8 REASONS TO VISIT
Phuket Old Town is the historic centre located in the southeast part of Phuket Island in the Mueang Phuket district. Away from the beaches, the Old Town is an enchanting precinct and a must-see destination.
There are at least 8 wonderful reasons to visit Phuket Old Town.
Whilst enjoying a delightful 6 day sojourn in one of Phuket’s luxury resorts, I decided to take some time out of my busy swimming and sun-lounging schedule to see another side of the island that exists away from the sandy beaches.
A short distance from the coastal attractions, I discovered the heritage heart of the island, the charming old district where I spent the better part of a day immersing myself in its vibrant atmosphere. I found it to be a delightful town and a real cultural gem.
These are the 8 reasons I recommend visiting Phuket Old Town.
1. The History
Phuket Old Town was originally established during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the tin mining industry was booming here. Old Town Phuket prospered and wealthy Chinese and European traders settled here and developed it into a major trading hub, creating a fusion of cultures evident today in the architecture, shrines and temples, and cuisine.
2. The Architecture
Undoubtedly, the most striking aspect about Phuket Old Town that hit me the moment I arrived is the architectural style of the townhouses and mansions which line the streets, with brightly coloured facades in a very distinct combination of European baroque details with Chinese aesthetics.
Constructed over 100 years ago, the 2-storey shophouses, consist of retail space below and residence above, built in a blend of Chinese and Portuguese, known as Chino-Portuguese or Sino-Portuguese, with ornate balconies and porticos decorated with fancy stucco.
This eye-catching look gives the town a real flair, making for great Instagram photos and thus attracting tourists, since the major preservation efforts of the locals began earlier this century.
As a frequent traveller to Asia, I have noticed much similarity with the architecture in old town centres of Penang, Malacca and Singapore, which all share a common history.
3. The Most Beautiful Street
Maybe one of the prettiest streets I’ve seen is Soi Romanee, a pedestrian-only laneway, with the most photographed buildings in pastel pink, embellished with gold trimmings and flowers. It can get quite crowded here as people flock to take pictures.
Once a popular street for illicit activities where sailors and merchants spent their money in brothels and opium dens, today the small street is home to popular cafes and boutiques.
4. Walkable
Phuket Old Town is easy to navigate on foot, as it is only a small area, basically a few roads, in an area of less than 3 square kilometres.
These 8 roads – Thalang, Krabi, Dibuk, Phangnga, Rasada, Ranong, Yaowarat and Phuket, plus two lanes, Soi Romanee and Soi Sun Uthit, form the Old Town Phuket.
Alternatively, you can hail a tuk-tuk to get around the old town. They are typically mini trucks with bench seating and no air-con, but be sure to negotiate cost of the ride beforehand.
You can’t get lost in Old Phuket, it is safe and quite easy to find your way around.
5. The Shopping
Thalang Road is the main shopping street but plenty of shops and boutiques throughout the district sell locally made products and unique items, such as Thai silk, batik, jewellery, ceramics and heaps more. Little laneways are filled with shops selling all manor of wares. Shop assistants here are never pushy and don’t hassle you to buy, which I find a refreshing change.
Note, many retailers don’t open until mid-morning.
Markets
The Sunday Walking Street Market on Thalang Road is a highlight in Old Town Phuket, and is teeming with all manor of crafts, food stalls, and street performers, every Sunday 4pm to 10pm, creating a real festive vibe.
There is a Thai Amulets Market open everyday, selling an array of Buddhist charms, tucked away in an alley off Rassada Road.
6. The Street Art
Street art is a big feature of Phuket Old Town, a vibrant attraction often found in unusual places, such as small lanes and walkways. The street art scene has become popular with local and international artists contributing.
These interesting murals and graffiti art certainly add extra pops of colour and curiosity to the landscape, such as the ones below, often reflecting culture and history of the area.
7. The Food Scene
Phuket has been UNESCO listed as a City of Gastronomy. The delicious cuisine here is a fusion of Thai and other Asian cooking styles, namely Chinese and Malay. Some of the famous local dishes are Pad Thai, Mee Hokkien (fried noodles), Roti bread with Massaman Curry, Moo Hong (braised pork belly).
There is an array of restaurants and cafes to choose from, from casual places like Pink Flamingo to upmarket dining such as the Blue Elephant.
If you’re interested in nightlife, Coolies Club has live music in art deco setting, and Dibuk House is a renowned cocktail bar.
8. The Festivals
Various exciting festivals take place in Old Town Phuket throughout the year which locals and visitors enjoy. Most notably:
- Old Town Phuket Festival on Thalang Road, an annual event celebrating heritage, in February.
- Phuket Vegetarian Festival, a huge annual event centred in the Old Town, lasting 9 days, in September/October..
Finally
I’m glad I invested the time to explore the wonderful Phuket Old Town and appreciate the island’s distinct heritage.
The historic side of Phuket should not be overlooked so make sure to take the opportunity to visit old town and wander around for at least a couple of hours. See this hidden gem for yourself.
You may enjoy a guided tour with a local of Phuket Old Town and nearby sites and attractions:
- Phuket city half day tour – includes Old Town and nearby sites
- Phuket city relaxing massage – Old Town Spa visit
- Phuket Big Buddha tour – includes Old Town and Elephant Sanctuary
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