About Phuket Town
Phuket Town is the capital of Phuket province and the cultural heart of the island, far from the busy beach resorts. The old town is full of Sino-Portuguese shophouses in pastel colours, especially around Thalang Road and Dibuk Road, with coffee houses, galleries and small museums. On Sunday evenings Thalang Road is closed for the walking market. In town stand Chinese shrines, such as Jui Tui and Put Jaw, and in October the nine-day Vegetarian Festival is held. Rang Hill offers views over the town. Wat Chalong, the island's largest temple, is a short distance away. The airport lies about 30 km to the north. Phuket Town suits those who want to combine culture, food and architecture with a stay on the island. Typical local dishes include Hokkien noodles and dim sum for breakfast, found in the old town at small coffee houses and eateries.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to April: dry, sunny and calm seas. September and October are the wettest months; from May to October the sea is often rough and some boat trips do not run. The nine-day Vegetarian Festival takes place in October. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by flight to Phuket International (about 1.5 hours), then about 45 minutes to town; also by bus (about 12 hours). Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Phuket Town
- Old Town Sino-Portuguese shophouses, cafés and galleries around Thalang Road.
- Sunday Walking Street On Sunday evenings Thalang Road is closed for a market of food and crafts.
- Vegetarian Festival In October nine days of processions and rituals in town.
- Rang Hill A hill with views over the town and surroundings.
