Thailand’s largest island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning natural scenery. Phuket is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year from around the world, with activities ranging from jaw dropping temples to beautiful beaches and an active night life making it a hotspot for tourists especially from November to April.

Nearest Airport – Phuket International Airport (HKT)

Highlights of the 4 days Phuket Itinerary

Nestled like a gem in the azure embrace of the Andaman Sea, Phuket stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur and man’s relentless pursuit of leisure. Phuket is a canvas painted with powdery white beaches and a cultural tapestry woven with history. With its diverse offerings, Phuket is not merely a destination; it’s an experience that awakens all senses.

Day 1 of your Phuket Itinerary

Temples of Phuket

Start your day temple hopping from Wat Chalong, one of the most famous and revered temples in Phuket. It is located in Chalong and is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and intricate wall paintings. Wat Chalong features several buildings and structures, including the main hall, which houses statues of Luang Pho Chuang and Luang Pho Chaem, and the Grand Pagoda (Chedi), which contains a splinter of bone from Lord Buddha. Visitors often come here to pay their respects, make offerings, and seek blessings for good luck and prosperity.

Move to Wat Phra Nang Sang – located in Thalang and is known for its beautiful Buddha statue, which is made entirely of tin. The temple also has a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the area. There is also Wat Phra Thong – located in Thalang and is known for its golden Buddha statue. Legend has it that the statue was once covered in gold leaf, but a thief tried to steal it and could not remove it, leaving behind only a small patch of gold.

Explore Phuket Old Town and Soi Romanee

After lunch, make your your day memorable by exploring the charming old town of Phuket. The best way to experience Phuket Old Town is by walking. The streets are narrow and filled with interesting shops, cafes, and art galleries. Wander around the colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses, stop by the street markets, and visit some of the town’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Jui Tui Shrine and the Phuket Thai Hua Museum.

Don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Blue Elephant House, Baan Chinpracha, and the Thai Hua Museum. Many of these mansions have been converted into shops, cafes, or museums, providing a glimpse into Phuket’s rich history. Phuket Old Town is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of delicious local dishes. Try the famous Hokkien noodles, fresh seafood, and various Thai desserts.

Soi Romanee really lights up in the evening when the lights come on. In the evenings, the streets of Phuket Old Town come alive with night markets selling local goods, souvenirs, and street food. Walking through the markets is a great way to experience the local culture and try some delicious Thai cuisine. Soi Romanee is known for its antique shops and vintage boutiques. Take your time to explore these stores and discover unique items from the past. After dusk, head to the bustling night market on Thalang Road to sample some of the local street food. 

After such a hectic day, relax at a spa: Unwind with a traditional Thai massage or other spa treatments at one of the many spas and wellness centers around Phuket.

Day 2: Island Hopping

Take a speedboat or longtail boat tour to some of the nearby islands around Phuket, such as Phi Phi Island, James Bond Island, or the Similan Islands. These tours usually include stops for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing on some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand.

For Phi Phi island tours, the first stop is often Phi Phi Leh, the smaller of the two main islands. Here, you’ll visit Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Take in the stunning turquoise waters and limestone cliffs. After Maya Bay, you’ll likely have the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Loh Samah Bay or nearby snorkeling spots, such as Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave. Keep an eye out for colorful marine life and coral reefs.

Around midday, you’ll head to Phi Phi Don, the larger inhabited island of the Phi Phi group. Remember that while a day trip to Phi Phi Islands can be enjoyable, it is a relatively short visit to explore such beautiful islands fully. If you have more time, consider spending a night or two on Phi Phi Don to experience the island’s relaxed atmosphere and witness the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

James Bond Island, also known as Khao Phing Kan, is a popular tourist destination in Phang Nga Bay, located northeast of Phuket. The island is famous for its distinctive limestone rock formations, which were featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. 

Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the area, which includes a stop at James Bond Island and other nearby islands and caves. The tour usually includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a longtail boat ride through the mangrove forest to James Bond Island, a visit to a nearby floating village, and a stop at other nearby islands and caves, like Hong Island and Panak Island. Visitors can also participate in activities like sea kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling.

Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island and the surrounding area can get quite crowded with tourists, especially during peak season. If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to book an early morning tour or consider a private tour. Also, be prepared for the touristy atmosphere, which includes souvenir shops and vendors selling food and drinks. Despite the crowds, James Bond Island is still a beautiful and unique destination that’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in Phuket.

Day 3: Beach Day and FantaSea

Spend a day relaxing on one of Phuket’s many stunning beaches, such as Kata Beach, Karon Beach, or Patong Beach. Rent a beach umbrella and chairs, try some water sports like parasailing or jet skiing, or simply soak up the sun and enjoy the scenery.

Kata Beach is divided into two sections, Kata Yai (Big Kata) and Kata Noi (Little Kata). Kata Yai is the main beach, offering soft white sand and clear blue waters. It’s ideal for swimming and family-friendly activities. Kata Noi, just a short walk away, is quieter and less crowded, perfect for those seeking a more tranquil beach experience.

Karon Beach is the second-largest beach on Phuket and is characterized by its long stretch of fine sand and shallow waters. It’s a great choice for families and couples looking for a laid-back beach with various water activities and dining options.

Located on the southern tip of Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by lush hills, the beach offers crystal-clear waters and is ideal for swimming and relaxation.

During the day, take a cooking class: Learn how to make delicious Thai cuisine with a cooking class, where you’ll visit local markets to buy fresh ingredients and then cook up a storm.

Round off your day with a visit to Phuket FantaSea, a unique theme park that offers a mix of cultural shows, animal performances, and carnival games. Enjoy a buffet dinner of Thai and international cuisine, and then settle in for the main show, a colorful extravaganza of acrobatics, dancing, and special effects.

Day 4: Visit Big Buddha and Coral Island

Take a trip up to the hilltop to visit the Big Buddha, one of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks. At 45 meters tall, the Big Buddha offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Andaman Sea. There’s also a smaller Buddha statue and several other shrines and temples to explore in the area.

Coral Island and Kaew Kaeo Beach are two popular destinations in Phuket for visitors who want to experience the island’s beautiful beaches and marine life.

Coral Island, also known as Koh Hae, is a small island located off the coast of Phuket. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant marine life. The island also has restaurants and bars where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink or a meal.

Kaew Kaeo Beach, also known as Ao Sane Beach, is a secluded beach located in the southwestern part of Phuket. It’s a small and quiet beach with crystal-clear water and a beautiful coral reef. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There’s also a small restaurant on the beach where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

Phuket at Night

Phuket has a very active night life with a variety of clubs to suit different tastes in music and atmosphere. Here are some of the best clubs in Phuket:

1. Illuzion: This is one of the largest nightclubs in Phuket, known for its impressive lighting and sound system, international DJs, and high-energy atmosphere. It’s located in Patong and attracts a diverse crowd of locals and tourists.
2. White Room Nightclub: This is another popular club in Patong, with a modern design, a spacious dance floor, and a mix of international and local DJs playing EDM and hip-hop music.
3. Sugar Club Phuket: Located in the Bangla Road area, Sugar Club is known for its impressive sound and light system, resident and guest DJs, and a mix of hip-hop and electronic music.
4. Hollywood Phuket: This club has a Hollywood-inspired theme and features a dance floor, VIP area, and a balcony overlooking Patong Beach. The music is a mix of EDM and hip-hop, with resident and guest DJs.
5. Seduction Nightclub: This is one of the oldest and most popular clubs in Patong, with a spacious dance floor, state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, and a mix of music genres, from EDM to hip-hop and Thai pop.
6. SuperHero Phuket: This club has a superhero theme, with staff dressed as comic book characters and a decor featuring Marvel and DC Comics characters. It’s located in the Bangla Road area and plays a mix of music genres, from hip-hop to commercial hits.

For people who do not want to go clubbing, but prefer live music, RED HOT at one end of Bangla Road is a chill place with some fantastic bands on show.

Remember to always drink responsibly and take care of yourself and others when partying in Phuket. It’s easy to get lost in the fun there, but we have always had good experiences even at 4-5 am in the morning. Safety isn’t an issue, everyone is super polite as long as you are too.

Phuket has a variety of picturesque spots that make great photo opportunities.

Here are some of the best photo spots in Phuket:

1. Big Buddha: This massive marble statue is one of the most iconic landmarks in Phuket, offering panoramic views of the island from its hilltop location. It makes for a great photo backdrop.
2. Promthep Cape: Located on the southern tip of Phuket, Promthep Cape offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. The sunset here is particularly beautiful, making it a popular spot for photos.
3. Wat Chalong: This beautiful temple is the largest and most visited temple in Phuket, with intricate architecture and colorful decor. It makes for a great cultural photo opportunity.
4. Phuket Old Town: The historic district of Phuket Old Town is full of colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, street art, and cute cafes, making it a great spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
5. Patong Beach: This popular beach in Phuket offers a beautiful backdrop of white sand, turquoise water, and palm trees. It’s a great spot for beach photos, sunsets, and people-watching.
6. Karon Viewpoint: This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Andaman Sea. It’s located on the road to Kata Beach and is a popular spot for photos.
7. Nai Harn Beach: This secluded beach is a quieter alternative to the more popular beaches in Phuket, with crystal clear water and a picturesque rocky outcrop at one end. It’s a great spot for beach photos and sunsets.

Remember to be respectful of local customs and culture when taking photos in Phuket, especially at religious sites like temples.

Phuket is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of local and international cuisine on offer.

Here are some of the best places to eat in Phuket:

1. Baan Rim Pa: This upscale restaurant in Patong offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea and serves up delicious Thai cuisine, with a focus on seafood dishes. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
2. Tu Kab Khao: This trendy restaurant in Phuket Town offers a modern take on traditional Thai cuisine, using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The dishes are beautifully presented and the atmosphere is chic and sophisticated.
3. Mor Mu Dong: Located in the heart of Phuket Old Town, this local restaurant is known for its delicious and affordable Thai dishes, particularly their signature pork leg stew. It’s a great spot for a casual meal.
4. Mom Tri’s Kitchen: Located at the luxurious Mom Tri’s Villa Royale resort in Kata Beach, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a menu of contemporary Thai cuisine with a focus on seafood.
5. Suay Restaurant: This stylish restaurant in Cherngtalay serves up modern European cuisine with a Thai twist, using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is beautifully designed, with a chic and sophisticated atmosphere.
6. Raya Restaurant: This popular restaurant in Phuket Town is known for its traditional Thai cuisine, particularly its crab curry and stir-fried morning glory. The restaurant has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, and is a great spot for a casual meal.
7. Savoey Seafood: This seafood restaurant in Patong is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of fresh and delicious seafood dishes at affordable prices. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere and is a great spot for a casual meal with friends and family.
8. Black Ginger: Located in the exclusive area of Boat Lagoon, this unique restaurant is set in a floating pavilion and serves up delicious Thai cuisine. The atmosphere is romantic and intimate, making it a great spot for a special occasion.
9. Roxanne Café – Breakfasts in Patong, after a night out in town. Fresh juices and great food Ella round.
10. Kan Eang @ Pier: This seafood restaurant on Chalong Bay offers stunning ocean views and a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled prawns, seafood curry, and crab fried rice.

Best food to eat in Phuket:

1. Tom Yum Goong: This iconic Thai spicy and sour soup with shrimp is a must-try. It’s made with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, chili, and juicy prawns. The flavors are vibrant and tantalizing.
2. Pad Thai: Probably the most famous Thai dish worldwide, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish with a combination of shrimp, chicken, or tofu, mixed with egg, bean sprouts, and peanuts.
3. Massaman Curry: This rich and flavorful curry is influenced by Indian cuisine and is made with tender meat (usually beef or chicken) cooked with potatoes, onions, and peanuts in a mild, creamy curry sauce.
4. Tom Kha Gai: A creamy and aromatic chicken coconut soup made with galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, mushrooms, and other herbs and spices.
5. Grilled Seafood: Being on an island, Phuket is known for its fresh seafood. Enjoy grilled fish, prawns, squid, and other delights at seafood restaurants or beachside stalls.
6. Mango Sticky Rice: A popular Thai dessert that features ripe mangoes served with sweet sticky rice and topped with coconut milk.
7. Kanom Jeen: A traditional Thai dish that consists of rice noodles served with various curries and a selection of fresh vegetables and herbs to create your own mix.
8. Fresh Fruit: Thailand is known for its wide variety of tropical fruits. Taste the local mangoes, pineapples, watermelons, rambutans, and more, which are incredibly refreshing and sweet.
9. Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen): A popular and refreshing drink made with strong Thai black tea, sweetened with condensed milk, and poured over ice.
10. Street Food Delights: Don’t miss the chance to try various street food dishes like satay, grilled pork skewers, spring rolls, and savory Thai pancakes.

Phuket offers an exciting culinary adventure, and exploring the local food scene is an essential part of your travel experience. Whether dining in a restaurant, visiting night markets, or trying street food, you’re sure to encounter a range of delectable flavors and dishes that will satisfy your taste buds.

Best time to Visit Phuket

The best time to visit Phuket, Thailand, is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with low humidity and comfortable temperatures, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and beach fun. The peak tourist season in Phuket is from December to February, when the weather is at its best, but this is also when the crowds and prices are at their highest.

The monsoon season in Phuket runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring from September to October. While the rain can be heavy and intermittent during this time, it usually comes in short bursts and does not usually disrupt travel plans. However, some outdoor activities may be affected, and the sea conditions may be rougher, making it less ideal for water sports and swimming.

Overall, the best time to visit Phuket depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. If you want to enjoy the best weather, avoid the crowds, and have a more peaceful experience, the shoulder season of November and March/April can be a good time to visit. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and want to take advantage of the vibrant nightlife, December to February may be the ideal time to visit Phuket.

Best places to stay in Phuket

Phuket offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets, from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Phuket:

1. Patong Beach: My personal favourite, Patong is the most popular and lively beach town in Phuket, with a wide range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Patong Beach offers a long stretch of sand and plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options. The Double Tree by Hilton, Banthai Resort is bang in the middle of Patong without being crowded. Highly recommended.
2. Kata Beach: Kata is a quieter alternative to Patong, with a long stretch of sandy beach and a more laid-back vibe. There are a variety of accommodations in Kata, including family-friendly resorts and boutique hotels.
3. Karon Beach: Karon is another popular beach town in Phuket, with a long sandy beach and a variety of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to upscale resorts.
4. Phuket Town: If you prefer to stay in the city, Phuket Town offers a charming historic center with a variety of accommodations, including boutique hotels and guesthouses. Phuket Town is also a great base for exploring the island’s cultural attractions and taking day trips to nearby islands. The town is far from the beaches, so keep that in mind if you want to have an evening stroll along the water.
5. Kamala Beach: Kamala is a quieter beach town in Phuket, with a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. There are a variety of accommodations in Kamala, including family-friendly resorts and villas.
6. Bang Tao Beach: Bang Tao is a quieter alternative to Patong and Karon, with a long stretch of sandy beach and a variety of upscale resorts. It’s a great option for those looking for a more secluded and luxurious getaway.

Pictured above is the walkway of the Double Tree in Patong which leads to the main Patong beach.

Overall, the best area to stay in Phuket depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation. Whether you prefer a lively beach town or a quiet retreat, Phuket offers something for everyone.

Have a great time in Phuket 🙂

Make your Phuket holiday more memorable with a few days in Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Enjoy the splendour of Thailand.