Phuket Town (also called Phuket City) is the cultural heart of the island. Forget beaches for a moment — here you’ll find colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, night markets, art galleries, and a thriving café scene. It’s where tradition meets creativity, making it one of the most interesting places to live or explore on Phuket.
Why Visit Phuket Town
- Explore heritage streets lined with pastel-colored shophouses.
- Experience Phuket’s best street food and night markets.
- Dive into the island’s cultural side — museums, temples, and art spaces.
- A growing hub for digital nomads who prefer city energy over beach life.
Top Things to Do
- Old Town Streets – Wander Soi Romanee, Thalang Road, and Dibuk Road for architecture and murals.
- Sunday Walking Street Market – Huge night market with food, crafts, and music.
- Thai Hua Museum – Learn about Phuket’s Chinese heritage.
- Jui Tui Shrine – One of the main Chinese temples in town.
- Street Art Trail – Hunt down murals scattered around Old Town.
- Chillva Market – Trendy night market with a youthful vibe.
Food & Drink
Local Eats:
- Mee Ton Poe (famous for Hokkien noodles).
- Lock Tien Food Court for classic Phuket street food.
Cafés:
- Bookhemian and Campus Coffee Roaster for nomads.
- Dozens of Instagram-worthy coffee shops.
Bars:
- Dibuk House for cocktails.
- Rooftop bars like Quip Sky Bar with city views.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in Old Town.
- Mid-Range: Boutique hotels like Casa Blanca or The Memory at On On.
- Luxury: Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town or nearby villas.
Getting Around
- Old Town is walkable — most attractions are close together.
- Scooters or taxis are best for reaching other parts of the island.
- Grab and Bolt are widely available here compared to the beaches.
Tips for Digital Nomads
- Reliable WiFi in most cafés and coworking spaces.
- Coworking hubs like Cocoville and Garage Society nearby.
- Great for nomads who want culture, food, and a more “urban” lifestyle than the beaches.
- Easy to connect with locals and expats through community events.
Local Tips & Warnings
- Heat: Old Town gets hot during the day — explore mornings or evenings.
- Markets: Sunday Walking Street Market is crowded — go early.
- Traffic: Heavier than the beach areas; parking can be tough.
- Beaches: Remember, there aren’t any here — it’s a city base.
Final Thoughts
Phuket Town is the island’s cultural and creative hub. Whether you’re wandering heritage streets, working from a cool café, or eating your way through night markets, it offers a side of Phuket that’s vibrant and authentic. Stay here if you want food, culture, and community at your doorstep.