Every Sunday at 16:00, the historic Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town transforms into a vibrant night market. For several hours, the road is closed to cars and fills with market stalls, the aromas of street food, music, and performances by artists. Here you can find unusual handmade souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and many charming small items.
The market stretches for about 360 meters — from Thepkasattri Road to Phuket Road. The stalls are located in the center of the street, while two walkways for visitors remain on the sides. On both sides of the road stand historic Sino-Portuguese shophouses with pastel-colored facades that continue operating as usual. Inside there are shops, cafés, and galleries that you can visit while walking through the market.
The best time to visit the market depends on the atmosphere you are looking for. During the first hours — approximately from 16:00 to 17:00 — it is still relatively calm: you can stroll between the stalls without rushing, try freshly prepared food, and take photos against the backdrop of the colorful houses of the Old Town. Around 18:00 the so-called “golden hour” begins — the soft evening light makes the facades especially photogenic, and string lights and decorative illumination turn on above the street. After 19:00 the number of visitors increases significantly, and in some areas you may literally have to make your way through the crowd.
As in most Thai night markets, the main calling card of this place is the food. The stalls prepare a wide variety of street food: grilled seafood, skewers, pad thai, Thai desserts, coconut sweets, and much more.
The festive atmosphere at this market is created by street performances and small shows. In the central part there is a small stage where musicians perform and concerts by local schools take place — here you can see traditional Thai dances and listen to live music.
Noisy, crowded, and full of events, the Sunday market on Thalang Road can rightfully be called one of the most atmospheric places in Phuket. Watch our video:
