Phuket Old Town

Phuket Town, also known as Old Phuket Town, is the island’s main hipster and backpacker haven, as well as a great opportunity to explore its history and enjoy a leisurely walk.

This is where rare architectural attractions of Phuket are concentrated. It is a truly unique part of the island with a European-style atmosphere, featuring vibrant street art, charming cafes, museums, and art galleries.

Be sure to stop by MONDO cafe for a cup of coffee and snap some beautiful shots from the third-floor balcony. Harry Potter fans will love the famous butterbeer at Mad Hog cafe. Don’t miss the lively Soi Rommani street, where street performers often put on shows.Take a stroll to the famous clock tower — the building houses the Phuket Museum, and entry is free. Right next to the tower, you can try a unique 3D ice cream shaped like the museum itself. Also, check out the historic mansion of a tin baron, which now hosts the TIN BARON restaurant and the famous Blue Elephant, a colonial-style estate offering an exquisite dining experience.

Be sure to also take a walk along Thalang Road — one of the most beautiful streets in the Old Town with colorful houses in the Sino-Portuguese architectural style. This is where the famous Lard Yai market takes place, where you can try street food, buy souvenirs, and listen to live music. It operates only on Sundays, from 4 PM to 11 PM.

Another atmospheric street is Dibuk Road. It is a bit quieter and perfect for a relaxed stroll: there are many stylish cafes, small galleries, and designer shops here. This street is also where you can often find the most photogenic facades and colorful murals.

Lovers of unusual places should also stop by Phang Nga Road. Here you will find historic mansions, Chinese temples, and the famous On On Hotel — one of the oldest on Phuket. By the way, it “appeared” in the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The atmosphere of this street perfectly conveys the spirit of the old trading town that Phuket was during the tin mining boom.

And if you want to see a more local side of Phuket Town, take a walk along Yaowarat Road — a street where old coffee shops, small Thai restaurants, and shops selling traditional sweets are concentrated. There are fewer tourists here, but you can better feel the everyday life of the city.