. Explore the town and see how many you can find. Although we have shared only a few here, we will continue to add more as we uncover them.

PHUKET TOWN INFO

Fast facts about phuket town, walking map of old phuket town.

See all Phuket Maps!

Video of Driving Through Phuket Town

Phuket Town Photo Gallery

See More Photos

FAQs about Phuket Town

Q. what is there to do in phuket town.

a. Phuket has a lot to offer for a day away from the beach: The Shrine of Serene Light Thai Hua Museum Baan Chinpracha Phuket Aquaria Wat Mongkol Nimit Trickeye Museum

Q. What are the most important streets of Phuket Town?

a. The heart of Phuket Town is where the old historical streets are: Thalang Road Dibuk Road Phang Nga Road Soi Romanee

Q. What are the best Thai restaurants in Phuket Town?

a. There are many excellent restaurants to experience real Thai food: Tu Kab Khao Restaurant Raya House Restaurant One Chun Restaurant The Charm Dining Gallery Blue Elephant Phuket

Q. Can I shop in Phuket Town?

a. You’ll find endless shopping opportunities in Phuket Town: Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market Naka Weekend Market Central Phuket Chillva Market Endless Summer Boutique

Q. What are the best hotels in Phuket Town?

Q. how far is phuket city from the airport.

a. Phuket Town is 30 km from Phuket International Airport , about 30-45 minutes by taxi (800 baht)

Born in France a long long time ago, I started to travel the world early until I settled in Phuket in 1994. For the past 30 years, my passion for photography and my curiosity have taken me to every corner of Phuket, Bangkok and everywhere I could go in Thailand. My goal is to share my discoveries, photos and tips to help travellers plan their holidays by making Phuket 101 as easy as possible to use for everyone!

• Countries visited: 115
• Currently in : Singapore 🇸🇬
• Partner with us
• SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS COMMUNITY

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here . Never leave without travel insurance .

Things to see and do in Phuket Old Town

This article was first published in November 2018 and updated in June 2020 .

The Sino Portuguese Phuket Town is often neglected by tourists who flock to Thailand’s largest island of Phuket in search of the three “S”: sand, sun and sea. And that is a shame, for this heritage rich area is easily explored on foot and it is filled with enough cafes to save you from the heat. A perfect spot if you only have 1 day in Phuket and love heritage and culture.

So take a break from the many beaches in Thailand and make sure to go on a walking tour of the best things to do in Old Town Phuket , no matter if you’re coming for a chilled villa stay , a weekend road trip or a bachelor party . Phuket’s Old Town is by far one of the best things to see on a trip to Phuket  and a great way to spend a few hours if you’re wondering what to do in Phuket Town.

Brief History of Phuket Old Town

Phuket was a famous tin-mining center before it became Thailand’s most popular island. Traders from Europe, China, Arabia and Asia all gathered to exchange spices and goods for tin and rubber which the island exported.

The Hokkien Chinese brought with them the shophouse architecture so famous of other Chinese-influence cities like Penang in Malaysia or Singapore , and that style blended with the European architecture of the time to produce colourful and beautiful buildings that today line the main streets of old Phuket Town and make it such a pretty town.

Map of the best things to do in Phuket Town

In order to make your visit to Phuket Old Town easier, I have marked all the best places to see on this Phuket Old Town map and organised them chronologically and logically in the next section, so you can follow my Phuket Old Town walking tour and see everything without the need for a guide.

However, if you prefer one so that you can learn more about the history and get pick up and drop off from your hotel, the end of this article has some great Phuket Old Town tour ideas.

Popular streets in Old  Phuket  Town

It helps to know the main street names when doing a DIY Phuket Old Town walking tour as it will help you gather your bearings. Here is a list below of the most popular streets in Old Town Phuket:

• Ranong Road : Phuket Town Central market, and Jui Tui Shrine.
• Yaowarat Road : The main road that goes north, starting from the Suriyadej Traffic Circle where Ranong, Ratsada and Bangkok roads meet.
• Dibuk Road : Examples of shophouse architecture and some nice Phuket style sweet shops.
• Phang Nga Road : Memory at On On Hotel, there are also tailors, sweetshops and art galleries like Drawing Room.
• Ratsada Road : The Thavorn Museum.
• Soi Romanee : Instagram-ready shophouses.
• Thalang Road : China Inn, Phuket Sunday Night Market. This is a nice road to explore for small shops and eateries and becomes Krabi road.
• Krabi Road : Thai Hua Museum,

Things to do in Old Phuket Town – Best places to see

Below is a list of the places to visit in Phuket Old Town. They are organised as an itinerary and should take you no more than half a day. I suggest you start around 11am so you include lunch (because Blue Elephant serves unique Royal cuisine) but if it’s too hot and you do not want to walk around in the heat, you can also go in the evening. Phuket Old Town night market is a great place to stop at if you visit when it’s on.

The Memory at On On Hotel

Slightly retrace your steps back to  The Memory at On On Hotel , made famous by the opening scenes from the movie The Beach . Not one of the most luxurious hotels in Phuket , but a perfect visit to bring back the past and one of the most interesting place to see in Old Phuket. The historical hostel is filled with artefacts from the tin mining booming years. The moment you enter the lobby area you are transported to an era gone by.

Opened in 1929, this is Phuket’s oldest hotel and one of the most affordable. You can book a private room for USD35 or a bed in their dorms for much less. The ground floor has a silk and textile shop that would make for great souvenirs. On On Hotel was owned by a famous tin merchant and this was the hotel where Chinese traders used to stay so you can feel what it must have been like back then.

Continue towards China Inn . This vintage furniture store, the front cafe sitting area and the Feng-shui inspired backyard are beautifully maintained with Chinese lacquerwork, fabrics and old fans filling the air. The owners took three years to refurbish and restore this ancient shophouse to its former glory.

Stay for coffee to take it all and have another break if the heat of the day has got to you. See  here  for more info.

Thai Hua Museum

Down the street is  Thai Hua Museum , a beautiful colonial building . Thai Hua opened in 1934 as the first Chinese language school in Phuket and today is a center of old Sino Portuguese culture .

Thai Hua Museum is a museum focused on the history of Chinese migrants to the island and the country. Chinese is the main foreign ethnicity in Thailand and has large representation not only in Phuket but also in Bangkok.

In the museum you can learn more about the waves of migration which arrived in Phuket from 1824 to 1868 to work on the large tin mining projects, where they came from, how and for what purpose. You can also find out more about the tin mining industry which brought prosperity and wealth to the island.

My favorite part is the section where you can read about the mansions of Old Phuket, the people who built them and the time before tourism. This is a good opportunity to also learn about similar type of architecture in other parts of Asia like Penang or Malacca. Check out their website for more information. 

Phra Pitak Chinpracha and the Blue Elephant

End the morning with a serving of Royal Thai cuisine at the Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion. The Blue Elephant Governor’s Mansion and Cooking School is housed in this 105 year old mansion in the heart of Old Phuket.

Famous around the world for its gold and fine china Thai food, Blue Elephant has branches in London, Dubai and Brussels where it first started. In Old Phuket, we can find the most beautiful of them all. The restaurant follows the principles of Feng Shui and is located in green and lush grounds.

If you have time, stay for a cooking class too. Else, just come in for lunch, their daily set menus are beautifully presented , pompously served and enjoyed in the regal dark wood and blue colonial room with elegant silverware and elephant decorated tableware.

Best eateries in Old Town Phuket

While we’re talking about food, did you know that Phuket was the first Asian city to given the title “City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO? So here is a list of other authentic restaurants and food stalls in Old Town Phuket that you should definitely try.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Amp (@ampamp_) on Mar 27, 2019 at 10:57pm PDT

• Tunk-Ka Cafe . For authentic Thai food complimented with a spectacular view atop Khao Rang, this is the place to go. Their specialities include the moo hong or southern Thai stewed pork belly and the steamed fish covered in lemon juice with chillies. The ambience and setting is also quite romantic and magical amid the greenery, particularly at night.
• Mee Ao Ke . Don’t expect fine dining at Mee Ao Ke, this is as local as it comes. But do expect a burst of flavor with their Hokkien noodles done simply and perfectly. The egg noodles, mixed with soy and sweet sauce and sugar is topped with veggies, fishballs, shredded pork, and a soft-boiled egg. Delicious every time and definitely one of the best eateries in Phuket Old Town.
• Boonrat Dim Sum . Why not opt for a traditional Thai breakfast when eating in Phuket Old Town? Grab a delectable basket of dim sum in a century’s old establishment and taste the original recipe of this establishment that was opened in 1917. You’ll taste the authentic flavors brought in from Guangzhou all those years ago. Be sure to try the pork, shrimp or deep-fried crap dumplings.
• Tu Kab Khao . Bringing his mother’s flavors to a new generation, Khun Kim adds a slight nostalgia to his yummy traditional southern Thai cuisine. The location, a 130 year-old Sino-Portuguese, and the old pictures of Old Town Phuket add to the sentimentality. The melt-in-your mouth moo hong is out of this world, and is only one of the fantastic menu items.
• Andaman Fishball Noodle . If you like fishballs and noodles, then Andaman Fishball Noodle is a no-brainer. Diners choose from either a clear or tom yum broth and then select their choice of noodles (rice, glass, seaweed and brown rice) and then add the local yellowtail-based fish balls. This is a local and foreign favorite and similar to Korea’s favourite street food odeng guk, which you can find anywhere in Seoul , but with noodles.

Best dessert in Phuket Old Town

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Torry’s Ice Cream (@torrysicecream) on Oct 24, 2017 at 10:03pm PDT

• Coffs & Burgh . The prettiest cafe on the Thalang Road strip not only has some strong coffee and delicious sweets, but is perfect for a dose of nostalgia. Friendly service, adorable family heirlooms and centuries-old antiques all situated in a trendy restored shophouse.
• Torry’s Ice Cream . More than just your standard ice-cream shop, brother and sister team Torry and Fern Wongwattanakit bring you reinventions of their childhood snacks. Expect natural ice-cream with no preservatives in flavours ranging from corn milk and avocado to pumpkin and coconut. Must-tries include o-aew made with red bean and jelly and apong, a local-style crepe with coconut milk, and then pan-fried on a wok over hot charcoal – served with a dash of ice-cream.
• Keng-Tin . This sweet shop in Phuket Old Town is not to be missed. It has been going since 1942, so you know they’re brilliant at what they do. If you try nothing else, dig into the tau sar piah, a famous pastry also found in Malaysia with a flaky exterior and either sweet or savoury paste inside. Other options include the Pung-Pia (White Flaky Puff), Phuket Taro Sesame Puff and Black Pepper Cookies.

Soi Romanee

Soi Romanee is a small street where time seems to have stood still. Minus the brothels, the opium dens and the gambling life that made it famous at the time. Most of the shophouses’ facades look like a dragon’s face. The two windows are their eyes and the door the mouth. This representation alludes to a time when the area was the center of night entertainment. Look up for the colourful shutters, the vintage motorbikes parked outside plant potted entrances and the sinuous facades.

Today, locals go about their life, the buildings and shophouses are pastel coloured and there is peace in the air . It is quaint, in the way old hutongs in Beijing or peaceful towns in the countryside can be. Observe the archways under the shophouses entrances connecting the continuous buildings. Traditionally, the lower floors housed the store whereas the family used to live above.

Not much is happening today but some of the buildings have been restored and, next to new hipster coffeeshops , you can also find the descendants of Chinese migrants watching the day go by from plastic stools. It is an Instagram-worthy street and also a peaceful reminder that places change, evolve and what was once grim and scandalous may one day be tame and prudish.

Thavorn Hotel Museum and the Drawing Room

Two more stops warrant a visit. One is the  Thavorn Hotel Museum and the other one the Drawing Room at the opposite end.

Thavorn Hotel Museum is a must-stop for those who want to understand how Phuket looked like before. The hotel was built in the 60s so it is not as old at On On Hotel but it is a vintage example of the town’s tin mining past.

The Thavorn family can be credited with betting on the tourism boom that later benefited Phuket. They built a full-service hotel in Phuket before the area became the focus of thousands of tourists. The owner saw the potential for Thailand’s largest island and followed the popular “build it and they will come” motto. However, he was too early for his time and the hotel never took off as anticipated.

The infrastructure was not yet there and the airport was not built until a few years later, delaying the influx of tourists. The family is quick to admit that, despite its pioneering spirit, the hotel was never a success. Walking into the dark wooden lobby is like stepping into a museum.

Old pictures line the walls, vintage furniture fills the space and newspaper clips testify to the family’s success in the tin industry. It is worth a stop for a reminder that timing is everything.

Your last stop for the day should be the Drawing Room, a workshop cum art gallery where several local artists showcase their work and create their pieces. It is a mix of modern hip and pastel vintage. Vespas and collage paintings sit side by side with wall-long pieces of art.

It is worth a stroll and a chat with the artists. Here is where art and inspiration just happen, in a messy, chaotic and artful display of creativity. See more info on Drawing Room on the Facebook page .

On your way to Old Town Phuket, why not head to Chalong Bay Rum Distillery for a relaxing signature cocktail or a tour? And then relax on some of the best beaches while watching the epic sunsets .

Temples and shrines

There are a few temples and shrines you can visit in Phuket Old Town for a bit of zen. The first and most famous is probably Shrine of Serene Light, which is adjacent to the On On Hotel. This Hokkien shrine was first established in 1891 and along with its ornate terra cotta dragon roof, reminded me very much of  Thian Hock Keng Temple in Singapore.

Legend has it that for many years the Shrine of the Serene Light was hidden at the back of a building, only known to locals. Yet after renovation, the entrance was made larger being exposed to the general public.

You’ll find a bit of respite in this intricately designed shrine where entrance is free, but you may make a donation by leaving notes or coins by the lions that guard the entrance. Also remember to take off your shoes before entering.

Jui Tui shrine is another beautiful temple of great cultural importance. If you visit during the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival, then Jui Tui will be where you will spend your time. The temple, originally located in Soi Romanee was moved to its current location in Ranong Road after it was devastated by a fire.

The principal deity in this, one of Phuket’s oldest temples, is Tean Hu Huan Soy, the Chinese god of performing artists and dancers. You can walk around the impressively renovated grounds before having your future told through fortune sticks. While the papers are only written in Thai and Chinese, keep them for later when you can ask someone to translate them for you.

Wat Mongkol Nimit is a gorgeous temple with a golden Chedi (stupa) in the back. You may find monks strolling the premises or possibly a joyous ceremony taking place.

Old Phuket town markets

There are several markets to explore in Phuket Old Town but the two most popular and central are probably Phuket Town Central Market and the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market. Phuket Town Central Market (or Talad Sod Satarana) on Ranong Road was the commercial hub of Phuket Old Town and you can find anything here from cloths and fresh fruits to raincoats and incense.

There is also some great food if you’re into the more off the usual menu delicacies. It’s a rather large space with signage in Thai and English. It’s open from 05:00–11:00am daily.

If you’re exploring Old Town Phuket on a Sunday, you’ll be lucky enough to visit the Sunday Walking Street Market (Lard Yai). This is sort of a street market, but it more for foodies who want to explore the real street food scene of Thailand. It’s located on Thalang Road every Sunday from 4-9pm. Walk from Thepkasattri Road to Phuket Road and grab whatever looks appetising.

Guided Phuket Old Town tour

If you would rather take a Phuket Old Town walking tour with an established guide, there are many choices available that you can book directly online. They will surely visit all of the top things to do in Phuket Old Town with insider information and secret places to visit.

You can make your experience fuller with a guided Phuket Old Town tour . This 8-hour tour offers all insider information on the Sino-Portuguese architecture, a visit to the massive Wat Chalong temple and Laem Promthep, and ends off at local rum distillery in Chalong. To book this tour online, click here .

There are also several other shorter tours of Phuket Old Town that focus on various features of the area like a  Night Food Tour ,  Cultural Heritage Afternoon Tour with Dinner  or a simple  Phuket Heritage Walk  where you will visit most of the places in this guide.

Pin this to your #PHUKET Pinterest board!

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

You may also like

Wine in thailand – visiting thai wine country, why you should stay in chaweng when you..., what to do if you only have 1..., visit bangkok flower market (pak klong talad) for..., unique thailand – 10 undeniable reasons to set..., tips to make the most of your chalong..., things to do in bangkok that tourists don’t..., the siam hotel review – art deco, riverside..., the boathouse phuket: one of phuket’s oldest hotels..., the best phuket luxury villa for your next....

Free Tours in Your Language

Free Walking Tour › Phuket

Things to Do in Phuket

Free tours in more cities.

Free Walking Tour Phuket

See the best Free Tours of Phuket offered by local tour guides

Best Free Walking Tours in Phuket

Phuket: Old Town Street Food Delights Walking Tour

Discover some of Phuket’s most delicious local eateries on a walking tour around the Old Town with a foodie guide. See how Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures have left their culinary mark on Phuket. Stop at shops frequented by locals including A Pong Mae Sunee, Pun Te, Aroon Po Chana, and more.

Meet your guide at Mue-Yium Cafe and Bistro before heading to the first spot, the famed A Pong Mae Sunee, a family-run shop that has been selling crepes for over 50 years. Try their coconut or crispy crepes which have been mentioned in the Michelin Guide.

Next, head to Pun Te, a fairly new food court tucked away in a dead end near Yaowarat Road. See little halls with vendors who specialize in Baba Nyonya cuisine – a mixture of Chinese wok cooking style with Malay ingredients. Order some Hokkien noodles or dim sum sets.

After devouring some savory dishes, make your way to Torry’s Ice Cream, a local haunt known for its traditional Phuket desserts as well as its Sino-European interior and exterior. Cool down with a sweet treat at this cafe-style ice cream parlor before heading to the next stop.

Follow your guide to Aroon Po Chana to savor home-cooked meals such as roti, chicken curry, and seafood dishes. Besides their mouth-watering food, they also have an extensive drinks menu with iced tea, Thai tea, or coffee.

Before ending the tour, take a stroll along Thalang Road and catch glimpses of local life against the colorful backdrop of beautifully preserved shops. If you take the tour on a weekend, you can also pass by Phuket Walking Street in the heart of Phuket Old Town.

Important Note: Kindly note that most restaurants mentioned tend to close by early afternoon. If you choose the 2:30 pm slot, your experienced guide will take you to alternative (but just as delicious) street food stalls to ensure you still get a taste of authentic Phuket street cuisine. If you would like to stick to this itinerary, it is highly recommended to book the morning slots.

• Indulge in chicken curries, crispy crepes, dimsums, and more in Phuket Old Town
• Learn about Phuket’s gastronomy scene and history from a local foodie guide
• See coconut crepes cooked in mini woks at a shop featured in the Michelin Guide
• Work a pair of chopsticks over the best bowl of Hokkien noodles in the Old Town
• Treat yourself to some traditional desserts at a tucked-away ice cream parlor
• Walking tour
• Drinking water

Not suitable for

• Pregnant women
• People with mobility impairments
• People with heart problems
• People with respiratory issues

Meeting point

Meet in front of Mue-Yium Cafe & Bistro, The Old Phuket Coffee “Coffee Station” in Phuket Old Town. Your tour guide will be holding a TripGuru sign.

Open in Google Maps ⟶

Important information

What to bring.

• Comfortable shoes
• Insect repellent

Know before you go

• No vegan option available
• Most restaurants mentioned in the itinerary tend to close by early afternoon. If you choose the 2:30 pm slot, our experienced guide will take you to alternative (but just as delicious) street food stalls to ensure you still get a taste of authentic Phuket street cuisine. If you would like to stick to this itinerary, it is highly recommended to book the morning slots.
• Itinerary details are for reference only and may be subject to change depending on the weather, availability of restaurants and food stalls, and other unforeseen circumstances on your activity date.

You may also like

Best Beachfront Destinations to Party in Phuket 2024

Best Night Markets in Phuket

10 Fun Things To Do in Phuket Town

The Golfers Guide to Phuket

Exploring Phuket’s Beachfront and Sea View Cafes in 2023

Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Phuket

Subscribe to our newsletter.

And reach over 3,000 visitors a day.

• Destinations
• Tours in Phuket

• Join Freetour
• Provider Sign In
• Affiliate Program
• Security & Privacy
• Terms & Legal
• Cookie policy
• Freetour Awards
• Ratings & Reviews powered by