Travel Keyring

Phuket travel guide

Thailand

Basics

CountryThailand

Time zoneAsia/Bangkok

CurrencyTHB

Official language(s)Thai

Use public transportation to avoid traffic congestion in Bangkok.

Places to visit

Promthep Cape

Phuket’s iconic southern viewpoint, best known for dramatic sunset views.

LocationRawai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipArrive a bit before sunset to make parking and finding a viewpoint easier.

Big Buddha Phuket

A giant Buddha statue on a hill in southern Phuket, offering one of the island’s best panoramic views.

LocationNak Kerd Hill, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand

HoursDaily 06:00–19:00

AdmissionFree (donations welcome)

Travel tipDress modestly; late afternoon visits are cooler and offer great light for photos.

Kata Beach

A popular beach on Phuket’s southwest coast, known for its relaxed vibe and clear water.

LocationKata Beach, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipSunset is especially scenic; check swimming conditions in peak season when waves can be stronger.

Similan Islands

A famous diving and snorkeling destination reached by boat from Phuket, known for clear water and coral reefs.

LocationMu Ko Similan National Park, Phang Nga, Thailand

HoursVaries by season and sea conditions

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipAccess may be seasonal, so check national park opening status before you go.

Phuket Old Town

A lively walking area in Phuket Town with Sino-Portuguese buildings, cafés, galleries, and shops.

LocationTalat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand

HoursVaries by shop

AdmissionFree

Travel tipSunday evening can be especially lively with a walking street market, so plan for late afternoon to evening.

Patong Beach

Patong Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Phuket, known for its vibrant nightlife and a wide variety of water sports.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipVisit during sunset to enjoy the stunning beach views.

Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong is the largest temple in Phuket, featuring beautiful architecture and a significant cultural value.

Hours9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

AdmissionFree

Travel tipDress modestly and show respect while visiting the temple.

Phuket Weekend Market

The Phuket Weekend Market is a popular market where you can buy a variety of local foods and handicrafts.

Hours3:00 PM - 11:00 PM

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt gets busy in the evening, so take your time to explore.

Events

Songkran Phuket

Phuket joins Thailand’s water festival with lively street water fights and parades in Phuket Town.

WhenAround April every year

LocationAround Phuket Town, Phuket, Thailand

HoursDaytime to afternoon during the event

AdmissionFree

Travel tipWear clothes that can get wet and bring a waterproof bag to protect your electronics.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival

Phuket’s best-known festival, centered on vegetarian food and Chinese-Thai traditions with ceremonies and parades.

WhenAround October every year

LocationAround Phuket Town, Phuket, Thailand

HoursVaries by day during the festival

AdmissionFree (some paid programs may apply)

Travel tipTraffic in town can be busy during the festival, so book accommodation early and allow extra travel time.

Loi Krathong Festival

The Loi Krathong Festival involves floating traditional lanterns on water during a full moon.

WhenLoi Krathong Festival every November

Travel tipVisit during the festival period for various special events.

Songkran Festival

The Songkran Festival celebrates the Thai New Year and is known for its water fights.

WhenSongkran Festival every April

HoursHeld during the festival period

AdmissionFree

Travel tipGet ready with water guns to enjoy the celebration.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

See all travel guides