Phuket, Thailand: An Ultimate Travel Guide

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Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has so much to offer. Known for its beaches but home to everything from rainforests, to wildlife, to culture and food it’s the perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. I spent 10 wonderful days exploring the island and have put together a (hopefully helpful) guide if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful part of the world. I’ve also included links to my more detailed posts on certain places in the guide for further information if you need it.


  1. Contents
  2. Important Information on Phuket
    1. Time Zone, Language & Currency
    2. Getting Around Phuket
    3. Length of stay needed in Phuket
  3. Things to Do in Phuket
    1. North Phuket
      1. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
      2. Bang Pae Waterfall
      3. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
    2. Central Phuket
      1. Phuket Old Town
      2. Wat Chalong
      3. Island Hopping Day Trips
      4. Blue Elephant (& Other Food Experiences)
    3. South & West Phuket
      1. Big Buddha
      2. Beaches
      3. Spas & Massages
      4. Nightlife
  4. Where to Stay in Phuket
    1. Como Point Yamu
    2. Six Senses Yao Noi

The time zone in Thailand is GMT +7hrs. Thai is the national language, but English is widely spoken. Other popular languages across the island include Chinese and Russian. The currency is the Thai Baht and always have cash as many smaller shops and restaurants do not take card.

Lots of people hire scooters to get around Phuket. Not me. I crash cars often enough, and so a scooter would be a death trap of an idea. Instead we mainly used taxis to get around (the app is called Grab), and they were cheap and easy. There are also local buses that visit most of the main tourist sites. They are also fun to ride on, having no doors or seatbelts as you hurtle around.

At least 4 days. To do everything in this guide, you need a week. I spent 10 days here but had 3 days of doing absolute sweet nothing.

Onboard a traditional boat in Phang Nga Bay

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, covering an area roughly 50km by 20km. The island is split in to a number of areas and whilst many visitors pick a beach and stick to it, that’s a shame because there is so much more to see and do here. We moved around between hotels giving us a chance to see each side of the island.

Whilst Phuket is known for its beaches, we actually started by visiting the island’s rainforest. Khao Phra Thaeo is the last remaining evergreen rainforest on the island of Phuket, and is around 20km2. There are many trails around the National Park, but we chose to hike the waterfall trail, which was beautiful, if very very hot.

The most famous waterfall in all of Phuket lies within the National Park, so even if you decide not to do the hike (it is heavy going in the heat), then you can visit just to see the waterfalls. It’s the perfect place to take a dip and cool off!

At Bang Pae

Full post: HERE

PES is a 30 acre site that takes in elderly and disabled elephants to give them a final place free of ‘performing’ for tourists or working in the logging industry, which is all too common in Thailand. This is still a tourist attraction (these elephants can’t be put back in the wild as they wouldn’t survive after years of abuse), but the PES doesn’t let you touch the elephants – just walk around and view them, plus feed them. I’d much rather spend my tourist dollars on this than anything exploitative.

The closest you can get to the elephants!


Whilst Phuket’s old town is small, it’s really worth spending at least half a day exploring. The beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture alone makes it really picturesque for a stroll. Also be sure to take in the art work down Soi Romanee, as well as pay a visit to the Phuket Thaihua Museum to learn about the history of the island.

Whilst Phuket has dozens of temples to choose for a visit, Wat Chalong is the most famous. It is dedicated to two monks who led the local citizens in fighting against the Chinese rebellion in 1876, and their knowledge of herbal medicine helped the injured. The site is full of multiple temples, and you must have your shoulders and knees covered, plus remove your shoes, to enter. We spent around 1.5hrs at the site as there is lots to see.

Full post: HERE.

Phuket is close to some of the most beautiful islands in all of Thailand, making it the perfect base from which to explore. From the east coast of the island, you could choose to head in to Phang Nga Bay (the famous home of James Bond Island), the Phi Phi Islands (of Leonardo Dicaprio’s The Beach fame). We chose Phang Nga Bay and explored multiple islands on a day trip there.

Koh Kudu, an island in Phang Nga Bay

Blue Elephant is one of the most famous restaurants in Phuket. It’s situated in an old colonial mansion, and we visited for lunch one day. The food is out of this world amazing – and the Pina Colada out of a coconut wasn’t bad either.

Phuket central is also the place to eat your way around town. Food tours are a must-do, and the street food is truly delicious. We particularly loved the banana Thai roti. To be honest, I spent most of my 10 days eating and I don’t regret a second of it!


Perhaps the most famous landmark in Phuket, Big Buddha is a must visit. The Buddha sits atop Nakkerd (snake) Hill, and it’s said the snakes protect the Buddha. It’s a steep ride up to the top (and past some really questionable and sad elephant riding and feeding stations) but at the top there’s also some amazing view points as well as the Buddha!

The Big Buddha

West Phuket has some of the islands most famous beaches. Kata is perhaps the most well known, alongside Karon beach which is just next door and Freedom Beach which is its (slightly) quieter neighbour. You could easily spend days relaxing on the beaches, but we decided there were far too many people in this area and actually headed to Banana Beach and Naiyang Beach which were much quieter for the day.

One of the many beaches accessible from Phuket

There are amazing spas all over Phuket but you can’t come to Thailand and not have a Thai massage. A particularly amazing spa lies on the west coast of the island – Infinite Luxury Spa at Kata Rocks, and lots of the islands also have amazing spas, often in little thatched huts like the one I visited.

The west part of the island is also where you want to be if you’re looking for the best nightlife and partying. Bangla Road is the most famous area for this, but I honestly can’t think of anything worse than surrounding myself with a load of drunk people in bars when I could be having a nice meal and cocktails on a private beach (I’m just too old and boring), so I steered well clear. It’s the only item in this guide which I didn’t visit, and I won’t be rectifying that.


There are so many options all over Phuket to cater to everyone. From hostels to luxury resorts, there’s something to suit everyone’s budget. Generally prices are much cheaper in South East Asia than in Europe/North America meaning more bang for your buck. I was also lucky enough to have a couple of free nights offered to me via Instagram, so we were able to stay 5* all the way, in the following 2 hotels.

Full post: HERE

We first stayed in a beautiful Pool Suite at Como Point Yamu for 4 nights. The hotel was wonderful, and provided good access to the National Parks and animal sanctuaries in the north of the island.

The lobby at Como Point Yamu

Full post: HERE.

Our second hotel was the Six Senses Yao Noi, where we stayed for 6 nights. It was out of this world AMAZING. I have been lucky enough to stay in many beautiful hotels in my time, but this was something special. I can’t rave about it enough. Situated within Phang Nga Bay, it’s perfectly located for all those island hopping day trips.

The infinity pool at Six Senses Yao Noi


If you’re planning a trip to Thailand and this guide has been helpful, you may also want to read:

So what do you think of Phuket? Would you want to visit one day? We had the absolute best time in this perfect little corner of the world and would recommend it to anyone looking for a luxury getaway with lots to do on the doorstep. Hope you enjoyed the tour – stay safe and happy travelling!

44 responses to “Phuket, Thailand: An Ultimate Travel Guide”

  1. Never been to Thailand, but I hope to soon when I return to SE Asia! Chasing waterfalls is my passion, and I’m glad to see so many in the country. The Sino-Portuguese architecture look stunning as well. Thanks for sharing this extensive travel guide; I’ll be sure to use it when I go!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It’s such a beautiful country, we really want to return to visit the north of the country next time.

      Liked by 1 person

    2. Anonymous

      Will go here on my Birthday and will use this guide for sure.

      Like

  2. Ah Bliss –
    We were in Thailand yonks ago (1988 to be exact!!) but didn’t make it to Phuket… looks lovely…

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It’s such a beautiful country that’s for sure 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  3. wow, what a beautiful adventure. Your pictures are really stunning and the guide is very thoughtful and helpful. It has me wishing I could just grab my passport and take off for Thailand. Can’t wait to follow along on the rest of this series! 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much, that’s really kind. It took a lot of time and thought to compile it all together so I’m really glad to hear it presented it well 🙂 Lots more Thailand posts incoming!

      Liked by 1 person

  4. In Phuket, Old Town and Phang Na are my favourite spots. Did you get to other parts of the country?

    Liked by 1 person

    1. No we only had 10 days so just focused on Phuket and Phang Nga Bay – I can’t wait to return one day and explore the north of the country.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. It looks absolutely stunningly beautiful; like what I imagine paradise would be. Your outline is expertly organized and so helpful too. Great post Hannah!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much, it really was a paradise and I’m glad the guide is helpful – it took me a long time to compile everything together 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  6. I’ve read before that Phuket is a beautiful island and your photos absolutely reflect that. The incredible scenery, elephant sanctuary and island hopping sound wonderful. And the beaches – wow, it must have been lovely to be there while it’s winter in the UK. Oh, and for some reason I expected the Blue Elephant to be blue 🙂 …

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks Corna, it was really beautiful 🙂 It was such a wonderful trip and I really enjoyed getting some winter sun! Haha, I thought the same and then it was yellow 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  7. Phuket looks and sounds like a splendid travel destination, Hannah…beautiful beaches, rainforests and elephants, tall cliffs jutting up from the sea, wonderful elevated vistas, and also interesting architectural styles and statures. Thanks for sharing, my friend 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It was such a wonderful trip Phil….thanks for your kind words and have a wonderful weekend 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. You too, dear friend ~ TY 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

  8. Such a great guide! I especially can’t wait to read about Six Senses Yao Noi, wow!! I’m glad you were able to visit the elephants, I know there’s a lot of unethical places which is so sad.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. That is for sure a special special hotel review coming up 🙂 I was glad to see the elephants too, there are far too many awful ways to see them so hopefully what I chose is a better option!

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  9. Wow, what a truly beautiful place to visit, my friend. I love the island and its beautiful historical old town, great viewpoints and iconic cultural attractions. Not to mention the beautiful bay and all the sheer limestone cliffs that jut vertically out of the emerald-green waters. Phuket would also be a good base for exploring the nearby islands and their must-see attractions. Thanks for sharing, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. It was such a wonderful place to visit, a really special couple of weeks in paradise 🙂 I’m glad you enjoyed the post Aiva xx

      Liked by 1 person

  10. Very informative Hannah. Before reading your travel guide I didn’t think Phuket would be for me as I thought it was all about beaches and though I don’t mind a couple of hours here and there lazing about, like you I prefer to be out sightseeing as I can sunbathe in my own garden (weather permitting). I obviously need to re-think Phuket as your hotels and excursions look fabulous.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I felt the same Marion, and then when a great flight deal came up I was tempted and once I’d researched it I was convinced. There was so much to do and a lot of amazing hotels to enjoy too. I actually found it the perfect combination of rest and doing, it was perfect for that 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  11. Since a few hours is all I spent out and about in Thailand (Bangkok, on a layover), I definitely want to return one day to see the country properly. Phuket looks amazing. Thanks for sharing and for not riding the elephants.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thailand is such an amazing country, we can’t wait to go back and visit the north of the country next time 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Phuket looks gorgeous and there’s much more to it than I’d realised. Your guide makes me want to hop on a plane. I’m thoroughly fed up of the rain we’ve had recently and the sunny beaches, colourful architecture and rainforest look so appealing right now 😀

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Yeah we were so surprised how much there is to do there, and we absolutely recommend it for a whole variety of things to do 🙂 Like you, I hate winter and the soul destroying months of rain so the sun really gave me the boost I needed 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  13. Great shot of you with the elephants! You’ve certainly convinced me that Phuket is worth visiting. I love how lush everything looks. And those beaches! So pretty.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Aw thank you – a whole post of elephants is incoming soon 🙂 It was a lovely trip, such an awesome country.

      Liked by 1 person

  14. Excellent and incredibly helpful guideline. The island is absolutely lovely. I like your photos; the one with the elephant is quite adorable, and the hotels have beautiful views. I’ll keep this island in mind for my relaxing vacation. It is very pretty.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much Angela, that’s so kind of you to say 🙂 I’m glad you enjoyed the guide to Phuket, and hope you can visit one day for a relaxing break!

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I hope so too🙂 Thank you!

        Like

  15. An excellent and informative guide on what looks like an amazing destination for a relaxing holiday. The beaches are exceptionally lovely and the architecture quite interesting. The shot of you with the elephant is great! I have travelled a lot of Thailand but never made it to Phuket, so there’s always next time.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much Leighton – I really hope you can make it to Phuket next time as it’s well worth a visit 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  16. Wow Hannah! What an informative and visually attractive travel guide for Phuket. Love the photos of the Old Town. We’ve spent a fair amount of time in Thailand, but for some reason have never visited Phuket. May have to remedy that. Nice post. ~James

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much, I really appreciate you taking the time to read and share your kind comments. Phuket is a wonderful place, and if you get the chance to visit I definitely recommend it 🙂

      Like

  17. It looks fabulous and this is quite a guide! I have heard of the beaches and waterfalls, but I’m charmed by your Old Town photos.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much Ruth – we loved the architecture in the old town too!

      Liked by 1 person

  18. […] one of the most beautiful locations I’ve ever stayed. The closest major airports are either Phuket or Krabi, and the hotel is situated on Koh Yao Noi island, around a 45 minute speed boat ride off […]

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  19. ¡Que viaje más impresionante! estamos deseando ir a Tailandia, tomo nota de todo lo que cuentas. Muchas gracias por compartir tus viajes, te invito a ver también los míos, entre todos aportamos muy buenas ideas para para planificar nuestras siguiente escapadas. ¡Genial compartir experiencias viajeras!. Saludos.

    Liked by 1 person

  20. […] which I visited back in November. We decided to spend our full 12 day break exploring the region of Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, connected to the mainland via a bridge. We stayed in two hotels […]

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  21. I’m grateful for this guide. Thailamd has been on my list for a while. This will help!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. So glad you found it useful, there is so much to see and do in Phuket. Such a beautiful part of Thailand.

      Like

  22. […] planning your trip, it’s good to know the Phuket overview. The tropical weather means you should pack light, with sun protection. The island is generally […]

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About the author

Hi! My name is Hannah, I’m a travel blogger from the UK who fits travel around a full time (and full on) job. In this blog I share my adventures around the world and hopefully help you to find some inspiration for destinations, things to do or places to stay. Thanks for stopping by – stay safe and happy travelling.

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