Where to go and what Places to visit in Phuket, Thailand? Read our Full Guide

Believe it or not, once you visit this destination, you’ll be embraced by a wave of positive and spiritual energy that stays with you long after your journey ends.

Phuket, Thailand, is a place where kindness is second nature everyone you meet is smiling and radiating positivity. Meditation and mindfulness are deeply woven into the culture, and wellness is a shared value among the Thai people, something you’ll feel in every corner of the island.

From calming massages and serene natural landscapes to rich history, relaxation, happiness, spirituality, and overall well-being Phuket offers an unforgettable experience that nourishes both body and soul.

Passenger arrivals for the year reached 8.65 million, reflecting a 23% increase making Phuket as one of the most popular destinations worldwide.

You know why? Because it’s a place where you find everything! Beaches, Islands, Green Mountains, Historical areas, temples, churches, mosques, old cities, clubs, sports activities, forests, arts, and so much more.

When is the best time to visit Phuket?

The best time to visit Phuket is from November to March, when the weather is at its most pleasant—sunny skies, low humidity, and minimal rain make it ideal for beach days and outdoor adventures.

You can still visit during other months, but be prepared for higher humidity, hotter temperatures, and occasional heavy rain, especially from May to October, which is the monsoon season.

If you’re looking for a smart travel hack, consider going in the first week of April or the last week of October. These shoulder-season windows fall just outside the peak tourist months, so you’re more likely to find better deals on accommodations and flights, while still enjoying relatively good weather before or after the monsoon hits its peak.

 

What are the top Places to visit in Phuket, Thailand

• Phuket Old Town (Sunday Night Market Phuket Old Town)
• Patong Beach and Patong Streat
• Phuket Tiger Kingdom
• Monkey Hill Viewpoint
• Big Buddha
• WAT Chalong temple
• Phuket FantaSea
• Phi Phi Islands
• Racha Islands
• Coral Island
• Jamse Bond Islan
• Maya Bay
• Elephant Jungle
• Kata Beach
• Kamala Beach
• Banana Beach
• Krabi (outside Phuket, but you can go by a boat as it’s worth it)

Do you want to know more details about each area, where to go, how to book, approximate cost, and location? Keep reading this blog as we will give you all the details you need.

Get the best Phuket Travel Plan:8 Days Plan to Visit Phuket’s Top Places (How to go, when to go, where to go, why to go)

 

Phuket Old Town (Sunday Night Market Phuket Old Town)

Phuket old town is an amazing historical old street where you can enjoy a very nice walks, delicious food, and it’s a great place for shopping!

You will see small, coloured buildings, a yellow huge bear by the traffic light of the street, lovely restaurants and many great massage Spas.

If you’re looking for shopping of brands, you can go to Central Phuket Mall and if you want to shop from the street markets, you can find wonderful handmade things, and souvenirs.
Ever Sunday, there is a Sunday Night Market in Phuket old town, where you can buy so many things, so never miss it.
when to go to Phuket Old Town:

Morning or night, it’s a beautiful place at anytime of the day.
many people go in the night as it’s less heat + the morning time is for beaches and adventure for most of Phuket tourists.

Patong Beach and Patong Streat

This area is the very heartbeat of nightlife—filled with music, dancing, and an infectious energy that surrounds you from every corner.

Your first visit to Patong Street will be a shock to the senses—bright lights, loud beats, and a buzzing crowd—but it’s an experience you’ll never forget. You’ll be telling everyone about it!

The street is packed with restaurants, lounges, clubs, shops, spas, and live shows, offering endless options for a night out. It’s always lively and often crowded—you’ll literally find yourself weaving through people—but that’s part of the fun.

Just steps away, Patong Beach offers a different kind of nightlife. Grab your beach chair, speaker, snacks, and drinks, and spend the night under the moonlight, watching the waves roll in until the sun rises.

⚠️ Note: This area isn’t kid-friendly. It’s best suited for adults (18+) looking for an exciting night out.

When to go to Patong: It’s a place to visit in the night!, however you can still go there in the morning or afternoon. There is also the Central Patong Mall where you can shop for brands and souvenirs.

Phuket Tiger Kingdom

Tiger Kingdom Phuket offers a unique opportunity to get up close with tigers and other exotic animals in a controlled environment. Located in Kathu, near Patong Beach, this attraction allows visitors to interact with tigers of various sizes, from newborns to full-grown adults. The tigers are hand-raised and accustomed to human presence, ensuring a safer experience for visitors. While the staff emphasizes safety and provides guidelines for interactions, it’s important to remember that these are still wild animals. Visitors can choose from different packages, including options to meet multiple tigers or other animals like cheetahs.
When to go to Phuket Tiger Kingdom? The park operates daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts seeking memorable shots with these majestic creatures.

Monkey Hill Viewpoint

Monkey Hill Viewpoint, also known as Khao Toh Sae, is one of Phuket Town’s most beloved local attractions. Perched atop a forested hill, it offers panoramic views of the city, the Andaman Sea, and the surrounding islands. The hill is home to a large population of macaques, which are often seen roaming freely. Visitors can interact with these friendly monkeys, but it’s important to exercise caution and avoid feeding them, as this can provoke aggressive behaviour.

The viewpoint is accessible by car or motorbike, and there’s a steep road leading to the top. For those who prefer to walk, the hike takes about 15–20 minutes and offers a chance to enjoy the natural surroundings. At the summit, you’ll find an observation platform, a colourful shrine dedicated to three holy spirits, and a rudimentary exercise park halfway up the hill.
When to go to Monkey Hill Viewpoint? The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The road to the summit is closed to traffic from 5 PM to 8 PM, allowing pedestrians to enjoy the sunset in peace.

Big Buddha, Phuket

The Phuket Big Buddha, officially known as Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri, is a monumental statue situated atop Nakkerd Hill in Chalong, Phuket. Standing at 45 meters tall and 25.45 meters wide, it’s one of Thailand’s tallest statues and a significant symbol of Buddhism on the island.​
Constructed between 2004 and 2014, the statue is made of concrete and covered with white marble imported from Myanmar. The site offers panoramic views of Phuket Town, Kata, Karon beaches, and Chalong Bay, making it a popular spot for both spiritual reflection and photography.
When to go to Big Buddha, Phuket? Its best to go for sunset as you will have an amazing view! You can go to this area after visiting The WAT Chalong Temple as they’re near each other.

WAT Chalong temple

Wat Chalong is the largest and most important Buddhist temple in Phuket. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture, it’s a spiritual hub for locals and a popular spot for visitors. The temple is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, who helped heal and guide the community during the 19th-century rebellion. Don’t miss the stunning Chedi that houses a sacred relic of the Buddha and offers panoramic views. Modest dress is required, and entrance is free.
What is the best time to go to WAT Chalong Temple? Its open daily from 7 am till 5 pm, but avoid going between 12-2 pm due to the heat. we suggest going at 3 and after it you can enjoy the sunset by going to Bigg Buddha as they’re close to each other.

Phuket FantaSea

Phuket FantaSea is a must-visit cultural theme park located in Kamala Beach, offering a spectacular nightly show that blends Thai traditions with modern special effects, acrobatics, and live animals. Known as Fantasy of a Kingdom, the show is the centerpiece of the park, which also features a massive buffet restaurant, shopping village, and interactive attractions.
What is the best time to go to Phuket Fantasea? it Opens from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM (closed on Thursdays), it’s a family-friendly experience that brings Thailand’s heritage to life in an exciting and theatrical way.

Elephant Jungle

Rescued elephants are treated in a natural, cruelty-free setting at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket, an ethical and environmentally conscious sanctuary in Kathu. In addition to learning about the elephants’ lives and the sanctuary’s conservation initiatives, visitors can participate in meaningful, hands-on activities like feeding, mud bathing, and washing the animals. The tour includes guided activities, a traditional Thai supper, and transportation from most parts of Phuket.
When to go to Phuket Elephant sanctuary? Morning and afternoon sessions are available, and each lasts around four hours. Although it is open all year round, for the most comfortable experience, visit during the dry season, which runs from December to May.

 

Phuket Islands:

• Phi Phi Islands: Famous for their dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, these islands are best visited during the dry season for optimal conditions.​
• Racha Islands: Known for excellent snorkeling opportunities, the calm seas from November to April provide the best visibility.​
• Coral Island (Koh Hae): A short boat ride from Phuket, this island offers vibrant marine life and is best enjoyed during the dry months.​
• James Bond Island: Iconic for its limestone karsts, visiting during the dry season ensures clearer skies for photography.​
• Maya Bay: Made famous by the film “The Beach,” it’s advisable to check for any visitor restrictions or conservation efforts before planning your trip. ​
• Kata Beach: Ideal for surfing, especially during the dry season when the waves are more consistent.​
• Kamala Beach: A quieter alternative to Patong, offering a relaxed atmosphere year-round.​
• Banana Beach: A hidden gem best accessed during the dry season when boat trips are more frequent.​
• Krabi: While slightly outside Phuket, Krabi’s Railay Beach is renowned for its stunning scenery and is best visited during the dry months. ​

 

 

What time to visit each of Phuket Islands and nearby Islands?

The best time of day to do island tours around Phuket is in the early morning, ideally between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. This is when the sea is calm, the weather is cooler, and popular spots like Maya Bay or James Bond Island are less crowded. You’ll also enjoy better lighting for photos and clearer water for snorkeling, making the experience more peaceful and enjoyable.

 

Phuket Ports for Boat Trips to the Islands

• Phuket Deep Sea Port (Ao Makham)
• Patong Beach (Tender Docking Area)
• Chalong Pier
• Royal Phuket Marina
• Boat Lagoon Marina
• Ao Po Grand Marina
• Numchai Port

 

Which Airport to travel to if I’m going to Phuket?

The southern Thai province of Phuket and the island of Phuket are served by Phuket International Airport. It is situated in the Mai Khao subdistrict of the Thalang district, 32 kilometers north of Phuket’s city.

Phuket International Airport (HKT) can get quite crowded, especially during the high tourist season from November to April, and particularly around public holidays or weekends.

So we advise you to book Airport Meet and Greet Service that will help you avoid the long security and check-in lines as you will have a personal greeter who will meet you at the door and guide you through all the steps and give you access to the Fast-track lane & Airport Lounge.
You can book the service easily by clicking on Phuket Airport Meet and Greet Service Page.

 

Transportation inside Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for low budget transportation, you can use Bolt for booking taxies, and if you wish to have a luxury transportation experience in limousines and VIP Cars, you can book Phuket airport transportation by airssist or full day chauffeured transportation.

 

Which Hotel to pick for my visit to Phuket?

Phuket provides a variety of lodging options to fit every budget, from reasonably priced hostels and boutique stays to beachside resorts with opulent amenities. Booking through a well-known worldwide hotel chain is a wise choice for anyone looking for peace of mind and dependable service, as they frequently guarantee excellent levels of comfort, cleanliness, and customer care. It’s essential to make reservations in advance during the busiest time of year (November to April), as spots tend to fill up rapidly, particularly near well-known beaches.

All you need to know about Phuket! Trust me it’s worth visiting ; )

With its diverse culinary scene that includes everything from sumptuous curries and ultra-fresh seafood to sizzling street cuisine, Phuket is a sensory feast. Thai customs are ingrained in the island’s culture, which includes beautiful temples, friendly locals, and vibrant festivals that offer an insight into daily life. All year long, the weather is usually tropical, hot and muggy, and the most popular time to go is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Consider wearing light, breathable clothing, beachwear, and modest apparel when you visit places of worship. With VIP assistance, expedited immigration, and even private shuttles, firms like airssist Phuket Airport Concierge may help you avoid airport lines and make your arrival and departure more seamless, for a full relaxing experience in Thailan.

Book you trip Now! And don’t forget your airport service for a memorable experience 😊

Note: Please note that the information on this page is generic & subject to change due to fluctuations in airport services. Kindly confirm service availability with our team, as offerings may vary daily.