A bustling market where locals and tourists alike can buy fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

The Local Market in Phuket is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. The market is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and clothing. /n The market also offers a wide variety of street food, with stalls selling everything from spicy Thai curries to sweet and refreshing fruit smoothies. The Local Market is a great place to sample the local cuisine and pick up some unique souvenirs.

A bustling hub of local activity, offering a variety of local produce and goods.

Old Phuket Town is a historical town forming part of Phuket City. Known for its beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture, it's a place where you can walk and enjoy the rich history of Phuket.

Old Phuket Town is a historic area that offers a unique blend of cultural and architectural insights. The town is known for its beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture, with many of the buildings dating back to the 19th century. /n Walking through the streets of Old Phuket Town, you can see a mix of Chinese and European influences in the architecture, with colourful buildings and intricate details. The town also offers a variety of cultural experiences, with numerous temples, museums, and local markets to explore.

Historic town with Sino-Portuguese architecture, offering cultural and architectural insights.

A sanctuary dedicated to the care and protection of elephants, offering ethical interactions with these majestic creatures.

Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket is a haven for rescued elephants. This sanctuary is dedicated to providing a safe and humane environment for elephants that have been rescued from the logging and tourism industries. /n Visitors to the sanctuary have the unique opportunity to interact with these majestic creatures in a respectful and ethical manner. You can feed the elephants, help bathe them, and even learn about their individual stories. The sanctuary is committed to educating visitors about the plight of elephants in Thailand and the importance of conservation. /n The sanctuary is located in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by lush jungle and mountains. It's a peaceful and serene place, where the elephants can live out their lives in comfort and dignity. /n A visit to the Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket is not just a fun and unique experience, but also an opportunity to support a worthy cause. The sanctuary relies on visitor fees and donations to care for the elephants and continue their important work. /n If you're an animal lover or just looking for a unique and meaningful experience in Phuket, a visit to the Elephant Sanctuary is a must.

Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket offers a unique opportunity to interact with elephants in a humane and ethical manner.

The Orchid Farm in Phuket is a must-visit for nature lovers. Here, you can see a wide variety of beautiful orchids, learn about their cultivation and even purchase some to take home.

Phuket's Orchid Farm is a vibrant attraction that showcases a variety of beautiful orchids. With a wide range of species on display, it's a great place for nature lovers and those interested in horticulture. /n The farm offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the different types of orchids, their growth process, and their significance in Thai culture. It's a great way to spend a day in Phuket, away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches.

A vibrant attraction showcasing a variety of beautiful orchids.

A lively market that comes alive after sunset, offering a wide variety of food, clothing, and souvenirs.

The Night Market in Phuket is a vibrant and lively market that comes alive after sunset. The market is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors selling a wide variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to handmade crafts and souvenirs. /n The Night Market also offers a wide variety of food stalls, where you can sample the local cuisine and enjoy live entertainment. The market is a great place to spend an evening, soaking up the local atmosphere and picking up some unique souvenirs.

A vibrant market offering a variety of goods, food, and entertainment after sunset.

The Butterfly Garden in Phuket is a tropical paradise, home to thousands of colorful butterflies. Visitors can walk through the lush gardens, learn about the life cycle of butterflies and enjoy the tranquil setting.

Phuket's Butterfly Garden is a colorful attraction that features a variety of butterfly species. /n The garden offers visitors a chance to see these beautiful creatures up close, learn about their life cycle, and even witness their transformation from caterpillar to butterfly. It's a great place for families and nature lovers to explore, and a must-visit on any trip to Phuket.

A colorful attraction featuring a variety of butterfly species.

At the Pineapple Farm in Phuket, visitors can learn about the cultivation of this tropical fruit, see the harvesting process and taste fresh pineapple straight from the field.

Phuket's Pineapple Farm is a unique attraction that offers visitors an insight into the cultivation of this tropical fruit. /n From planting to harvesting, visitors can learn about the entire process and even get a chance to taste the fresh, juicy pineapples straight from the farm. It's a fascinating experience for all ages and a great way to learn about one of Thailand's most popular fruits.

A unique attraction offering insight into pineapple cultivation.

Explore the tropical paradise of Phuket, Thailand's largest island, known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. Dive into the clear waters of Patong Beach, or explore the quieter shores of Kata. Visit the iconic Big Buddha, a 45-meter tall statue offering panoramic views of the island. Discover Phuket Old Town, a historical area with Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful buildings, and local markets. Enjoy a boat tour to the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands or experience the unique nightlife on Bangla Road. Indulge in authentic Thai cuisine, from street food to high-end restaurants. Phuket offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences for every traveler.

Local Market

Old Phuket Town

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Local Market. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore the stalls selling fresh produce, traditional Thai snacks, and handmade crafts.

Enjoy a traditional Thai lunch at a local restaurant. Try popular dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Phuket Town. Admire the well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and visit the local shops and cafes.

Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy the fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Andaman Sea.

End your day with a stroll along the beach. Enjoy the cool breeze and the sound of the waves.

Exploring the Local Market and Beachfront Dining

Elephant Sanctuary

Visit a local temple in the morning. Participate in a meditation session and learn about Thai Buddhism.

Have lunch at a local eatery. Try the famous Thai street food like Satay, Som Tam, and Tom Yum Soup.

Spend the afternoon at a local Elephant Sanctuary. Learn about the conservation efforts and interact with the elephants.

Dine at a local restaurant. Try the local delicacies like Massaman Curry, Khao Soi, and Khanom Jeen.

Watch a traditional Thai dance performance. Enjoy the vibrant costumes and the rhythmic music.

Temple Visit and Elephant Sanctuary Experience

Orchid Farm

Night Market

Start your day with a visit to a local Orchid Farm. Learn about the different types of orchids and their cultivation.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at a local park. Relax under the shade of the trees and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Spend the afternoon exploring a local museum. Learn about the history and culture of Phuket.

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try the popular Thai dishes like Green Curry, Pad Thai, and Mango Sticky Rice.

End your day with a visit to a local Night Market. Shop for souvenirs and try the local street food.

Orchid Farm Visit and Museum Exploration

Butterfly Garden

Visit a local Butterfly Garden in the morning. Learn about the different species of butterflies and their life cycle.

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the famous Thai street food like Satay, Som Tam, and Tom Yum Soup.

Spend the afternoon at a local beach. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

Dine at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy the fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Andaman Sea.

Watch a fire show at the beach. Enjoy the thrilling performance under the starlit sky.

Butterfly Garden Visit and Beach Day

Pineapple Farm

Start your day with a visit to a local Pineapple Farm. Learn about the cultivation process and taste the fresh pineapples.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Phuket Town. Admire the well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture and visit the local shops and cafes.

Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try the local delicacies like Massaman Curry, Khao Soi, and Khanom Jeen.

End your trip with a visit to a local Night Market. Shop for souvenirs and try the local street food.

Pineapple Farm Visit and Old Town Exploration

UTC+7

Taxis are a common way to get around in Phuket. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street or booked in advance. They are metered, but drivers often negotiate fares, especially for longer distances.

Tuk-Tuks are a traditional Thai mode of transport. They are three-wheeled, open-air vehicles that are perfect for short trips around town. They are not metered, so be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Motorbike taxis are a quick and cheap way to get around Phuket. They are easily identifiable by their colorful vests. They are ideal for single travelers and short distances.

Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore Phuket extensively. It gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. International driving license is required.

Renting a motorbike is a popular option for getting around Phuket. It's cheap, convenient, and allows you to explore the island at your own pace. However, you should be comfortable with driving a motorbike and aware of the local traffic rules.

Public buses, also known as 'Songthaews', are a cheap way to travel around Phuket. They operate on fixed routes and have set fares. They are slower than other modes of transport but offer a more local experience.

Private car hire services are available in Phuket. They come with a driver, making it a convenient option if you're not comfortable driving in a foreign country. They can be booked for a half-day, full-day, or even longer periods.

Ridesharing services like Grab are available in Phuket. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Ferries are a great way to travel between the islands around Phuket. They operate on a regular schedule and offer stunning views of the Andaman Sea.

Longtail boats are traditional wooden boats used for short trips around the islands. They can be hired privately or shared with other passengers. They offer a unique and scenic way to travel around Phuket.

A popular Thai dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish often served with shrimp or chicken. It's a must-try when visiting Phuket.

Pad Thai

This is a classic Thai soup with shrimp, lemongrass, and chili. It's a perfect blend of spicy, sour, and sweet flavors, typical of Thai cuisine.

Tom Yum Goong

Som Tam is a spicy green papaya salad. It's a common street food in Phuket and a great way to experience the local flavors.

Som Tam

A rich and flavorful curry dish, Massaman Curry is made with coconut milk, potatoes, and meat. It's a popular choice among locals and tourists in Phuket.

Massaman Curry

Khao Pad is Thai fried rice, often served with chicken, shrimp, or crab. It's a staple dish in Phuket and a must-try for any food lover.

Khao Pad

This is a traditional Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. It's a sweet treat that's popular in Phuket.

Mango Sticky Rice

Chai Yen is Thai iced tea, a sweet and creamy drink made with tea, milk, and sugar. It's a refreshing choice for a hot day in Phuket.

Chai Yen

Singha is a popular Thai beer. It's a great way to cool down after a day of exploring Phuket.

Singha Beer

Tom Kha Gai is a coconut chicken soup with a rich and creamy flavor. It's a popular dish in Phuket and a great introduction to Thai cuisine.

Tom Kha Gai

Kanom Jeen is a dish of rice noodles served with curry sauces. It's a popular breakfast dish in Phuket and a unique culinary experience.

Kanom Jeen

Roti is a type of flatbread often served with sweet or savory fillings. It's a common street food in Phuket and a delicious snack any time of day.

Roti

Mekhong is a Thai whiskey often enjoyed with a mixer. It's a popular choice for a night out in Phuket.

Mekhong Whiskey

New Year's Day

Day off for New Year's Day

Makha Bucha

Chakri Day

Songkran

Labor Day

Coronation Day

Bridge Public Holiday

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

Visakha Bucha

Queen Suthida's Birthday

Day off for Queen Suthida's Birthday

Day off for Visakha Bucha

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday

Buddhist Lent Day

The Queen's Birthday

Day off for The Queen's Birthday

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol

Chulalongkorn Day

King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day

Constitution Day

Substitute Holiday for Constitution Day

New Year's Eve

Day off for Makha Bucha

Chakri Day observed

Songkran Observed

Coronation Day observed

Day off for Buddhist Lent Day

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday observed

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol observed

A group of islands with stunning beaches and clear water. Perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Phi Phi Islands

Famous for its limestone cliffs and rock formations, as well as the emerald-green waters.

Phang Nga Bay

A group of islands that are part of a national park. Known for their diverse marine life and clear waters.

Similan Islands

One of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Thailand. It features dense jungle, limestone karst formations, and a large man-made lake.

Khao Sok National Park

A relaxed town that serves as a gateway to the nearby islands. Known for its night market and riverside walk.

Krabi Town

A less crowded island with long, beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

Koh Lanta

Thailand's second largest island, known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and dense, mountainous rainforest.

Koh Samui

A city on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast known for its beaches, water sports, and nightlife scene.

Pattaya

The capital of Thailand, known for its ornate shrines, vibrant street life, and the grand palace.

Bangkok

Ayutthaya

Chiang Mai

Krabi

Thai traditional wooden longtail boat and beautiful beach

Laem Sing viewpoint and secret peaceful beach

Phuket is located in the Andaman Sea and is Thailand's largest island.

The local currency is the Thai Baht. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Phuket has a tropical monsoon climate. The average temperature ranges from 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C).

The rainy season is from May to October. It's best to check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.

Phuket is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Tipping is not customary in Thailand, but it is appreciated, especially in the service industry.

Street food is a must-try in Phuket. It's delicious, cheap, and gives you a real taste of Thai cuisine.

Phuket has a vibrant nightlife, especially in areas like Patong Beach.

Bargaining is common in markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.

Respect the local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly when visiting temples and not touching people's heads, which is considered disrespectful.

Phuket has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

Public transportation is available, but renting a scooter or hiring a taxi is a common way to get around.

Be cautious of scams, especially those involving gem shops or extremely cheap tours.

Avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is cheap and readily available.

Phuket has many beautiful beaches, but be aware of the red flag warnings for dangerous swimming conditions.

Phuket is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), which is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7).

Phuket has a 220 Volt electricity supply with a frequency of 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A, B, C, F and O.

Phuket has a good healthcare system with several hospitals and clinics, but travel insurance is highly recommended.

Respect the Thai Royal Family. It's illegal to defame, insult, or threaten the king, queen, heir-apparent, or regent.

January is a great time to visit Phuket, with warm temperatures and low rainfall. It's the peak of the tourist season, so expect crowds.

February continues the dry season with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's a popular time for beach activities and water sports.

March sees the start of the hot season in Phuket, with high temperatures and increasing humidity. It's a good time for sunbathing and exploring the island.

April is the hottest month in Phuket, with high humidity. It's also the time of the Thai New Year, Songkran, a fun and wet celebration.

May marks the start of the rainy season, with frequent showers. However, the rain often comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for sunshine.

June experiences regular rainfall, but it's often interspersed with periods of sunshine. The island is less crowded, making it a good time for a quieter vacation.

July is similar to June, with a mix of rain and sunshine. It's a good time to explore Phuket's indoor attractions and vibrant nightlife.

August is one of the wettest months in Phuket, but there are still plenty of sunny intervals. It's a good time for indoor activities and spa treatments.

September is the peak of the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent showers. However, the rain brings lush greenery and fewer crowds.

October sees the end of the rainy season, with improving weather towards the end of the month. It's a good time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

November marks the start of the dry season, with less rainfall and cooler temperatures. It's a great time to explore the island and enjoy the beach.

December is a popular time to visit Phuket, with pleasant temperatures and low rainfall. It's a busy time, so book your accommodation and activities in advance.

Phuket, Thailand is a tropical paradise that experiences warm weather throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the region has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

The dry season, from November to April, is the best time to visit Phuket. During this period, the weather is generally sunny with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 89°F (24°C to 32°C). This is the perfect time for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the islands.

The rainy season, from May to October, sees more rainfall and occasional storms. Temperatures during this season range from 77°F to 89°F (25°C to 32°C). Despite the rain, there are still plenty of sunny days and the island is less crowded. If you're a fan of surfing, this is the best time to catch some waves.

Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to always check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities. Also, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the tropical sun can be quite intense.

Lastly, be aware that Phuket can occasionally experience severe weather conditions such as tropical storms and monsoons, especially during the rainy season. Always heed local weather warnings and stay safe.

Cookie consent

5-Day Family Adventure in Phuket: Shopping & Sightseeing Galore

About Phuket, Thailand