In Phuket, beyond the sunny beaches and the vibrant nightlife, lies the enchanting Phuket Old Town. Nestled in the heart of the island, it calls to those seeking a more leisurely holiday. The district boasts colonial architecture with cafés and restaurants offering diverse cuisines in a serene and picturesque ambiance. Phuket Old Town is also a hub for creativity and culture. Wander through its streets to discover vibrant street art and murals. You'll find galleries featuring local artists, adding to the area's artistic vibe. A visit to Phuket Old Town offers a break from the beach scene, welcoming you with a refreshing fusion of history, culture, and creativity. It's a must-visit to truly understand the roots of Phuket.
Phuket Old Town is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. It reflects the influence of Chinese and European settlers who arrived during the island's tin-mining boom in the 19th century. When you walk along streets like Thalang Road and Soi Romanee, you will see colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses with unique architectural details that showcase the fusion of Chinese and European styles. The diverse cultural backgrounds of the settlers led to a rich cultural exchange, evident not only in the architecture but also in the local cuisine, traditions, and festivals.
Whether you're a food enthusiast or an adventurer seeking exciting activities, our guide highlights the best places to explore in Phuket Old Town, ensuring you make the most of your visit in this idyllic area. From mouth-watering dining experiences to fun things to do, our recommendations aim to provide a well-rounded experience in the heart of Phuket's historic gem.
For those who crave authentic flavors from the South of Thailand, this restaurant in Phuket Old Town is a must-visit. This restaurant is a celebration of Thai-Chinese cuisine. In business over 30 years, you have to try out their most special dish, ‘radna’. It is a delectable noodle dish featuring perfectly bouncy noodles with a flavorful gravy and your choice of pork, beef, chicken or seafood. It can be further enhanced with a range of toppings such as eggs or dumplings. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the coconut milk custard called ‘khanom tuay’ from the restaurant’s dessert menu. The dining experience promises the best of Phuket’s culinary offerings.
Enjoy a night market that sets up every Sunday evening along Thalang Road of Phuket Old Town. Referred to as ‘lardyai’, derived from the southern Thai term ‘talaad yai’ meaning “big market”, Phuket Walking Street invites visitors to indulge in authentic southern Thai culinary delights and admire local handicrafts and souvenirs for you to share with loved ones back home. This family-friendly weekly event features toy stalls, musical performances, and other entertaining acts, creating a lively atmosphere for all as they explore the length of the street.
Established in 1934, the Phuket Thai Hua Museum can be found in a two-story Sino-Portuguese building that highlights the rich architecture from the past. It originally was used as the first and only Hokkien Chinese school in Phuket but has since changed to become a space to exhibit culture and history. The Thai Hua Museum is overseen by the Kusonsongkhroh Foundation (Lok Xian Kok). It is a charitable organization with roots from Phuket's mining era. The foundation's mission is to help fellow immigrants and improve the living standards of the locals. In the museum, you can enjoy exhibits of Phuket’s history from various perspectives, along with learning about the traditional ceremonies on the island and its local cuisine.
After spending the day exploring the charm of Phuket Old Town, finish your evening with a visit to Siam Niramit Phuket for an outstanding theatrical experience showcasing the rich history and culture of Thailand just 20 minutes away. This world-class production has earned the Award of Excellence at the Thailand Tourism Awards in 2010, 2013, and 2015, and the Hall of Fame Award in 2015. With a consistent 5-star rating across Google Reviews and TripAdvisor, it goes beyond entertainment, becoming a staple in experiencing Thailand's cultural richness.
Book tickets effortlessly online at: www.siamniramitphuket.com