Phuket - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Phuket

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Phuket, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Phuket and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Phuket, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Phuket for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Phuket

Phuket is a province located in the southern part of Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning landscapes. It is the largest island in Thailand and is known as the "Pearl of the Andaman". The island boasts a rich culture and history with numerous Buddhist temples and Chinese shrines, and also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, diving, and snorkeling. Phuket is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and nightclubs to enjoy. The local cuisine is also worth trying, with a wide range of dishes influenced by Thai, Malaysian, and Indian cuisines.

What to visit in Phuket

Sure, here are some of the best tourist attractions in Phuket, Thailand, along with some details about each: 1. Patong Beach: This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Phuket, with a long stretch of white sand beach that's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports. It's also known for its nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs in the area.
2. Big Buddha: This is a giant statue of Buddha located on top of a hill in Phuket. It's one of the most famous landmarks in the region, with stunning views of the surrounding area and a serene atmosphere that's perfect for meditation and relaxation.
3. Phang Nga Bay: This is a beautiful bay area with stunning scenic views, including a collection of dramatic limestone cliffs that rise out of the water. Visitors can explore the area by boat, kayak, or other watercraft, and there are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, snorkeling, and diving.
4. Phi Phi Islands: This is a group of islands located off the coast of Phuket, known for their stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and amazing diving and snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can enjoy water activities like swimming, diving, kayaking, and more, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
5. Phuket FantaSea: This is a popular cultural theme park in Phuket, with daily shows and performances that showcase Thailand's rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional dance performances, acrobatics, and other types of entertainment, as well as dining and shopping opportunities.
6. Wat Chalong: This is a famous Buddhist temple located in Phuket, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate artwork and sculptures, and learn about the history of Buddhism in Thailand.
These are just a few of the many amazing tourist attractions in Phuket, Thailand. Whether you're interested in beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, or outdoor adventures, Phuket has something for everyone.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Phuket.

When to go on holiday to Phuket

The best time to visit Phuket is between December and March, which is the peak season for tourism in this region. During this period, the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortable with average temperatures hovering around 27°C. Moreover, the sea is calm and clear, which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, you can also consider traveling to Phuket during the low season, which is from May to October. Just keep in mind that this period is characterized by more rainfall and higher humidity, so be sure to pack accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Phuket

There are several ways to get to Phuket, Thailand: 1. By Air - Phuket International Airport is the second busiest airport in Thailand after Bangkok's airport. It has direct flights to many international destinations and domestic flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand.
2. By Bus - Phuket has a good bus system with several buses departing from Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand. The journey takes around 12-14 hours.
3. By Train - There is no direct train service to Phuket, but you can take a train to Surat Thani or Trang and then take a bus to Phuket.
4. By Car - You can also rent a car and drive from Bangkok or other cities in Thailand. The journey takes around 12-13 hours.
5. By Ferry - Several ferries are available from nearby islands like Phi Phi Island, Krabi and Koh Lanta to Phuket.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Phuket, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Phuket

Sure, here are some typical foods you can find in Phuket: 1. Tom Yam Goong: This is a hot and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chilies. It's one of the most famous Thai dishes and is a must-try in Phuket.
2. Pad Thai: This is a stir-fried noodle dish made with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and eggs. It's often served with peanuts and lime.
3. Massaman Curry: This is a mild but flavorful curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, peanuts, and spices like cinnamon and star anise.
4. Green Curry: This is a spicy and aromatic curry made with chicken or beef, coconut milk, green chili, and Thai basil.
5. Som Tam: This is a spicy green papaya salad made with lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, chilies, and peanuts.
6. Mango Sticky Rice: This is a sweet dessert made with sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, topped with ripe mango slices. 7. Satay: Grilled and marinated meat (usually chicken, pork or beef) served with a spicy peanut sauce.
8. Larb: Minced meat (usually chicken or pork) with spices, lime juice, chili, mint, and coriander.
Hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Phuket an expensive destination for tourists?

Phuket can be expensive compared to other parts of Thailand, especially during the peak tourist season from November to late March. However, there are still many options for budget-friendly accommodations, food, and activities. It all depends on your travel style and preferences. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to find the best deals and budget-friendly options.

Where to find accomodation in Phuket

Phuket is a large island in Southern Thailand with many different areas to explore. Here are some options for areas to find accommodations, depending on your preferences: 1. Patong Beach - This is the most well-known area of Phuket, famous for its nightlife, shopping, and dining. There are many hotels and resorts here, ranging from budget to luxurious.
2. Kata Beach - This area is a bit quieter than Patong but still has plenty of amenities. The beach is beautiful, and there are good restaurants and bars nearby.
3. Karon Beach - Another quiet area, but with a bit more of a family-friendly vibe. There are a few resorts and hotels here, as well as some restaurants.
4. Kamala Beach - A bit farther north, Kamala Beach is more relaxed and less touristy than some other areas. There are some resorts and hotels here, as well as a few bars and restaurants.
5. Old Phuket Town - This is where you'll find more authentic Thai culture and architecture. There are fewer hotels here, but some guesthouses and hostels can be found. The area is great for exploring by foot, trying street food, and visiting cultural attractions.
Overall, it depends on what you're looking for, whether it's nightlife, relaxation, or culture.
You can check hotel prices at Phuket here:
Booking.com

Is Phuket a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Phuket is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors must take certain precautions to ensure their safety. It is important to be aware of your surroundings, to avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and to keep a close eye on your personal belongings. Additionally, it is best to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, particularly in less crowded and poorly lit places. By following these common safety practices, tourists can enjoy their time in Phuket without any major incidents.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Phuket.

What type of travelers will enjoy Phuket the most?

Phuket, Thailand is a popular destination and has something to offer for all types of travelers. It is a great place for couples or honeymooners looking for a romantic setting, with quiet beaches, luxury resorts, and picturesque sunsets. Young people looking for fun can also enjoy Phuket's nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and beach parties. In addition, adventure-seekers can enjoy activities such as zip-lining, ATV tours, and water sports like parasailing and surfing. Families can also enjoy a trip to Phuket with plenty of family-friendly attractions such as water parks, animal sanctuaries, and cultural experiences such as visiting the local temples and markets. Overall, Phuket is a destination that caters to a variety of travelers and provides a diverse range of activities and experiences.

How to get around Phuket

In Phuket, there are various types of transportation available for moving around such as Tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, songthaews, private cars, rental cars, buses, and boats. Depending on where you would like to go and your budget, you can choose the most suitable option. For short rides, Tuk-tuks or motorbike taxis are a convenient and affordable choice. Songthaews and buses are useful for getting around different areas of Phuket but may take longer. Private cars or rental cars allow for more flexibility and are better for visiting more distant or remote locations. Finally, boats are a great option for island hopping and exploring the ocean.

What to see around Phuket

Sure, here are a few options for a day trip from Phuket: 1. Phi Phi Islands: These beautiful islands are a popular destination for day trips with their turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and stunning limestone cliffs.
2. James Bond Island: This island became famous after featuring in the James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun." You can take a boat tour to see the island and other nearby attractions.
3. Similan Islands: If you're into scuba diving or snorkeling, the Similan Islands are a great destination with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
4. Phang Nga Bay: This bay is known for its unique limestone formations, including the famous "James Bond Island." You can take a boat tour to explore the sights.
5. Khao Lak: This beach town is a quieter alternative to Phuket with a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Phuket!
For every travel information about Thailand you can click here.

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