Staying in Phuket Town

The Island's Capital and Main Business District

Imposing Golden Dragon at the entrance to Queen Sirikit Park in Thalang Road (Old Phuket Town area).

Phuket Town differs from most other towns on Phuket in that its a typical Thai city and centre of business rather than being dedicated to tourism. And while it does not draw visitors in the same numbers as some of the others, its authentic Thai character does give it great appeal to many both as a daytrip destination and as a place to stay. It also has a long and interesting history with archictecture dating back to Phuket’s boom-period as a major source of tin for the world.

Old Phuket Town

The most popular part of  town with visitors is the section known as “Old Phuket Town” where the sino-european buildings have been restored and turned into the likes of guest houses, cafes and boutique shops creating a very pleasant environment. During the day its a peaceful place to stroll around and explore the town’s past while in the evening there are plenty of bars and restaurants popular with both locals and tourists in which to relax.

One of several large ferries that depart daily from Phuket Town's pier for Phi Phi Don island and Krabi Town

Phuket Walking Street

A weekly highlight occurs each Sunday when Thalang Road is closed to traffic to become “Phuket Walking Street” and fills with people who come to browse the market stalls which sell clothes, local arts & crafts and lots of delicious Thai food. It  starts in the late afternoon and continues into the evening developing a mini-carnival atmosphere as people walk around enjoying musicians, street performers and stage shows.

The Rest of the Town

Though Old Phuket Town is undoubtedly its best known feature there is still plenty to interest visitors in the rest of the town such as the large markets (priced for locals), museums and a good variety of shops. Nightlife is also quite lively with cabarets, bars, pubs and some excellent restaurants being scattered throughout.

Accommodation tends to be reasonably priced and aimed more toward the mid-price and budget end of the market though many are of a good standard and well-rated by guests. As the  “Old Town” will probably be a favourite place to frequent for most, the recommended hotels on this page have all been chosen within its vicinty.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Central Phuket Town

1Sino Imperial Phuket Hotel - a 40 room hotel that has clean, comfortable and modern rooms at very reasonable rates. Its in an excellent location next to the Old Town handy to many of the city's sights. Highly-rated by most guests with many selecting the friendly service for special mention.

2Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel - A small (17 rooms) boutique hotel close to the Old Phuket Town area. Reasonably priced though a little more upmarket than some in the same location. Unlike most of the boutique accommodation it has a swimming pool. Rated highly by most guests.

3The Memory at On On Hotel - budget-priced hotel that gets very good reviews by most guests. A historic building located in the centre of the city near the "Old Town" making a handy place from which to explore.

Highly Rated in Customer Reviews - Near Old Phuket Town Area

1		Sino Imperial Phuket Hotel	3		The Memory at On On Hotel	5		The Tint at Phuket Town Hotel
2		Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel	4		Sino House Hotel	6		Quip Design Phuket Hotel