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Phuket Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand . The island is the biggest in the country and boasts a wide range of beaches as well as a vibrant nightlife and large expat scene.

Backpacking, partying, coming to learn Muay Thai, lounging at the resorts — Phuket is one of those places that has something for everyone.

That said, Phuket also illuminates the good and bad of Thai tourism — from overdeveloped beaches and sex tourism to tiny towns with no tourists that showcase authentic Thailand.

While most visitors stick to the overdeveloped south, if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the overdevelopment and crowds. In fact, the north part of the island is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Thailand. It’s a paradise!

This travel guide to Phuket will show you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time on this popular island getaway!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Phuket

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Phuket

1. Chill on the beach

Phuket is all about the beaches. If you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the overdevelopment, expensive prices, and crowds. Do this, and you’ll see that Phuket is a lovely destination. Check out Mai Khao, Surin, Freedom, and Naithon for the best beaches!

2. Visit the temples

Most of Phuket’s population is Thai-Buddhist and there are close to 40 Buddhist Temples located all over the island. Phuket’s Big Buddha is one of the island’s most important; Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, the only temple in Karon Beach, is small but attractive; and Wat Chalong is also beautiful.

3. Cruise Phang Nga Bay

Lined by limestone cliffs, collapsed caves, and archaeological sites, these glorious emerald-green waters form a delightful bay. It’s also where the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed. Day trips can be had from anywhere on the island and cost 3,500 THB.

4. Visit the gibbons

Run by volunteers and financed by donations, the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center rescues gibbons from captivity. There is no touching, but visitors can watch them from a viewing platform. On your two-hour visit, you’ll learn about gibbons. A visit costs 4,000 THB and you must book in advance.

5. Tour the Similan Islands

Just 84 kilometers (52 miles) northwest of Phuket are the Similan Islands. It’s one of the few places in Thailand with environmental protection. Only two (#4 and #8) of the nine islands are publicly accessible. The preserve is open to visitors from October 15-May 15 and costs 500 THB to enter.

Other Things to See and Do in Phuket

1. skip patong.

This is the main tourist section of Phuket, filled with crowded beaches, resorts, hawkers, bars, and sadly, a lot of sex tourists. Unless you want to get drunk a lot, try to avoid this beach at all costs (although I do still recommend taking a cooking class near here). There are much better beaches around, like Hat Karon, Surin, and Mai Khao Beach.

2. Learn to cook traditional Thai food

If you are looking to learn how to make Thai food, take a class at Pum’s Thai Cooking School. It’s one of the best souvenirs you can take back with you: the knowledge to make some of your favorite dishes from Thailand! There are several of these schools in Thailand, and the one in Phuket is on Patong Beach. You can take classes ranging from 30 minutes to 6 hours. Classes start at 500 THB for a 30-minute mini-class, and full classes (3+ hours) start from 1,500 THB.

3. Watch a Muay Thai fight

To see something truly Thai, watch some Muay Thai. This is a form of combat that combines striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, and is known as “the art of eight limbs.” It requires extreme mental and physical discipline to train to be a Muay Thai fighter. The Patong Boxing Stadium is the destination to see regular matches or go to Patong Beach where you can watch these disciplined fighters in action. You can usually find tickets for around 1,500-2,000 THB.

4. Visit Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Park

Take a trip to the Khao Phra Thaeo Conservation Development and Extension Center, a center focused on preserving the environment. The center contains a park with giant trees in the midst of dense a dense forest that is home to a number of endangered animals and wildlife including boars, mouse deer, langurs, and gibbons. It’s also the last remaining evergreen rainforest of Phuket. Make sure to check out the Nam Tok Sai waterfall, which is located close to the park headquarters. There is also a floating restaurant located in the mangroves! Admission is 200 THB.

5. See the Thalang National Museum

If you are eager to find out more about historical Phuket, visit the Thalang National Museum. The museum holds an exhibition of ancient artifacts from Old Phuket and items used during the war with Myanmar (1809-1812). Learn about the local life through exhibits on the island’s tin mining history, indigenous culture, and Chinese heritage. There’s a monument outside to Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon, two sisters revered heroines who helped save Phuket during the Battle of Thalang during the Burmese-Siamese War. Visiting this museum is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of the island. It’s 30 THB.

6. Enjoy the viewpoints

Phuket has many scenic viewpoints that are great for taking in the stunning island views. Promthep Cape and Karon View Point tend to be the most popular, but another great spot is the Kata viewpoint. Nothing is better than watching a golden sunset from these points. Your camera will thank you!

7. Rent a bike

Renting either a bike or motorbike gives you the freedom to explore Phuket. Find your way to Laem Singh Beach, a more secluded and laid-back spot with some great snorkeling opportunities. Just be careful as biking in Phuket can be a little dangerous as traffic is hectic at times. You can expect to pay about 250 THB a day for a basic motorbike. If you’d rather do a guided half-day bike tour, expect to pay around 1,800 THB.

8. Explore Sirinat National Park

This national park was founded in the early 1980s and consists of three beach areas along the northwest coast of Phuket. It includes the beaches Nai Yang, Sai Kaew, and Mai Khao, as well as the mangrove forest where saltwater and freshwater mix. This is a good place for camping too if you enjoy the outdoors. During the spring, endangered Leatherback Turtles come here to lay their eggs. Park entrance costs 200 THB. The park is closed between June 1st-July 31st.

9. Check out the Phuket Mining Museum

Located in Kathu, this museum highlights the history of Phuket’s mining industry (tin mining has been a large industry here). It’s located in a spacious, colonial villa and is one of the most interesting museums on the island. There are a couple of neat models and even a re-creation of an opium den! Some of the models seem so real, it’s like you are living it. You also get a chance to see some of the mining methods used back when Phuket was a major tin mining center. Entry is 100 THB.

10. Stroll the Phuket Weekend Market

Known also as the Naka market, this market is located right outside of Phuket Town. It offers a crazy assortment of local and secondhand goods, interesting objects, and a huge variety of food. The market is broken up into two sections: the covered section (which sells everything from jeans to pirated DVDs), and the open market (which has food, food, and more food). It’s open Sundays from 4pm-10pm.

11. Go snorkeling

Phuket has over 30 beaches, and all of them are pretty incredible. While not all of them are great for snorkeling, some of the best are Laem Singh Beach, Ao Sane, Ya Nui, and Surin. You might want to bring your own gear, as renting it all the time can get a bit pricy. It is possible to buy some cheap gear in Phuket too. Snorkel rental is generally around 200 THB for a mask, snorkel, and fins. Alternately, you can do a snorkeling day trip, which generally costs around 2,500 THB and includes pickup at your hotel, gear, and food while you’re out on the boat.

12. Visit the Soi Dog Foundation

Soi Dog Foundation is a charity that helps the stray dogs and cats you see on the streets of Phuket ( soi means street in Thai). The non-profit has been extremely successful, and since its founding in 2003, has reduced the stray dog population by over 90% through its spay/neuter programs. To meet and play with the animals (weekdays only), submit a volunteering form on their website. Longer volunteer opportunities are also offered, and donations are always welcome.

13. Explore some waterfalls

Some of the biggest and best waterfalls in Thailand are in Phuket. Bang Pae, Ton Sai, and Kathu are the three most popular. They are all at the end of scenic nature walks too. Kathu is free and entry to Khao Phra Thaeo National Park for Bang Pae and Ton Sai is 200 THB.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

Riding an elephant is the dream of many a tourist – until you realize how badly elephants are treated and the injuries that they incur all in the name of a quick ride. Luckily, in recent years there’s been a large movement to protect the elephants and raise awareness as to why riding them is an unethical practice. Visiting or volunteering at an elephant sanctuary is the best way to see these majestic beasts, and one of the oldest sanctuaries is Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. A half-day visit including lunch and transportation to the sanctuary costs 3,000 THB. Whatever you do, don’t ride elephants!

  For more information on other cities and islands in Thailand, check out the guides below:

• Bangkok Travel Guide
• Chiang Mai Travel Guide
• Ko Chang Travel Guide
• Ko Lipe Travel Guide
• Ko Pha Ngan Travel Guide
• Ko Phi Phi Travel Guide

Phuket Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs 350-450 THB per night while a bed in an 8-10-bed dorm costs 275-350 THB. Private rooms for two people with ensuite bathrooms cost 650-800. Free Wi-Fi, linens, and air-conditioning are standard at hostels in Phuket. Breakfast isn’t usually included, although some have cafes where you can purchase breakfast.

Hostels in Phuket often have extra amenities and offerings, such as free drinks, coworking spaces, and outdoor swimming pools. Lub d Patong even has a Muay Thai boxing ring in the middle of their lobby.

There are also campgrounds on Phuket. Expect to pay 200 THB per person for a basic plot and tent. If you have your own tent, it’s usually around 150 THB.

Budget hotel prices – A night in a centrally located budget hotel costs around 850-1,200 THB for a room with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. About half of the hotels include free breakfast.

Phuket surprisingly has some of the least-expensive 5-star hotels in Thailand, often as low as 2,500 THB per night! The Memory at On On Hotel is a great choice (and it was featured in the movie The Beach )! Prices remain fairly consistent across the island, even away from busy Patong.

Private Airbnb rooms are 600-825 THB per night, while entire villas or apartments average 1,200 THB per night.

Food – Over the centuries, Thai cuisine has taken on influences from neighboring countries, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. All these influences mesh to become Thai’s flavorful national cuisine, which is aromatic and spicy. Expect a lot of curries, salads, soups, and stir-fries that differ based on region.

Thai cuisine uses fresh (not dried) herbs and spices, with many ingredients used in one dish to create layers of flavor. Typical flavors include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, shrimp paste, and fish sauce. Coconut milk is commonly used in curries and desserts, especially in central and southern Thailand.

Popular dishes include tom yum goong (hot and sour soup with shrimp), massaman curry, pad thai (a stir-fried noodle dish), som tam (spicy papaya salad), kao phad (fried rice), khao man gai (rice with boiled chicken), and satay (grilled meat on skewers, served with a peanut dipping sauce).

In Phuket, Hokkien mee is an incredibly popular noodle dish that originated in China but arrived here by way of nearby Malaysia. Being an island, seafood is a big part of most of Phuket’s dishes.

Dessert is usually fruit or various dishes comprised of coconut milk or glutinous rice. Mango sticky rice combines all these elements in a popular choice.

Compared to the rest of Thailand, food is a bit more expensive in Phuket. Lunch at a casual Thai restaurant costs around 150-180 THB. A dish, such as a curry or fried rice, at a nice sit-down restaurant offering traditional cuisine costs 190-280 THB.

Western meals start at around 330 THB, even for a basic pizza. Dinner with drinks typically costs around 270-300 THB or more, but it can be more expensive if you’re right on Patong Beach. If you are having a fish meal or getting wine, expect to pay around 500-675 THB. In the major tourist area, you’ll probably pay 25% more.

You can grab a beer for about 60-75 THB, but on Bangla Road they’re 100 THB or higher. Remember that buying beers from 7-Eleven vs in bars and restaurants saves you lots of money.

If you eat at the street stalls, the food is not only cheap, but it’s also utterly delicious. A meal from a street stall can cost as little as 80-120 THB.

A week of groceries including basic staples like rice, veggies, and some meat or fish costs around 1,040 THB.

Backpacking Phuket Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to spend about 1,100 THB per day. On this budget, you can get a bed in a hostel dorm, cook some meals and eat cheap street food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free or cheap activities like hiking and enjoying the beaches.

On a mid-range budget of 2,525 THB per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or watching Muay Thai fights.

On a “luxury” budget of 4,475 THB per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a scooter or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in THB.

Phuket Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Although Phuket is more expensive than many other islands in Thailand, there are still plenty of ways to save money here:

• Eat street food – Don’t be afraid to eat the street food here. It’s safe — even safer than most restaurants. The best of Thailand’s food is on the street, and it costs a fraction of what you pay at a restaurant.
• Buy beer at convenience stores – Buy your beers from the supermarket or convenience stores as they are much cheaper here than anywhere else.
• Ride in a songthaew or rent a bike – Songthaews are converted pickup trucks that act as shared taxis and cost less than a tuk-tuk or a taxi. If you are looking to get around on your own, renting a bike is also a great option and can usually be done for about 250 THB per day.
• Come during low season – Prices drop drastically during the rainy season between May-October. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is a cheap time to visit.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who not only provide a free place to stay but who can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Bargain hard – When shopping at the markets, use your negotiation skills. The rule of thumb is the more you buy, the cheaper the prices so shop in packs for the best deals.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Phuket, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up. Instead, pick up a LifeStraw , which have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Phuket

Phuket has tons of cheap accommodation. Here are my suggested places to stay in Phuket:

• Pineapple Guesthouse
• Bodgea Party Hostel
• BearPacker Patong Hostel
• Dfeel Hostel
• Lub D Phuket Patong

How to Get Around Phuket

Local Bus – Small buses connect Phuket’s Old Town with the main beach resorts around the island, like Patong and Karon. They’re slow because of the number of stops to make, but they’re cheap and reliable. Shared minibusses are also common. It’s just 100-200 THB to get across the island or 150 THB from the airport to Patong Beach, but it can be an exercise in patience.

Songthaews – Songthaews are covered trucks that have been converted into multi-passenger vehicles (the truck’s box is usually converted with two wooden benches for seating). There are no set stops like the local bus — you just have to flag one down that is headed in your direction and get off when you need to. There is usually a sign on the dashboard to let you know where the final stop is. Negotiate your fare ahead of time. A ride in a songthaew usually starts around 25-50 THB.

A songthaew from Patong Beach to the airport costs 1,000 THB, and to other beaches (like Kamala, Kata, or Surin) it costs around 500 THB.

Motorbike Taxi – A motorbike taxi costs about 60 THB per short journey around town. It’s quick but it’s not the safest option so I’d probably avoid them if you can.

Tuk-Tuk – The tuk-tuks in Phuket look more like songthaews than the tuk-tuks in other parts of Thailand. These can be even more expensive than metered taxis because the drivers work together to avoid undercutting each other. Since there is no public transportation between the beaches, and because other transportation tends to stop early in the evening, tuk-tuk drivers know that they can charge higher prices. A 3-kilometer (2-mile) ride in a tuk-tuk can cost about 335 THB. Shorter distances average about 100 THB.

Taxi – Metered taxis are expensive, but sometimes they’re cheaper than tuk-tuks. Their fares start at 50 THB per two kilometers. Non-metered taxis typically charge flat rates and are not really necessary for long distances. An hour-long journey from the airport to Patong is around 900 THB.

Ridesharing – The Grab app is like the Uber of Thailand — prices are cheaper than taxis, and you’re driven by a local in their vehicle. You can pay via the app or in cash, and you get a price estimate for your journey before you even get in the car. Having said that, in Phuket, the prices are sometimes not much different than taxis. You can get from Patong to Karon for less than 200 THB, while Kata to Karon is about 120 THB.

When to Go to Phuket

Like the other islands in this part of Thailand, the peak season in Phuket is from November to April. If you travel from May through October, you avoid the busiest season and save quite a bit of money, although it may be rainy.

November to February are the coolest months, with temperatures between 23-30°C (73-86°F). February is the driest month and is the best time of the year to be a beach bum.

The end of March to mid-May is the hottest time of year. It’s just before monsoon season hits, so humidity is high and temperatures soar into the high 30s°C (90s°F). If you can’t tolerate the heat, don’t come during this time.

Mid-May to October is the Monsoon season in Phuket. Although it rains for a while each day, the temperature averages about 28°C (84°F) per day. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, this is an excellent time to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Phuket

Phuket is safe, especially for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. It’s one of the easiest places in Thailand to meet other solo travelers, so you’re never really on your own here.

That said, petty theft (including bag snatching) can occur here so always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in popular tourist areas. Avoid flashing your valuables and don’t leave any valuables unattended when at the beach.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

Patong is a party destination so most people run into problems here when they’re drunk and stupid. Don’t overdo it, and always be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Although uncommon, travelers have been known to fail victim to drugging so they can be mugged or molested. Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers for that reason.

Do not do drugs or participate in the sex industry. Both can have severe consequences here and lead to huge fines and jail time. Don’t risk it.

If you’re worried about scams, read this post on common travel scams to avoid.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more information about safety in Southeast Asia, check out this article .

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Phuket Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Phuket Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Thailand travel and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hostels in Chiang Mai

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Teaching English in Thailand

Is Bangkok Safe to Visit?

The Complete Guide to Diving in Koh Tao

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

PHUKET TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget, Itinerary, Things to Do

It was almost midnight when I emerged from the airport terminal. There were no more buses, only cabs that had been aggressively calling for passengers. But I couldn’t afford a ride alone. I approached some of my fellow Pinoy travelers from my flight, but they just looked at me as though I was going to scam them. Hahaha. That’s totally understandable. Back home, we’re told and taught not to trust strangers at the airport. Too bad, I desperately needed companions to split taxi fares with.

Phuket was the first stop on my fourth backpacking trip across Southeast Asia, second in Thailand. This time, I’d be visiting cities that I skipped the first time. I wasn’t going to be alone for the whole trip. Two friends would be joining me in Bangkok until Vietnam. I chose to start in Phuket to be alone even just for one stop.

Finally, I spotted two other solo travelers just standing by the taxi line. And just like that, I gained new fleeting friends. This is why I missed solo backpacking so much!

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING PHUKET

Is Phuket an ideal destination for solo backpacking? Yes and no, depending on why you’re doing it. If you’re traveling alone so you could meet other like-minded souls, then yes, it could be a great place for you. If you’re embarking on a solitary journey to chase some peace and quiet, hmmm, not quite.

An island off the coast of Southern Thailand, Phuket is the richest province in the country and one of the most visited destinations in the Southeast Asian region. It’s a favorite weekend getaway for domestic tourists, a common stop for cruise ships, and a bridge for Bangkok-bound backpackers from Malaysia and Singapore.

Here are more facts about Phuket.

• Language : Thai. Their language can be quite daunting to non-native speakers, especially its lengthy words and tongue-twisting pronunciations, but as with every other language, it only intimidates in the beginning. English isn’t widely spoken, but what the locals lack in English fluency, they make up for with their friendly attitude toward tourists.
• Currency : Thai Baht (THB, ฿). THB100 is roughly USD3, EUR 2.6, PHP 163 (as of June 2018). Exchange rates at the airport are bad, so if you have a MasterCard/Visa/Cirrus ATM, just withdraw from one of the many machines inside the terminal. If you don’t have one, just exchange enough to get you to your hotel.
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments prefer cash.
• Safety : Phuket is generally safe and tourist-friendly. But scams run aplenty, so always be on guard and vigilant.
• Electricity Info : 220V. Power sockets are types A, B, and C. Modern buildings use Type B, but old ones use Types A (two flat prongs) or Type C (two round prongs).

WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET

It doesn’t look like it on the map, but Phuket is a big island. Getting from one key attraction to another can take over an hour, so it’s important that you pick the right place to stay. For tourists, there are four major areas with plenty of lodging options:

• Patong Beach . The island’s most developed beach. It’s bursting with big resorts, inns, restaurants, bars, and other establishments. If crazy nightlife and watersports are what you’re after, stay here.
• Karon Beach . The cove to the immediate south of Patong Beach. It’s lined with resorts across the road, but it’s nowhere near as crazy as Patong.
• Kata Beach . Situated south of Karon. There are fewer big resorts here but it has lots of guesthouses. It’s much quieter than the other two.
• Phuket Town . The island’s economic center, located in the southeastern part of Phuket. Accommodations here are much cheaper than those along the beaches, which makes it a great option for budget travelers. If you’re after heritage and culture, stay here.

The area where you should stay depends on your interests. Below are the top-rated properties on Agoda.

Top Budget Hotels in Phuket

• Alen Guesthouse . Patong. Check Rates & Availability .
• Pennapa Chalet . Chalong. Check Rates & Availability .
• La Maison Ya Nui Resort Phuket . Naiharn. Check Rates & Availability .
• Delish House . Patong. Check Rates & Availability .
• The Memory at On On Hotel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .

Top Phuket Hostels and Dorms

• Backpack Hostel Kohyaoyai . Koh Yao Yai. Check Rates & Availability .
• Shunli Hostel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .
• Goodnight Hostel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .
• Hugger Hostel . Phuket Town. Check Rates & Availability .
• Lupta Hostel Patong Hideaway . Patong. Check Rates & Availability .

Search for more Phuket Hotels

HOW TO GET TO PHUKET

Although relatively small, Phuket International Airport (IATA: HKT) is Thailand’s second biggest hub and second busiest airport. Most flights operating here come from or go to Bangkok and other destinations within ASEAN like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. However, during high season, some airlines mount flights from Australia or Europe.

Bangkok to Phuket

There are three ways to reach Phuket from Bangkok: by plane, by bus, or by train.

• By Plane . Low-cost carriers Nok Air and AirAsia offer the cheapest Bangkok-Phuket flights. You can find fares for only around ฿1000, excluding meals, baggage allowance, and other fees. Travel time: 1.5 hours.
• By Train . There are no direct trains from Bangkok to Phuket. What you can do is take the train to Surat Thani instead, and from there, travel by bus for the rest of the trip. The train part takes 8 hours. The bus, around 5 hours. I haven’t done this myself, so I can’t say if it’s advisable or not.
• By Bus . This I’ve tried. The bus is the cheapest. The downside, it takes 13 to 16 hours, depending on traffic. The public bus (BKS bus) is generally okay, but because it’s a loooong ride, you might want to be more comfortable. Private companies like Phuket Travel, Phuket Central, and Bus Express offer trips for only ฿643 per person. Reservations are possible and recommended in peak season. Reserve a Ticket Here .

Whether you want to travel by train or by bus, you can book via 12Go below. 12Go is bus- and train-booking service specializing in Southeast Asian destinations.

Manila to Phuket

The cheapest flights from Manila to Phuket are operated by JetStar (which entails an 11- to 16-hour stopover in Singapore) and AirAsia (9-hour stopover in Kuala Lumpur). Fares can go as low as P4500, one way, excluding meals and baggage allowance.

A combo Cebu Pacific-Scoot flight is also an option, but it involves a one-day layover in Singapore too. Fares are usually between P5800 (promo) and P9000 (year-round), excluding baggage allowance and meals.

Phuket Airport to Phuket City

Phuket Town (aka เมืองภูเก็ต Mueang Phuket or Phuket City) is a popular base for travelers. You can reach it by bus, minibus, or taxi.

• By Bus . Exit the terminal and turn left. You’ll find an AIRPORT BUS sign. Look for orange buses. There’s one bus every hour from 6:30am to 9:30pm. Fare is only ฿90. No need to reserve. Just buy your ticket from the driver. Travel time: 1.5 hours.
• By Minivan . This is a slightly faster option. Fare: ฿120.
• By Taxi . There are two types of taxis operating at the airport. The limousine taxi, which is pricey, and the regular metered taxi. The ones that aggressively look for passengers from their booths inside the terminal are limousine cabs, so just ignore them. To find a metered cab, exit the terminal and look for a booth with the sign “Taxi Meter.” Fare is between ฿650 and ฿1100. Travel time: 40 minutes.

Phuket Airport to Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach

If you’re in a hotel or resort in Patong, Karon or Kata Beach, here’s how you can get there from the airport.

• By Bus . Exit the terminal and turn left. You’ll find an AIRPORT BUS sign. Look for cream-colored buses, which stop at Patong, Kata, and Karon. The first bus leaves the airport at 7:30am. Fares are ฿150 for Patong Beach and ฿200 for Kata or Karon Beach. No need to reserve. Just buy your ticket from the driver.
• By Minivan . Fares are ฿180 to Patong Beach and ฿200 to Kata or Karon Beach.
• By Taxi . There are two types of taxis operating at the airport. The limousine taxi, which is pricey, and the regular metered taxi. The ones that aggressively look for passengers from their booths inside the terminal are limousine cabs, so just ignore them. To find a metered cab, exit the terminal and look for a booth with the sign “Taxi Meter.” Fares are usually ฿800-1400 for Patong Beach and ฿900-1600 for Karon or Kata Beach. Just split the cost amongst yourselves if you’re a group. Travel time: around 1 hour.

THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET

Because Phuket is an archipelago, most of the activities that you can enjoy in Phuket are beach related: island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and watersports. Phuket is also a great jump off point for islands that belong to Krabi, a nearby province, which is also a burgeoning tourist destination. For example, Phi Phi Island (Ko Phi Phi Le) is actually within Krabi, but is easily accessible from Phuket.

Here are some things you can do in and around Phuket.

Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay

The Phi Phi Islands are some of the most famous beach destinations in Thailand. The archipelago is actually within the territory of nearby Krabi Province, but it can be conveniently reached from Phuket. Karst cliffs rise from clear, turquoise waters, as though ushering visitors in. If you’ve been to El Nido, it’s very much like it. The largest island in the group is Ko Phi Phi Don, while the second largest is Ko Phi Phi Le.

In Ko Phi Phi Le, the most popular attraction is Maya Bay, well-known as the filming location of the Leonardo DiCaprio-starring Holywood blockbuster “The Beach”. It has recently been closed to tourists, but I’m not sure whether or not it has been reopened since.

To get to Ko Phi Phi on your own, the most usual option is to take a ferry. First, you need to make your way to Rassada Pier in Phuket Town. From here, board the ferry to Ko Phi Phi Don. Travel time: 2 hours. One-way fare is ฿500.

If you want to make the most of your time, you can join a group tour instead. This way, you also get to visit multiple islands without worrying about transportation. Klook’s speedboat tour also include meals. You can also opt to include roundtrip transfers so you can get picked up and dropped off at your hotel.

Here are the usual stops:

• Monkey Island
• Mosquito Island
• Khai Nok Island

James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay Tour

Phang Nga Bay separates Phuket from Krabi. It’s specked with big and small islands, many of which are fringed by limestone cliffs and mangrove forests. Hundreds of tour options are available in Phuket alone, highlighting many magnificent natural and cultural attractions. Tour stops often vary from operator to operator, so make sure you check the inclusions before booking. But here are the usual activities included:

• A stop at James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan), nicknamed after the hero of the 007 movie that was filmed here
• Kayaking through the caves and hidden lagoons of Panak Island and Hong Island
• Seeing the Reclining Buddha at Suwankuha Temple
• A stop at Panyee floating village, a muslim fishing community

You can join a BIG BOAT TOUR or a LONG TAIL BOAT TOUR. The big boat is best for those who suffer from sea sickness. You’ll be joining a big group here. On the other hand, the long tail boat is a small traditional boat, which is more intimate.

Phuket Old Town Heritage Tour

At first glance, Phuket Town appears to be just your ordinary Thai town, but it’s rich in heritage. You can easily explore it on your own, but it’s better to have a guide who can explain the history of its every street, corner and building.

A usual group tour will take you to the following:

• Wat Koh Siray , Buddhist temple that houses a huge reclining Buddha among others. The grounds also allow stunning views of nearby islands.
• Phuket Downtown , with stops at key landmarks like the Old Police Station, Chinpracha House, Thai Hua museum and other structures
• Market , to try various native and exotic fruits and ingredients

Some tours also include a meal at a restaurant.

Klook has two half-day tours with a meal: one in the morning, which ends with a lunch; and the other in the afternoon that culminates in a dinner. You can book below.

Thai Cooking Class

It’s something that I love doing when I’m in Thailand. I adore Thai food and every chance I get to learn (while making friends) is something I tremendously enjoy. Most tours usually begin with a visit to the market to gather ingredients. Much of the time will then be spent cooking and preparing various Thai dishes. The class ends with filling your face with what you cooked! Rates already include the prices of the ingredients.

Most classes take half a day. But some companies offer full day classes, at a higher price of course.

Klook has at least two cooking classes, organized by different operators.

Thai Traditional Costume Rental

You can get into a full traditional Thai costume for a more memorable walk around Phuket. They will dress you up in your chosen set and style your hair. You can take photos on your own or hire a photographer.

Patong Beach

Patong is Phuket’s flagship beach. It is what Kuta Beach is to Bali, and White Beach to Boracay. It is the most popular, most developed, and not surprisingly, most crowded beach in the island. Aside from swimming, sun bathing, and just walking along the shore, you can enjoy other activities like:

• Jet ski: ฿15000 per 30 minutes
• Water ski: ฿1200 per 15 minutes
• Wakeboard: ฿1200 per 15 minutes
• Parasailing: ฿1200 per person
• Banana Boat: ฿600 per person

A vibrant nightlife also takes over the island, especially Patong Beach. Clubs and bars flank its streets. A visit can leave you culture shocked, if you know what I mean.

Khai Islands Tour

The Khai Islands are composed of three islands: Khai Nai, Khai Nui, and Khai Nok. All three are laced with stunning white beaches and crystal clear, turquoise waters. Snorkeling is also a popular activity here. Located just 10km from the main island of Phuket, it can be reached after 20-30 minutes by speedboat.

Klook’s tour includes tour guide, roundtrip transfers, and entrance fees. Full day tour includes lunch.

Other Attractions

SAMPLE PHUKET ITINERARY

Here’s a sample weekend itinerary. In reality, I stayed much longer than a weekend. But if I only had 3 days and 2 nights, here’s how I would have done it.

Note that it assumes you’re staying in Patong and booking your tours via Klook. Feel free to make the necessary adjustments to match your preferences.

Day 1: ARRIVAL, PATONG 01:00pm – Arrival in Phuket 01:30pm – Bus to Patong, ฿150 03:00pm – Check in at hotel 04:00pm – Walk along Patong Beach 06:00pm – Back at hotel to freshen up 07:30pm – Dinner, ฿200 09:00pm – See Patong nightlife

If you stay in a dorm and spend only ฿400 per night, the above itinerary will set you back around ฿4500 (USD136, EUR118, SGD186, PHP7300) excluding airfare and travel tax.

You can spend much less if you decide to replace the Phang Nga Bay Tour with a DIY Phuket Heritage Tour on Day 2.

Of course, it also depends heavily on your spending habits. It’s always best practice to pad this budget and give it wiggle room so you won’t be strapped for cash just in case something comes up or you decide to try something not on the itinerary.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is phuket safe.

It is, but beware of scams. Plenty of scams plague Phuket, they probably merit a separate, dedicated blog post. But here are some of the most rampant.

• Jet-ski rental scam. Their modus operandi is, they rent out a jet ski and then when you return it, they complain that it is damaged. The catch is, the damage has always been there and they’re just trying to get settlement money from you. Same with motorcycles. There are even cases when the motorcycles are stolen by the same owners so they could demand money from the victim. These scams are the main reason why I never tried to rent anything in Phuket. But if you must, take plenty of photos of the unit before you go so you have proof that you’re returning it in the same condition.
• Survey or promo scam. Don’t trust easily. Some locals or even foreigners may approach you for many things like quick surveys. Many of these are scams. They will tell you you’ve won something. Don’t fall for it. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
• Taxi scams. Some cabs, especially those picking passengers at the airport, will make unnecessary stops. Sometimes at a travel agent, who will tell you that your hotel is closed or fully booked, in a ploy to get you to book another one through them. Some will take you to a jewelry stop, where you will be compelled to purchase overpriced gemstones. Hail a cab at the right places. During my stay, because I got close with the hotel staff, I just asked them to find a tuktuk and they negotiate the fare for me. I never ran into any problem and paid just the right amount.
• Tuktuk Scams. Agree on the fare with the tuktuk driver before the trip. Many tuktuk drivers are hustlers. They will charge way more than they should. If you’re a group, they will even claim that what you had agreed on was per person, not per ride. So make sure it’s clear to both parties.

In cases of emergency, call the Tourist Police phone number: 1155.

What is the tipping custom in Phuket?

Tipping is not mandatory in Phuket but it is surely appreciated . When eating at restaurants, just round off your bill. For example, if your bill is ฿135, you can leave ฿150 and tell the staff to keep the change. Same with cabs. If the meter is ฿105, round it off to ฿110 or ฿120. At hotels, you can give ฿20 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room.

When is the best time to visit Phuket?

December to April . These months are the driest. Not surprisingly, they also make up the biggest chunk of the island’s high season. January to February is the coolest period, perfect for sightseeing, but it’s also the most crowded.

Temperatures begin to rise and the monsoon kicks in mid-May, lasting until October. August-October is the period that catches the most rainfall, so if you can avoid it, do so. November is when the high season begins again.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 6️⃣ • 2️⃣9️⃣

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Clearly explained the different things that are required to be known by any visitor who is going to want to visit Phuket especially the tip regarding staying away from scams in this place is really a useful one. I like the way you have given simplicity in your content convenient for readers to understand and even book the tickets if wanted.

Keep posting such cool posts!

Simply Superb dude.. Great job

Planning a short trip soon, this is really helpful. Salamat

Enjoy! Have a great time in Phuket!

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Phuket on a budget: Things to do with a small budget in Phuket

Looking for the best things to do with a small budget in Phuket? This guide help you find the best cheap things to do in Phuket. From island hopping to jungle treks and more.

Last Update: March 5, 2024

If you are looking for suggestions on how to visit Phuket on a budget , this is the right place. Phuket has a reputation for being costly and a playground for the rich and famous. Let’s be honest being a backpacker in Southeast Asia you have to keep your expenses on track.

The risk to go over the expected budget is high visiting Phuket. We explored the biggest island of Thailand, riding our white scoopy for over two weeks, looking for the cheapest things to do in Phuket.

Yep, backpackers can enjoy Phuket too and for a minimal daily budget. We handpicked those activities , and it will surprise you how many things you can do in Phuket with a small budget.

From jungle treks to island-hopping cooking classes to cabaret shows, it overflows with budget-friendly things to do if you know where to look. Join us as we spill the secrets of 21 of our favourite wallet-friendly Phuket experiences.

Enjoy Phuket Without Breaking the Bank: 21 Budget-Friendly Activities

People are often skipping Phuket because too pricey, or get too popular to find a quiet spot. Well, you landed on the best guide to make a Phuket dreamy vacation still possible, without spending a fortune. Before we dive into the best budget tips, take time to read our complete itinerary of Phuket in 3 days .

Keytakeaway | Saving money in Phuket

The key to saving money in Thailand is being a savvy and a flexible traveller. Using public transportation, lodging, eating, entertainment, and shopping options will suit your budget.

Avoid pre-packaged tourism when possible and instead walk, take local transport, stay in guesthouses, eat street food, choose free activities, and bargain shop.

By living like a local rather than a luxury tourist, you can experience the amazing culture Thailand has to offer while keeping your trip remarkably affordable. The deals are there – you just have to seek them out!

How to do Phuket on a budget?

Visiting the places we suggest below, you will make sure to stay on a budget visiting Phuket. There is a mix of free things and low price activities. We assure you Phuket is worth visiting even if you stick only to free beaches and sightseeing.

• Best beaches in Phuket
• Explore Phuket Town
• Phuket Island Hopping

Phuket Viewpoints

• Chalong Pier
• Watch sunset from Big Buddha

Wat Chalong Temple

Phuket sunday night market, naka weekend market, hit the beach.

Rolling waves, powder soft sand, fiery pink sunsets… Phuket boasts over 30 stunning beaches that you can enjoy for free.

Of course, the busier beaches have their appeal, with beach bars, surf schools and people watching galore. But nothing beats the tranquillity of having a stretch of sand almost to yourself.

Some of our favourite quieter beaches include Freedom Beach , Ya Nui, Nai Thon, Nai Yang, and Mai Khao in the north or secluded Paradise Beach in the southwest.

Spend the afternoon at Freedom Beach

Freedom beach is among our favourites in Phuket. It’s a little unknown and secluded in a fantastic calm bay, perfect for snorkelling. If you are looking for the best off-the-beaten-path experience in the perfect spot to relax and have a lazy day in Phuket.

You can get to Freedom beach by boat from Patong. Bargain a passage with a local. Hop on a longtail boat for about 20 minutes for just 500 baht ($15 USD)overall. If you are good at bargaining, you can get for less.

As this aims to be a budget guide to Phuket, the cost-effective way to get to Freedom Beach is by scooter. Read our guide for deeper information.

Mai Khao Beach | Watch airplanes landing

We sat on our cute scoopy and drove for over one hour to get to Mai Khao Beach. The famous beach, often featured on leading Instagram stories, is well known because it is located next to Phuket Airport.

You can watch aeroplanes taking off and landing. When we visited, many people were trying to snap the perfect shot. We catch our best one; you can get it too. Mai Khao Beach is free to enter , which makes it one of the best budget places to visit in Phuket.

Laem Singh Beach

Idyllic Laem Singh Beach regularly tops lists of Phuket’s most beautiful bays, with crystal clear turquoise waters lapping powder white sand. Sitting just north of Kamala Beach , sheer limestone cliffs encircle the hidden cove, keeping the crowds away.

While the beach bars and cafes add to the area’s popularity, a dip here remains totally free. Bring your own drinks and snacks, lay your towel on the sand and relax amidst some of Phuket’s most jaw dropping scenery.

Surin Beach

While it lacks the glitz and glamour of Patong or Kata, Surin Beach’s beautiful white sand and turquoise waters attract a chic crowd. Sitting on Millionaire’s Mile, private villas peep between swaying palms and 5 star resorts like the Twin Palms perch above the bay.

By day, rent a sun lounger or beach umbrella from one vendor right on the shoreline. By night, sip sundowners and gaze at spectacular sunsets from beachfront bars like Catch Beach Club . And with far fewer crowds than further south, you can soak up all the tropical ambience for a fraction of the price.

READ MORE: – Southeast Asia budget guide! Here is how you keep track of expenses. – Bangkok vs Chiang Mai | A guide to two best cities in Thailand – Phuket itinerary: How to spend 3 days in Southern Thailand

Phuket activities for free | Things to do with a small budget in Phuket!

Explore phuket town | cheap things to do in phuket.

Phuket isn’t just flashy resorts and touristic beaches. Venturing inland, away from the popular Instagram spots of Phuket , you will see what looks like the everyday local life amongst Sino-Portuguese architecture.

Stroll through bustling fresh markets and mom-and-pop shops on Thalang, Phang Nga and Yaowarat Roads. Pop into indie galleries and cafes. And don’t miss the night markets – our favourite is the Sunday Walking Street Market on Thalang Road , where you can graze the food stalls for under $5.

Watch the sunset from Big Buddha

You can’t visit Phuket without paying respects to Big Buddha – the monumental marble statue gazing over the island from Nakkerd Hills .

Taking the windy road up to the summit rewards you with 360-degree views across Phuket. Check out the various shrines, feed the mischievous monkeys, or stop for cheap Thai street food at the food stalls lining the parking lot. Just remember to dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered.

For priceless panoramas without the price tag, head to one of Phuket’s many viewpoints. One of our favourite sunset spot is Promthep Cape in Rawai, where locals fly kites against pink and purple skies.

In the heart of Phuket town , monkey-infested Rang Hill and sacred Khao Rang offer gorgeous glimpses of urban life framed by jungle clad hills. Or, for a 360-degree vista encompassing Phuket’s west coast, venture up tiny Karon Viewpoint.

Arrive an hour before sundown, bring some snacks and soak up the unbelievable island sunsets for free.

Explore Old Phuket Town

For a glimpse of life before the tourism boom, meander the streets of Old Phuket Town . Wandering this 150-year-old district transports you back in time amongst Sino-Portuguese shop houses, ornate Chinese temples and crumbling colonial mansions.

Must-visit landmarks include the century-old Jui Tui shrine with its elaborate Taoist altar and the Indigenous Museum housed within an 80 year old tin baron mansion. Don’t miss the dramatically restored Soo Teng Chinese temple with its golden dragons swirling across blood red walls.

Afterwards, refuel with traditional Nyonya cuisine at the low key Kopitiam by Wilai restaurant on funky Thalang Road .

You can’t talk about Phuket’s Buddhist temples without mentioning the stunning Wat Chalong. This ornate temple complex plays a pivotal role in island history, commemorating revered monks who sheltered people during violent Chinese riots in 1876.

Today, it remains the spiritual heart of Phuket. Towering tiled pagodas house sacred relics as monks chant, and locals make offerings of lotus blossoms and incense. Don’t miss the Grand Pagoda’s Tree of Life , crafted from thousands of tiny Buddha statuettes. Entry is free; just dress respectfully.

Kata Viewpoint

While Kata Noi and Kata Yai beaches lure most visitors, venture to Kata Viewpoint for postcard panoramas without the crowds.

Take the steep 10-minute hike through a jungle dotted with Buddhist shrines, braving cheeky monkeys along the way. Emerge to sweeping views of Kata’s twin bays, verdant headlands and the Andaman Sea glittering into the horizon.

Arrive for sunset when the rocks blaze gold and red, and bring some chilled beers and toast to paradise as the sun sinks into the sea. It’s one of Phuket’s most gorgeous free shows.

For a quintessential Thai market experience without other tourists, head north to Naka Weekend Market . Only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 4pm, it draws in locals with its authentic food stalls, handicrafts and carnival rides.

Graze the food section for fiery green papaya salad, crispy pork belly or coconut curried chicken with rice, costing just a few dollars per dish. Browse stalls selling cheap clothes, accessories and souvenirs. And don’t miss classics like grilled sweet corn, coconut ice cream and fresh mango with sticky rice.

Phuket Farmers Market

For the freshest local produce and flavours, schedule your trip to coincide with the monthly Phuket Farmers Market . Held six times per year at a different location each time, it brings together the island’s organic farmers and food vendors.

Sample exotic fruits and vegetables alongside delicious home-cooked curries, spicy dips, and sweet treats. Browse stalls selling natural soaps, candles, essential oils and other handicrafts made from local ingredients. The market perfectly captures Phuket’s wholesome local soul. Check dates and locations on their Facebook page so you don’t miss out.

Thailand 3 weeks itinerary for backpackers

A detailed guide on how to spend 3 weeks in Thailand is the perfect plan for backpackers planning a trip to Thailand for 3 weeks! READ HERE!

Phuket Town Night Market

Like everywhere else in Thailand, Markets are the big attraction. Phuket Town Night Market is not less, and you should come here for a more authentic local shopping experience. Running daily from 4pm to 10pm, it’s frequented far more by locals than tourists.

Browse the labyrinth of affordable stalls selling cheap clothes, souvenirs, accessories and knock-off brands. Refuel at the atmospheric food court, with dishes starting from just $1. And don’t miss the classic coconut ice cream vendor at the front entrance – the perfect sweet ending to your market adventures!

Apart from the “smaller” night market held in Phuket every day, there is the biggest event of the week on Sunday. The street of Phuket Old town are close to the traffic, and transform in a huge, crowded pedstrian-only area.

Wander between the rows of colourful stalls, try your hand at haggling, graze the open-air food court and soak up the electric atmosphere – all the night market action comes with bargain basement prices.

Phuket on a budget | Activities and things to do in Phuket for cheap

Island hopping | go on a tour vs your own.

We went on the best island hopping tour from Phuket. It was fantastic as it was cheap compared to the biggest names advertised out there. With turquoise waters dotted with limestone cliffs, secret coves and deserted beaches, island hopping around Phuket reveals the real Thai paradise. The one you have always only seen in youtube videos, like the one above. 

The standard day trip visits Phi Phi, Khai and Bamboo Islands for around $50 per person; CHECK IT HERE . But for the ultimate budget adventure, to organize on your own, hire a local long-tail boat from any major beach for just $100 (for the whole boat, if you are good at bargains).

Captain your own island adventure – we recommend the quieter islands like Coral or Racha for ultimate castaway vibes.

Phuket Simon Cabaret Show

For things to do at night in Phuket, we have got you covered. Simon Cabaret is the world famous ladyboy show. It’s a fun night out in Phuket, and just for $30 per person. BOOK YOUR TICKET HERE AND SAVE MONEY.

The smiling performers may make it all look effortless. This is a great way to support locals and this marginalized community. Enjoy the show with an open mind and heart.

Cooking Class

The flavours of Thai cuisine dazzle the senses – from creamy coconut curries to spicy papaya salads. Unlock the secrets yourself by joining one of Phuket’s many cooking classes, priced from $30 per person.

Not only will you take home awesome recipes to wow friends back home. You’ll also enjoy market tours to discover exotic ingredients before cooking up a storm and sitting down to feast on the fruits of your labour. It’s one of the most delicious ways to immerse in local culture.

Chalong Pier Seafood

Skip the overpriced seafood restaurants aimed at tourists. Instead, head to local favourite Chalong Pier for the island’s freshest, cheapest seafood. Following this tip you are sure to stick with your daily budget while visiting Phuket .

Wander the pier as trawlers unload the daily catch, then pick your prey from the vendor stalls. Options range from prawns, lobster, crab and shellfish to whole fish and calamari, priced at a fraction you’d pay elsewhere.

Take your haul to one of the simple restaurants facing the pier, and they’ll grill it to perfection, served with sticky rice, chilli sauce and some tam papaya salad.

Khao Sok National Park

Escape the crowds with a trip to Khao Sok National Park, where towering limestone cliffs lord over the jungle and the world’s oldest evergreen rainforest cloaks misty lakes.

Just a few hours’ drive from Phuket, entrance fees cost under $15 . Hire a long tail boat to explore the vast Cheow Lan Lake, swim in hidden lagoons or trek through thick jungle to thunderous waterfalls.

Stay overnight in a floating jungle cabin for just $50 per night. Drifting off under the jungle’s neon starscape is an experience you’ll never forget.

Khao Sok Floating Appartments

You can float over the water in Khao Sok National Park. Surrounded by green hills and a beautiful lake, the 500 Rai Floating Resort is one of the dreamy hotels in Thailand. Enjoy the private outdoor pool, eat locally, and enjoy the longtail boat journey from Ratchaprapa Pier.

Phuket Trickeye Museum

When tropical rain showers drive you indoors, the Phuket Trickeye Museum promises quirky fun for the whole family. This interactive art gallery brings paintings to life via clever trompe l’oeil techniques and mind boggling optical illusions.

Strike a pose, pushing over the Leaning Tower of Pisa, hugging the Mona Lisa or balancing the Sphinx on your palm. Kids will adore the Harry Potter themed gallery where they can ride a broomstick or battle a Hungarian Horntail dragon. At just $12 per adult, it’s a great budget friendly activity.

Thai Boxing

Muay Thai kickboxing plays a central role in Thai culture , with fighters revered as heroes. To witness the martial art’s raw power and grace, catch a local boxing match during your stay.

Major stadiums located around Phuket host fights two or three times per week , with ringside seats costing under $20. Audience participation is half the fun – from shouting betting odds to cheering victorious underdogs. Just leave your squeamishness at home, as the competition is fierce!

Gibbon Rehabilitation Center

For a heartwarming experience, visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center near Bang Pae waterfall. This sanctuary cares for white handed gibbons rescued from Thailand’s illegal pet trade or deforestation.

Join a guided tour to observe the cute primates living free in the jungle, learning how they’re rehabilitated before being released back into national parks. Donations fund this vital conservation work – but if you’re short on cash, simply pay by volunteering your time. You’ll receive heaps of gibbon cuddles!

How much spending money do you need per day in Phuket?

If you’re really budgeting, plan for 800-1,000 baht per day , covering food, attractions, transportation, and cheap accommodation outside the major resorts. But realistically, 1,200-1,500 baht gives more choices for food and activities. Track spending to stay on budget in Phuket.

How to save money in Thailand

Here are my top tips for saving money when travelling in Thailand:

• Use public transport like buses and trains instead of taxis or private drivers.
• Walk or rent a bike when sightseeing in cities instead of using tuk-tuks or songthaews all the time.
• For longer distances, consider flying with budget airlines (AirAsia, NokNok, Vietjet Air, Thai Airways are great) over taking the train or bus to save time and potentially money.

TOUR ON A BUDGET WE SUGGEST: – Maya Bay, Bamboo Island and more + Lunch – James Bond Island by longtail boat (Very Cheap!) – Phuket ATV Jungle Adventure (Just $25)

Accommodation

• Stay in basic guesthouses instead of luxury hotels and resorts. Private rooms can be found for as low as 300 THB per night.
• Use hostels with shared dormitories for the most affordable rates. Great for solo travellers or backpackers.

Food & Drink

• Eat street food and local markets rather than at restaurants. You can find full meals for just 30-50 THB.
• Avoid drinking alcohol in bars and clubs.
• Prioritise public beaches, hiking, temple or self-guided city tours.
• For paid activities, look for discounts, free admissions days, or budget tour group packages. Check the offers here on our partner.

Shopping and souvenirs

• Bargain when shopping at street markets to try to lower the asking price.
• Minimize shopping in expensive malls or designer brand stores.

Following these money-saving habits throughout your trip can keep your spending to a minimum in Thailand! Let me know if you know other budget travel tips.

Strategic Accommodation and Travel

Early bird gets the best rates.

Secure pocket-friendly accommodations by booking early; this often unlocks better rates, especially during high seasons.  Consider hostels or quieter beaches for more economical stays.

Read Also: – How to get from Phuket to Koh Lanta – Is Phuket worth visiting? A pros and cons guide! – The best floating bungalows in Khao Sok National Park

Timing Matters: Low Season Benefits

Travelling during the low season offers substantial cost reductions across the board. With lower prices and better bargaining power, it’s an opportune time to explore Phuket.

Smart Travel Moves that save us money in Thailand

Get a cheap local sim to order a bolt when you arrive at the airport and avoid roaming charges. You can also look for e-sim, Airalo is a great option . The e-sim give the advantage of having network when landing. Also, consider skipping overpriced hotel breakfasts; most of the time isn’t worth the price.

Rent a scooter outside the city centre for better prices. Book the accommodation at mid-way between the old town and the beaches.

Book your travel insurance now!

Where to stay in phuket on a budget.

AFFORDABLE STAY

PURE PHUKET

If you are planning to stay in Phuket for an extended period, consider staying at Pure Phuket Residence . This hotel is located in the old town, just 10 minutes away from the main street.

The rooms are spacious and clean, making it a perfect place for solo travellers or couples.

BOOK YOUR STAY NOW!

Amari Phuket

If you’re planning a trip to Phuket for the holidays, Amari Phuket is the perfect place to stay. Your stay here will surely be unforgettable with its private beach and incredible amenities.

“The whole resort was phenomenal, the location, the staff, the facilities, the room – everything was just incredible. I have been raving to friends and family about it, and I will definitely stay again next time in Thailand.”

FAQ | Phuket on a budget

How do you get around phuket cheaply.

The cheapest ways to get around Phuket are by public Songthaew mini-buses and motorbike taxis. Agree on fares beforehand and expect to pay around 30-40 baht for short trips. Public buses go between beaches for similar low fares. Metered taxis and hotel shuttles can also be affordable options for getting around Phuket.

Which areas of Phuket are cheap?

Phuket Town has the cheapest shopping, dining, and hotels. Quieter beach towns like Karon, Kamala, and Patong also offer good-budget accommodation and food. But avoid the luxury resorts in places like Surin Beach and Bang Tao unless money is no object.

How cheap are taxis in Phuket?

Local metered taxis are a fairly cheap way to get around Phuket, with base fares of around 150 baht , then just a few baht per kilometre. Agree on fares in advance with unmetered taxis or tuk-tuks to avoid hassles. Expect to pay 200+ baht for longer trips with negotiations.

How much is tuk tuk Phuket?

Tuk-tuk prices are not regulated, so agree on fares beforehand. Short trips around a beach area will cost 100-300 baht, while transfers between beach towns run 300-700 baht. Compare to metered taxis, tour buses, or public buses to find the best deals.

Is it cheap to eat in Phuket?

Dining in Phuket can be very inexpensive. Local street food and food stalls offer authentic Thai dishes from 40-50 baht upwards. Even basic local restaurants have bowls of noodles and curries for under 100 baht. Just avoid the resorts and Western places to eat cheaply.

What is the cheapest transport from Phuket airport?

The airport is 30+ minutes from Phuket’s beaches. The cheapest option is the public airport bus to Phuket Town, costing around 100 baht. From there, take public Songthaews to the beaches. Metered taxis and mini-buses are 500-800 baht, depending on the destination.

How much is a beer in Phuket?

In budget restaurants and bars in towns like Karon or Kamala, Chang beer buckets (five beers on ice) can cost around 350 baht all night. But expat bars, clubs, and luxury resorts jack up beer prices to 100-150+ baht a bottle. Shop around for the best deals on Phuket beer.

Wrap-up! Can you visit Phuket with a small budget?

We hope our insider’s guide has convinced you that Phuket offers far more than just flashy five star resorts. Scratch beneath the surface to uncover a humble heart offering affordable adventures to suit all budgets.

With beautiful beaches, fascinating culture and delicious cuisine all available at wallet friendly rates, you’re bound to fall in love with the real Phuket.

Budget Travel Buff

How to Explore Phuket in 3 Days on a Budget

Heading off to Thailand and looking for how to spend 3 days in Phuket on a budget? Good choice my friend. The largest island of Thailand, Phuket is blessed with gorgeous temples, busy streets, lively bars and obviously some of the most beautiful beaches of Thailand. I put together a Phuket 3 days itinerary  below. It includes all the best places to visit in Phuket in three days.

Phuket is not all about its pristine beaches. It is such a beautiful place with so many different types of things to do in Phuket. I’ve been to Phuket several times and each time I find different things to do. I particularly like the vibe of Phuket. The atmosphere is rather peaceful and serene. It is much more laid back than other areas in Thailand.

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This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission  that encourages me to deliver more helpful  content for you .

WHEN TO VISIT PHUKET

Since Thailand is a tropical country, it is hot and humid and the day time temperature remains more or less constant year-round.  

High Season:   November to February  is the best time to visit Phuket when the weather is pleasant and sunny. However, try to avoid December and January as these are the peak months for tourists. The beaches are crowded and the price of accommodation is high  this time.

Shoulder Season:   April and November . There is a little chance to get rain but the crowd is less and you can find plenty of cheap hotels . If you are a budget travel buff , this is the best time to visit Phuket on a budget.

Low Season:  May to October is the monsoon season  in Phuket. Temperature is also hot this time. Tourists generally avoid these months to visit Phuket.

HOW TO GET TO PHUKET

Flight : The Phuket International Airport is well connected to Bangkok with daily flights. There are direct flights to Singapore, India, Malaysia, Australia and Germany. Bangkok to Phuket flight tickets costs around $30-$35 if you buy 3-4 months before  your journey. Travel time: 1.5 hour

You can book shared mini van service with 180 Baht pp  from the airport to reach your hotel around Phuket city.

Bus : You can get into a bus from Southern Bus Terminal or the Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal of Bangkok  that takes around 13-14 hours to reach Phuket. Air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned both types of buses are available at different prices. Book well in advance if you choose the overnight bus. An air-c onditioned bus ticket costs around $20-$30 .

• 10 Tips How to Book Cheap Flights
• How To Book Budget Hotels
• 10 Best Ways to Eat Cheap While Traveli ng

HOW TO GET AROUND PHUKET

Getting around Phuket is relatively easy as Phuket has different modes of public transport systems these include songthaew, tuk-tuk, taxi, motorcycle taxi, and rental motorcycle .

My advice would be if you travel with your family, hop on a songthaew, an openly shared passenger vehicle. Don’t forget to negotiate the price before getting into songthaew. It is also the best and cheapest way to get around the city for budget travelers or solo backpackers .

If you travel with your partner or if you want more fun and adventure, rent a motorcycle in Phuket. It is very common among tourists here. You have to present your passport and an international driving license  to rent a bike. Expect to pay a minimum 150 Baht/day  to rent the basic model. Just keep in mind, Thai drivers are quite aggressive, so drive carefully.

Tuk-tuk and local taxis  are also available in Phuket but make sure to negotiate your price before hop on any of these. If you don’t have a driving license you still have the chance to experience that hair-raising form of transportation. Booking a motorcycle taxi  would be great to experience the same.

WHERE TO STAY 3 DAYS IN PHUKET AT CHEAP

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and there is no shortage of budget accommodations in Phuket. Budget travelers and backpackers generally look for cheap hotels in Phuket, cheap hostels in Phuket and affordable accommodations in Phuket. However, most of the tourists tend to stay near Patong beach, Karon beach and Kata beach.

Patong  is the most popular and crazy beach in Phuket and it is pretty crowded with nightlife and adventurous water sports. There are plenty of budget hotels near Patong beach. Family travelers can also find several family resorts in Phuket.

If you want a crowd-free serene ambiance, Kata beach would be ideal for you to stay in Phuket. Spend a relaxing family holiday here. From affordable hostels to mid-range and luxury beach resorts- South Kata has ample accommodations of all range of prices.

Karon is also popular among backpackers and solo travelers who are looking for cheap accommodations in Phuket. There are several family hotels and honeymoon resorts near Karon beach at a reasonable price.

Cheap Hotels in Phuket:

• Paradise Beach Backpackers Hostel (Budget Hostel in Phuket)
• Hollyw ood Inn Love (1 km from Patong beach)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (near Karon beach)
• Sawasdee Village (near Kata beach)
• Shunli Hotel

Family Resorts in Phuket:

• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket (near Patong beach)
• L e Meridien Phuket Beach Resort (near Karon beach)
• Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa (near Karon beach)
• Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa (near Patong beach)
• Novotel Phuke t Karon Beach Resort and Spa

PHUKET 3 DAYS ITINERARY

Wondering what you should do in Phuket? Phuket can be traveled in 2 days if you are running out of time, it can be explored in 4 days if you are flexible with your time and budget. I recommend spending at least 3 days in Phuket to experience the best of it. I have split the Phuket itinerary in 3 days so that you can plan your Phuket trip in the most cost-efficient way.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN PHUKET IN 3 DAYS

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a popular tourist spot among travelers heading to southeast Asia. More than 5 million tourists from all around the world visit Phuket to experience its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, adventure activities, exotic resorts, luxury spas, and thriving nightlife.

There are plenty of things to do in Phuket. You cannot cover all in a single visit. In these 3 days in Phuket travel guide you will get to know how to experience the best of Phuket at cheap.

DAY 1 IN 3 DAYS IN PHUKET ITINERARY

James bond island day tour from phuket.

Start your Phuket trip with James Bond Island day tour. This excursion is a full-day tour from Phuket as there is so much to see. We booked James Bond, Phang Nga Bay and Hong Island day tour by Big Boat from Klook app.

Out tour company’s driver picked us up from our hotel lobby at around 7:30 am. From Ao Por Pier our big boat started the journey towards Phang Nga Bay.

PANAK ISLAND

It was our first sightseeing stop on our way where we explored by canoeing  through the nature of the Mangrove Cave, Bat Cave, Oyster Cave, and Diamond Cave . It was a thrilling experience while entering the limestone cave which was totally dark. Inside the cave, using a mobile flashlight we saw some incredible rock formations  of Stalagmites and Stalactites.

JAMES BOND ISLAND

Our next stop was the most famous James Bond Island which came to the limelight after the 1974 James Bond movie ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’ . We took some amazing pictures of the tall islet that towers over 20 meters are one of the main highlights here. There were some local shops selling souvenirs and local jewelry. undoubtedly, it is one of the best places to visit in Phuket .

HONG ISLAND

This is another stunning limestone island where we canoeing through massive grottos and lagoons . Inside the cave, it was pitch dark but the water war transparent. There was some interesting natural rock formation and among them, a Piranha and Buddha were the most eye-catching. We also enjoyed the hidden sky blue lagoon  in Hong Island. Visitors can swim here if they wish.

James Bond Island Day Tour Cost : $40-50 per person

Your Phuket budget trip would be hassle-free if you book your James Bond day trip in advance. This kind of day trip includes hotels to hotel pick up and drop facility with buffet lunch, snacks and other tourist attractions including canoeing. I will highly recommend you to book your James Bond day trip from Klook . They provide the best in class service with some crazy deals.

Tips : Don’t forget to carry your sunscreen, hat, sunglass, and camera . Wear a flipflop  or sandal . While booking the James Bond Island day tour, choose the Big Boat option. It is cheap and you can enjoy the surrounding view of the ocean with a mild sea breeze. You cannot enjoy the view if you choose the Premium Catamaran option which we booked for our Phi Phi Island tour.

DAY 2 IN 3 DAYS IN PHUKET ITINERARY

Phi phi island day tour from phuket.

It was another full day trip from Phuket to Phi Phi Island. We got a great deal in Klook app and booked ‘ Phi Phi, Maya Area, Khai and Coco Beach Snorkeling Day Trip from Phuket ’. But the distance of these tourist attractions are quite large, so there was no option for Big Boat if you want to visit all these attractions. This time we chose Premium Speed Catamaran.

Our cruise started at around 10 am. On the way, we saw Maiton Islands. It is a private island and visitors are not allowed to land there without permission. Our catamaran stopped at Maya Bay after 30 minutes of the journey. It came to highlight after the hit Hollywood movie ‘ The Beach ’.

Unfortunately, this island is now closed for tourists. Thai authorities decided to ban this island for the visitors until 2021 to recover it from the tourism boom. Our cruise stopped at a distance from the Maya Bay.

It is stunningly beautiful and is sheltered by 100-meter high cliffs on three sides. We took some splendid pictures of this deadly combination of white sand beach, turquoise water, and high cliffs.

PHI PHI DON

Our next stop was at Phi Phi Don Island, the main highlight of this day trip. There is a total of 6 islands in Koh Phi Phi . Most of these islands are uninhabited. Tourists generally visit two main islands of Koh Phi Phi which are  Phi Phi Don  and Phi Phi Leh . Most of the people like to spend more time in Phi Phi Don for its incredible beauty. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand.

With turquoise blue water, white sand beach and palm trees on the background, this island is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Thailand  where couples can enjoy a long stroll along with the beach hand in hand. Take some stunning pictures of this island. Visitors can swim here, the extreme left part of this beach is perfect for swimming .

If swimming is not your thing, you can just relax and take a sunbath on the beach. Enjoy a Thai Spa  on the beach with a mesmerizing view of the sea. There is a cute little village named Ton Sai . The village is charming and quiet. Explore the Ton Sai village  and its local shops.

MONKEY BEACH

You shouldn’t miss Monkey Beach while visiting Phi Phi Island. The 150 meters long white powdery sand beach is an amazing place to visit. The opposite side of this beach is a steep limestone cliff  and home to a large population of monkeys . Do not go too close to these furry animals as biting and scratching are common issues.

It is also popular as a top-notch snorkeling spot of Phuket . The shallow waters next to the beach have colorful and vivid underwater habitats, which will give you the feeling of swimming in an aquarium.

KHAI ISLAND

There are three magical islands- Khai Nok, Khai Nai, Khai Nui. Our destination was Khai Nok  which is surrounded by crystal clear waters with thousands of tropical fish . If you are lucky you can see the group of dolphins swimming around the islands. After a delicious lunch just spend some alone time relaxing on the beach. Swimming and snorkeling options are also there.

It is a private beach  and it was included in our Phi Phi Island day trip package. If you travel with your kids Coco Beach Water Park  is the best option to have fun with little ones. However, this floating water park is chargeable.

But what I liked most about this beach is its calmness and the serene atmosphere . Two catamarans landed there and at that time there was none in the beach apart from the travelers of these catamarans. Go for a short walk along the beach and enjoy the tranquil ambiance or you can just relax on the sun-bed .

Phi Phi Island Day Tour Cost : $50-60/person

DAY 3 IN 3 DAYS IN PHUKET ITINERARY

Last time I traveled to Thailand with my family, so I wanted a flawless travel plan during my Thailand family holidays . It is not that easy to negotiate the public transport price each time while you are with your family. So I booked a half-day tour from Klook to explore Phuket city and its popular tourist attractions.

Now you might think that booking a tour package would be expensive for budget travelers. Nope, it’s  NOT . Phuket half day city tour costs just 400 Baht that is around $12 per person . We explored all the popular tourist attractions of Phuket by an air-conditioned minivan. It was very comfortable, the guide was so knowledgeable and humble and most importantly we saved some precious time from our busy schedule.

KARON VIEW POINT

On our third day in Phuket, we first visited Karon View Point. This is a worthwhile scenic spot in Phuket to get a fantastic vista of small Kata, Big Kata, and Karon beach . The northern view from Karon View Point is one of the most photographed pictures in Phuket. From the viewpoint, you can see the sparkling blue sea, white-sand beaches, and the deep-green hues of Phuket’s hillsides. If you visit in the evening you can see a shimmering sunset  from Karon View Point.

PHOTOS WITH BABY ELEPHANT

Next, our minivan stopped at a tiny zoo. You can enter there with a small fee. The main attraction was the baby elephants standing outside the zoo. You can take a cute picture with a baby elephant. This is a kid’s friendly activity in Phuket. Visitors are allowed to feed bananas to baby elephants with 100 Baht.

The 45-meter-tall Big Buddha  statue is the most popular landmark in Phuket. This white marble statue is located on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and can be seen from as far away as Phuket Town and Karon Beach.

There is another gold-colored small Buddha Statue next to the Big Buddha Phuket. The site offers a panoramic view of Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, Chalong Bay and more.

Tips : Maintain the proper dress code and do not speak loudly. Don’t wear sleeveless, shorts or skirts while visiting any religious sites in Thailand. Read this article to know more about what to wear in Thailand .

WAT CHALONG

This Buddhist temple is a historical site in Phuket located on Chao Fa West Road in the northern part of Tambol Chalong. The walls and ceilings of the temple are decorated with beautiful paintings depicting the remarkable steps of Buddha’s life. It is also a religious place, you should be dressed in a proper outfit.

PHUKET OLD TOWN

Explore the Sino-Portuguese style  Old Town of Phuket on foot. Visit the old-styled colorful houses , small shops, and local Thai restaurants on both sides of the streets. You will find many shops to buy Thailand souvenirs and take some amazing pictures of the beautiful mural paintings and street art  ornating the walls of old buildings.

There were two more Phuket sightseeing in our half-day Phuket city tour package: Cashew Nut Factory and Big Bee Honey Farm . In Cashew Nut Factory we saw the processing of cashew nuts and tasted different flavors of cashew nuts. We bought 2 packets of butter and honey cashews.

Big Bee Honey Farm  is a place where they sell honey and all honey related products. You will get to see the bees and how they make the honey.

Generally, tour operators conduct this type of half-day tour two times in a day: Morning Tour  and Afternoon Tour . We chose Morning Tour and I will also recommend you to go for the morning tour . So that after completing lunch you can utilize the rest of the time by hopping around the beautiful beaches of Phuket.  

Phuket Half Day City Tour Cost : $12

DISCOVER THE BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN PHUKET

Reserve the second half of your third day in Phuket for beach hopping and relaxing. Phuket itself has some award-wining stunning beaches exploring which you won’t get tired. If you rent a motorcycle it will be easy to go from one beach to another, else tuk-tuk transport service is always available.

PATONG BEACH : It is one of the most visited and lively beaches  in Phuket. People who are looking for a beach party, water sports, and adventure activities, must-visit Patong beach. The beach is ideal for swimming. There are plenty of night markets and shopping malls near the Patong area.

KATA BEACH : During my last visit to Thailand, personally I found Kata as one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket with its pristine white sands, tropical trees, and clear azure waters. It is less crowded  than Patong and offers a picturesque view of the Andaman sea.

There are two parts of Kata- Center Kata and South Kata. If you are looking for a family beach resort in Phuket  stay at South Kata. The beach has many food stalls if you want a refreshing meal after a relaxing sunbath.

KARON BEACH : Karon is just a short walk away from Kata beach located to the north of Patong beach. It is a perfect beach destination for those who are looking for a soulful beach experience. Couples can go for a romantic stroll along the sandy beach and enjoy a jaw-dropping sunset in the evening. Adventure seekers can do jet skiing, parasailing, banana rides, and other water sports.

WHERE TO EAT IN PHUKET ON A BUDGET

Street foods of Phuket are very popular not only among tourists but also among locals. No need to be worried about the quality, they maintain proper hygiene. Whether you travel in a group or solo, don’t miss the night food market . Their special coconut ice cream is really yummy. Chicken noodles range from 80-100 Baht and coconut ice cream costs 60 Baht and it’s worth paying.

If you cannot rely on street foods, check out the below list for the best and cheap restaurants in Phuket that serves local dishes as well as various types of western dishes and Asian dishes in a perfect ambiance.

• EAT. Bar & Grill
• Kantok Restaurant
• Tamachart Restaurant
• Kan Eang@Pier
• Kopitiam by Wili

Phuket is now becoming a hot tourist destination among Indians. Check out the top 10 Indian Restaurants in Phuket to taste authentic Indian delicacies.

3 DAYS IN PHUKET TRAVEL COST

Phuket is expensive compared to other parts of Thailand. If you  research properly and plan your trip in advance in an efficient way (finding a cheap hostel, cheap street foods, and cheap but reliable day tours), you can easily travel 3 Days in Phuket without breaking your bank.

• Hotels : $30-$40/Night
• Hostels : $10-$20/Night
• Food : $10/Day (Breakfast and lunch are included in full-day tour)
• James Bond Island Tour:  $40
• Phi Phi Island Tour:  $50
• Phuket City Half Day Tour:  $12
• Local Transport : $5

Total Suggested Phuket Travel Cost: Approx.  $155 or INR 11000 for 3 Days

PHUKET TRAVEL TIPS

• Book your hotels, hostels or resorts 3-4 months before your journey to get a cheap hotel deal.
• Hostels are the best option for budget travelers to save money on accommodation as well as food. You can cook your own food in the hostel’s kitchen and share your foods with others. Check how to eat cheap while traveling .
• Don’t get into a tuk-tuk or local taxi without negotiating the price, else they will charge high price later.
• Maintain proper dress code whenever you visit any religious site in Thailand.
• If you rent a motorcycle in Phuket, drive carefully as the local drivers do rash driving.
• Use some helpful free travel apps  such as Guides by Lonely Planet, Moovit which can help you to find nearby tourist attractions and cheap transportation.

First Timer’s Guide for Thailand Solo Travel on a Budget

• The Ultimate 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary on a Budget

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Phuket

The BEST PHUKET ITINERARY in Existence (2024 • UPDATED)

It is a mark of impressive self-control to resist the urge to make a bad Phuket pun. They’re not even half as funny as you initially think, and probably about a tenth as clever.

But Phuket, life is short, and it does wonders for publicity…

Beautiful beaches, night markets, big buddhas and questionable (or seriously legit) Thai cooking classes are all up for grabs. But how to fit in all this wondrousness in such a short time?

The answer is in hand with my top-tier Phuket Itinerary , written for the purposes of indulging your island hopping, street food chopping, Bang Tao Beach loving appetites. These three days may well be some of the most enjoyable of the year, decade, century… etc.

Let’s see what we can do in Phuket!

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Phuket Itinerary

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Are you an edgy cool person intent on backpacking through Thailand ? Do you feel existential dread from the prospect of an unscripted day?

Then come on through! I am about to uncover some of the best things to do in Phuket , from delicious local dishes and beautiful Islands to authentic Thai culture…

This 3-day Phuket itinerary is set up to be busy, so don’t worry if you feel you can fit everything in! There’s an unreasonable amount to do here, and just taking part in some of it will give you a real feel for the place.

Your Phuket trip is (as always) up to you, so take what you fancy, drop what you don’t, and hopefully, you’ll have a baseline for your perfect personalised itinerary. Taking the time to visit Phuket and its top attractions will be an unreal addition to your Thai adventure!

3-day Phuket Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier
• Day 2: Bang Pae Waterfall | Sirinat National Park | Bang Tao Beach | The Banzaan Market | Paradise Beach | Bangla Road
• Day 3: Patong Beach | Phang Nga Bay | Koh Panyi | James Bond Island

Before you head off on your travels, it’s worth getting to grips with where to stay in Phuket . Not only will this drastically improve the odds of your SO liking you, but it will also give you a good idea of what is up in this awesome Thai playground.

Phuket City (or Phuket Town) is Phuket’s capital and is the largest city for miles. If you enjoy learning about history and culture, Phuket City is the place to be. It has ok parties too.

Patong is the most popular tourist destination in the province of Phuket. With picture-perfect coastal views, stunning white sand beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful scenic surroundings, I can see why! If you’re searching for Phuket nightlife, Patong is where you want to be.

Karon beach is found on the west coast of Phuket island and is the second-largest tourist beach. Karon is just the place if you’re looking for out-of-this-world views, inviting turquoise waters and long stretches of white sand shores!

Staying with locals in Phuket  through a homestay is another awesome (and cheap) accommodation option, and it comes with a much more authentic feeling.

Best Hostel in Phuket- Lub D Phuket Patong

This magnificent Phuket Hostel was Voted in 2017 as the “Best New Hostel” in the world, and it must be seen to be believed. Take a dip in the see-through outdoor swimming pool, sunbathe on the huge terrace and treat yourself to a few delicious cocktails or beers. This is a place with vibe and friendliness oozing from the walls! Meet other travelers and enjoy the fun and relaxation of the space. If you’re looking for the beach, then it’s only 2 minutes away! If you want to hit the nightclubs & bars on Bangla road then you only have 5 minutes to walk.

Best Airbnb in Phuket: Luxury Room & Rooftop Pool with Phuket City Views

Enjoy amazing views and modern amenities in this luxury condo in Phuket Town. Located on the 11th floor, this contemporary condo offers guests a king-sized bed, colourful décor, and comfortable living space.

With free wifi, two swimming pools and a fitness centre, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Phuket.

Best Budget Hotel in Phuket – U Sabai Living Hotel

This Budget pick is constantly surprising punters with its spacious rooms, cleanliness, and great location. Phuket international airport is 40 minutes away by car, whilst the famous Patong beach is just a 15-minute walk. Traditional Thai massages are on offer, and each room has a private bathroom. Snorkelling and sightseeing tours can be arranged from the front desk, and the on-site restaurant offers a mix of great Thai and western dishes.

Best Luxury Hotel in Phuket – Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa

One of the best luxury resorts going, this family-friendly resort offers guests access to 3 swimming pools, 8 dining options and a private beach. There is a fitness centre, two whirlpool pools, and of course, a great massage centre. One of the bars even offers guests the opportunity to swim up to it. There are loads of activities for kids on offer too, which makes it super great for family vacations, as well as romantic getaways. If you’re looking to be pampered, look no further.

Ok, without further ado, I present to you my epic, super fun, mostly well-thought-out Phuket Itinerary…

…Enjoy!

Phuket Old Town | Wat Chalong Temple | The Big Buddha | Kata Noi Beach | Prompthep Cape | Laem Hin Pier

In and around Phuket, day 1 is all about getting to know your immediate surroundings. Then, we move down to southern Phuket, before returning to the city for a seaside dinner. Phuket city accommodation is preferred here!

8:00 am – Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town is a must-see place in Phuket and provides you with different shapes and sizes of old Sino-Portuguese splendors, plenty of funky shops, and boutique cafes! Explore and find some of the most unlikely places that will surprise and delight at the same time.

Phuket Old Town is the heart of Phuket’s island and also happens to be the capital. This town is far from ordinary, and offers so much more than you might think! Grab breakfast, and get ready for an awesome day.

Phuket Town displays attractive and aesthetic buildings that date back to the 1800s. There is a unique blend of colonial and Chinese architecture, joint with a tangible quaintness. This makes for a fascinating and eye-opening morning spent sauntering around Phuket’s Old Town. Expect the unexpected and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures !

• Cost – Free
• How long should I stay here? 1.5 hours
• Getting there – Either you’re staying nearby, or you can taxi or bus. Phuket city is the centre so it’s not hard to get to!

11:00 am – Wat Chalong Temple

This gorgeous temple showcases the brilliance of Phuket’s architectural creativity as well as the rich cultural history of religion on this island. Wat Chalong Temple is formally known as Wat Chaiyathararam and is a huge part of Phuket’s heritage!

Wat Chalong is the largest, most revered and most visited Buddhist temple in the whole of Phuket island. This temple was built at the beginning of the 19th century and is definitely at the top of our must-see places in Phuket.

You will see that the tallest building on the grounds of this stunning temple is the 60-meter tall stupa that shelters a magnificent bone fragment of the Lord Buddha. The walls and ceilings of the temple are adorned with beautiful and spiritually significant paintings that retrace the story of Buddha’s legendary life. Each of the three floors and also full of large donated golden statues.

• Cost – Free, but donations are appreciated
• How long should I stay here? 1 hour or less
• Getting there – Grabbing a taxi or bus from Phuket is relatively easy. It’s well-known so you shouldn’t have problems getting there!

12:30 pm – Phuket Big Buddha

The Phuket Big Buddha , otherwise known as The Great Buddha of Phuket, is a nobly seated Maravijaya Buddha statue in the south of Phuket island. The formal and official name is Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri, shortened to Ming Mongkol Buddha. Find this marvelous statue sitting atop Nakkerd Hill.

The Big Buddha is a 45-meter-tall white statue made entirely out of marble and is visible from anywhere in the southern part of Phuket as it protrudes the skies. Visiting this outstanding landmark is at the top of most must-do-in-Phuket lists and we can easily understand why! This is a monument that pays homage to the spiritual history of Phuket and it is a sobering experience to go and see it! The views from this mountain also happen to be breathtaking.

Mostly built on people’s donation in 2004, The Big Buddha Phuket is actually still under construction. If you feel like doing something to help to finish the broad base of the Buddha, you can sponsor a piece of white marble!

Make sure that you get there before it closes at 7pm!

• How long should I stay here? 1.5 to 2 hours (with lunch!)
• Getting there – Taxi, it’s about a 20-minute drive from Wat Chalong. It’s a 6km walk, but up a hill and in the day might not be the best idea.

2:30 pm – Kata Noi Beach

Kata Noi is without a doubt one of the best beaches in Phuket. The white sands, gorgeous watercolour, and rising cliffs make this a top place to relax for the afternoon! The area gets waves good enough for surfers between May and October and is both pet and nudist-friendly. Kata Noi Beach is perched on the West Coast of Phuket, not too far from the Big Buddha.

Kata Noi is about 700 metres long, which means that if you’re looking for a bit of space, there is certainly that. There are also a load of activities to take part in; banana boating jet skiing and snorkelling are all possible past times here.

Hiking up to the nearby Karon viewpoint is a great way to put the beach into perspective. Enjoy some top-class views, and get familiar with some Thai jungle scenery!

• Cost – Free (it’s a beach!)
• How long should I stay here? around 3 hours. Get comfy!
• Getting there – It’s half an hour’s drive again from the Phuket Big Buddha. Grab a taxi if you can!

6 pm – Prompthep Cape

If you’re looking for a gorgeous sunset to finish the day off, then I have properly nailed this itinerary. The sunsets at Prompthep Cape are spectacular, but sadly this draws a pretty formidable tourist crowd. You can get a people-free shot by walking to the end of the Cape, but this isn’t an easy walk!

It’s at this point in the day when I start recommending alcohol. Bukito by Promthep Restaurant can offer dinner and drinks, but I’d recommend just going for a beverage or two – I’ve got a great dinner spot lined up for later. The Promthep lighthouse (also a small museum) is worth taking a look at, but it’s not worth staying much longer. Grab a photo, enjoy the sun setting, and get out of there!

People-watching here is excellent, since everyone is just waiting for a sunset photo.

• Getting there – Sorry to say it’s another Taxi or drive from kata Noi beach. Takes about 20 minutes.

8 pm – Laem Hin Pier

This is our evening endpoint. Located just north of Phuket City, you jump on a free shuttle boat which will take you out to a pier filled with some of the best local seafood places on the island.

Laem Hin is a vast wooden construction, but can still get reasonably busy. The seafood here is just amazing, so it’s understandable. It’s also cheap! So if you’re here with a family you can really go for the banquet experience.

After a long day, you’ll be ready to relax, so grab a beer or two, then head back to your Phuket Town accommodation for a good night’s rest. You’re going to need it!

• Cost – Pay for what you buy (<$10)
• How long should I stay here? around 2 hours
• Getting there – Long drive back to Phuket town (just under an hour). Then take the ferry shuttle over to the restaurant.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Bang Pae Waterfall | Sirinat National Park | Bang Tao Beach | The Banzaan Market | Paradise Beach | Bangla Road

Day 2 is all about tripping, specifically day tripping, and getting out into the furthest reaches of North and Eastern Phuket. Staying near Patong beach will allow you to make the most of this day.

8:30 am – Bang Pae Waterfall

Bang Pae waterfall is one of the top three best-known waterfalls in Phuket, perhaps four if you include a tiny one in Layan Bay, but only three are significant: Bang Pae, Kathu Waterfall and Tonsai Waterfall.

This is a must-see waterfall and getting there is an absolute adventure! Travel through the dense rainforests of Phuket, and see indigenous birds in their natural habitat. The waterfall is on part of a National Park which means you will also see some of the most spectacular jungle fauna!

Bang Pae waterfall is breathtaking and remarkably easy to reach. Take a stroll and see Thai teens and families playing in the stream as you walk up the hill. Visiting a waterfall is a wonderful way to spend a day during your weekend in Phuket, as this is when it is most busy and attracts the locals.

Grab a quick hotel/ hostel breakfast before embarking on this early-morning adventure!

• Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) for the national park, and then you will pay either a THB 20 (63c) parking fee for a motorbike or THB 30 (95c) for a car.
• How long should I stay here? 2 to 3 hours
• Getting there – Worth hiring a taxi man for the day if I’m honest, but you can bike it too! It’s a 40-minute journey from Phuket Town

11:30 am – Sirinat National Park

The picturesque Sirinat National Park is found on the northwestern coast of Phuket Island.

There is such an atmosphere of peacefulness and so many new types of vegetation and wildlife for you to stumble across! Sirinat National Park stretches over a large amount of pine-fringed beaches, including Nai Thon, Nai Yang, and Mai Khao Beach.

Mai Khao Beach is famous for being the exotic home of nesting sea turtles, such as the leatherbacks and hawksbills! You can also explore tropical coral reefs that are clustered in the clear waters offshore and escape into massive mangrove forests in Sai Kaew Beach.

This is a truly amazing place to be, but it is rural. Pack some snacks for your day before you arrive. Lunch isn’t until later!

• Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) per adult and THB 100 ($3,17) per child.
• Getting there – Sirinat National Park isn’t far from the Bang Pae Waterfall. Hop in your car, you’ll be there in 20 minutes!

Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for the birdlife, many famous and rare birds can be sighted within the canopies of Sirinat National Park! One of the most popular is the Kingfisher.

2 pm – Bang Tao Beach

If you fancy a slice of the untouched, then Bang Tao beach is for you! An amazingly quiet, pristine beach, it is a great place to doze away the hours of the early afternoon. You’ll need to – things heat up later.

Bang Tao beach is one of the longest beaches on Phuket island. It is relatively uncluttered, and much more peaceful than many of the other beaches in Phuket. There are great fancy restaurants at hotels, but there are some midrange and cheaper places too. Stop off for a relaxing lunch to rejuvenate. Since the beach is so long, I’d recommend heading for the Southern section. There are more places to eat, and it makes the next section of your journey shorter.

Sit back, relax, grab some lunch, and then spread out the beach towel for a little early afternoon sunbathing.

• Cost – Free!
• How long should I stay here? About 2 hours
• Getting there – Just head due south down the coast, it’s on the way to Patong beach. Takes around half an hour.

4:30 pm – The Banzaan Market

Get swept into the energetic and vibrant mass energy here and explore a new way of shopping. The Banzaan Market is a modern-looking Thai fresh market found on Sai Kor Road, behind the Jungceylon.

Take the time to check into your Patong beach accommodation, and then head back out to the Banzaan market!

You will basically come across all kinds of produce and crafts that you could expect at any other street market, but the Banzaan Market is hosted in a much more pleasant envious mentioned and is famous for being so well organized.

The locals go all out to showcase their best products, and you will be amazed at the bargains you can hunt for! This is a cultural way to end the last of your 2 days in Phuket!

• Cost – Entrance is free
• How long should I stay here? About 1 hour
• Getting there – Short taxi (or walk), after a half-hour drive from Bang Tao beach.

6 pm – Paradise Beach

The drinks are delicious, but the food is even better. Choose from their vast range of both Indian and Thai cuisine! We suggest going wild here and trying as many different dishes as you can!

Welcome to paradise! This magnificent and rather private beach is less than 200m in length and hosts a little rocky headland that kind of makes it two beaches if you want to get technical. Paradise Beach is a cosy and tiny cove near Patong and is famous for having lush and calm waters that feature a soft seabed mostly throughout the year.

Sunbathe or stroll the pristine white sand and be shaded by nodding palm trees, you will feel as if you are part of a photo shoot for a holiday brochure! Laze and allow yourself to emerge into the peaceful, picturesque environment that Paradise Beach provides.

Being the home of Paradise Beach Club, this magical cove even has a great choice of facilities, including upbeat restaurants, bars, sea kayaks, beach chairs and so much more. You can even get your party on and join one of Phuket’s only Koh Phangan-style beach parties !

I’d recommend grabbing dinner here, before heading back to Patong to experience the night life.

• Cost – The entrance fee is THB 200 ($6,34) per person.
• How long should I stay here? Around 2 hours
• Getting there – Paradise beach is about 20 minutes from the Banzaan Market, on the West coast.

10 pm – Bangla Road

Bangla Road in Patong is notoriously named for its highly energetic and lively nightlife! Bangla Road is a  must-visit while you’re in Phuket and you will find the experience to be unforgettable. The nightlife is at the top of its game and offers more clubs than anywhere else in Phuket! Bangla Road is also packed with a ridiculous amount of vibrantly lit bars, go-go bars, girly bars, and relaxed ex-pat bars – think lots of drinks, bizarre spectacles and music!

As the sun goes down, Bangla road becomes closed off to traffic, making it a wonderful space for easy pub-hopping! The neon lights and bars start to come alive and the music from all the bars starts to intertwine with each other.

Have a noisy, fun and energetic night out in this famous street and have a night that will open your eyes to a whole new world! This road in itself is an experience to be had and it can feel like you’re headed into a fantasy land. There are many side roads (called Soi’s in Thai) that lead off from Bangla Road. Here you will find even more bars, as well as mini clubs.

• How long should I stay here? All night, all day who knows? Tomorrow does happen at some point though so try and get a little sleep xx
• Getting there – Back to the hotel from Paradise beach (car/taxi 20 minutes), then walk out to the town from your hotel!

Insider Tip: When partying the night away, expect to be hit on by a few ‘women of the night’ and even ‘men of the night’ as Bangala Road is also the sex capital of Phuket. I would strongly recommend that you turn them down, as not all of it is hugely ethical.

Lub D Phuket Patong

Lub D Phuket Patong Is one of the most EPIC hostels in Phuket! This magnificent Hostel was Voted in 2017 as the “Best New Hostel” in the world, and it must be seen to be believed.

• Large see-through swimming pool

Patong Beach | Phang Nga Bay | Koh Panyi | James Bond Island

Day 3 is when we ditch the land and look seawards. Think island hopping, but better because I’m in charge…

Accommodation is up to you here, but staying near Phang Nga Bay might be easiest!

9 am – Patong Beach

A lazy morning is probably not just desired but needed after the previous evening’s revelry. Take an easy stroll down to the beach for a morning swim to wake you up. Grab some street food or breakfast too!

An army marches on its stomach, and there is still lots to do today! Rent a beach chair, drool on the sand a little, but ready yourself! If you’re feeling refreshed already, there is paragliding, jet skiing, and other beachy activities to get you pumped.

Take advantage of a beach massage if you really want to get the ball rolling, and there are always people who will sell you a smoothie by the side of the road. Try one! Patong beach is very much a love-or-hate thing. It is busy but super beautiful. If you don’t mind other people, then you should have a great time.

• Getting there – Short taxi, or walk from your Patong Beach accommodation.

12:00 am – Phang Nga Bay

Okay, this is where a visit to Phuket (although already brilliant) becomes truly legendary. Phang Nga Bay itself is made up of hundreds of different points of interest, and choosing which ones to do is entirely up to you!

I’ve included Koh Panyi and James Bond Island on the itinerary list because they are must-haves, but get exploring and you’ll have an awesome time here!

The cave of the reclining Buddha is a great place to start before heading over to Koh Panyi for some lunch. After James Bond Island, think about heading to Laem Haad Beach, Koh Panak, Koh Hong, Kudu Yai or the Koh Yao Islands. Since Phang Nga Bay has so much to do, and it’s relatively spaced apart, it’s worth getting either a private tour boat or joining one with others. There’s so much to see, and it’s not worth missing out on!

• Cost – 200 Baht ($6) for entrance, plus boat costs
• How long should I stay here? All day, but try the reclining Buddha first (around 1 hour)
• Getting there – Sadly, transfer over to Phang Nga from Patong takes around 2 hours. It is super worth it though! Hotels will often offer tours of Phang Nga bay, or you can join a private one!

1:30 pm – Koh Panyi

This fishing village is almost entirely built on stilts. There is brilliant seafood, which makes it a great lunchtime stop, but people know about it (so it can get crowded too). It’s up to you if you want to luncheon here, but sitting down and taking an easy lunch can be a great way to ease the effects of the two-hour drive in the morning.

It’s a pretty crazy village, and the natural scenery surrounding it is absolutely stunning. There is even a mosque on the island, which is worth having a look at. However, aside from walking the town and trying the seafood, there is not much else to do. Enjoy the environment and prepare for bigger and better things!

• Cost – To hire a private boat to the island it’s 1500 Baht (around $40). There are regular ferries which are much cheaper.
• How long should I stay here? under 2 hours
• Getting there – You can catch a longtail boat from Surakul pier, which takes around 20 minutes.

3:00 pm – James Bond Island

The famous James Bond Island (or Khao Phing Kan) gathered a lot of international interest, and now gets swarmed with tourists…

But that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it! It is a stunning place to be, and the cute coves and beaches make a visit very enjoyable. There are some interesting things to buy too, as vendors inevitably follow the tourist crowd.

James Bond island gets mixed reviews since many people go there. Like the Colosseum or Eiffel tower, people just want a money shot before clearing off. However, it is super pretty, and it’s worth going if you’re in the area anyway.

After you’ve enjoyed this tourist trap, I’d recommend chilling at a more relaxed beach until the bay closes at six, or going back to your hotel. If you fancy something active, there is a great range of outdoorsy ways you can explore the magical environment of Phang Nga Bay!

• Cost – Boats can range between 400 and 2000 Baht (for a private)
• How long should I stay here? an hour or less
• Getting there – Boat from Koh Panyi

If you have the time, here are some things that you might want to squeeze in. Alternatively, substitute (or add in) some of these amazing gems to give your trip a distinctly “you” factor…

Koh Racha, AKA Raya Island, is an island about 20 km south of Phuket. There aren’t any roads or cars, which makes this a haven for naturists. Lots of swimming, snorkelling and beaching is clearly on the cards.

Whilst you can certainly cover most of Raya Island in a single-day trip, if you really want to get a handle on this island, then I’d suggest staying over. There are some really really nice resorts, hotels and hostels that will have everything you need for a great stay.

The amazing Patok beach is a great place to sunbathe, and there are plenty of other things to take part in on the island. Fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling, and jet skiing could form part of a top-class day.

• How long should I stay here? All day?
• Getting there – 30 minute speedboat from Phuket

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands were popularised by Leonardo Dicaprio and his pretty face. After he had been there, suddenly everyone else wanted to be there too, and it quickly became a tourist hotspot.

There are several islands in the Phi Phi archipelago, including the main island of Phi Phi Don. Bamboo Island is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, pristine natural state, and amazing snorkelling and diving. Ko Yung (Mosquito Island) is similar but slightly larger. Both these islands are uninhabited.

If you’re looking for some truly unbelievable beaches and marine life, then the Phi Phi Islands are a top destination for you.

• How long should I stay here? Worth spending a night here. Lots to do!
• Getting there – Boat from Phuket City

Phuket Simon Cabaret

Experience something that you have never seen before with this intimate theater extravaganza! The show is a must-see attraction during your travels in Phuket! Witness an extravagant cabaret show with dancers in sparkly attire and even sparklier headdresses.

One of the oddest aspects that makes this show unusual is that it is probably the biggest “transvestite” cabaret show to be found in Phuket. This show features a spectacular musical floor show being performed by the world-famous “ladyboys” of Simon Cabaret.

See for yourself! You will be surprised how elaborate the costumes and makeup are, and how hard it becomes to tell the difference! Stunning costumes, bright lights, an excellent sound system, and expensive decorative sets are all part of this theatrical event that is not to be missed!

One of the coolest things to do in Phuket is to have a glamorous night out at the Simon Cabaret Show. See a variety of acts by dazzling men dressed as beautiful women complete with eye-catching costumes!

• Cost – Tickets are THB 600 ($18,83).
• How long should I stay here? 2 hours
• Getting there – Taxi, or walk in Phuket City

Phuket Sunday Night Market

The Phuket Sunday Market is known for having a hugely varied selection of curios and secondhand items on sale in a bustling market atmosphere! This is very different from the usual local markets where you can find copied T-shirts and cheap jeans. Hosted from the starting point at Thepkasattri Road and stretching all along the streets to Phuket Road.

All of the old Sino-Portuguese houses along Thalang road are brightly lit with ever-changing colours that add an extra spark to the festive mood created by this one-of-a-kind market! This beautiful historical street is very proud to be the first road on the entire island that is completely free of any large and ugly electric cables hanging around looking like a gigantic mess.

The market is an opportunity for you to try one of the Phuket specialities and explore your boundaries with cuisine! You can find a good mix of sweets and snacks to nibble as you walk. One of the most strange things is the horseshoe crab salad, which is not for the light-hearted!

• How long should I stay here? No more than an hour or two. The market is open from 4 pm til 9 pm
• Getting there – Taxi or walk

Phuket has a welcoming, warm and tropical climate. The beautiful temperatures are wayyy hotter than they are cold, and even when it’s cold, it’s really still quite humid.

The extremely rainy Monsoon season begins mid-May and goes on till October, but don’t let this deter you. This is when Phuket is quiet, so you can experience a more authentic cultural side of the places you visit. It’s the perfect time to visit Phuket’s museums too.

Phuket’s high tourist season is from November to February. During this time, the days are sunny and you won’t have a drop of rain! Making it perfect for lazy afternoons, sightseeing, hiking and water sports.

When getting from place to place in Phuket, there are several options to consider. Tuk-tuks are found everywhere in Thailand, so you will easily be able to hire one at any given time to get you from A  to B. Be sure your driver understands where you want to go and check for an authentic license before you accept your ride!

Hiring out a bike is an excellent option when travelling in Phuket, and is ideal for couples or solo travellers. There are many businesses that hire out bikes, and most hotels offer this service or will know a company.

Taxis are found easily, so hiring one is a good option and the prices are usually very reasonable! The locals are very used to tourists visiting Phuket, and can share some knowledge with you on the coolest places.

Walking in Phuket is beautiful, each place is pumping with vibrancy and culture! Meet the locals, find new spots and enjoy the street food. A lot of places in Phuket are easy to walk to, and it is well worth taking a stroll in some of the more culturally rich and scenic areas.

Packing for a tropical climate is the easiest packing you can do – couple of shorts and a t-shirt, and you’re good to go. Packing for thailand is usually straightforward.

The vast majority of the time, Phuket is a very safe place to visit, but it is good to know a few safety tips too. Be sure to keep your wits about you when dealing with locals after a few drinks, as things can get ugly if you lose your cool and start shouting or behaving like an ass. For the ladies, don’t drink alone or walk the streets at night by yourself, and watch out for drink spiking.

There are also some safety precautions to heed when swimming in the famous ocean waters of Phuket. Although Phuket’s main beaches are now well-staffed with lifeguards, there are still a number of drownings that occur each year. When the beaches are lined with red flags, these are a warning of strong waves and undertow.

Other safety measures would be simple things like, wearing a helmet if you rent a motorbike in Phuket, driving cautiously and never driving drunk as Phuket has the highest rate of car accidents in Thailand.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Phuket

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us when they plan their Phuket itinerary.

Is a Trip to Phuket a Good Idea?

Probably one of the best you’ve had I’d say. Phuket is magical in every capacity, and taking the time to visit Phuket will boost your Thailand trip into the stratosphere. Not only is it relatively cheap, but it’s super beautiful too!

How long should I spend in Thailand, Phuket Island?

Ideally, you should spend around a week getting to know Phuket, but anything 3 days or above is great too. There is so much to do here, and it’s easiest to get fully comfortable here if you spend a little longer.

What are some awesome free things to do in Phuket?

There are heaps to do for free. Explore the fascinating streets of Phuket Old Town before hitting up one of the many beaches.

What are the best Phuket things to do at night?

Bangla Road is the epicentre of the nightlife scene in Phuket. Alternatively, try the Phuket Sunday Night Market if you want a different vibe.

Phuket is not only a beautiful paradise of long-stretching beaches but also a hub of cultural experiences and friendly locals just waiting to share their stories with you! Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and enjoy moments that take your breath away.

It doesn’t matter how many days in Phuket you spend, you are bound to take something back from the experience. Laze around and allow these lifelong memories to soak in, as you will fall in love with everything about the astounding and magical island!

With our Phuket travel guide, you will have the most amazing time of your life in this mesmerizing part of Thailand as each moment will be full of new experiences and wonderment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Clair Cathryn

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It’s my second time in Phuket, and I love it! I haven’t visited the Elephant Sanctuary and the Big Buddha yet. Thanks for the tips!

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Beyond Wild Places

Your guide to the wilder side of life

A Budget Travel Guide to Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island but it doesn’t exactly have an exotic feel with its overdeveloped towns and crowded beaches. However, it’s certainly one of Southern Thailand’s biggest drawcards and still boasts plenty of sights and activities to keep you entertained for days.

Even if you plan on avoiding Phuket for the quieter islands, it often pulls people in by it’s well-connected transport network. It’s easily reachable by bus from most major cities in Thailand and its international airport also has plenty of cheap flights to various destinations. Flights from Australia, in particular, are even better connected to Phuket than to Bangkok in high season.

So, if you plan on spending time in Phuket, or just find yourself passing through the island, here’s a quick travel guide to Phuket with all the information you’ll need.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links which means I get a commission if you buy a product through my link at no extra cost to you. By doing so, I can keep this blog going and continue to create helpful guides for you. Read more:  Privacy Policy

When to go to Phuket

The peak tourist season on Phuket is from  November to April  when you’ll find the best weather. November to around February are the coolest months with clear blue skies most of the time and low humidity. 

March to May  are the hottest months and can be a little uncomfortable with high humidity and temperatures over 30. 

May to October  is the monsoon season. The island sees a fair bit of rain, but you’ll also find far fewer tourists and lower prices. This can be a nice alternative if you don’t mind some rain as the temperatures are still warm for most of the time.

Read next: A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Island Hopping Thailand’s Andaman Coast

How to get to Phuket

Phuket is a very popular destination in Thailand. This means that it’s a very easy place to reach from most places in the country.

Phuket airport bus

Phuket is well connected to the rest of Thailand, as well as, international destinations through its international airport.

If you fly in or out of Phuket then the cheapest option to get in and out of Phuket Town is the efficient  airport bus . It’s certainly not the quickest option but it’s definitely the cheapest. It costs 100 baht (AUD$5) per trip and it leaves hourly between 5am and 7pm from the main bus station in Phuket Town. They say the journey takes up to 90 minutes, but I took the 5pm bus and it took two hours to reach the airport, so it depends on traffic. They have a website with the schedule which you can see  here .

The alternative is to get a taxi or  Grab  ride (similar to Uber).

Bus to Phuket

Despite being an island, it’s easy to reach Phuket by bus. There are plenty of services connecting Phuket with many of Thailand’s major cities. You can find both day and night buses and a range of classes and different prices. The most popular route is from Bangkok to Phuket.

The buses from Bangkok to Phuket take around 14 hours with a couple of toilet and snack breaks. They leave from the Southern Bus Terminal or Sai Tai Mai in Bangkok. Depending on which class you choose, tickets can cost between 600 THB (AU$27) and 950 THB (AU$43).

Read next: How to Spend 48 Hours in Bangkok

Things to do in Phuket

Phuket has enough things to do to keep you busy for days and many people stay longer than they planned. From Sino-Portuguese history and architecture in the Old Town, to laidback beaches on the south and western shorelines, to the trendy shopping laneways and markets and party central Patong. There is literally something for everyone on Phuket. Here’s a few of my top things to do in Phuket.

Phuket Town is the capital of the island and its picturesque old town neighbourhood is what entices most tourists. The old streets with Sino-Portuguese buildings, colourful street art and pretty boutique shops are enough to entertain you for a few hours of window shopping. Its classy shops and trendy restaurants are a little on the pricey side for Thailand standards but there’s something about the streets that will make you walk back and forth along the same sidewalk multiple times.

Some of the graffiti and bright buildings have become hotspots for selfie stick toting tourists and insta-obsessed travellers, so the best time to wander the streets is early in the morning before the crowds and day trippers have arrived.

Phuket has plenty of options for souvenir shopping and it’s not all Chang beer singlets and I Love Thailand handbags. The Old Town neighbourhood has a laneway called  Walking Street  where you can find trendy clothing and good quality gifts. 

Phuket Town also has an incredible  weekend night market  with food stalls and all sorts of souvenirs and antiques.

For more typical and cheap souvenirs, there are countless shops and stalls around  Patong  beach plus a night market near the beach with plenty of food options as well.

Read next: 25 Tips for Travelling on a Budget

Patong Beach

No guide to Phuket would be complete without the infamous Patong beach and the main tourist hub of Phuket. It’s a long, sandy beach front and congested neighbourhood full of Western restaurants, dirty bars, dodgy tattoo artists, sleazy massage parlours and crazy night clubs. It’s the epitome of cringey tourism and yet, it’s still relentlessly busy every year.

You’ll never be bored here, whether you plan on partaking in any of the numerous activities on offer or prefer to sit back and watch the mayhem. During the day, you’ll find most people down at the beach, where it’s sometimes hard to find a spare spot of sand to lay down your towel. As soon as the sun sets, however, people return to the streets to drink their weight in Chang beer and party until the sun comes up again.

Nai Harn Beach

Arguably Phuket’s most beautiful beach, Nai Harn is on the far southern shore of the island. It’s a wide cove with soft, white sand and far less crowds than Patong. It’s especially popular for sunset, where locals claim you can witness the best sunset on the island.

There’s less facilities here than at Patong, but you can still find a few restaurants and cafes a bit back from the beach, plus a couple of exclusive resorts on the cove’s fringes.

This 45-metre high giant marble buddha statue is one of the most famous attractions on Phuket. It’s perched on top of a hill with stunning panoramic views. The complex is free to visit which makes it extremely popular. It’s best to go in the early morning when it first opens if you want to avoid the crowds.

Take a day trip

There are countless day trip options around Phuket. The most popular ones take you out to Phi Phi islands and Phang Nga Bay where you can find James Bond Island. Tours can be booked practically anywhere on Phuket, including at travel agents, restaurants and accommodation desks or right here through Viator.

How to get around Phuket

Getting around Phuket is actually very easy and affordable. There are  shared trucks and buses that leave from Phuket Town and service most of the beaches and towns around the island. They tend to run on some sort of schedule but it’s not generally published anywhere. The driver’s and ticket sellers are very helpful and can answer any questions about timings for buses.

In Phuket Town, they congregate along  Ranong Road, west of the Suriyadej roundabout and near the main local market . It’s marked on Maps.Me. You will find them parked up, with clear signs as to where they go, including main stops along the way. Coming back into Phuket Town they drop everyone at that same roundabout as the last stop.

The bus from  Phuket Town to Patong Beach  takes around 40 minutes and costs 30 baht (AUD$1.50) per person.

The bus from  Phuket Town to Nai Harn  takes around one hour and costs 50 baht (AUD$2.50) per person.

In both Patong and Nai Harn, the last stop is at the beachfront, where they stay until returning to Phuket Town.

The only down side to using these trucks and buses is that they tend to finish early at around 5pm depending on the route. So for any late night escapades you’ll have to use a taxi instead.

Where to stay in Phuket Town

The two main hubs for accommodation on the island are  Patong and Phuket Town . 

If you plan on hitting the nightclubs and don’t care too much for crowds and noise, then you’ll probably want to stay in Patong. On the other hand, Phuket Town is much quieter and quainter and is more for those looking for a laidback visit.

Here are my top budget choices for staying in Phuket Town.

OK Chic Phuket Hostel || This clean hostel is a popular choice near the Old Town in Phuket. They have a range of options such as mixed dormitories and basic private double and twin rooms. They have plenty of good facilities and even their private rooms are pretty affordable for a budget traveller. Check the latest prices  here .

White Wall Poshtel || This place is one of the most highly rated budget places in Phuket Town. This “poshtel” is certainly a posh hostel with beautiful facilities and nice rooms. They have dormitories as well as private double and triple rooms. You might pay a bit more here than other hostels but it’s definitely worth it. You can check their latest prices  here .

Where to eat in Phuket Town

If you aren’t around for the weekend night market near Old Town in Phuket, there are also some nice restaurants, although they’re slightly more expensive. 

China Inn  | This is a nice restaurant on the main Thalang Road which has all your Thai favourites. 

Aroon Restaurant  | This is a small local place where the prices are a quarter of the more tourist-oriented places. It’s also on Thalang Road, close to the intersection with Phuket Road. Their menus have pictures which makes it helpful to order as well.

Thaivetro Ice Cream  | This small shop has homemade ice cream in the most flavour choices I’ve ever seen. The weirdest flavours I saw were Red Bull, Sweet Potato and Tom Yum, plus they also have about five different cone flavours too. They had two vegan options, coconut and chocolate, which are clearly marked as vegan or you can ask the friendly staff. It’s quite expensive at 129 baht (AUD$6) for any two scoops, but for a fancy treat, it’s worth it.

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[…] Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and is certainly more of an extension of the mainland now. Still, it’s one of southern Thailand’s biggest tourist drawcards with plenty of things to do in Phuket.  […]

Great Article

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Good writing for a trip to Phuket, Thailand. Manna, Bangladesh. [email protected]

[…] a popular destination, you can still find affordable accommodations and dining options. The team at Beyond Wild Places recommends a November-April travel window to avoid the heat and the monsoon season. The DFAT puts […]

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Phuket travel guide — the fullest guide for a budget trip to phutket, thailand.

Located to the south of Thailand, Phuket is a destination not to be missed, especially if you love the beach and ocean. If you choose one of these islands for their vacation is too great. To help you get the perfect trip, Living Nomads has synthesized all experience for Phuket trip in this article. Let’s explore the beautiful island through our Phuket travel guide — Phuket on a budget: Tips to save budget for a Phuket trip.

• What do do in Phuket? — Top 10 fun Phuket activities you should not miss in Phuket, Thailand
• Phuket travel blog — A wonderful Phuket itinerary 3 days 2 nights in the jade island of Thailand
• Phuket 3 days itinerary — How to spend 3 days in Phuket & what to do in Phuket in 3 days?
• Top things to do in Koh Phi Phi island — 10+ must, fun, cool & best things to do in Koh Phi Phi
• Top things to do in Krabi island — 8+ must, fun, cool & best things to do in Krabi

Phuket traveling costs

The cost of moving

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the main gateway to reach the island for the majority of domestic and foreign tourists. Each year, having more than 14 million visitors come to Phuket through 46 airlines from over the world. You can choose to depart from Vietnam (Tan Son Nhat airport or Noi Bai) or combined to Thailand, then depart from other airports such as Bangkok.

If you choose to fly directly from Vietnam, with about 6607 baht to 7079 baht you can fly directly to Phuket roundtrip. Or you can also find the promotions of airlines to find the “soft” price. One other way is combined with tourism Bangkok and fly from Bangkok to Phuket. With this approach and choose the cheaper cost airlines as Nok Air or Air Asia, you just lose less than 1 million and 1-hour flight to fly to Phuket.

In case you do not interest in moving by aircraft, rail buses and systems are always ready to take you travel from Bangkok to Phuket. If selecting bus, you can go straight to the center of Phuket Hua Lam Phong station Bangkok with the cheapest class is the between 600-700 baht and 12 hours to move. In case you travel by train, you will take the same time and 1,000 baht per ticket but you can go to Sura Thani only, then you have to take the bus to Phuket.

To have a cheap cost experience, you can choose to move in the city by tuk-tuk, songthaew or taxi. Costs for moving in the city are not too expensive and convenience for exploring you can choose to rent car for about 1000 – 1500 baht per day/unit (rates can be changed in vary time)

The cost of accommodation

If you are thinking about Phuket, this really is a great destination with dozens of beaches around the island and the island’s resorts. If coming to a strange place, one advice is to choose the caliber resorts. Reducing the risk, and the risk you have to pay more than services you used, which also happen in cheap motels. Typically, the price per night in mid-range motels in Phuket will not exceed 300 baht – 500 baht.

Phuket travel guide: Where to stay in Phuket?

Phuket offers about 120,000 accommodations along the beaches. In almost all of the resorts and hotels, the accommodation is priced at 4,000 to 16,500 baht per twin share (breakfast included).

Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

The Marina Phuket Hotel (Address: 240/9 Phangmuang Sai Kor Road, Patong, Kathu Patong Beach 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 345 888), 4-star hotel with room rates from $31/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

La Vintage Resort (Former Poppa Palace Hotel) (Address: 14,16 Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Rd., Soi1, Patong Beach Kathu Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 345 522), 3-star hotel with room rates from $23/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Banthai Beach Resort & Spa (Address: 94 Thawewong Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 340 850), 4-star hotel with room rates from $58/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Burasari Resort (Address: 18/110 Ruamjai Road Tambon Patong, Amphur Kathu Phuket Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 292 929), 4-star hotel with room rates from $64/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Amari Phuket (Address: 2 Meun-Ngern Road Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 340 106), 4-star hotel with room rates from $125/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Katathani Phuket Beach Resort (Address: 14 Kata Noi Road, Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 318 350), 5-star hotel with room rates from $104/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa (Address: 6/2 Moo6, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 618 217), 5-star hotel with room rates from $61/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Chanalai Garden Resort, Kata Beach, Phuket (Address: Kata Beach, 247 Kata Rd, Tambon Karon, Amphur Muang, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 285 211), 4-star hotel with room rates from $41/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

The Shore At Katathani (Address: 14 Kata Noi Road, Tambon Karon, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 318 350), 4-star hotel with room rates from $367/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Mandarava Resort and Spa (Address: Karon Beach, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 681 800), 5-star hotel with room rates from $93/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach (Address: 99 Muen-Ngoen Road Tri-Trang Beach, Patong Patong Phuket, Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 335 300), 5-star hotel with room rates from $102/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Deevana Patong Resort & Spa (Address: 43/2 Raj-U-Thid, 200 Pee Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 317 179), 4-star hotel with room rates from $56/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Baan Laimai Beach Resort & Spa (Address: 66 Thawewong Rd, Tambon Patong, Amphoe Kathu, Chang Wat Phuket 83150, Thailand / Phone: +66 76 342 621), 4-star hotel with room rates from $65/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) .

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa ( Agoda , Booking )
• The Marina Phuket Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Avista Grande Phuket Karon – MGallery Hotel Collection ( Agoda , Booking )
• Holiday Inn Resort Phuket, an IHG Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Grand Mercure Phuket Patong ( Agoda , Booking )
• DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort (SHA Extra Plus Certified) ( Agoda , Booking )
• Mandarava Resort and Spa ( Agoda , Booking )

You can also find, check rates, availability & booking for Phuket hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

The cost of eating

If you are not a person too picky eating or prefer to experiment with luxury dishes, the prices for meals in Phuket is not too 200-300 baht. Depending on the accommodation area in order to stay or eat, the price may be cheaper if you choose the center area instead to eat at the beach. Similarly, Bangkok, street food is also one of the things you should not miss.

Tips to save budget

Enjoying street cuisine

The most notable experience to save the budget for a cheap Phuket is enjoyed street cuisine. Whether you are at the beach or inside the inner area, do not miss the street food. Although seafood and some dishes can be more expensive than Bangkok area a bit, but overall price is quite cheap compared to other restaurants, resorts, and bars at the beach.

Noting about water problems

One other note is that if you select to visit the islands, you should carefully review the terms of drinking water. If not, you can bring your water. A small bottle of water will help you through thirst and not waste money to buy water along the trip.

Booking tickets for entertainment

With a multitude of activities and entertainment, you should make plan firstly for games which you will join in Phuket. By this way, you will reduce the wasting of money on the games seem attractive but very expensive when buying tickets on the spot. Additionally, you can choose to buy tickets online before to avoid queues overcrowded or overpriced when buying on the spot.

Phuket travel guide: The experience can not miss for a self-trip to Phuket

Phi Phi Islands

To come here, having an advice for you is to choose speedboat. Vehicles will also give you the opportunity to watch the beautiful coast when coming here. Phi Phi owns the beaches, beautiful beaches in southern Thailand including Maya Bay, famous by the film “The Beach”, as well as Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. You should also enjoy a buffet meal here, usually has both Western and local dishes, occasionally there will be a few cuisine in some countries.

Koh Panyee is a small island. Most are giant limestone cliffs, vertical. Hundreds of huts, tents, restaurants, and houses where the villagers lived. All create a unique architectural ensemble and is.

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint

Samet Nangshe is really a wonderful place if you want to enjoy the panoramic view of Phang Nga. Located on a hilltop just 30 minutes drive from Phuket, this place gives you stunning limestone islands in Phang Nga Bay. And this is also one of the places to watch the peaceful nature or even a brilliant starry sky.

Phang Nga Bay

One of the reasons to visit Phang Nga Bay is stunning limestone mountains emerging from the clear water and turquoise. James Bond and Koh Panyee just two of the famous places in this bay. To experience the perfect time here, make a boat trip from the north of Phuket. A leisurely day trip through the beautiful limestone islands, occasionally stopping to enjoy the quiet beach, that is a way to enjoy life.

Joining the night activities

As well as other locations in Thailand, nightlife creates an entirely new Phuket. The bars, the Ladyboy girls on the long line of “Soi” (sugar) as Seadragon, Freedom, Crocodile, … You will feel like you lost in a gala dinner extremely, extremely noisy.

Entertainment activities in Bangla road

This is the most famous nightlife of Phuket. If you’ve come here, do not hesitate to spend a night immersed in busy streets with the bustling atmosphere in all seasons Bangla. It also has a network of bars, cafes and attractive eating shops where you and your team can play day and night.

Phuket Fantasea

Not only full of spectacular performances, Phuket FantaSea is also a theme park with the works of Thai culture. You can come here to look – watch – listen and enjoy the unique art of Phuket.

Discovering the traditional markets

The buildings which are decorated carefully. The temporary bazaar, colorful flea market? All create a comfortable and fun shopping space. You can find small souvenirs, hunting in bulk or simply find delectable dishes in any bazaar in Phuket

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Phuket Travel Guide: Budget DIY Itinerary, Hot to Get There and More

Your ultimate travel guide to phuket, thailand.

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Your Complete Travel Guide for Phuket First-Time Travelers

Table of Contents

Phuket Travel Guide — A famous island in Thailand, Phuket is a rainforest-slash-beach strip home to many high-class hotels and resorts. Formerly known as Thalang, Phuket is the second-smallest province of Thailand. It is located in the Andaman Sea and is considered one of Thailand’s most popular island destinations. Within the city, you can find activities from beaches, natural attractions, bars, temples, and museums.

In this Phuket Travel Guide Blog , we listed some tips on how you can make your own DIY trip to Phuket. We also included Phuket Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.

Best Time to Visit Phuket

Tropical Thailand boasts sunny weather practically all year round. The rainy season starts from April till November with reasonably wet weather, but not so much that you can’t explore the place. These are the best months to visit if you want to save on hotel rates. High tourist season is right after these months spanning November to February. It’s termed the fantastic season with temperatures no more than 30 degrees Celsius. The months of March to May are terribly hot and not ideal for those who originate from cool climates.

Visa Requirement

Filipino Travelers can stay in Thailand visa – free for up to 30 days if entering via international airport immigration and up to 15 days through a land border immigration checkpoint from a neighboring country like Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

For most international tourists, a Visa is not required before going to Phuket. All you need is a valid passport for at least 6 more months beyond your intended stay. Your length of stay in the country must also be less than 30 days. Those who are not granted a Visa exemption due to their country of origin, you can apply for a visa upon arrival, costing around 1,000 baht and valid only for 15 days. If you intend to stay for more than 60 days as a tourist, you can also apply for a 60-Day Tourist Visa.

How to Get There

Phuket International Airport may be small – but it is equipped to accommodate many airlines flying from ASEAN Countries and back.

From Manila

If you are coming from Manila, Cebu Pacific, Jetstar, and AirAsia offer connecting flights to Phuket, Thailand.

From Bangkok

There are many airlines offering flights from Bangkok to Phuket. The fastest flight to Phuket takes 1 hour and 5 minutes, and the lowest fare costs $40 one way.

You can also take a local bus if you’re originating from Bangkok. It takes about 14-16 hours to reach Phuket from Bangkok. Daily scheduled buses from private and government-operated companies go to Phuket from Bangkok’s Mo Chit and Southern terminal stations. To avoid the hassle, we recommend booking your bus ticket in advance. Book your Bus Ticket here .

From USA, UK, and ROW

If you come from the USA or the UK, you’ll need to take a flight to Kuala Lumpur or Singapore before grabbing a flight to Thailand. During the peak season, direct flights may be available.

Phuket Town has a central bus terminal where you can book and buy your ticket to most destinations in Thailand.

Getting Around

Upon landing at Phuket Airport, you can take the bus, taxi, or minivan to Phuket City, where your accommodation is located.

When exploring the City itself, you can opt for the same transportation or use the BTS elevate Skytrain – the city’s main mass transit. Vehicles may also be hired, such as tuk-tuks, bicycle-powered rickshaws, or self-drive motorcycles. Grab Taxi is also available in the city.

Where to Stay

Hotel indigo phuket, patong.

[ Check Rates and Availability ]

This high-end hotel is situated near the beach, allowing easy access to the white sand and sea. Additional amenities include a pool, a gym, high-speed internet, a restaurant, a bar, and room service.

Mandarava Resort and Spa

Beautifully situated, this luxury hotel has wireless internet, a splendid pool, room service, free parking, and a fitness center. An in-house restaurant, spa, and bar are also available. All rooms come with a minibar and a refrigerator. They also have family rooms and accessible rooms.

Despite being a budget hotel, Surintra offers many features like an on-site pool, dry cleaning, internet services, and even babysitting services. The rooms are small but clean and provide an excellent view of the pool below. All rooms come with a convenient refrigerator.

Chanalai Hillside Resort

This hotel is cheap but luxurious near the famous Karon Beach, giving you easy access to the sea. It also comes with a pool, a bar, a restaurant, free parking, and high-speed internet. Breakfast is included in the hotel price, with all rooms having a minibar. There are also smoking rooms available.

Where to Eat

Naka palm restaurant.

Address: Pa Klok, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

If you’re searching for authentic Thai cuisines, this is the place to visit. They also have vegetarian and vegan options as well as other Asian cuisines.

Butterfly Restaurant

Address: 32/53 Moo 5 Ban Kamala, Phuket, Thailand 83150

For some cheap food options but still experience the excellent taste of Thai, the Butterfly Restaurant is a good choice. They also have vegan options, all of which are served at a meager price.

The Palm Cuisine

Address: 35 Moo 4, Cherngtalay Thalang, Phuket, Thailand 83110

If you’re going during the peak season, the Palm Cuisine is a good choice because they accommodate online reservations. This way, you can easily guarantee a seat for yourself and your group without any problems. The food is perfect too – a combination of Thai and international dishes.

What to Do and See

Cruise around with a motorcycle.

Perhaps the first thing you should do upon arrival is cruise around like you have lived your whole life in Phuket. You can hire a motorcycle or just take a walk around the area if you have the time. You can also hop onto the local buses to get a little farther in your adventure.

Go to the Beach

Mentioning just one beach would be unfair, considering the many beaches on the island. You have the Layan Beach, the Kata Noi Beach, the Ao Yon Beach, and the Patong Beach, of course. It doesn’t matter where you go because all of them are gorgeous.

Island Hopping

Phuket is a perfect place to experience island hopping in southern Thailand. We listed here some of the best Island Hopping Tour Packages that you can book for your next Phuket vacation:

Rok and Haa Islands Speedboat Tour by Love Andaman

Surin islands speed boat tour by love andaman, maya bay & koh phi phi speedboat tour, check the national parks.

There are two national parks in Phuket: the Sirinat National Park and the Khao Phra Taew National Park. You can choose any one of those or even both! The Khao Phra Taew features a virgin rainforest, barking deer, monkeys, and wildlife. It’s an excellent place to visit because few tourists actually go there.

Get a Massage

There’s nothing quite like an authentic Thai-style massage. They’re trained by the international spa academy, so you’ll know you’ll be able to really relax after a long day.

For more unique activities in Phuket, check out our list of Best Things to do in Phuket .

WiFi and Internet Access

There are numerous internet cafes in Phuket, giving you multiple options if you want to get connected. Most hotels also offer wireless internet, so there shouldn’t be a problem if you’re going to upload pictures as soon as you get back to your room.

Travel Tips

Check Your Rented Vehicles

Take note of any damages or problems on your self-drive rented vehicle before taking it out. Ensure to show these initial scratches or issues to the lender so it won’t be blamed on you.

Book in Advance

Book VIP buses in advance if you want an assured seat. Spots can be competitive, especially during the peak season.

Sample Itinerary and Budget

Start with Patong Beach or any other beach on the island. Patong is the most popular, but it’s also packed with tourists. You have different options like the Karon and Kata beaches.

Check out the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong Temples

You can go to the Bang Pae Waterfall for some freshwater love before visiting the Karon Viewpoint. The viewpoint offers a fantastic view of the stretches of beaches.

Finally, end your day visiting the Trick Eye and Up and Down Museum for some hardcore photo sessions.

The budget for Phuket is around $30 to $50 per day, depending on where you want to go or the activities you want to enjoy. That price is exclusive of hotel prices which can be anywhere from $9 to $25 a day.

Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels and Resorts in Phuket , Thailand, via Agoda , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more stories like this? Please follow us on  Facebook  and  Twitter .

Help us improve this Phuket Travel Guide by sending us suggestions and posting a comment below.

Other Phuket Related Stories:

• 5 Must-Know Tips Before you come to Phuket, Thailand
• HOTEL REVIEW: Anantara Vacation Club Phuket Mai Khao
• Fabulous Phuket
• The Pleasures of Phuket

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Your Trip to Phuket: the Complete Guide

If you can only visit one place in Thailand, zero in on the island of Phuket. Set some 400 miles south of Bangkok, Phuket crams a near-excess of sights and activities within its coastline: gorgeous beaches, delicious food, amazing natural parks, and access to some of the Andaman Sea’s most breathtakingly beautiful islands.

Backpackers introduced Phuket to the tourism world. The first backpacker-friendly accommodations sprung up in Patong in the 1970s, presaging a steady rise in visitors that peaked at 14 million in 2018. Phuket’s present-day attractions have evolved with tourist tastes; beyond the beaches, visitors can now check out Phuket’s Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class theme parks, and luxury hotels fringing the sands.

For the first-time visitor to Phuket, the island can be a lot to unpack at first glance. Read on to make sense of Thailand’s most popular tourist destination, and how you can have the time of your life when you visit.

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit : Plan your trip between mid-October to mid-February; the “winter” months coincide with a cool, dry climate caused by northeast monsoon winds blowing in from Siberia.
• Language: Central (standard) Thai is widely spoken throughout Phuket, though southern Thai is the local mother tongue. A fair number of Phuket locals can manage basic English, but don’t expect them to manage sustained conversation. These are a few useful phrases to learn when traveling in Phuket.
• Currency : The Thai Baht (THB) is standard currency across the island.
• Getting Around: You can ride buses (songthaew), tuk-tuks, or motorbike taxis to get around Phuket. Songthaew commute between Phuket Town and resort areas like Surin, Karon, and Patong. Tuk-tuks and motorbikes can take you on a point-to-point basis for short distances.
• Travel tip: Phuket’s beaches are lovely to visit and swim in—but during the monsoon months between May and October, riptides and unpredictable swells make them positively dangerous for casual swimmers. Watch for red flags on the beaches, which warn against swimming when the conditions are too risky.

Things to Do

For an island just over 200 square miles in area, Phuket offers a surprising number of things to see and do. To be sure, its beaches are Phuket’s spotlight attraction, but there’s more to discover once you move beyond the coastline.

• Enjoy Phuket’s beaches . Each beach in Phuket offers a distinct appeal that caters to different folks—partygoers go to Patong Beach, couples to Karon, and nature lovers and plane-spotters prefer Mai Khao.
• Visit Phuket Town. In its heyday, Phuket Town was a key trading post for Thai, Chinese, and British colonial entrepreneurs. While the tin trade that drove local business has long since faded, the old town has retained its old-timey charm, its townhouses having been converted into museums, restaurants, and shops.
• Take in the nightlife. All nightlife adventures in Phuket begin at Bangla Road in Patong—a neon-lit thoroughfare with attached soi (alleyways) brimming with bars, live music venues, and street performers.
• Go island-hopping: The seas of southern Thailand offer some of the most breathtaking views, both above and underwater. Tours to Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga, and Koh Similan can be easily booked from your Phuket hotel.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Phuket , the best day trips from Phuket , and scuba diving excursions from Phuket .

What to Eat and Drink

Thanks to Phuket’s long history as a trade entrepot, the local culinary scene bears influences from all over—European fine dining, Southern Chinese home cooking, and Thai royal cuisine, among others. Foodies in particular swear by Phuket’s fusion of Thai and Chinese cuisines, the natural result of the island’s Chinese/Peranakan community centered around Phuket Town.

The local food scene has earned Phuket recognition as a "Creative City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO, owing to the variety of dishes and dining styles. High-end diners can take in a meal at one of the island’s Michelin-starred restaurants, while budget eaters can count on Phuket Town's hawker-style premises that resemble similar setups in Singapore and Malaysia . The street food scene in Patong helps balance out the town’s raucous nightlife, and many resorts offer in-house dining experiences overlooking the sea.

Learn more with our guides to foods to try in Phuket , Phuket's best restaurants , and Phuket's nightlife scene .

Where to Stay

The vast majority of hotels and resorts in Phuket are located around the west coast, as Phuket’s top beaches can be found there. One exception is Phuket Town, whose affordable hotels are offset by its considerable distance from the beaches.

The graceful Sino-Portuguese buildings, cheap food, and activities around Phuket Town make it an excellent choice for history nerds and foodies. Meanwhile, budget travelers and partygoers should look for accommodations around Patong, home to the island’s hottest nightlife scene and most affordable budget hotels. Hotels around Karon Beach offer a happy medium for tourists who like staying close to the beach, but abhor Patong’s congestion and party-happy atmosphere. The relaxed energy around Karon appeals to families, couples, and seniors.

For a selection of Phuket accommodation options, check out this list of Phuket’s top hotels.

Getting There

Some 16 million people fly into Phuket International Airport from all over Asia and Europe. Located at the northern end of Phuket, the airport sits over 20 miles from the island’s main tourist stretches. If you’re flying in during Phuket’s peak season, be aware that it will take over an hour to get to or from your Phuket resort, so plan accordingly.

Phuket is connected by bridge to the Thai mainland, allowing domestic travelers to take the bus from cities around Thailand to the island. Most cross-country buses arrive and depart to/from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 on Thepkasattri Road in Ratsada.

Despite Phuket’s relatively low crime rate, some risks remain for visitors to the island. The beaches hide dangerous riptides and jellyfish, whereas locals might also take offense to fighting words or undue talk about politics or religion.

When hanging around the beaches, keep the following threats in view.

• Beware of riptides. During monsoon season, Phuket’s beaches hide a nasty secret: deadly riptides that can pull you out to the open sea, or pull you under to drown. Patong, Karon, and Kamala beaches are notorious for these. If you see red flags flying on any Phuket beach, do not go into the water.
• Listen for tsunami warnings. The 2004 Boxing Day tsunami hit Phuket hard, killing over 5,000 people. Today, an advanced tsunami warning system watches over Phuket; warnings will be sent via broadcast media and SMS on local cellphones, giving you plenty of time to head to higher ground.

Thai locals are some of the most easygoing people on earth, but remember that their patience can be severely tested, too. Here’s how to stay on locals’ good side—and how to stay out of trouble otherwise:

• Never get angry or aggressive . Avoid conflict wherever possible. Thais do not go for pranks or humiliating jokes at their expense, and they also look down on Westerners picking fights. You should also avoid political talk—Thailand has a lese majeste law that penalizes insulting talk about their royal family, so steer clear of that topic in polite conversation.
• Don’t do drugs. Thailand has extremely punitive laws against drug trafficking and use. You can spend years in prison if caught with even a small amount of prohibited drugs, or get the death penalty at worst.
• Keep your eyes open for scams . Tourist locations tend to attract a fair number of scammers, and Phuket is no exception.

Money Saving Tips

Even as luxe hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants have taken over, they haven’t crowded the backpackers out yet—budget travelers can still find plenty of ways to stretch their dollar. Follow these simple rules to get the most value out of your Phuket trip:

• Eat the way locals do. Get a meal at a Patong food hall, or hunker down to street food in Phuket Town. The cheapest meals can be found at wet markets in your vicinity, where you can get rice, meat, and a drink for no more than 100 baht ($3.30).
• Use local transportation. Look up the songthaew routes around your hotel and your preferred destinations, and ride them whenever possible. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis will also let you haggle the price down to a certain extent.
• Visit Phuket in the low season. Between May and October, Phuket gets the brunt of the monsoon season. Prices are at their lowest for both accommodations and transportation, though, which can save you money in what is arguably Thailand’s priciest town.
• Get a local SIM card for your phone. Assuming your phone is compatible with the local networks, buying a prepaid SIM card will let you surf the web and call home without breaking the bank. You have your choice of three brands: AIS , DTAC , and TrueMove . All are available at the airport, or at any convenience store on the island.
• Drink Thai-made beers. Chang, Leo, and Singha beers are much cheaper than Australian or European beers around Phuket—and they’re arguably just as good.

Phuket.net. "History of Phuket." 2021.

Channel News Asia. "Phuket already bursting at the seams but more tourists on the way." December 8, 2019.

The Phuket News. "History: Cultural History of Phuket Town." May 6, 2016.

UNESCO. "Creative Cities Network: Phuket." 2015. 

Michelin Guide Global. "Phuket Restaurants." 2020.

The Nation Thailand. "Tsunami warning system finally ready, after 8 years." December 25, 2012.

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12 Cheap Things to Do in Phuket with a Small Budget

• Best of Phuket , Budget Travel , Tips
• by Phuket 101

What are the cheap things to do in Phuket with a small budget

What are the cheapest things to do in Phuket with a mall budget? Of course, it’s not easy to travel cheaply as, in general, Phuket is more expensive than anywhere else in Thailand. But if you start with these few suggestions, you will be able to make the best of your holiday without spending a fortune. You might find the experience a lot more enlightening too!

One of the best ways to stay within budget is to rent a bike , as taxis and tuk-tuks will increase your cost dramatically ; expect to pay 150 baht a day, but the price goes down if you rent for a week or more . Of course, driving a bike in Phuket is tricky, and you will have to drive carefully, but many people do it without problems. All you have to do is keep your eyes on the road, and you will need a driving license for the occasional controls (see driving in Phuket ).

You also can travel around and even from the beach to the beach using local buses . Local buses are cheap but will be a lot slower than tuk-tuks. Read also about the best free things to do in Phuket

1. Visit Local Markets

Always fun to discover the colourful and vibrant Local Fresh Markets ; if it is your first time in Asia, you will learn a lot more about Thais people’s life than on any tour! Also, great for budget shopping. Phuket Weekend Market in Phuket Town is very popular, not far from Central Festival Shopping Mall . Lately, we have had a fun night bazaar in Town called the Chillva Market .

2. Go Snorkeling

A great way to spend a great day without spending a baht is to go snorkelling, and because water is warm all year round, you’ll never need a wetsuit. Phuket has more than 40 beaches , but not all are good for this activity. Some have nice rocky ends and warm blue clear waters, often sheltering colourful fishes and corals. Ideally, you should bring your gear; it’s not easy to rent one, but buying a mask and snorkel is affordable. Laem Singh Beach , Ao Sane , Ya Nui Beach , Banana Beach , Surin Beach , Nai Harn , Nai Thon and Kata Noi Beach .

3. Visit Temples

Also, an obvious recommendation, but some of the many temples and shrines around the island are beautiful, and isn’t it time to pay respect to your ancestors and bring yourself some good luck? Of course, Wat Chalong is the most popular, but there are many other beautiful places to admire, such as the Big Buddha or the reclining Buddha in a cave . Read more about Phuket Temples and Chinese shrines .

4. Eat Like Locals

Sounds obvious? Some are a lot better than others! Listing them all would be impossible, so we picked 10 of them in Town: Best Local Restaurant in Phuket Town . Eating in the streets is always cheaper, but beachfront streets and seafood centres with touts trying to convince you to sit down might not. You will always find it more reasonable on the back roads, especially if all the seated guests are Thais! Almost every shop can understand a simple order, or point at the images or the food from your neighbours, lots of fun! If you want an all-you-can-eat buffet at a ridiculously low price and have a real, local experience, try a Mookata local Barbecue! But don’t expect fancy meats or lobsters!

5. Go from Viewpoint to Viewpoint

One of the great ways to explore Phuket without spending more than your gasoline is to go from viewpoint to viewpoint. There are at least ten viewpoints around Phuket, giving you a reason to drive around and get an overview of the island. Self-driving is also an opportunity to discover more and a chance to stop whenever you spot something interesting.

Get listed or advertise on Phuket101: contact us here!

6. Explore the Old Phuket Town

As you explore the old streets of Phuket town, you will have a unique walk along old Sino-Portuguese streets with their beautiful shophouses. With many small cafes, bakeries and eateries along the way, it is perfect for a half-day away from the beach. Visit the local markets near the bus station and explore the tiny streets here and there to discover some magnificent mansions .

7. Phuket Night Markets

Phuket night markets are always fun; from the new Chillva Market to the giant Naka Weekend Market or the Sunday Walking Market in Phuket Town, almost everyone loves to browse the incredible array of things you don’t need. Phuket night markets are intense, colourful, surprising, fascinating, puzzling, smelly, messy, confusing or overwhelming. But night markets all have one thing in common, and they offer a unique glance at the daily life of Thai people, rich, poor or just like you and me.

8. Go to Phi Phi by Big Boat

Phi Phi is a beautiful island, and going for a cheap day trip is possible. The cheapest is to go by bike to the Rassada Pier in Phuket Town and catch a ferry for only 600 baht, but you can find more affordable options online. But if you want the full day, the best is to look around to find the lowest price for hotel transfer + lunch + National Park fee. Much safer if you are not sure you will be able to see the pier near Phuket Town in the morning. And make sure you don’t miss the ferry back to Phuket!

9. Go to Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay for 1,100 Baht per person is the cheapest and most reliable we could find, and we tried it: see here . On the way, stop at the reclining Buddha inside Suwannakuha Cave and its monkeys. Cruise around Phang Nga Bay and visit a renowned water cave. Get a glimpse of daily life in Koh Panyi , the village on stilts and reach James Bond Island . This tour includes lunch and hotel transfers!

10. Get a Glimpse of Bangla Road

Everyone should see it at least once; unlike what most people believe, Bangla Road is not Sin City for Single Men. It’s more of a colourful street full of life, restaurants, shops and bars, and ladies. On each side of Bangla walking street are excellent and affordable Live Music Bands and Night Clubs with free entry. If you want to know more, enter these famous Go-Go bars and see what this is all about. Patong is much more easygoing than Bangkok or Pattaya, and all the beer bars sell beers for 90 baht.

11. How to find a cheap but good hotel

Phuket has a collection of small but good hotels that are not difficult to find. We always get the question: can you recommend a cheap hotel in Phuket? But there is no real fixed list for that as prices keep changing.

Here is how you can find it:

• Go to your favourite online hotel website and use the filters!
• Select your location
• Select low price
• Select ‘highest guest satisfaction.’

It’s that simple! (you can also stay in one of Phuket’s best hostels )

12. Travel by Local Bus (Song Taew) or Smart Bus

There are several ways to use Phuket bus services in Phuket. Riding the local bus is slow and complicated, but you can’t have it all! There are four kinds of coaches: the blue bus, the pink bus, the airport bus and the new Smart Bus.

The one you need most is the Phuket Smart Bus which starts at Phuket airport and drives down the island to Rawai beach. It’s long and slow but incredibly cheap. You buy a card onboard, and you can refill it when needed.

Then you have the Blue Bus (known as Song Taew) that goes from Phuket Town (Central market, Ranong Road) to each beach and vice versa. The blue bus leaves roughly every 30 minutes from 6 am to 6 pm, and the ride costs 30 to 40 baht. A typical trip from Phuket Town to Patong is 50-60 minutes.

Then you have the Pink Bus that circulates around Phuket town, and the Airport Bus from Phuket airport to Phuket town takes about an hour. It leaves every hour and costs about 100 baht one way.

More about Travelling to Phuket on Budget

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Travelers guide to the amazing island of Phuket, find the best things to do, places to go, travel tips and advice.

Phuket Travel Guide Contents

Places To Go | Things To Do | Hotels & Resorts | Tours | Weather & When To Go | Getting There & Around | See & Do | Where To Stay | Day Trips & Excursions | Typical Costs | Money Saving Tips | Safety Tips | Recommended Resources | Transport | Travel Blog

Welcome to Thailand Travel Hub’s complete guide to Phuket, Thailand’s world-famous tropical paradise which attracts millions of tourists every year, and for good reason. Located on Thailand’s west coast in the Andaman sea, this incredible destination offers something for everyone, whether you want to relax on a secluded white sand beach, shop till you drop in a modern mall or Thai night market, or even indulge in the infamously hedonistic nightlife of Patong. With fantastic weather, delicious food, stunning beaches and friendly locals, a trip to Phuket is an experience not to be forgotten.

Discover the best hotels and resorts, the best beaches, the best activities and the best places to shop and eat on the island, along with our essential travel tips and advice, travel resources and booking information, all here in one place. Phuket has a vast array of accommodation options, with everything from the most basic hostel dorms to five-star ultra-luxury spa resorts, here you can find all the key information which you need to ensure that you choose the place that’s best suited to you. Wherever you choose to stay, Phuket is a great choice and you can look forward to an amazing holiday experience surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and crystal clear azure waters.

Places To Go View All

Wat Chalong

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Kata Noi Beach

Sirinat National Park

Phuket International Airport

Things To Do View All

Smile Bar & Restaurant

Blue Tree Phuket

Merlin Divers Phuket

Braun Car Rentals

Hotels & Resorts View All

Baan Laimai Beach Resort

Price ฿2000 - ฿6000

The Yorkshire Hotel

Price ฿800 - ฿3500

Safari Beach Hotel

Amari Phuket

Price ฿ 5000 - ฿ 13000

Tours & Activities View All

Pawara: Thailand Liveaboard Diving Trip

Tour Destination Similan - Koh Bon - Koh Tachai - Richelieu Rock (Tablamu Pier - Tablamu Pier)

Price $142 / Day

Phuket: James Bond and Hong Island Luxury Sunset Cruise

Price Now Just $120.18

Phuket: Phi Phi, Maya, Bamboo, and Maiton Island Day Trip

Price Now Just $91.55

Ferry Transfer Between Phuket and Koh Phi Phi

Price ฿300 / $9.86

Phuket Travel Guide Map

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Weather & When to Go to Phuket

Like the rest of Thailand, Phuket has three seasons; "cool", "hot", and "wet" (the monsoon season). But don't be deceived, the cool season is actually still hot, so a better description would be "hot", "very hot", and "monsoon". The best time to visit is undoubtedly between November and April when you will find that the conditions are optimal for enjoying the beaches and engaging in water-sports or boating activities, with a good amount of sun and minimal rain.

The cool season is November to February when you can expect average daily temperatures of 25°C. This is followed by the hot season from March to May, when you can expect temperatures of around 30°C, and the rest of the year, June-October is the monsoon season when you can expect temperatures of around 28°C. During the monsoon season, the rain can be torrential, heavy enough to make driving very hazardous, and it can stop and start very quickly. Despite this, visiting during the rainy season can still be fun as you will find fewer tourists and should be able to secure a better deal for your accommodation – but just make sure any plans you have are flexible to allow for the downpours.

How To Get To Phuket

Phuket is connected via two road bridges to the mainland in the Phang Nga Provence, although there are also speedboat transfers from Ko Hae, Ko Phi Phi and Krabi. If you’re traveling from Bangkok to Phuket , there are several transport options from flights leaving Don Mueang or Suvarnabhumi Airports, VIP buses from the southern bus terminal or Khao San Road, or a combination of train and bus from Bangkok's Hualampong train station.

Getting to Phuket by Plane – Flying is the easiest way to get to Phuket, with most travelers stopping at Bangkok before arriving at Phuket International Airport, although there are also many charter flights which fly direct from some international airports (especially in the high season). Budget flights from Bangkok start at around 700 baht ($23) each way but can cost considerably more if you book them last minute. Flights take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. A good tip is to fly from the older, domestic airport called Don Mueang (DMK) as the fares will almost certainly be lower.

Getting to Phuket by Bus – Buses depart from both of Bangkok's bus terminals and arrive in Phuket around 13 hours later, costing you 600-1000 baht ($20-$33) per person. There are also numerous private tour buses which can be booked at hotels and travel agents in the capital which may be more comfortable but don't count on it. If you travel by bus never leave your valuables in any stowed luggage, things can and do sometimes go missing.

Getting to Phuket by Train – It is possible to go as far as Surat Thani by train, and then continue your journey to Phuket by bus, but this will take a long time and cost more than a budget air ticket so is not a great choice, but if you want to travel last minute and haven’t booked flights it could be an option. Trains depart Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong station and arrive at Surat Thani 9-12 hours later at a cost of around 500 to 1500 baht ($16.50-$49) each way.

TTH Recommendation: There are many methods of transport you can take to get to Phuket and surrounding area, including Taxis, Minivans, Buses, Ferries and Flights . All can be booked in advanced and conveniently online. We highly recommend 12Go Asia , they have an easy-to-use booking system and helpful staff if you have any questions or queries with your bookings.

Check Transport Routes and Book Tickets on 12Go Asia

Getting Around Phuket

Once you've arrived on the island, there are many ways to get around. Phuket has a decent number of tuk-tuks, which look a little different to the tuk-tuks in the capital, the ones here are a little bigger and painted red. Be warned, though, for many years now, visitors and locals alike have complained about the prices which they charge, and it has been suggested that the drivers collude to keep the prices high – try to avoid using them where possible.

Taxi - Metered, air-conditioned taxis are a much better bet, however, they can be difficult to find and the driver may, as usual for Thailand, refuse to use the meter. If he does so, refuse the taxi and look for another as you will invariably end up paying at least double what the meter would have charged. There are public buses on the island which are good value, however, the network is radial with Phuket Town at the center meaning to go from one beach to another would require two buses and take longer than you would imagine.

Songthaew - Songthaews are the best compromise for most travelers, being cheap, convenient and safe. They are a little smaller than the ones you would see in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, but they work on the same principle. Songthaew's run from Ranong Road in Phuket Town and on to Phuket's most popular destinations such as Chalong, Kamala, Kata, Karon, Makham Bay, Nai Harn, Nai Yang, Patong, Rawai, Surin and Thalang. Songthaew's do not have any bus stops, to get on just flag one down, then to get off, just ring the bell, your fare will be 15-40 baht ($0.49-$1.30) depending on distance. Fares start from 15 baht and a typical journey to Phuket Town from one of the main beach towns will cost around 30 baht. Songthaew's always return to their origin at Ranong Road in Phuket Town, so unfortunately you can't get a Songthaew from beach to beach. Songthaew's run from 7am to 6pm.

Motorbike - By far the most convenient way to get around is to hire a motorcycle. For 300 baht ($10) a day, you can go as far as you want and explore the island at your leisure. 60 baht ($2) will get you a full tank of gas, which will seem to last forever. A few key points though; only get a bike if you have a motorcycle license and are a confident rider as some of the roads can be treacherous. Always wear a helmet and never drink and drive, even if others appear to be doing it.

Airport Bus - An Airport Bus runs from Phuket International Airport to Phuket Town Bus Terminal, which leaves every hour starting at 7.30am to 9.30pm from outside the arrivals hall in the domestic terminal. You will need to look out for the orange bus, the fare is 100 baht. When you exit the arrivals hall just turn left to reach the pickup point. If you are going to Thalang, Kamala Beach, Surin Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Por Bay you can get off at Horoines Monument for a connecting bus. If your going to Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach or Rassada Pier you will need to get a connecting bus at the Phuket Bus Terminal.

Where To Stay In Phuket

Patong is the biggest and most developed part of the island, and for many people, it will be the best place to stay. It has a huge choice of accommodation, hundreds upon hundreds of restaurants, bars, pubs and by far the best nightlife options. It is also home to some of the island's best shopping, including the JungCeylon mall and many night-markets and small shops. Patong is fairly large, and a bit too big to be able to comfortably cover on foot, so hiring a motorcycle would be advised. The downside is that it is packed with tourists, especially on the beach, and can be quite noisy at night time.

Karon is a little more relaxed than Patong and noticeably smaller, but still has a lot of choice and variety with many restaurants and bars, and the nightlife is more subdued. The beach is not so packed and cleaner as a result, making Karon a great compromise for most travelers with the nightlife options of Patong still only 15-20 minutes away. It is a better choice for families as some of the Patong entertainment options are not quite family-friendly (with lady-boys and young girls walking around in bikinis in the evenings).

Kamala is smaller and quieter than Karon and can be covered on foot fairly easily. It is more relaxing and has a laid-back village feel to it, the northern end is the quietest, with most amenities being found on the Beach Road at the southern end. Kamala has a fantastic beach, which is quieter and cleaner than either at Karon or Patong, with noticeably fewer tourists. Kamala is only 15 minutes north of Patong, so if you want a more chilled holiday but still want to be within easy reach of extensive shopping and nightlife options, Kamala could be the place for you.

Kata consists of two beaches, Kata Yai (big Kata) and Kata Noi (small Kata), both of which are beautiful with clean, clear waters and white sands. Kata has many accommodation options and plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping options and all the amenities you could need during your holiday. There are also some lively nightlife spots, but nothing as in your face as Patong, which when combined with the great beaches makes this a popular choice for families. Kata could neither be described as quiet nor busy, but a happy compromise with some great value hotels.

Surin is a more upmarket destination with luxury, private resorts, with prices to match. A popular getaway for celebrities, the town itself has little to offer, with most amenities being provided inside the resorts themselves. There are a few high-end restaurants and cocktail bars attached to some of the resorts which are open to the public, where you can try some exquisite food from international chefs. Surin beach is very quiet but stunningly clean and beautiful, a welcome change if you want some peace and quiet.

Phuket Town

Phuket Town is very different to other destinations on the island, and although it doesn't have a nice beach, there is still plenty to see and do. It is a fully functioning Thai town and looks like many provincial towns around the country, and as such, you can see monks walking the streets in the early morning and Thai people going about their business during the day. Cheap accommodation is abundant, and the town is peppered with great restaurants, bars and attractions with plenty to see and do in the evenings. Great for backpackers on a budget.

TTH Recommendation: There are lot's of fantastic accommodation options available in Phuket, from budget hostels, guest houses, beach bungalows, hotels and high end resorts. It's always best to book online before you go, we recommend Agoda.com and Booking.com . Both companies offer excellent customer service and good cancellation policies just in case you change your mind or your travel arrangement change. You can also check out all the customer reviews and experiences before you make your booking!

Check Out Our Top 16 Best Places To Stay In Phuket

Best Things to See & What to Do in Phuket

Discover Phuket's Beautiful Beaches

Phuket is home to some spectacular beaches with perfect white sands and crystal clear warm waters, but Patong beach, in particular, can get quite crowded and busy during the high season. But don't worry as Phuket has more than 30 beaches, with some very secluded and serene places if that is more your speed. Different beaches will have a different feel, with different types of sand, scenery, varying numbers of tourists and different local amenities, so take the time to find out which one you’d prefer.

Some beaches will, unfortunately, be thronged with tourists in addition to hawkers hassling you every five minutes to buy sunglasses, fresh coconuts, or to get a massage, whilst on the other hand, it is also possible to find secluded, quiet beaches with less than a dozen people on them. Some of the more up-market resorts even have private beaches, so that may be something to consider if your budget can stretch to it. But in short, Phuket is famous for its beaches and whichever one you choose you will be sure to enjoy yourself.

There are some truly stunning beaches in Phuket . In Kata for example there’s the gorgeous Kata Noi, which retains a slightly rustic ambience with far less crowds than its lively neighbour Kata Beach, while in Surin, you’ll find the curvaceous Laem Singh Beach – which is surrounded by thick rickets of forest and the most beautiful aquamarine waters.

Scenic Nai Thon Beach is one of our favourites though. A part of the Sirinat National Park – meaning that in terms of development, it’s been almost entirely left alone.

Kamala Beach is another pretty beach that has retained some of its original charm and has a lovely fishing village attached to it with a few restaurants and bars. Stick to the north side of the beach if you want to avoid the crowds.

The more popular beaches include Freedom Beach in Patong, Karon Beach and the once secret Banana Beach – which despite efforts to keep it cloaked in mystery is now a constant on the tourist trail.

Diving & Snorkeling Around Phuket

The surrounding waters of Phuket offer some the best diving sites in the world, such as the world renowned Similan Islands, Surin Islands, Richelieu Rock and Koh Tachai to the North and dive sites such as the King Cruiser Wreck, Anemone Reef, Racha Yai, Racha Noi and Phi Phi Islands to the south. Checkout our article on the best dive sites in Phuket to find out more.

Phuket hosts some of the best diving experiences and marine life in the world, which keeps divers from all over the world coming back time and time again. There are an extraordinary amount of fish species, including angelfish, lionfish, scorpionfish and trumpetfish, as well as manta rays, seahorses and of course sharks. Whale shark, reef sharks and leopard sharks are all commonly spotted. You can also expect to experience some amazing coral reefs, shipwrecks, sea caves, pinnacles, shelves and swim-through's.

Whether you are an advanced diver or a complete beginner, Phuket is an excellent place to enjoy a spot of scuba diving. Scuba diving in Thailand is an absolute bargain with single dives available from as little as 1500 baht ($45) or a complete PADI open water dive course from as little as 8500 baht ($280). With the prices being so low here in Thailand, it offers a great opportunity to get your scuba diving certificates completed.

There are numerous dive shops to choose from, so feel free to shop around for the best deal. Phuket is a fantastic place for divers with many excellent dive sites featuring extensive coral formations and an abundance of aquatic wildlife. There is a choice of basic or more advanced dives, with an interesting wreck site to be explored in Racha Yai, make sure to discuss with your dive shop if that is something that you might be interested in. Most of the dive centres offer packages with a 3-dive deal going for around 3500-4000 baht ($115-$132) but note that many charge for extras such as equipment hire and insurance.

Explore Phuket Island & Beyond

Phuket is a huge island and you’ll need to allow several days to explore and visit the top attractions. But don’t forget to allocate a few days to visit the Phi Phi islands and Phang-Nga bay, which are a must if you can spare the time. And then there are the Similan islands, plus many other tiny islands dotted about where you can spend a whole day visiting and doing some swimming or snorkelling, there’s a lot more in the area than just Phuket island itself.

Phang-Nga Bay is an unforgettable experience with dramatic limestone formations seeming to rise out of the sea. It is a fantastic photo opportunity and James Bond fans may remember the scenery from "The Man with the Golden Gun".

The Phi Phi islands are just as spectacular and are worth an entire day of your time. Once touted as the most beautiful islands in the world, they were hit hard by the 2004 tsunami which wiped out practically all of their infrastructure, but it has now been rebuilt and the islands welcome many visitors daily.

Visit Phuket's Stunning Temples

Phuket is home to many Thai temples (29 in fact), known as wats, and also some Chinese shrines (known as Taoist temples). These temples are intricately constructed and incredibly ornate, they are fascinating and relaxing places to visit whilst a trip to some of the more important ones should be on every visitor's agenda. Remember that Thailand is a deeply religious country, with around 95% of the citizens being practising Buddhists, and as such these temples are working places of worship, meaning you will have to be quiet when visiting, take off your shoes, and ensure that shoulders and knees are covered to avoid offending the locals.

Wat Chalong is the biggest and most important temple on the island, it is a beautifully elaborate and colourful temple which features lots of gilding and the traditional multi-layered roof, and inside you will see handmade antique hardwood furniture, Thai porcelain and many large golden Buddha statues. On the walls are depictions of Buddha's life story, you could easily spend an hour at this temple alone, make sure you don't miss it.

Experience The Buzzing Nightlife In Phuket

If you want to find the best nightlife on the island, Patong is the place to go. Whether you fancy listening to some live music, seeing a comedy show, relaxing in a sports bar or going to a cabaret, Patong has got all bases covered. And of course, if you're looking for something a little more raucous, there are nightclubs and a string of go-go bars and lady bars. But don’t panic if you’re not staying in Patong, because all but the quietest locations on the island will have some nightlife, but may well be notably more sedate and family-friendly.

There are numerous bars around the island where you can stop for a cold beer and a game of pool, with many showing sports on large screen TVs. Numerous bars will have flags outside indicating to passers-by what types of food and drink they serve, you’ll see many Scandinavian bars and British-style pubs where you can find a taste of home in the evening if you’ve had enough Thai food or just fancy something a little less exotic.

Indulge In The Amazing Cuisine Of Phuket

Food is incredibly important in Thai culture , and indeed you’ll find plenty of great restaurants on the island to sample some of the country’s famous cuisine. And as food is such great value in Thailand, make sure to treat yourself at least once by visiting one of the island’s best restaurants such as the Siam Supper Club or the Blue Elephant. There are numerous cookery classes on the island too, which are great fun and can reveal the secrets of how to make that delicious Pad Thai or green curry which you can whip up once back at home to impress your friends and family.

But Phuket doesn't just offer Thai food, of course. There is an abundance of cuisines from around the world, with everything from authentic Italian pizza, fish and chips, Chinese food, Indian curries and Turkish kebabs to Korean BBQ, Russian and even Armenian food. Whatever you fancy, you can find it here. Just don't forget to try the street-food; from noodle soups to tacos, Thai desserts, pancakes or waffles, the street-food on Phuket is very cheap and delicious.

Tours, Day Trips & Excursions In Phuket

There are numerous day trips and excursions available in Phuket, and these can be booked quickly and easily from either your hotel or the nearest travel agent. Booking a trip or tour is a great way to enjoy a stress-free day out, and in most cases will cost a lot less than you may have thought. Day trips and activities are a fantastic choice for when you've spent too long lying on the beach and are a fascinating way to experience a bit of the local culture whilst having the chance to meet other like-minded people.

Boat Trips - You can book all kinds of boat trips, either around the island or to other small islands in the vicinity, which can include snorkeling, fishing, beach hopping or just sightseeing. You can book a private boat or one shared with other guests, depending on your budget. Many will include a buffet lunch and complimentary drinks. A popular full-day tour is one that takes in the Phi Phi Islands, the famous Maya Beach and the Coral Island, with prices around 3000-4000 baht ($100-$133).

Phuket Sightseeing Tours - You can also book minibus tours of the island, which will show you the most dramatic and beautiful highlights of Phuket, and stop to enjoy the most spectacular viewpoints for some fantastic photo opportunities. You could even combine your sightseeing tour with half-day trips to the elephant sanctuary, or include the mangrove jungle and hidden beach tour (which involves driving quad bikes), almost all the packages can be tailored to your needs with little added expense.

Thai Cooking Tours - There are also half-day food tours where you will be guided around some of the best spots on the island to try tasty local specialties such as Burmese curries, Hokkien noodles, zesty grilled satays and many other tasty morsels, and you will be shown around some of the local food markets which you may otherwise have missed. There are also many Thai cooking classes which last for 3-4 hours and start at about 1500 baht ($49) per person. Then there is the amazing cocktail workshop at the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery for 1700 baht ($56), an experience not to be missed.

Khao Sok National Park Tours - For those willing to go a little further onto the mainland, there are jungle tours of the incredible Khao Sok National Park, where you can see ancient rainforest, stunning scenery with dramatic limestone cliffs, and an abundance of local wildlife including elephants, tigers, monkeys, deer, tapir, wild boar and hundred of tropical bird species.

TTH Recommendation: You'll find travel agents and tour companies absolutely everywhere in Phuket, whether you are staying in Patong, Karon, Kamala, Kata, Surin or Phuket Town. However if you want to plan ahead, you can conveniently book online with Get Your Guide and Viator . Both companies offer excellent customer service and have excellent customer reviews. Another reason to booking online is you can look at customer reviews and experiences before you make your booking! Get Your Guide and Viator have a good cancellation/refund policy, in case your travel arrangements happen to change.

Check The Best Phuket Tours & Activities On Get Your Guide

Prices, Expenses & Typical Costs In Phuket

Accommodation - Phuket is a little more expensive than many other places in Thailand, but despite that, you can still find hostel beds from as little as 130 baht ($4.30) per night in the low season. At the other end of the scale, there are a few resorts where you can drop 152,000 baht ($5000) per night. Good quality, comfortable boutique-style guesthouses are usually in the 1000-2000 baht ($33-$66) range, with family rooms for a family of 4 at around 1500-3000 baht ($49-$100) per night.

Transportation - Transportation is noticeably more expensive in Phuket than on the mainland. Motorbike rentals start at 250 baht ($8.23) per day and can save you a fortune if you are a competent rider. Tuk-tuks are expensive, with short trips within the same area at around 200-300 baht ($6.50-$10), and a trip from the airport to Patong or vice-versa can be over 1000 baht ($33), however, prices can usually be negotiated. Metered taxis are a bit cheaper (if they use the meter that is). Songtaews are a great compromise at 25-40 baht ($0.80-$1.33) per person.

Food and Drink - Don't disregard the roadside food vendors, they offer the best value and their food can be just as good if not better than many restaurants. Expect to pay 40 baht ($1.33) for a plate of food or a bowl of noodles, many will provide drinking water free or have sodas for 15 baht ($0.50). In a local-style restaurant, a Thai meal with rice will usually be under 100 baht ($3.33), Western food is more expensive. Expect to pay 150 baht ($4.94) for a full English breakfast, 150-200 baht ($4.94-$6.58) for that familiar fast food meal such as KFC or McDonalds, and with imported food such as Australian steaks, the sky is the limit. Seafood, however, is great value and will almost certainly be much cheaper than in your home country, so make the most of it!

Alcohol is expensive by Thai standards, a 620ml beer will be 65 baht ($2.14) in 7-Eleven and 70-150 baht ($2.30-$4.94) in a bar or restaurant. Cocktails start at 150 baht ($4.94) but can be as much as 600 baht ($20) in upmarket places, and imported wine, being heavily taxed, usually starts around 1000 baht ($33) per bottle. There are locally produced wines at much lower prices, but don't expect too much from them.

Recommended Budgets - Budget backpacker staying in a shared dorm, no alcohol: $25-$30 per day per person. Young traveler in boutique guesthouse with some attractions and nightlife: $70-$80 per day per person. Party animal budget staying at Patong guesthouse or hotel: $120-$140 per day per person. Family of four with guesthouse or resort, attractions, taxi/tuk-tuk transport and restaurant meals: $240-$300 per day per family. Luxury traveler, 5-star hotel, taxis, cocktails and evening entertainment: $320 and up per day per person.

Phuket Money Saving Tips

Avoid expensive taxis - Avoid expensive taxis and tuk-tuks and try to stick to the songtaews wherever possible. It's very easy to fritter away $30 a day on tuk-tuks if you're not careful and on a two-week vacation that can add up. If you're staying in a built-up area such as Patong or Karon, you will find that many places are with 10-15 minutes walk anyway.

Be careful of the hawkers - A lot of the stuff they sell is junk. But if you really want something go and buy it at the night market for half as much! Don't be surprised if that hand-carved item stains all your clothes in your suitcase because it was covered in boot polish, not paint.

Eat street food and at local restaurants - Western-style restaurants charge a premium and usually don't offer anything more than the cheap local restaurants. Try to stick to smaller, basic places and street food stalls and you will save a fortune, you can eat five street food meals for the price of one large McDonalds meal! Look for where the locals are eating, a busy restaurant is always a good sign in Phuket. Most Western food is done badly in Thailand, remember that when ordering.

Don't buy your currency in your home country - You will get 10-15% more by changing it once inside Thailand. Even at the airport in Phuket, you will get a much better rate than back home, but they are very picky about torn or defaced bills, so check them before arriving. SuperRich in Phuket Town often has very good rates.

Don't be scared to offer less - Thais respect a decent haggler! You can haggle with tuk-tuk drivers and at markets, but not in shops or restaurants. Don't come in so low that you insult the vendor, about 50% or a little more is a good place to start proceedings. Many Phuket vendors are aware that prices are cheap for westerners and will try and raise their prices accordingly.

Don’t drop your cigarette butts - If you are a smoker, always ensure that you dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly. Throwing it on the street or even down a drain is not allowed and if spotted you could be charged a 2000 baht ($65) fine. Try to find an ashtray if possible.

Ask for a discount at your hotel - If you are planning on staying several nights at the same hotel or guesthouse, and you haven’t booked and paid in advance, ask for a discount. More often than not you may be given a token amount such as 100 baht ($3.28) per night deduction, but you will then be asked to pay upfront. Most places will charge a deposit of 1000 baht for the key or key-card, so don’t lose it, and don’t forget to reclaim your deposit upon departure.

ATMs charges are very steep - Try to avoid using your foreign debit card in a Thai ATM as the charges are sky-high. There is a 220 baht ($7.25) charge on foreign card transactions which cannot be avoided, plus your bank back home will add on their foreign withdrawal fee and may also use an unfavorable exchange rate meaning that you could lose $25-$30 per withdrawal. For budget travelers this could easily be a day's budget lost so look at other options before traveling. Some banks offer debit cards with no foreign transaction fee (but you'll still pay the 220 baht each time), plus there are international money cards which can be preloaded with funds. Failing that, you should either bring as much cash with you as you feel comfortable with or make use of travelers cheques.

Beaches are free - If you find yourself short of funds, spend a day on the beach and eat street-food, the beaches are free and 2 street-food meals will cost as little as 80 baht ($2.65).

Look for happy hour deals and food vouchers - Many, if not most bars will have some kind of promotion or happy hour. This can range from 50% off deals to buy two beers get one free, or even a free beer with certain meals. If you’re a fast food fan, all the big chains in Thailand produce money off vouchers and coupons which can be picked up in various shopping malls, or you can download their online app to get free meals and discounts.

Is It Safe to Travel Around Phuket?

Phuket, like most parts of Thailand, is very safe, and certainly much safer than somewhere like London or Paris, for example. However, as it is arguably Thailand's most upmarket destination attracting tourists with money to spare, basic precautions should still be taken to protect yourself from opportunists. Bear in mind that many Thai people in the service industry earn under $10 per day, so be careful about flashing large wads of cash in your wallet, leave any valuable jeweler at home, and place expensive belongings in the hotel safe before venturing out. You are extremely unlikely to be the victim of violent crime, but petty theft and scams still take place.

Be very careful on the roads - Like many places in Thailand, your biggest danger is likely to be the roads and the traffic, especially if you are renting a vehicle. Some of the roads on Phuket can be very steep, winding and poorly maintained and as such, don’t attempt to drive yourself unless you are confident that you can do so safely. Take care when crossing the road, Thai drivers are not the most diligent in the world, and drunk-driving is unfortunately commonplace.

Keep your wits about you - Particularly in Patong at night, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and possessions. If someone tries to say that they know you from your hotel, it will be a scam. If a lady-boy puts her arms around you and kisses you on the cheek, check to see if your wallet, watch and necklace are still there immediately.

What what you drink - Drink-spiking can happen, so don't let your drink out of your sight where possible. Don't trust people who approach you out of the blue, and don't be tempted by offers to go somewhere you aren't comfortable with. If you are visibly intoxicated, you will be more likely to attract the attention of thieves and scammers so take care when enjoying the nightlife.

Stay away from trouble - If you witness an altercation involving a Thai person, under no circumstances should you get involved as you are very likely to end up being assaulted, blamed for something or possibly both. The best advice is to get as far away from the situation as you can.

Watch out for creepy-crawlies - Other wildlife will include numerous lizards (both inside and outside), spiders, scorpions, snakes, mosquitoes, hornets and the dreaded giant centipede, which the Thais call “da-karb”. Most are harmless unless provoked. If you find something nasty in your bedroom, ask a Thai for assistance, they will know immediately whether it is dangerous or not.

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Thailand Trip Cost – Budget Tips and Prices in 2024

• Last Updated: January 17, 2024

Read on for a detailed breakdown of what it costs to travel to Thailand, whether you’re a budget traveler or looking to splurge. 

Before travelling to Thailand many travellers find themselves asking, “Is Thailand cheap?” or “What does a Thailand trip actually cost?” or “What are the best tips for saving money in Thailand?”

These are all valid questions and hopefully this article will answer them!

Thailand is a very affordable country to visit. Though it isn’t as cheap as its Southeast Asian neighbours, like Laos or Cambodia , Thailand is still a very affordable travel destination. 

Budget travellers can easily have an incredible time exploring Thailand cheaply.

Mid-range accommodations and restaurants allow travellers to treat themselves a bit more without spending a fortune, and there are lots of affordable activities to enjoy in Thailand as well. 

For those that want the real luxury travel experience, Thailand has that too, and it isn’t even out-of-the-question expensive.

But for the average traveller, who wants to have an amazing cultural experience without spending an entire years’ worth of savings, Thailand is the perfect country to visit. 

With this post, you’ll learn about what things actually cost in Thailand, and how to break down the cost of a trip. 

Of course, the actual cost of a trip to Thailand will depend on the individual traveller and their personal preferences. 

But for those looking for a general idea of a Thailand travel budget, this is the article for you!

While discussing prices in Thailand, I’ll be using USD. Because this is such a universal currency, hopefully, the prices will make more sense than if I list them in Thai Baht. (1 USD equals roughly 30 THB)

Table of Contents

Backpacker Budget: Average daily budget: $25-50 USD

Mid range budget: average daily budget: $60-100 usd , luxury traveler budget: average daily budget: $200-400 usd, getting to thailand by air, getting to thailand by land, public transport in thailand, long journeys, short journeys, street food, buying groceries, local restaurant, tourist restaurant, fancy restaurant, drinking in thailand, guest house/cheap hotel, mid-range hotel, luxury hotel, activity cost breakdown in thailand, thailand budget travel tips, thailand trip cost: how much does it cost to travel to thailand.

Wondering how much does it cost to travel to Thailand? Considering the information presented in this post, creating a Thailand travel budget can be quite simple. 

Think about whether you want to travel on a backpacker budget, a mid-range traveller budget, or a luxury budget. You can even mix-and-match, penny-pinching at times and splurging here and there. 

Formulating a Thailand travel budget is all up to the individual, but this breakdown of an average Thailand trip cost should help you get an idea of what you’ll spend. 

* Attractions vary greatly by personal interest and can be the same at any level of budget

If you live the backpacker lifestyle and always pick the cheapest options while travelling around Thailand, it is very easy to explore Thailand on a budget. 

There are plenty of free attractions to see, like temples, street markets, waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints. 

Some popular attractions may have entrance fees, but they are usually close to nothing. 

A budget traveler in Thailand would have average daily expenses that may look something like this:

• Hostel dorm bed: 10 USD
• Fruit smoothie: 2 USD
• Temple entrance fee: 2 USD
• 2 street food meals: 8 USD
• Taxi ride: 2 USD
• 1 beer from 7/11: 1 USD
• Total Cost: 25 USD

But make sure you aren’t so stingy with money that you miss out on special experiences!

You can book activities with the cheapest companies and pack a few fun day trips into your schedule. 

Book a half-day island snorkelling tour for 30 USD, take a local cooking class for 30 USD, or hit up a Thai boxing match for 15 USD. 

Take cheap buses around the country, avoid drinking too much, and hang out with the locals. 

A budget traveler should have no problem enjoying themselves in Thailand!

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money than the average backpacker, you can upgrade your Thailand travel budget to include more fun things. 

Visit all the best attractions, even if they cost a bit more. 

Treat yourself to some nice cocktails on the beach here and there. Book a one-hour Thai massage, or maybe throw in a full-day scuba-diving trip. 

Stay in affordable hotel rooms and eat a wide range of foods that include cheap street food and some nice restaurant meals. 

An average day may look like this:

• Budget double room in a hotel: 22 USD
• Lunch in a restaurant: 6 USD
• Cocktail: 5 USD
• Street food for dinner: 4 USD
• Souvenir shopping: 5 USD
• Cabaret Show: 15 USD
• Taxi ride: 3 USD
• Total Cost: 60 USD

On a mid-range budget, you can dish out more money on the things that matter to you the most. 

You can pay for more day trips if you want to explore more, or you can treat yourself to more food and drinks if you like eating out. 

Whatever you choose, you can still have the trip of a lifetime without completely breaking the bank. 

If you really decide to lash out on a luxury vacation to Thailand, you’ll be surprised at how affordable it is. 

If you’re willing to spend lots of money, you can also pay for all the best activities. 

You can book guided temple tours, incredible speedboat island-hopping tours, spa and massage treatments, private cooking lessons, and everything else under the sun. 

You can indulge in all the best food and drinks, and stay in five-star accommodation. 

For those who dream of a vacation like this, but don’t think they can afford it, Thailand is a relatively cheap place to live like a king or queen, so take a look at this average daily budget breakdown. 

• Luxury suite in a nice hotel: 150 USD
• Private temple tour: 50 USD
• Thai cooking lesson: 30 USD
• Lunch in a tourist restaurant: 10 USD
• Drinks on the beach: 30 USD
• Spa treatment: 20 USD
• Dinner in a nice restaurant: 30 USD
• Total cost: 320 USD per day

Though most travellers won’t be living the luxury lifestyle in Thailand, it is interesting to see the actual costs. 

Probably the most rewarding way to travel Thailand is by using a mid-range budget. 

You can still kick it with the locals, eat street food and drink cheap local beer, but spend a bit of money on amazing activities and nicer accommodation. 

Backpacking Thailand is also a really fun and character-building experience. 

You’ll learn a lot from navigating public transport and deciphering foreign menus. While staying in hostels, you’ll also meet lots of incredible people. 

So a Thailand travel budget does not have to send you into bankruptcy. 

Travel with a frugal attitude, an open mind, and positive energy and you’ll have an unforgettable trip!

Breakdown of Thailand Costs

With a general overview of the Thailand costs at various budgets, below you will find information to help you navigate specific budget items.

These will include costs of:

• Transportation (to and around)
• Accommodation

I’ll also end the article with some budget travel tips. If you’re looking to save money, these tips will help you enjoy Thailand for cheaper.

Cost of Transportation in Thailand

Wondering how much does it cost to get around Thailand? Here is a breakdown of the costs of getting to Thailand, and getting around within the country. Local transportation is affordable here!

READ MORE: Check out my other guide on transportation in Thailand for a better idea of how to get around.

The cost of flying to Thailand depends on where you are travelling. 

If you are travelling from the Americas or Europe, chances are your flight will be very long and quite expensive. 

However, there are certain budget travel tips to keep in mind that will help you find the cheapest flight to Thailand. 

• Plan your trip to Thailand during the off-season (April through October) 
• Check websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights that show you the cheapest departure dates for an entire month
• Don’t be afraid to take weird layovers; the prices may be cheaper!
• Consider changing your departure airport if possible (For example, flying from NYC to Bangkok is cheaper than flying from Boston to Bangkok).

Use these same tips no matter where you are flying from, and you should be able to score a reasonably priced flight to Thailand. 

If you’re travelling to Thailand overland, your travel will most likely be incredibly cheap. 

The most affordable way to get to Thailand from bordering countries is by bus. 

Countless different bus companies travel to Thailand from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar, and the journey will usually cost around 20-40 USD. Depending on where you are starting your trip to Thailand, it may be cheaper to travel by land.

Once you arrive in Thailand, you’ll be using public transport to get around the country (unless you rent a car). 

The typical traveller’s route in Thailand starts in Bangkok , then goes up to the north to Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai , and Pai , then goes down south to the islands. 

So you’ll probably be travelling long distances within the country, and luckily these journeys can be very cheap.

Here is a general idea of what different local transportation options cost when you visit Thailand:

Here is the average cost of travelling long distances around Thailand via local transportation. 

Flights 

For covering long distances around the country, flying local budget airlines is the best option. You can get from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, or from Bangkok to the islands, in just one hour. 

Using budget airlines like Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, or Thai Vietjet, the average cost of a one-way domestic flight is between 30-50 USD. 

Keep in mind though that if you want to fly, your Thailand trip cost will go up.

Bus or Train

A long bus or train journey through Thailand, say from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, costs on average about 20-50 USD on local transportation. 

So the average price for buses or trains is very similar to flights, but they can take up to 12 hours instead of 1. 

If you’re a fan of slow travel and seeing the countryside, buses or trains are the way to get around on your trip to Thailand. 

But it is much quicker and just as cheap to catch a flight, so that’s probably the easiest way to travel long distances in Thailand. 

The best deals for internal ground transport in Thailand are on 12Go.asia .

For getting around one city or general area, here is a breakdown of the transport costs. If you’re in a big city like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, there are plenty of options to travel within and around the city.

Smaller towns have fewer options, but still should at least have the following:

These red-pick-up trucks serve as collective taxis, and they are the cheapest and easiest way to take day trips to a certain city or island of Thailand. 

If you wait for the whole truck to fill up, everyone can split the cost and the ride becomes cheaper. 

If you’re travelling 5-20 minutes within a city, your journey shouldn’t cost more than a couple of dollars. 

If you’re taking a long day trip and the drive is an hour, the whole journey may cost about 50 USD. But split between 10 people, you’re still only paying about 5 USD for a long trip. 

For travelling quick distances within a city, taxis are the second cheapest way to travel. 

Only use taxis that have meters, and your quick journey won’t cost more than 5 USD. 

These motorized, three-wheeled scooters are a fun way to travel in Thailand, but the drivers tend to overcharge tourists. 

It is common for a tuk tuk ride to cost up to 10 USD, which seems cheap but is definitely overpriced for local transportation in Thailand. 

Ask locals what a specific tuk tuk journey should cost and make sure you clarify it with the driver before you go so he doesn’t rip you off. 

For travelling through the Thai islands, you’ll have to take ferries. 

There is usually only one route to get from one island to the next, and the cost of the journey is in the same range regardless of which ferry company you take. 

An average ferry journey costs around 20 USD, give or take a bit depending on how long the ride is. 

Cost of Food in Thailand

Thailand is truly a foodie’s paradise. 

There is so much delicious Thai food and it is all very affordable, so food won’t take up a big portion of your Thailand travel budget.

Here is a summary of the different types of places to eat in Thailand and how much they cost. 

Eating at street markets is the cheapest way to eat in Thailand. 

You can get full plates of food for as cheap as 1 USD, and little snacks like fruit platters and spring rolls cost less than 1 USD each. 

This is also where you’ll find the most authentic local Thai food, so street markets are the way to go regardless of your budget. 

If you plan on cooking your own meals, street markets are still the best places to shop. 

Big western-style grocery stores are rare in Thailand. Occasionally you’ll find little markets or 7/11s that sell staples like rice, noodles, snacks, and processed foods. 

But for buying produce, meat, seafood, and spices, the street markets have the freshest and cheapest food. 

Produce costs barely anything; you can buy a bag full of fruit for only a couple of dollars. 

Cooking is a great way to save money, but honestly, street food in Thailand is so cheap that you might as well just eat the food cooked by the locals.

For eating out in a restaurant, the cheapest option is eating at a small, humble, local joint that only has a few menu items. 

A full meal in a restaurant like this can cost between 40 and 100 Baht, which is roughly 2-4 USD. 

In touristy areas of Thailand, you’ll find lots of restaurants geared towards foreigners. 

This is where you’ll find western-style food like pizza, burgers, and European food in addition to classic Thai meals. 

A meal in a tourist restaurant generally costs between 100 and 200 Baht, still only 3 to 6 USD. 

Even in upscale restaurants, the price of food is very cheap. 

A full meal in a super high-quality restaurant can cost a few hundred Baht, and it is rare to find something that costs over 30 USD. 

So Thailand is an awesome place to treat yourself to the nicest restaurants and still spend much less than you would at home!

The cost of alcohol in Thailand varies. 

Beer is the cheapest beverage, whereas wine and liquor are often imported so they are pricier. 

If you buy your beer from a convenience store like a 7/11, it will only cost 1 or 2 USD. 

Ordering a beer in a bar or restaurant is a bit more expensive, but is still the cheapest drink, costing only about 3 USD. 

As for liquor, a mixed drink or cocktail can cost between 3 and 6 USD depending on the venue.

So though drinking in Thailand isn’t expensive, one of the best tips for saving money in Thailand is to just cut down on drinking in general and saving your cash for food and activities. 

READ MORE: Make sure you know all of the best foods to eat in Thailand !

Accommodation Costs in Thailand

There are plenty of places to stay during your trip to Thailand for any type of travel budget. 

Accommodation tends to consume the majority of a Thailand travel budget, but it is still very affordable compared to other destinations around the world. 

The Thailand cost of living is cheap too, so if you plan to stay here for a while you can probably secure somewhere affordable to stay long-term.

The cheapest form of accommodation in Thailand is a backpacker hostel. 

The average cost for one night in a dorm room is between 8 and 15 USD. The $8 hostels will be more basic, whereas the $10-$15 hostels will be much nicer. 

Even though the cost is cheap, all of Thailand’s hostels are generally very well-kept and full of great facilities. 

Thailand has lots of guest houses that are like small, simple, and cheap hotels. 

You can find a basic budget double room for anywhere between 20 and 30 USD per night. 

If you’re travelling as a couple, it may be cheaper to split the cost of a budget double room in a cheap hotel rather than paying for two hostel dorm beds. 

Make sure you book your hostels ahead of time on Hostelworld if you want to get the best ones, as they often sell out.

Even a mid-range Thailand hotel can be very cheap compared to western standards. 

A beautiful hotel with a pool and lots of amenities can cost as low as 20 USD per night, though the average cost is anywhere between 30 and 60 USD per night. 

If you’re looking to treat yourself to the finest hotels and resorts in Thailand, there are so many amazing options. 

Especially when travelling in the islands, you can find stunning beachfront suites that will cater to your every need. 

True luxury hotels in Thailand can cost anywhere between 100 and 300 USD per night. 

There are a few rare finds that cost even more, such as renting an entire ocean view villa for thousands of dollars, but chances are most average travellers won’t be looking for places like that. 

After paying for all the necessities, like food, transport, and accommodation, you can start planning your budget for the fun stuff!

There are endless opportunities for adventure in Thailand, and you should at least participate in a few fun activities during your stay. 

Tours and activities in Thailand vary in terms of price and quality. Some tour companies are more upscale and established, so their tours cost more. 

The quality of your tour just depends on how much you are willing to spend. 

Here is a quick cost breakdown of some of the most popular tours and activities in Thailand that you may be interested in trying. 

The actual price will vary depending on the location and the company you book through, but here is a general idea of the average prices. 

• Island Hopping day trip: 30-100 USD
• Diving or Snorkeling day trip: 50-150 USD
• Thai Massage: 5-15 USD per hour
• Muay Thai Boxing Match: 10-20 USD
• Ladyboy Cabaret Show: 15-25 USD
• Cooking Class: 30 USD-60 USD
• Guided Temple Tour: 20-70 USD

READ MORE: Be sure to check out these incredible things to do in Thailand !

To summarise all the information throughout this post, here are some of the best budget travel tips for Thailand that will help you save money throughout your trip.

• Travelling during the off-season to enjoy cheaper flight prices
• Fly budget airlines to save money and time when travelling long distances in Thailand
• Try to share songtaews with other travellers so everyone pays a cheaper price and you can all limit transportation costs
• Don’t let tuk tuk drivers rip you off! Secure a fair price before you get in the vehicle
• Eat street food whenever possible. Not only is it super cheap, it’s authentic and delicious.
• Drink local beer when going out; it’s the most affordable option for alcohol in Thailand.
• If you’re a solo traveller, you can score a bed in some epic hostels for less than 10 USD per night.
• If you’re travelling as a couple, it may be cheaper to split the cost of a private double room in a guesthouse or hotel, rather than paying for 2 dorm beds.
• Treat yourself to a nice room in a hotel at least once in Thailand! Even if you’re on a backpacker budget, you can find some incredible deals.
• Take advantage of all the free activities in Thailand, like hiking, exploring temples, and visiting the beach.
• Attractions in Thailand are usually very affordable, so definitely spend a bit of money on some fun things like cooking classes, boxing matches, massages, or snorkelling tours.
• Spending money on experiences in Thailand is almost always worth it. Book tours with reputable companies and enjoy every minute of Thai culture!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Related posts, the 20 best things to do in koh tao, thailand (2024 guide), yoga dreams at the sanctuary in koh phangan, is thailand safe to travel in 2024, 2 thoughts on “thailand trip cost – budget tips and prices in 2024”.

I am looking to travel to Thailand as well!!! I am apprehensive about travelling alone. I am 56 female and looking for an adventure: it will be my first time travelling over that way. I have done the Caribbean islands before. .

thanks for the tips,im 65 and would like to find a travelling companian that would like to say go from phuket to chang mai any sights that i can look on that you know of,thanks for your time.

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Phuket Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Phuket?

How much does a weekend trip to phuket cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Phuket cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Phuket cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Phuket

Typically, the daily expenses for a trip to Phuket for one person fall between $44 and $273, while for two people, it can range from $88 to $545. These price ranges are based on the average daily cost of $106 (฿3,841) which is calculated from the expenses of previous travelers. These numbers include expenses for food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your overall travel style, level of luxury, and the activities you choose. If you book standard hotels, eat at typical restaurants, and take in the main attractions, your budget should stay close to this average cost. Below, we provide a breakdown of travel expenses by category, as well as a general price range for accommodation and activities for your visit. Please bear in mind that individual attractions and hotels may vary in price, although they generally adhere to the price ranges discussed in this article.

If you're considering an independent trip to Phuket, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $44 (฿1,590) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $106 (฿3,841) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $273 (฿9,887), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Phuket from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Phuket .

Travelers spend, on average, $318 per person on a three-day trip to Phuket. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Phuket cost?

With five days in Phuket, you can expect to spend about $530 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Phuket cost?

Most visitors spend between $307 and $1,908 for a one week trip to Phuket, with the average being $741 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Phuket. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Phuket

With more than 60 hostels in Phuket, the average price is $12 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $3 and the most expensive is $41. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Phuket here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Phuket.

• $15 for a dorm bed at Lub d Phuket Patong in Phuket more details
• $13 for a dorm bed at BearPacker Patong Hostel in Phuket more details
• $13 for a dorm bed at The Luna Hostel Phuket Airport in Phuket more details

Hotel Prices in Phuket

The average price for a hotel room in Phuket is $44 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Phuket here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Phuket Kata Resort

Boathouse phuket.

Should you do a tour in Phuket?

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Phuket and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $20 for the Simon Cabaret Show Phuket (Ticket Only) to $894 for the Private Catamaran to Maiton & Coral Islands .

• John Gray’s James Bond Island Tour with Sea Cave Kayaking Viator $ 100
• John Gray’s James Bond Island Tour with Sea Cave Kayaking: $100
• Phi Phi Snorkeling Day Trip by Speedboat - Phuket Sail Tours: $123
• John Gray's Cave Canoeing Tour in Phang Nga Bay: $123
• Small Group Phi Phi Islands Sunrise Tour with Seaview Lunch: $120
• Phuket Best: City Tour & Elephant Park Experience : $78
• Private local city tour with english speaking driver : $90
• Phang Nga Bay Island Boat Tour By Speedboat By Phuket Sail Tours: $123
• Phuket: Full-Day Canoeing Tour by John Gray's Cave in Phang Nga Bay: $126

More for Phuket

If you're planning a trip to Phuket, Thailand, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

16 tips for a budget visit to Thailand

Oct 28, 2023 • 10 min read

These top budget tips with a guide to daily costs can help you keep your spending under control on a trip to Thailand © Chadchai Ra-ngubpai / Getty Images

Travelers looking for adventures on a shoestring flock to Thailand .

With its heady blend of pocket-friendly travel experiences, cultural surprises, easy transport, spicy-not-pricey food and one of the world’s friendliest backpacker scenes, Thailand could well be the perfect budget travel destination.

However, the cost of a trip can vary wildly depending on where you go and the levels of comfort you're looking for when you get here. Spend too much time in Bangkok, take lots of tours and drink lots of bottled beer, and you're looking at spending a whole lot more.

Here are our top tips for traveling further for less in Thailand.

1. Places to stay are cheaper in the low season

Prices for accommodations and transport shoot up from November to March, coinciding with the driest weather and travel-friendly temperatures. The July to September low season is the rainiest time of year; some ferry routes and island resorts close down completely, but accommodation prices drop significantly. Hotel rates also dip during the spring and fall shoulder seasons , which can be a rewarding time to visit without the winter crowds. 

2. Air travel into Thailand can be surprisingly low

Bangkok is one of Asia’s cheapest destinations to reach by air, particularly if you come with Qatar Airways, Etihad or another Gulf carrier, but prices creep upwards during the peak winter season. If flights to Bangkok are looking costly, investigate flights to Singapore , Kuala Lumpur and other Asian hubs, and see if you can find a cheap connection to the capital on Air Asia or another budget carrier.

Alternatively, connect to Bangkok by train . Regular trains run from Johor Bahru – just over the causeway from Singapore – to KL, Butterworth (for Penang) and north along the isthmus to Bangkok for around US$80 one way. It’s one of Asia’s most enjoyable rail journeys. 

3. Resist the taxis at the airports

Most new arrivals fly into Bangkok’s busy Suvarnabhumi International Airport, 30km (19 miles) east of Bangkok, though a few budget carriers still use Don Mueang International Airport near Chatuchak Weekend Market . At either hub, eager agents will try to talk you into expensive airport taxis.

Instead, take public transit; Suvarnabhumi has Airport Rail Link trains that connect with the downtown Skytrain and MRT network, and a free shuttle bus to a local transport terminus with cheap city buses into the center. Don Mueang has regular overground trains and slow but inexpensive local buses to the middle of Bangkok. 

At airports all over Thailand, you can often find a cheap taxi ride by flagging down a cab on the highway outside the airport-terminal complex, avoiding airport charges. Just remember to check if any highway tolls apply for the journey into town.

4. Stay in homestays or hostels

Accommodation prices in Thailand have been climbing steadily for years, in line with rising standards. Many backpacker places are edging into boutique-hotel territory, with cafes, bars, wi-fi and pools, and the US$5 box rooms of old are a dying breed.

To keep a lid on costs, sleep in dorms; rates start around 250B. For not too much more, you can find basic rooms and bungalows with shared bathrooms and fans rather than A/C (or central air-conditioning instead of a unit in every room). If you're traveling with friends, sharing triple and quad rooms can be a great way to save money.

Camping can be astonishingly cheap, with rates at many national parks starting from 30B per person. Homestays are another inexpensive option in rural areas; rooms tend to be rustic but comfortable, and you get authentic home cooking and cultural immersion in the bargain. Also, look out for discounted rates at hostels and budget hotels via booking sites such as Booking.com and Agoda.

5. Skip internal flights and tourist minivans for local buses and trains

Even if you stick to budget airlines, flying internally in Thailand and making use of those oh-so-convenient tourist minivans will jack up your travel costs. Instead, use public buses or travel in second or third-class carriages on the trains. 

If you don’t mind sleeping in a reclining seat, you can save the cost of a berth (and a hotel room) by taking a slow overnight train or overnight bus. Buy tickets directly from bus and train operators to avoid travel agent fees.

Buses run by the state transport company Baw Khaw Saw (BKS) are usually cheaper than private buses. Most bus stations have ticketing halls where all the companies advertise their destinations so that you can compare fares. Ordinary and express buses are cheaper (but less comfortable) than VIP buses or luxury VIP24 or VIP32 buses, named for the number of seats on board. 

6. Take taxis or a  sŏrng·tăa·ou  instead of tuk-tuks

For local trips, regard tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) as a travel experience rather than a serious means of transport. Prices are routinely hiked for tourists,  and trips often involve detours to commission-paying souvenir shops and other establishments. Sǎamláw – three-wheeled pedicabs – also work on a bargaining system, but they’re not too expensive for short hops. 

A metered taxi is usually a more stable bet – just be aware that traffic jams can make even a short journey slow and expensive. Rideshares can be summoned through Grab and other apps, but you’ll often pay more than you would for a regular taxi. For trips around town (or from town to nearby villages), by far the cheapest option is the sŏrng·tăa·ou – a pick-up truck with benches that operates like a local bus.

7. It's cheap to rent a motorcycle or scooter, but ride carefully!

Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a remarkably cheap way to get around in Thailand , particularly for local exploring. In most traveler centers, you can pick up a ride for as little as 150B per day, and petrol costs around 40B per liter. Thailand has a shocking rate of traffic accidents, so ride cautiously and slowly and make sure liability insurance is included as part of the hire. It may not be enough to rely on your own travel insurance.

8. Eat at street stalls and night markets

If you find restaurant dining is eating through your stock of baht, look to street stalls and wandering hawker carts that are always gratifyingly inexpensive. Stick to busy stalls and avoid uncooked fruit and veg.

As dusk falls across Thailand, street corners, parking lots, boat jetties and station forecourts transform into bustling night markets, where some of the best food in town can be had for low prices. Indeed, grazing from pàt tai noodle stall to sà·dé (satay) stand to ðôm yam soup vendor is one of Thailand’s great pleasures. For a real bargain, seek out the food courts attached to bus stations and other transport hubs, where bowls of noodle soup and other tasty local snacks can be had for penny prices.

9. Expect a high tax on alcohol

Going out in Thailand can be surprisingly expensive because of the taxes on alcohol. Knocking back the bottles of Singha or Chang beer can easily double your meal bill, so sip slowly or do as locals do and share a bottle of Thai whiskey or rum (usually enjoyed with ice and soda or cola). If only a beer will do, Chang is usually cheaper than Singha.

10. There's rarely a cover charge at live music bars

For inexpensive evening entertainment, a trip to a live music bar gives a lot of bang for not many bahts. There’s rarely a cover charge, and most venues have a rotating line-up of bands playing technically adept covers of popular songs. 

11. National parks have entry fees, and activities can be costly

Entry fees to Thailand’s many national parks are not too onerous – typically 200–300B – but they can add up. The big costs are usually associated with transport into national parks and organized activities such as guided hikes , boat trips and scuba diving. If you’re looking to save money, competition between operators keeps prices down at Khao Sok National Park and Khao Yai National Park . 

Accommodations at national parks, on the other hand, are very reasonably priced, with bungalows going for 350-500B and tent spaces costing from 30B (US$0.90) per person. Tents are often available for rent for around 150B. Most national parks with accommodations also have basic canteens offering simple Thai dishes at budget prices.

12. Thailand’s minor monasteries are often free to visit

Thailand’s most famous monasteries – including Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok – charge pricey entry fees for tourists. If you’re watching the pennies, smaller monasteries are often completely free to visit, and they are arguably more interesting because of the absence of photo-snapping crowds. In any town you pass through, ask a local for tips on the most interesting wát in the area – there’ll always be something intriguing to see.

13. Hot spring treatments are cheaper than spas 

Thailand’s spas are world-famous, and the sky is the limit when it comes to prices at the luxe end of the market. However, you can find therapeutic treatments for a song at dozens of natural hot springs dotted around the hills of northern Thailand. 

Chiang Mai in the north is ringed by government-run hot spring complexes, where therapeutic baths and other treatments come at highly agreeable prices. At Pha Daeng National Park , access to the pools costs just 100B, and you can camp for 30B per person; entry prices are similar at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs.

14. Seek out economical Thai massages 

Having a vigorously relaxing Thai massage is de rigueur on a trip to Thailand, and you can pay the earth at posh hotels and luxury spas. At the other end of the spectrum, you can enjoy a pocket-friendly pummeling from former convicts at Chiang Mai’s Vocational Training Centre of the Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Institution and Lila Thai Massage , where many graduates work full-time. 

Alternatively, head to the massage pavilions on the grounds of Thai monasteries, where massages are performed by people trained in traditional Buddhist massage, as taught by the monks of Bangkok’s Wat Pho , the spiritual birthplace of Thai massage.

15. Thailand is one of the cheapest places to learn to scuba dive

Budget travelers can breathe easy – Thailand is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to scuba dive. An open water dive certification course on Ko Tao will cost around 10,000B, and dives start from 1500B if you go in off the beach. While Ko Tao is the cheapest dive hub, other inexpensive spots include Ko Lanta and Ko Phi Phi .

16. Bring your own gear for free experiences

Every imaginable adrenaline activity is possible in Thailand, from canyoning and kiteboarding to bungee jumping, zip-lining and jungle trekking. However, prices can be steep, particularly for organized, tourist-oriented trips that include transport. If you want thrills at minimum cost, head to Railay near Krabi, Thailand’s favorite rock climbing playground, where epic limestone routes start right off the beach. There’s no charge to climb with your own gear (or it can be rented cheaply), and budget rooms are available at Hat Ton Sai. If you've got your own snorkeling gear, you can see the underwater world for free at beaches across Thailand .

A guide to daily costs in Thailand

• Basic guesthouse room: 500–1000B (US$15–30)
• Market/street-stall meal: 40–100B (US$1.20–3.00)
• Bottle of local beer: 80B (US$2.40)
• Organized tour or activity: from 1500B (US$45)
• Motorbike or scooter hire per day: 150–300B (US$4.50–9.00)

This article was first published February 2022 and updated October 2023

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Unveiling Phuket: Your Budget-Friendly Thailand Adventure in 2024

Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, is a well-rounded tourist destination that caters to all the essentials. This travel guide is able to fulfill all your wishes as per your budget, from pristine beaches and beautiful nightlife to Sanskrit experiences. And the unforgettable landscapes that include this travel guide are well designed.

Table of Contents

Discover the diversity of Phuket.

1. Beach Bliss:

To escape the crowded Patong Beach area and enjoy a more tranquil experience, try Naithon Freedom Explore less developed destinations like Surin.

Immerse yourself in the relaxing soft sands and immerse yourself in natural beauty while experiencing the exquisite essence of Phuket.

2.Cultural Exploration:

There are some beautiful Buddhist temples on the island that you can visit, such as the iconic Big Buddha and the enchanting Wat Chelong. Karon Beach includes Wat Suwan Kheri Khet.

3. Phang Nga Bay Cruise:

For an exquisite travel experience Through Phang Nga Bay, you can enjoy “ The Man with the Golden Gun. ” Famous shooting location for the James Bond film.

There are a variety of points on the island for day trips that offer a lovely experience for around 3500 THB each.

4. Gibbon Rehabilitation Center:

Gibbon for an ethical tourism experience Visit the rehabilitation center where gibbons are rescued from captivity. Experience learning about these beautiful creatures during a two-hour tour for 4,000 THB .

5. Similan Islands Adventure:

The Northwest is a protected area with ancient marine life known as the Similan Islands. The only two islands in the middle are publicly accessible. With an entrance fee of 500 THB .From 15 October to 15 May

Beyond the Basics: Offbeat Experiences

1. Leave Patong:

Tourists may want to avoid Patong Beach for a less crowded and scenic experience, such as Surin Hat Karon, and Mai Kho Beach .

2. Culinary Delights:

Enroll in a cooking class at Pam’s Thai Cooking School on Patong Beach to learn traditional Thai cuisine, with options ranging from 30-minute mini classes to full courses.

3. Muay Thai Showdown:

Patong presents the boxing stadium, and the art of Muay Thai Beach usually cost between 1,500-2,000 THB .

4. Nature Immersion at Khao Phra Thio:

Khao Phra Thio Conservation Development and Extension Center Visit the wild animals that are disappearing and the huge, majestic trees. is 200 THB ,

5. Thalang National Museum :

You can see the history of Phuket at the Thalang National Museum’s entrance. Is 30 THB . Which artifacts from Old Phuket showcase Chinese heritage, tin mining, and indigenous culture?

6. Beautiful viewpoint:

Karon Viewpoint, overlooking Promthep Cape, and the Kata viewpoint, offering stunning island panoramas, are especially popular during golden sunsets.

7. Two-Wheeled Exploration:

You can rent a bike or motorbike to roam around. You can enjoy a secluded experience by visiting laem singh Beach. You need to be careful due to the busy area. 250 THB You can rent motorbikes daily from

8. Sirinat National Park Adventure:

In search of biodiversity, you can visit Sirinat National Park and enjoy some very beautiful beaches, such as those known for its spring arrival from 200 THB , you can enter the park The park is closed from June 1 to July 31

9. Phuket Mining Museum :

Phuket’s mining history in Kathu Uncover the colonial past for an immersive experience at the Phuket Mining Museum Enjoy the villa, model, and entrance fee of 100 THB .

10. Vibrant Market:

Via Phuket Weekend Market ( Naka Market ) on Sundays near Phuket Town Enjoy a stroll from 4 PM to 10 PM Get an idea of the local goods and experience things like food, clothes.

11. Snorkeling adventures:

Explore Laem Singh Beach, Ao Sane, Ya Nui, and Surin to experience underwater beauty. Bring your own gear for a snorkeling day trip. Opt in and prepare yourself. Its average is approximately 2,500 THB.

12. Soi Dog Foundation:

Use the Soi Dog Foundation to support animal welfare You can also donate voluntarily to certain programs, such as those dedicated to helping stray dogs and cats.

13. Majestic Waterfalls:

Spend time visiting some of Thailand’s most beautiful waterfalls, including Bang Pa, Ton Sai, and Kathu . For a walk, you can enjoy the beautiful nature, enjoy Kathu, and enter some national parks, such as 200 THB. Eat at Bang Pae and Ton Sai Phra Thayo National Park

14. Moral Elephant Encounter:

OPT is one of the oldest sanctuaries in Phuket, focusing on ethical practices and is a must visit Elephant Sanctuary A half-day trip costs around 3,000 THB with lunch and transportation Anytime you visit the elephants Don’t even think about riding, remember this.

Phuket: A 6-day itinerary

Immerse yourself on a six-day trip with Amanda in Phuket, Thailand, because your favorite can be the perfect reason for an unforgettable experience and a trip to remember. Transform this itinerary from beach days to a tropical paradise Dedicate yourself to an exciting excursion specially designed to make the most of your time.

Day 1: Relax at a hotel or beach.

The luxurious Thavorn Beach Village Resort & Spa is the perfect place to start your Phuket adventure. From Amanda’s experience enjoying the beach lounge with a captivating view You can learn about the importance of choosing the right sunscreen and find the perfect spot for that special first day experience.

Day 2: Phi Phi Islands Sunrise Tour

Set the tone for your scenic journey with an early morning PHI PHI ISLANDS SUNRISE TOUR. Amanda will be on hand to take you through a day of boating around the beautiful Phi Phi Islands, so follow her as your favorite moments and favorite stops always turn out beautiful. Get lost with Amanda for an unforgettable experience.

Day 3: Half Day Private Temple Tour

One for an individual half-day tour Hire a driver. With her help, you can tour Phuket’s famous Buddhist temples Immerse yourself in the Sanskrit of sites like the Big Buddha and Wat Chelong Amanda is renowned for being an educational and informative experience as she presents the history of the sacred sites.

Day 4: Eat and drink your way through Bangla Road

Experience the vibrant nightlife along Bangla Road and make memories beyond your hotel area Enjoy a gastronomic tour of Amanda’s, famous for its delicious dinner This tour brings the Games to life. Amanda’s bungalow is sure to make for a relaxing day out. Enjoy the festival on the road.

Day 5: Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island) Tour

Enjoy a mesmerizing tour of Phang Nga Bay, which is linked to the iconic James Bond Island Join Amanda to discover caves Amanda kayaks through exquisite landscapes and visits a Muslim village, which is Found floating on stilts Follow the adventure through Amanda’s detailed blog post for a full breakdown of the tour.

Day 6: Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

End your Phuket trip with a visit to the 100% ethical Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Amanda presents her transformational work experience and highlights the ethical considerations of elephant tourism around these creatures with different tour options Memorize the experience.

top 10 beaches of Phuket

Phuket offers over 30 different beach experiences and is famous for its beautiful beaches. You may get overwhelmed with too many options, but not to worry, we have compiled a list of the 10 best beaches in Phuket. We have considered the quality of the surrounding sand, the facilities, and the overall environment. Must read to make your beautiful sea trip more beautiful.

1. Kata Beach:

Perfect for those seeking adventure experience, such as families and couples’ Clear, soft sea sand at the thorn beach. The perfect mix of palm trees, surfing in low season and snorkeling in high season makes this beach a must visit all year-round other types of restaurants are nearby Combined with the beautiful atmosphere and fewer crowds, Kanta Beach is a great choice.

2. Freedom Beach:

For those seeking quiet seclusion, Freedom Beach is a prime choice, a pristine desert island with a restaurant and beach chairs. This 300-metre stretch of long-tailed white sand is accessible by a steep footpath. Offers a tranquil environment without having a beach at a distance.

3. Kata Noi Beach:

Dub with a length of 700 meters, fine sand, and excellent surfing and snorkeling. ‘Little Kata Beach,’ Kata Noi Charms Nearby hotels in Phuket Rated as the best beach, despite having only a few restaurants, it is known for its relaxing atmosphere.

4. Ya Nui Beach:

Ya Nui Beach Despite its small size, this place has gained good popularity as it features a beautiful sea with soft sand and an unforgettable view at the beautiful windmill viewpoint. The 200-meter-long L-shaped curve of the iconic rocky outcrop gives a view. Reflect on the surrounding restaurants and atmosphere. It has become a popular spot for snorkelers and people who want to take a stroll through the beach.

5. Surin Beach: Surin Beach is known as a peaceful one, which does not reflect the bustling beach clubs. Surin Beach reflects a natural, unforgettable scene with beautiful, soft white sand and a warm tropical sea. The distance to Surin Beach is around 800m. It is a popular offering of restaurants hotels shops for a beautiful beach experience known as

6. Paradise Beach:

Paradise Beach is a small cove that is true to its name, with a picturesque The rocky headland, soft seabed, and beautiful waters make for a paradisiacal experience, with Patong being less than 200 meters from the beach, along with restaurants, bars, and other facilities for hay parties.

7. Nai Harn Beach:

The popularity of Nai Harn Beach has increased significantly due to its once secluded location. It still retains its charm. Soft sand, a gently sloping seabed, and lifeguards make it a perfect location. You can also enjoy kite surfing along the 660-meter-long bay.

8. Bangto Beach:

As one of the longest beaches with a length of around 6 kilometers, the Beach Club Restaurant and Bangto Top Hotel offer a beautiful experience. If you are looking for relaxation and a peaceful environment, this place is a great choice.

9. Patong Beach:

Patong Beach is the most popular destination for a beautiful beach that offers a beautiful environment and is about 2.5 kilometers long. It is known for its beautiful restaurants, attractive nightlife, and other activities while being crowded.

10. Karon Beach: Karon Beach is known for its squeaky sand. Its length is approximately 3.3 kilometers. It ranks third in Phuket in terms of length. It offers calm waters along with attractive trees, volleyball nets, and great beach restaurants. Strong caution is advised during the low season for riptides.

Navigating Phuket on a Budget

1. Accommodation Options:

• Hostels offer affordable options, with prices ranging from around 275-450 THB per night. Lube de Phuket Patong pineapple guesthouse.Bodgia Party Hostel, Bare packer Patong Hostel
• Budget in central places Hotel prices start at around 850-1,200 THB per night. Offering air conditioning as well as free Wi-Fi, consider this hotel option for your unforgettable experience.

2. Culinary Experience: Enjoy street food, which is known for delicious and budget friendly food Drinks Using convenience stores or supermarkets to buy beer for as low as 80–120 Thb But please be careful of expensive things in restaurants and bars.

3. Budget-Friendly Transportation:

• Local bus and bike rental opt for Songtheaves
• Use the Grab app for ridesharing, which offers competitive prices compared to taxis.Consider buying items in bulk at markets so you can get a better deal when shopping.

Flights to Phuket (Thailand)

Direct flights and connecting options

• Direct flights are not on the menu, although convenient connecting options are offered by different airlines. Look for connecting flights with layovers in crowded cities like Doha, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore

Popular airlines taking you to Phuket

• It is important to choose the right airline to enhance the unforgettable experience of your beautiful trip. Some airlines that you can consider for traveling to Phuket are Malinda Air Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines Indigo Connectivity and a seamless travel experience are provided by these airlines.

Flight duration: a quick overview

• Prepare for a flight duration of approximately 5 to 8 hours, depending on your airline and city factors. Select a flight and factor in the time that will be with you when planning your flight.

Budget for your trip

Flight costs are subject to fluctuations as airline preferences vary due to different seasons and booking times. For a scenic travel experience, consider a round-trip flight from a major Indian city to Phuket, usually off-season. It is available during periods like April to May and September to October, If  you are thinking of traveling during the peak season, like November to March , then your expenses can be around 180.37 dollars to 300.62 dollars.

how much is a Phuket (Thailand) Holiday

Average daily expenditure:

Daily expenses are approximately $108. Plan for this expense when budgeting your Phuket trip.

This figure is based on past experience.

• $22 on food ($796)
• $11 on local transport ($393)
• $115 on hotels ($4,090)

One-week travel cost:

Some estimated expenses to cover meals, local transport, accommodation, and sightseeing during the journey, e.g. The cost is $754 (฿26,889) for a single traveler and $1,508 (฿53,777) for two people.

Two-week trip cost:

If you plan to extend your trip up to 2 weeks, the average cost becomes $1,508 (฿53,777) for one person and $3,015 (฿107,554) f or two people. This budget covers the essential problem of local transportation. Covers dining and sightseeing.

One-month travel cost:

For the adventurous, those considering a month long stay in Phuket Andaz Jeet cost per person, approx.  $3,231 (฿115,236) and $6,462 (฿230,473) for two people. Per Capita Daily Budget Time is reduced if traveling with a large group.

Factors affecting costs:

It is important to note that all these figures are averages and may vary due to your travel speed and various other factors. If a family wishes to enjoy a per capita reduction, they can take into account child tickets and hotel accommodation.

May travel at low speed over an extended period with a low daily budget.

Had to live in Phuket (Thailand)

Here’s our list of the 11 best hotels in Phuket that offer a luxury break We’ve brought you the crème de la crème of Thailand’s largest island, from oceanside villas to bring. Offering a range of options, from wellness retreats to wellness retreats, each selection offers a unique experience that reflects Phuket’s unforgettable views and beautiful culture.

1. Como point yamu beautiful fairyland views of Phang Nga Bay, Thai-Mediterranean fusion, wellness-focused

• Accolades: Readers’ Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023.
• Unique Feature:  Swish Beach Club on a semi-private islet.

2. Surin Private Pansea Beach access, Thai-inspired architecture, and a lounger-lined hexagonal swimming pool Submitted by Ed Tuttle

• Accolades: Readers’ Choice Awards 2017, 2021.
• Unique Feature: Granite Stairs and Lomtale Restaurant

3. Amanpuri

Private Beach Access, Coconut Grove Setting, Timeless Luxury

• Accolades: Gold List 2024, Readers’ Choice Awards 2017, 2021.

4. Camel Two-Storey tree house at Kamala Rainforest, hillside in the rainforest, health-focused Mala Restaurant, as well as diverse amenity

Unique Feature: The perfect place for Instagram worthy photos and a beautiful experience

5. Trisara Ocean-view terraces, ultra-luxe villas, Michelin-starred Pru restaurants, secluded locations

• Accolades: Gold List 2018, Readers’ Choice Awards 2022, 2023.

6. banyan tree phuket Spa Sanctuary, private pool villas, all-you-can-eat spa perks, classic Thai design.

• Accolades: Readers’ Choice Awards 2017, 2023.

7. Rosewood Phuket Lush hillside setting, elegant villas, Asaya Spa, four restaurants with diverse cuisine

• Accolades: Gold List 2020, Hot List 2018, Readers’ Choice Awards 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022.

8. Sala Phuket Sala Spa prestige, Portuguese-tiled open-air bathroom, white-washed pool villa

• Unique Feature: Located  exclusively near the secluded Mai Khao Beach

9. six senses, koh yao noi Villa with private pool, all-natural spa, bamboo-hut-in-the-jungle fantasy

• Accolades: Gold List 2022, Readers’ Choice Awards 2019, 2020, 2023.

10. NAI HARN PHUKET Panoramic views over the bay, Nai Harn beach access, Greek-inspired design, other activities

• Accolades: Readers’ Choice Awards 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023.

11. V Villa Phuket Bijou Hideaway, 19 Villas with Private Infinity Pool, Yon Beach House Restaurant

• Unique Feature:   A spectacular view from the lounge-y rooftop bar.

How we choose the best hotels in Phuket:

Each hotel is independently reviewed by our editors, who consider first-hand factors such as charm, true experience, luxury boutiques, beautiful design, great location, authentic service and sustainability, among other things.

Supermarket and shop in Phuket (Thailand)

Phuket, Thailand, is a beautiful tourist destination that not only offers a beautiful view but is also known for shopping and other types of services and goods. At the tourist destination, you can discover some highly rated supermarkets and shops. For convenience, there is a list presented with a Google Maps rating and a brief description.

1. [Big C Xtra Phuket 2] (http://www.bigc.co.th/)

• A supermarket on Google Maps with a 4.4-star rating

2. [Phuket Grocery] (https://phuket-grocery.business.site/)

• A large grocery store with a wide range of goods, a restaurant and a food court with a 4.1-star rating on Google Maps

3. [Villa Market – Boat Avenue Phuket (Laguna)] (http://www.villamarket.com/)

• This branch of Villa Market claims to have a 4.3 star rating on Google Maps.

4. [Villa Market] (http://www.villamarket.com/)

• Another Villa Bazaar location which is rated with 4.4 stars on Google Maps.

5. [Villa Market – Chalong Phuket] (http://www.villamarket.com/)

• 4.3 star rating presents Chalong’s Villa Market on Google Maps

6. [69SLAM Phuket Outlet Store] (http://www.69slam.com/)

• A beautiful outlet store on Google Maps with 4.3 star rating

7. [Central Phuket Floresta] (http://centralphuket.com/)

• A crowded atmosphere A food court Offers a trendy and plentiful vendor 4.5-star rating on Google Maps
• www.bigc.co.th (https://www.bigc.co.th/) Big C Online | easy ordering and free shipping Big C service, order goods from Big C, have them delivered directly to your home, which is convenient, fast, and safe. We provide you with more quality products every day.

8. [Pink Flamingo Phuket] (https://linktr.ee/pinkflamingophuket) 

The highly rated establishment on Google Maps with 4.8 star rating stood out with Visit the Pink Flamingo

9. [Fe2 Decoration co.ltd (Rare Crystals & Unique Jewelry & Fine Gifts) Phuket Thailand] (http://www.fe2crystals.com/) 

Jewelry and fine gifts to observe, exquisite crystals Explore exquisite crystals, jewelry and fine gifts. 4.6 star rating on Google Maps

10.  [Tiger Roller Cannabis Shop @ Phuket Town] (https://www.facebook.com/tigerroller.official) 

Five star rating from the campaign presented on Google Maps, which shows a stand out cannabis shop in Phuket Town

Whether you are looking for groceries or other gifts in a big shopping mall, these highly rated establishments in Phuket offer a better option to meet your needs. Plan your beauty trip and get ready for this beautiful Thailand life go.

4. Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance:

Give priority to travel insurance, as it offers protection against injury, illness, and theft. It provides a protection for any circumstance.

When visiting Phuket, visit: 

Peak season is cooler from November to April Comes with temperature and minimum year. Despite the rain for the season of May to October offer lower prices

Safety Tips

• Beware of petty theft in tourist areas
• Find Phuket safe for solo travelers, including women.
• Be very careful in crowded area at night.

Respecting local customs: Respecting:

• Use local attire to visit temples and religious places.
• Be safe from public demonstrations in religious areas or traditional places.
• Remove your shoes in someone’s house or at a holy place.

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Phuket Thailand Travel Guide: Island Adventure and Scenic Beauty in Budget Price

Are you planning to visit Phuket, Thailand, soon? And, wondering what is Phuket best known for or when is the best time to visit? In this ‘Phuket Travel Guide’, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip at a budget price.

Amazing Thailand is one of the most visited countries in the world, welcoming a whopping  40 million foreign arrivals every year , of which  10 million  visited Phuket in 2019. Compare this to the  0.50 million  foreign visitors to Goa . According to a report released by  Columbus Direct  – Phuket gets the highest number of visitors per square mile per day in the world –  an average of over 25,452 visitors per day . So, what is it about Phuket that attracts tourists so much? 

Table of Contents

What is Phuket best known for?

Located in southern Thailand, Phuket is the biggest Island in Thailand and sits on the Andaman sea. Being an island paradise, Phuket is surrounded by many magnificent Beaches such as  Rawai, Patong, Karon, Kamala, Kata Yai, Kata Noi, Surin, Bangtao, Mai Khao , and many more. Phuket is renowned for its exotic islands,  blue ocean waters, white sandy beaches,  exciting adventure activities like snorkelling and diving , and spicy Thai cuisine.  It isn’t all just beaches though; Phuket is also known for its  culture ,  amazing temples,  and  vibrant nightlife . By observing Phuket’s rich culture, welcoming atmosphere and colourful history, you can see why the island is a hotspot for tourists in Thailand. Phuket has a considerable Chinese influence, so you will see many Chinese shrines and Chinese Restaurants around the City. I also loved Phuket for being a tropical paradise. It is almost as big as Singapore, covering more than 5,800 square feet of area. Wherever your eyes go, there is greenery all around.

Phuket has so much to offer that it’s impossible to cover everything in 3-4 days. Therefore I decided to explore Phuket differently this time, and here is what I did.

My trip to Phuket

During my ten days trip to Thailand, I kept four days exploring Phuket. Being a nature and adventure lover, I kept a mix of activities that could give me a decent taste of the island in a non-hurried manner. My ‘4 days in Phuket’ itinerary consisted of a blend of a few ‘must-visit places in Phuket’ and some hidden explorations. Health and Wellness programs balanced the adrenaline rush of the adventure activities. And, if days were so action-filled, nights were an equally fun affair with stunning night shows.

Here’s a YouTube video of my experience in Phuket

Before I share more details about my trip, let me tell you some crucial points.

How to reach Phuket

Getting to Phuket from India or any other destination is not difficult. There are several ways to reach the island. 

The fastest and often cheapest way to reach Phuket from Delhi or anywhere else is by flight. There are also direct flights to Phuket from India, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and Germany, among other countries. Some airlines with frequent routes between India and Phuket are Go First, IndiGo, Thai Smile and Thai Airways. Many websites claim that the cheapest month to fly to Phuket is August. If you are not flying directly to Phuket, you can also fly in from Bangkok as there are regular flights from the capital. At times you can get a flight ticket as cheap as 1500 INR for one way.

Another option to reach Phuket is taking a minivan or bus from other regions of Thailand, including Bangkok, Krabi, Phang Na and Surat. Buses in Bangkok take up to 13 hours to reach Phuket. Both air-conditioned, as well as non-air-conditioned buses, are available at different prices. Thailand is generally very safe but beware of pickpockets at bus stations and touristy areas.

Exploring Phuket

Phuket is an island with a good road network. Commuting within the island isn’t difficult at all. You can either hire a cab or a scooter. We hired a scooter @400 THB per day plus petrol costing around 100 more. This was enough for exploring the island from North to South in 24 hours.

A Taxi from the airport to your hotel could cost anywhere between 500 THB to 1250 THB, depending on where your destination is. For more details, check out  Phuket airport taxi prices . You can either hire a local cab or call GrabTaxi. The taxi fare in Phuket charges a minimum fare of THB 50 plus THB 8 per Km, costing you a total of THB 58 Km. For details, check out  the Taxi Auto fare website .

What to do in Phuket – popular and offbeat places 

The most often asked questions are  ‘what can you do in Phuket in 4 days?’   or  ‘what are the best things to do in Phuket?’   Well, a lot, depending on what’s your appetite and interest. This fabulous island has gained tremendous popularity because of its incredibly vast range of attractions, activities and tours – from stunning white sand beaches and natural wonders to glittering temples and buzzing nightlife. And, the best part – unlike other expensive destinations, Phuket has tons of attractions for every kind of traveller – from budget backpackers wanting to party hard to adventurers seeking some epic outdoor action to those just looking for a relaxing luxury getaway for a few days. So, if you are looking to spend a few days in Thailand, here are some of the things you can try:

Here are the Top 10 Things to Do in Phuket Thailand Right Now

Popular activities to do in Phuket

Island tour.

Phuket is particularly special because of the hundreds of islands surrounding it, many uninhabited and surrounded by some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. Therefore island hopping is one of the most popular things to do in Phuket. The island hopping activity is usually a full-day activity, depending on which islands you want to explore.  Phi-Phi islands, Maya Bay, Maiton Island, Khao Nai Island, Similan Islands, Racha Island, Koh Lipe, and Koh Lanta  are just a boat ride away. The half-day tours start at 1500 THB/person and go up to 13000/person, depending on what you want. 

Phang Nga Bay

The jaw-dropping limestone cliffs and flooded caves are on every traveller’s list visiting Phuket. Though extremely touristy, you can book a Phang Nga Bay tour even one day before you plan to visit it. Thankfully, this attraction is open throughout the year.

The 45-meter tall white marble statue sitting atop the Nakkerd hill in the south of the island is a must-visit site in Phuket. Although the road to get up here is steep but well-paved, the panoramic view from the top is worth the climb. Once you reach the top, you can see the whole of Chalong Bay to Phang Nga in the North and Kata Beach in the south. While descending, I recommend stopping at one of the many little panoramic bars to get a bird view of Karon Beach.

Enjoy the nightlife in Phuket

If you like to imbibe the local culture vibe, then you must experience the nightlife of Phuket, where you’ll be greeted by colourful lights and smiling faces, inviting restaurants, tempting salesgirls, alluring bars, and of course, dancing girls. The night could be as sober or as wild as you want. You can party in  Bangla Rod , or if you feel a bit more adventurous, you can visit a  Go-Go ba r to see what the fuss is all about. But if you are not a party animal, you can enjoy the  Sunday Street Market  on the  old Thalang road  of Phuket Town or try the local delicacies at many of the town’s night markets. Some are only weekend markets. Also, if you can take the time out, you must check out the  Simon Cabaret.  But make sure to book in advance.

Other attractions

If you have time, check out the Old Phuket Town, Chalong Temple ,  Karon Beach, Karon Temple and Karon Viewpoint. From  the latter, you can enjoy a panoramic view of three magnificent bays – Kata Noi Beach, Bay of Kata and Karon Beach. If you love sunset, you must check out  the Laem Phromthep viewpoint , which features the most beautiful sunsets in Thailand.

Offbeat activities to do in Phuket

But if you are someone who wants to give the touristy activities a pass and try out some offbeat adventures in Phuket, then here is what I recommend:

Water Sports in Phuket

Besides snorkelling and scuba diving in the Andaman Sea, you should try out sailing, kayaking and SUP paddling in Phuket lagoons, lakes or rivers. I had a great time trying them out at Angsana Villas Phuket under the supervision of my guide, Kiattisak, who is lovingly called ‘superman’ . He is an ex-Mai Thai Boxing champion.

Go island hopping on a 2-wheeler

Phuket is exceptionally green and very picturesque. Some of the most stunning and tranquil beaches with hardly any crowd are tucked away in North Phuket, such as Mai Khao, Khao Lak, Nai Harn, Nai Yang , and Banana beach . 

Flyboard light show, dinner and cocktails on a floating restaurant

If you want to create some fantastic memories, then ATOLL is the place to be. Imagine sitting in the heart of Laguna Phuket’s gorgeous lagoon, watching the golden sunset while sipping your vibrant cocktail and relishing the contemporary chic cuisine with a once-in-a-lifetime flyboard show being the highlight. And you are getting served champagne from your flyboard artist. Sounds fun, right?

Hidden staircase at Nai Thon Beach

If you love visiting hidden spots, you should absolutely check out an old wooden staircase leading to “Naithon Beach,” one of Phuket’s best beaches. Enjoy a dramatic shade of sunset over the Andaman Sea while strolling down. 

Plane Spotting at Mai Khao Beach

Plane spotting is a popular activity in Phuket. The hotspot for watching planes coming into land is at the southern end of Mai Khao Beach. One word of caution – the best season to see them landing directly over the beach is during the high season (December to April), especially between 10 am and 2 pm. So, make sure you plan accordingly. 

Visit the Instagramworthy Ma Doo Bua Cafe   

Get clicked at one of the most instagrammable spots in Phuket, where an artificial lake is covered with unusual giant circular floating leaves called Victoria Amazonica, the largest of giant water lilies. Ma Doo Bua Cafe is highly photogenic, with traditional Thai wooden houses and a long pier creating an illusion that the selfie’ models’ are in a local village. The resulting photos are beautiful, but the reality behind the photos is a little different. There is often a long queue to stand on that pier waiting for their turn, and the restaurant is crowded so getting a table takes time. Also, the restaurant has found a way to earn from Instagram crazy people by offering two photo options that you can’t do by yourselves. The drone photo starts at 500 baht for one person, 800 for 2, 1,000 baht for 3 and 1,200 baht for four persons. Standing on a leave costs 350 baht. I found the photo charges more expensive than the food, so I dropped the idea of getting clicked. The food here is Thai.

One important point, before booking your trip to Thailand don’t forget to read the 15 BIG MISTAKES YOU SHOULD AVOID IN PHUKET

The best area to stay in Phuket

One of the most important decisions to make while planning a holiday to Phuket, Thailand, is to pick the right area to stay in. While there are dozens of beaches around the island, each main resort area has a different and unique character catering to different kinds of travellers. If you choose the right one matching your needs and preferences, you should have a great holiday. Pick the wrong place, and it could ruin your trip. So, here are some areas that you could pick from depending on what you like:

If you want to experience the touristy side of Phuket, then head to Phuket’s southwest coast . Most of the beaches like Patong, Karon, Kata, Kamala are concentrated here. This area is the busiest, flanked by beach bars, cafés and jet ski operators. If you are someone like me who likes picturesque, pristine, quiet places, head to Phuket’s west coast , such as Surin, Bangtao and Layan . If you want a low-key experience away from the noisy tourists, go further up to the North West coast – Mai Khao, Nai Yang, Nai Thon beach.

Staying at Laguna Phuket

If you are looking serene yet exciting area to stay in Phuket, Laguna Phuket could be a perfect place for your next trip. A holiday paradise spanning 1,000 acres of lush tropical parkland with 3 km of pristine Bangtao Beach. Featuring more than  1,400 guest rooms across eight deluxe hotels , Laguna Phuket offers an abundant variety of choices for travellers. You can choose from any of the   8 world-class hotels –  Banyan Tree Phuket, Banyan Tree Veya Phuket, Angsana Laguna Phuket, Angsana Villas Resort, Dusit Thani, SAii Laguna Phuket, Laguna Holiday Club Phuket Resort, and Cassia Phuket , all unique hotel resorts within Laguna Phuket are only minutes away from each other via complimentary shuttle bus or boat. Besides the hotels, Laguna Phuket also features beautiful lagoons, tropical parkland, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, tranquil spas, restaurants, bars, boutique shopping, and daily water sports activities. 

While all the eight hotels are unique in their own way, I chose to stay at a budget property –  Cassia Phuket . This elegant six-storey hotel built in modernist architectural style starts as low as 899THB. Room rates depend on the dates, room types, and the number of guests, so please click online to see the latest and best offers! I had a fantastic experience staying at the lagoon-facing, all-suite hotel that delivers an idyllic beachfront living experience. There was a free shuttle service to take guests to the Bangtao beach or other nearby Laguna Phuket hotels. 

What I loved about this hotel was that it had a very perky personality, and the suite was outfitted with a fully equipped kitchen where I could cook my own meals. The staff was accommodating and courteous, and I even enjoyed a memorable sunset barbecue dinner fire dancers show. If you ever want to stay at a property that feels like a home. Try this one.

How many days are enough for Phuket, Thailand?

Phuket has a lot to do, and you can easily spend as much time as you want. The ideal time to enjoy its various islands, culture, food and nightlife would be  seven days , but if you are hard-pressed on time and want to enjoy the highlights of Phuket, four days are enough.

Suggested Itineraries for Phuket Thailand

How to Spend Perfect 7 Days or less in Phuket Thailand:

Morning : Reach the hotel and relax

Afternoon:  Hire a two-wheeler or a car to visit the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong & Kata Noi Beach.

Sunset : Enjoy the sunset from the Karon View Point

Evening : End the day by visiting Karon Temple and Karon Market

Morning and afternoon : Start early morning for Island Hopping and Snorkelling.

Evening : Visit the Chillva Market or return to your hotel and enjoy a Barbecue dinner with fire dancers

Day 3 

Morning : Water sports at Angsana Villas, Laguna Phuket or anywhere else you like

Lunch : Azura at Laguna Phuket

Post lunch : Spa at Banyan Tree or anywhere else you like

Evening : Dinner and Flyboard show at Atoll, Laguna Phuket

Morning : Take a Thai cooking class

After lunch : Visit the Old Phuket Town

Afternoon : Visit the Chalong Bay Rum Distillery

Evening : Enjoy the Simon Cabaret Show

Late : Enjoy the nightlife of Bangala Road

Morning : Explore Phuket on a 2-wheeler or car. Visit the old wooden stairs at Nai Thao Beach, and enjoy plane spotting at Mai Khao Beach (make sure you reach by 10 am in the peak season)

Afternoon : Explore Srinath National park – a coastal park – where you can walk on the white sandy beach and watch aircraft flying low over Mai Khao Beach for landing, kayaking or snorkelling. Another option is to go waterfall chasing like Kathu waterfall, Tonsai waterfall etc.

Evening:  Watch the sunset at Bangtao Beach

Morning : Visit the Racha Yai Island on a Catamaran. Snorkel and kayak 

Lunch : Enjoy a seafood feast on the catamaran

Evening : Dinner at one Chun restaurant in Phuket Town

Fly home or your next destination 

I hope the above itinerary can help you plan your Phuket trip. In case you are still wondering what can you do in Phuket in 4 days, 3 days or less, just mix and match a few of the above activities in the number of days you have in hand, and voila you have your perfect Phuket trip itinerary.

Budget for Phuket Thailand

Phuket is a destination that is neither too expensive nor too cheap. Here’s a rough estimate on how to make a 4D3N budget trip to Phuket, Thailand, in under 50,000 INR 

International Flights : 15,000 – 40,000 INR depending on your travel season

Accommodation : 12,000 INR @ 3000 INR per night for three nights at a 4 star hotel/apartment

Local transportation : 5000 – 10,000 INR depending on whether you hire a motorbike or a car for two days

Food  – 5000-10,000 INR

Activities  – 5000-10,000 INR depending on what kind of island tours or activities you sign up

To know the average price of things and services in Phuket , do check out this link .

Best time to go

The best season to visit Thailand is during the dry season,  November – March , when the weather is pleasant and it doesn’t rain. The temperature at this time varies from 23°C to 30°C and is drier with no monsoon showers. However, it is rainiest from October to December in the Lower Gulf regions such as Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, and Ko Tao. 

Where to go next?

Phuket has excellent connectivity to most of the country. So it depends on what you want to explore further.  Mountains and valleys characterize the North; the south boasts stunning beaches and turquoise seas . The difference in landscape and experiences allow you to enjoy different activities.

North of Thailand  – If you love history, heritage, ruins, mountains, and national parks, you should go here next. The best places to explore in Northern Thailand are Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Pai.

South of Thailand:  A paradise for beach bums with turquoise waters, white sand beaches and stunning islands. Besides Phuket, some of the most spectacular islands in the Andaman Sea include Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe and Koh Lanta. The most popular Gulf of Thailand islands as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

Central Thailand:  Central Thailand is mainly plains and is a massive area of rice farming and agriculture. It is centred around the large urban agglomeration of Bangkok. The best places to visit in central Thailand are Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Phra Pathom Chedi, Bang Pa-In, and Damnoen Saduak floating market in Ratchaburi Province.

Find more details about various regions of Thailand on  the Tourism Thailand website .

While searching online for my trip, I came across many good Thailand Bloggers. You may want to check out the blogs of these top Thailand bloggers for more in-depth information about Thailand:

Tourism Thailand

Richard Barrow in Thailand

Jamie’s Phuket Blog

The Thailand Life

Thaifoodmaster

Tieland to Thailand

Beyond Bangkok: 10 Hidden Attractions in Thailand for laid-back travelers

I hope you found the above ‘Phuket Travel Guide’ helpful. And, you’ll be able to enjoy the island adventures and scenic beauty of Phuket at a budget price . Please share any questions or feedback in the comments section below. Save this post to Pinterest if you like it!

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I took nearly 8 mins to complete this reading lol. Such an interesting blog. I’m in love with Thailand now. Gotta visit it soon.

Regards-Robyn Bista

Super helpful information. I’m going to simply follow your itinerary for our trip to Phuket. Thanks for such an amazing blog.

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Getting around in phuket – travel guide 2024.

Table of Contents

What is the best way of getting around in Phuket in 2024? So much has changed in the past few years so read this guide carefully. Phuket is a large island around 50 km from its north to south tip. So we do recommend that you plan how you will travel around Phuket. 

We want to help save you money and give you a smooth trip. In this article we will compare and review the best methods of transport for traveling around Phuket. 

The best way to get around depends on your travel budget, your personal needs and your intended travel plans around Phuket. In this article we are not focussing on the long distance connections (trains, buses and mini buses). Instead we just want to offer some tips and advice to help you get around this beautiful island. 

Don’t miss our guide to THE BEST areas to stay in Phuket

Summary – Getting around in Phuket 

Motorbike rental.

Motorbike is a fast, fun and convenient way of getting around in Phuket. Bikes are pretty cheap and readily available.You do need to be sufficiently qualified and experienced to ride a motorbike around Phuket. Be aware that some of the main roads in Phuket are quite wide and fast. There are also some very steep roads on the hills. Drive carefully and take time to adapt to the unfamiliar Phuket roads. Also, be aware that there are often police checkpoints. If you don’t have a bike helmet they are likely to give you a fine. Also they may want to see your ID or driver’s licence. 

Make sure you are covered by your insurance to ride a motorbike. The advantage of motorbike rental is the price. It normally costs 150 – 300 baht per day to rent a motorbike in Phuket. This is roughly £3 – £6. When you rent a motorbike in Phuket make sure you take photos of any scratches or damage to the bike before you take it. Bike rental companies may ask you to leave a passport as a deposit. If possible try to negotiate a cash deposit. 

TOP TIP: If you are planning to rent for a longer period (over 5 days) get a quote for one day. Once you know their starting price barter for a lower price for one day. And when you have a lower price ask if they can give a further discount for a longer bike rental. 

Tuk Tuk 

Tuk tuks are the most classical and iconic way of getting around in Thailand. Sadly they are also a diminishing breed. Tuk tuks are less common in Thailand. As a result tuk tuks are becoming expensive in Thailand. They often cost a lot more than private taxis. If you plan to use a tuk tuk to get around Phuket make sure that you agree a price with your driver before you depart. Expect to pay between 150 – 300 baht for most journeys around Phuket. Tuk tuks are definitely not the cheapest way to get around in Phuket but they are a lot of fun. 

Songthaew bus 

One of the cheapest ways to get around in Phuket is to take a small shared bus. The small buses in Phuket are called Songthaews. A short journey on a Songthaew bus should cost around 30 – 50 baht. These buses are flexible. They may run along a set route picking up lots of passengers along the way. If they are doing this the price will be lower. However songthaew drivers may try to charge a private taxi rate. Be prepared to barter. A short journey in Phuket should cost 30 – 50 baht. Songthaew buses are a lot of fun. You can flag them anywhere – you don’t need to be at a bus stop – and the route may be flexible – so check with the driver. 

Private taxi 

One of the cheapest ways of getting around in Phuket is to take a private taxi. You can flag taxis at the side of the road but this is slow due to the increase in e-hailing apps (like Grab and Bolt). Once a taxi stops you also need to barter for a fair price. We recommend getting a local sim card in Thailand (very cheap and good) and download Bolt and Grab. You will need to use your Thai number to register. 

Bolt is a bit cheaper than Grab. On Bolt drivers are slower to respond. Having both means that you can compare prices and find a driver faster. Taxi prices are very fair on both apps. On Bolt expect to pay 50 – 250 baht for most taxi rides around Phuket. 

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the Grab Taxi App in Thailand

If you are planning lots of travel around Phuket, car rental may be the cheapest option. Car rental deals can be found for as little as 700 baht per day (around £14 or $18). However, you may need to shop around and barter with some local dealers for the lowest prices. With a budget of 1,000 baht there are plenty of car rental options. 

If you plan to drive a car in Phuket make sure you have an international drivers license. You generally need to arrange this in your home country before you travel. When you rent the car you may be asked to leave a deposit. Avoid leaving a passport – try to negotiate a cash deposit. We were asked to leave around 5,000 baht deposit for a car rental in Phuket. 

Remember to take photos of the car before you go (look for damage inside and outside). Also keep a copy of the rental contract and contact details for your rental dealer. Take note of the 

amount of petrol at the start of the rental as you will need to return it with the same petrol level. 

TOP TIP: Keep petrol receipts in Phuket. We had a car rental with a petrol gauge that did not go up when we filled the tank. 

If you don’t want to shop around for a cheap rental from local dealers you can book a rental with extra security through Skyscanner – yes! They do cars as well as flights! 

Find a great car rental deal on Skyscanner

And finally….

Don’t miss our EPIC one week Phuket Holiday Itinerary

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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‘The White Lotus’ Thailand is next. These hotels do it on a budget.

HBO’s hottest hotel group, “The White Lotus,” is expanding to Thailand — on screen at least. The location for season 3 has been confirmed , and Bloomberg reported in January that loose-lipped industry insiders say filming is taking place at the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui , the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas and a still-undisclosed hotel in Bangkok. The network has stayed quiet on specific hotels.

The news is a boon for Four Seasons and the Thailand-based Anantara group; the show’s previous two seasons, set in Hawaii and Sicily , have proved to turbocharge travelers’ interest in their already popular respective locales. After the seasons aired, bookings soared at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and the Four Seasons’ San Domenico Palace in Taormina.

It’s safe to say that these Thai resorts can expect a similar uptick in reservations after season 3 premieres in 2025. But living out the White Lotus fantasy isn’t within every traveler’s reach. One night at the Four Seasons in Koh Samui will cost you at least $1,400. And while at $660 per night, starting rates at the Anantara in Phuket are a fair bit lower — they’re still not exactly a steal for anyone but the most deep-pocketed visitors.

Nightly rates at Thailand’s big-brand luxury resorts can often be on par with those in Europe or the United States, but a burgeoning ecosystem of local hospitality groups and independently owned hotels offers many of the same five-star perks at a fraction of the price. For about $180, the average rate of a night in a three-star hotel room in Miami Beach, you can book a villa with a private pool and round-the-clock service on the beach in Koh Samui.

Here are six Thailand beach retreats offering five-star luxury on a Best Western budget.

Meliá Koh Samui

On palm-pinned Choeng Mon Beach, a few bays east of the Four Seasons Koh Samui, sits the first Thai outpost of Spanish hotel brand Meliá . Still fresh from its opening in 2020, this family-friendly resort aims for midmarket rather than high-end, but that doesn’t make it any less worthy of its five-star label. Rooms, starting at $181 per night, riff on the island’s maritime past with nautical rope decor and licks of ocean-blue, while its top-level suites occupy reclaimed teakwood barges. Even the standard rooms open to a bubble bath on their balcony, and suites with either a private pool or direct access to a more than 2,200-foot pool that meanders through the resort’s manicured tropical gardens have the option to have breakfast delivered in a floating basket (if that’s your thing).

The Surin, Phuket

Rumors circulated that Amanpuri, one of Phuket’s ritziest beach retreats, would be one of the film sets for the third season of “The White Lotus.” They were ultimately dispelled, but the resort remains a firm favorite with wealthy travelers. With rates often shooting to well over $1500 per night, this is territory for the privileged few — but insiders know that the Surin next door offers similar perks and the same palm-tufted setting at a fraction of the cost. This beachfront spot is the only resort offering access to Amanpuri’s semiprivate Pansea Beach, one of Phuket’s prettiest. Pitched up among the treetops, the Surin’s airy deluxe cottages start at $220 per night and overlook the Andaman Sea from their snug, parasol-shaded balconies. The resort is part of White Lotus lore, too: it was here that creator Mike White first hinted at Thailand being the show’s next location.

Cape Kudu, Koh Yao Noi

A short speedboat-hop from Phuket, the island of Koh Yao Noi feels like a trip back in time. Its palm-fringed beaches remain blissfully free of tourist crowds, and sleepy coconut farms — not shopping malls or amusement parks — still cover most of its jungled inland. Cape Kudu , on the sunrise-facing east coast, is one of the island’s chicest places to stay. Its breezy rooms and villas come furnished with lots of linen, sun-bleached woods and wickerwork; a similarly laid-back theme dresses the spa, restaurant and beanbag-lined infinity pool. With low-season rates from May to October starting at $122 per night, this small resort offers excellent bang for your baht. And those dazzling views over Phang Nga Bay’s dramatic karst formations? They’re free.

The Sarojin, Khao Lak

This resort in the beachside holiday hub of Khao Lak, about an hour north of Phuket, delivers a textbook example of classic Thai hospitality — fresh orchids, jasmine-scented towels and lilting sawatdi ka, or hello, greetings included. The Sarojin ’s rooms are teakwood-clad wonders with spalike bathrooms and heaps of private space, but you’ll probably spend more time in one of the pool cabanas, which are lined with gauzy curtains billowing in the breeze. A powder-sugar beach stretches out in front and is a jumping-off point for kayak trips and sailings on the resort’s charter yacht, which can end with candlelit dinners on a nearby private islet. Rates for garden views start at $180 per night and include leisurely all-day breakfast with sparkling wine served until 6 p.m.

The ShellSea, Krabi

From taxis to cocktails, prices on Thailand’s most popular islands are generally much higher than on the mainland. The beaches, however, can be equally pretty — which makes booking a seafront resort ashore a smart way to cut holiday costs (additionally, you’ll save on boat transfers and plane tickets — flights to Thailand’s island destinations tend to be pricey). One of southern Thailand’s most popular hideouts is Krabi, a string of honey-hued beaches and jungle-cloaked karst formations. The ShellSea resort, a ten-minute drive from postcard-pretty Ao Nang beach, makes for a plush base with suites from $120 per night, a spa and three swimming pools. A hammock-lined private beach hugs part of the resort’s oceanfront, while island-hopping day trips can take you to Phang Nga Bay’s prettiest stretches of sand.

SAii Koh Samui Choengmon

While Koh Samui’s three-mile Chaweng Beach, sits just ten minutes from its doorstep, SAii Koh Samui Choengmon ’s perch on little-developed Hanuman Bay feels a world away from the crowds. Its most affordable room will set you back about $170, but the amenities are anything but cheap. At this all-villa resort, even the entry-level digs open to a generously sized sun deck and private pool, have a tropic-tinged bathroom with rain shower and include bespoke bathroom amenities mixed with your preferred scents. Other perks include complimentary yoga classes every morning, and a pick-and-mix of free snacks to bring back to your room.

Chris Schalkx is a Bangkok-based travel writer. You can follow him on Instagram: @chrsschlkx.