Phuket Town is full of history, colour, excitement, top restaurants, live music venues and even its own brewworks. Here are my top 25 recommendations for your visit to Phuket Town.
During my three-month stay in Phuket, I spent a couple of weekends exploring Phuket Town. It's often overlooked as many people only visit the beautiful beach towns, but with its bright and colourful shophouses, restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, plenty of unique bars offering live music and DJs, an impressive stage show and a famous Sunday market, you absolutely must spend a night or two here when visiting Phuket.
The history of Phuket Town...
In the 1800s Phuket was known for its tin mining and attracted immigrants from all over the world to mine and trade. The influences from these different cultures can still be seen today in the historic buildings around the city.
Then, in the 1900s a gentleman by the name of Phraya Rassana came to Phuket, he oversaw the construction of the first modern roads, hospitals, schools and even a cinema, whilst inviting foreign businesses to open branches in Phuket Town, on the condition that they contribute to the city’s infrastructure.
Today, one of the most recognised buildings here is the Clock Tower, which was once home to a Police Station and was built by Standard Chartered Bank after they were invited to open a branch in the city by ‘The Father of Phuket’, Phraya Rassana. You’ll notice lots of people taking photos here, from family photos to graduation and prom pictures, if you want to snap your very own just be mindful of the traffic as it’s a very busy crossing.
If you’re looking for colourful spots to take some photographs you’ll want to visit Thalang Road, which is lined with beautifully painted 19th-century buildings telling a story of all the different cultures that once resided here, from Chinese-style temples to Sino-Portuguese shophouses. The buildings in Thalang Road now house many shops, restaurants and cafes and it is the perfect place to take a slow walk around and explore.
There’s a great cafe culture in Phuket Town and with so many fantastic spots to visit we would recommend forgoing your hotel breakfast and instead venturing out nice and early for cooked breakfasts, pancakes and freshly baked pastries all washed down with delicious coffees and juices at one of these great little places.
A chic new coffee shop which opened in November 2022 and is located across from the very famous clock tower. Momus is proud to offer a range of carefully selected and organic coffees from Thailand and worldwide, as well as delicious homemade cakes, desserts & pastries and more recently a menu of small snacks and sandwiches.
It’s a small and wonderfully chilled-out cafe serving the most incredible coffees, homemade cakes and pastries. My recommendation would be the iced mocha... absolutely delicious and perfect on a warm day.
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Breakfast at any time...
Whether you're looking for posh toasts, pancake stacks, a full English or a breakfast sandwich, you'll be sure to find something to your liking at this wonderful little cafes.
The staff here are so lovely and adapted my vegetarian breakfast to remove the eggs and instead gave me the most delicious pumpkin and grilled tofu. If you’re feeling hungry then you’ll want to visit for delicious and hearty breakfasts and insanely good coffees and if you’ve got room I'd recommend trying the fluffiest, creamiest cheesecakes imaginable.
This small corner cafe specialises in sweet and savoury fluffy pancakes, freshly pressed juices as well as a variety of teas, coffees and smoothies. The prices here are maybe a little higher than some of the other cafes in the area but these are some spectacular pancakes but I would still highly recommend stopping by when visiting Phuket Town. My favourite were the caramel and banana pancakes with vanilla ice-cream. Indulgent, but delicious.
The Tent is a cute and quirky cafe serving breakfasts, brunches and coffees. You can take a seat in your very own tent before ordering up a selection of fluffy pancakes, silky omelettes, breakfast sandwiches and filled croissants. The perfect place to enjoy a healthy breakfast before exploring everything that Phuket Town has to offer.
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What's for dinner?...
You will find every type of cuisine in Phuket Town, from traditional Thai to Mexican, sushi to Belgian and everything in-between. These were the highlights from my time in Phuket Town.
The space is beautifully decorated and wouldn’t look out of place in London or Paris. There are lots of photo opportunities and you’ll notice lots of people making the most of the Instagram-worthy decor.
The bar area is large and comfortable with stylish turquoise chairs, here you’ll find a huge menu of imported and local beers, wines and spirits and if you’re looking for something non-alcoholic expect fruity cocktails, delicate teas and freshly pressed juices.
The menu boasts flavours from all around the world and you can choose from a selection of small plates, main courses and desserts all presented with absolute care and precision.
For all the sushi and seafood lovers out there, let me introduce you to Phuket Town’s best-kept secret. Shinobi only has a small number of tables available which includes front-row seats to one of the best shows in town.
Expect to find premium meats and seafood but it’s the finer details here which make this restaurant extra special, with beautiful plating, delicious wines and an exclusive atmosphere. I would recommend booking your table a week or two in advance to avoid missing out.
One Chun restaurant has proudly received a Michelin star 4 years in a row! Here you’ll find a selection of traditional Southern Thai dishes, such as yellow crab curry, braised pork belly and crispy chilli shrimp.
The portions are decent and there’s no fancy plating here, just flavourful, fresh and most importantly, delicious food. I believe this is a ‘walk-in’ only restaurant but if you’re heading to Phuket Town I would highly recommend trying to bag yourself a table.
I stumbled upon this place on my first night in Phuket Town as I was staying just around the corner and it did not disappoint. Everything from the spicy margaritas to the homemade nachos with creamy guacamole to the sizzling prawn fajitas were exceptional. Great flavours, wonderful staff and a really nice, chilled vibe for a casual evening meal.
This chic yet cosy restaurant has received a Bib Gourmand from Michelin Guide for the past four years, 2019 – 2023 and features a monthly changing menu of chef’s specials as well as a regular menu offering everything from homemade ravioli to signature sea bass dishes.
Each dish is put together with the finest ingredients and the utmost care and precision.
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The night is still young...
With a Harry Potter themed pub, speakeasy style bars, a local brewery and live music venues, Phuket Town knows how to party. Here were some of my favourite night time spots.
This colourful little brewery has won countless awards and has become a well-known artisan brewer in Phuket and throughout Thailand. Relax in the garden here and enjoy a unique and flavourful beer with a side of cheesy fries or salty snacks.
I would recommend trying a beer flight which costs ฿180 (£4.20) and consists of four tasters of Fullmoon’s most popular tipples. My favourite is Busaba, which has a mellow, almost floral and pineappley flavour, it is super refreshing and is also sold with frozen foam for those, particularly warm days.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan you absolutely must visit the Hogs Head when in Phuket Town. It’s whimsical and fun, with great photo opportunities, themed music, and even sweet and foamy butterbeers on offer.
There are so many fun Harry Potter-themed ornaments and trinkets hidden inside, or head out to the garden which is clearly inspired by Diagon Alley to take lots of very cool snaps. You’ll only need an hour here but it’s well worth a visit for any HP fans.
The Library is a lively cocktail bar which opens at 7 pm every evening. It reminds us of a large speakeasy-style bar. Visit on a weekend to enjoy a live DJ and saxophonist whilst sipping on speciality cocktails expertly made by the mixologists.
It is more expensive than other venues in the area but if you’re looking for exceptional cocktails, live music and space to dance, visit here and you’ll be sure to have a good time.
A large bar with eccentric decor, UV lighting, a Thai guardian statue and a collection of music memorabilia and old radios.
There is plenty of seating available, split over two levels, you can also sit on one of two terraces at the front & back of the bar, the one at the back has a view of the river. The owner is Turkish so you can expect to find some traditional Turkish dishes on the menu as well as Thai and other Western cuisine.
Each night you can expect a lively house band, performing plenty of classics and they even take requests. Be prepared for lots of dancing, if the band don’t get you up, one of the servers surely will.
The Barrell is a chic and cosy wine bar with a large selection of imported wines, it’s only a small venue so we would advise stopping in early in the evening to enjoy a glass of something cold and crisp before heading off for dinner.
Visit the Lab from 7 pm Tuesday – Sunday for a unique and fun experience where the expert mixologists will use science and creativity to concoct the most spectacular neon cocktails and shots in town.
It is a cash-only venue and if there are six or more of you in your party, you must book your table in advance, as it’s a small space and they want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the experience. You should also note that due to the complexity of the drinks, it takes some time for them to be made, but trust me, they’re worth the wait.
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There's lots to see & do...
There are lots of day trips from Phuket Town, but while you're here I would recommend taking part in some of the local things to do, including the Siam Niramit stage show, which is a truly epic production depicting Thailand's history and has been running for almost 20 years.
This epic stage show depicting Thailand’s history opened in 2005 and has won a multitude of awards including the Award of Excellence from the Thailand Tourism Awards and the Prime Ministers Creative Award.
This must-see show starts with a trip to a 100-year-old Thai village where you can witness traditional craft making, take a ride on a handcrafted wooden boat, take part in the Hilltribe dance and enjoy a selection of Thai street foods.
Once the show begins you’ll be greeted with over 100 performers and over 500 costumes which tell the story of Thailand. Expect bright, bold and beautiful colours, dances and music bringing history to life.
If you’re looking for the perfect rainy day activity or somewhere to spend an hour or two getting creative, then pop into Sitao Ceramic Studio where you can create your very own masterpiece from clay or decorate a pre-made cup or bowl and which will then be beautifully glazed to take home as a souvenir.
Take a magical underwater journey through the largest aquarium in Thailand. Be entertained and inspired by the wonders of the ocean with over 25,000 animals and sea creatures. You can also take part in daily feedings with the aquarium staff.
Is the ultimate shopping destination, a modern, multi-level shopping mall with designer outlets, international restaurants, a floating market, a spa and if that wasn’t enough they even have an aquarium and theme park.
I appreciate not everyone will be interested in visiting a shopping mall whilst on holiday but if you’re looking for designer clothing, handbags and shoes, international sports brands, local jewellery stores or a choice of more than 100 restaurants and cafes all under one roof, this is the place.
Located just outside of Phuket Town is an expansive rainforest adventure park featuring treetop walkways, abseiling, zip lines and even a jungle rollercoaster. For anyone looking for adventure and excitement, this is the place.
You can select from three different packages, all of which include transport to/from your accommodation and a set menu lunch. Prices start from ฿2,490 (£58.30).
I've only ever stayed at Casa Blanca during my trips to Phuket Town, but I have visited a few other historic hotels. The best hotels in the area are listed for you below.
A small boutique hotel, housed in a charming colonial building, right in the heart of Phuket Old Town. The rooms are spacious and have lots of storage, on arrival you’ll be gifted some fresh, exotic fruits and sweet tea and there are plenty of towels and complimentary toiletries which are perfect for a short one or two-night stay. As an extra bonus, this is one of the only boutique hotels we found in Phuket Town that has a swimming pool.
This unique and beautiful hotel is right in the heart of Phuket Old Town. It has perfectly blended historic architecture with modern colours and design, creating a one-of-a-kind hotel experience.
The Memory at On On Hotel is a historic hotel built in Sino-Portuguese style and has been around since the 1920s. Each room and suite takes memories from the past but is decorated with bold traditional colours, think greens, turquoise and deep yellows. Expect comfortable furnishing and plenty of space, perfect for a short stay in Phuket Town.
The Woo Gallery & Boutique Hotel dates back over a century and has been fully restored to its original glory.
Choose from one of 12 contemporary guest rooms which combine modern amenities with the ambience of the past. Relax at the onsite library filled with antiques that have been handed down over many generations, or delight in the authentic Hokkien Chinese cuisine at Woo Kitchen.
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A final note from me...
I absolutely love Phuket Town, it has everything, great food, great bars, entertainment, history and so much character. Do not miss out on a chance to visit this wonderful little town when staying in Phuket.
After living in Brighton, UK for almost 15 years, myself & my fiancé Carl, set out on our very own travel adventure in June 2021.
After spending the first 8 months travelling around Europe we then headed for South East Asia, where we totally fell in love with Thailand, more specifically, Koh Samui.
We split our time equally now between Koh Samui & Europe, and work with local businesses to enhance and improve their social media whilst also promoting them through my online guides, blogs and ebooks.
