Phuket Old Town – what to see, attractions

History and architecture of Phuket Town

Phuket Town is a place with a rich history, which is reflected in its architecture and cultural monuments. The city began to develop in the 19th century thanks to tin mining, which attracted many traders and workers from China, India and Europe to the island. It is this multicultural mix that has formed the unique appearance of Phuket Old Town.

Phuket Old Town is famous for its buildings in the style of Sino-Portuguese architecture. This style, combining elements of Eastern and Western cultures, has become the hallmark of the city. Narrow two-story houses with high windows, carved shutters and balconies are decorated with bright colors and stained glass, which makes a walk along the old streets of Phuket a real journey through time.

Main streets of Phuket Town

One of the most famous streets in Phuket Old Town is Thalang Road . This street is the real heart of Phuket Town, where many cafes, shops, antique shops and restaurants are concentrated. Here you can find everything from souvenirs to art objects. Walking along Thalang Road is a great way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the old town, feel its spirit and enjoy the views of historical buildings.

Soi Romani is another famous street in Phuket Old Town that attracts tourists with its unique atmosphere. In the past, this street was known as a place where local craftsmen and traders lived, and now it has become a popular tourist destination due to its colorful houses and historical buildings. Soi Romani is an ideal place for photo shoots and walks.

Ranong Road is another important street in Phuket Town, where numerous cafes, markets and shops are concentrated. Here you can try authentic Thai cuisine, buy fresh fruits and vegetables at the local market or just stroll around, enjoying the atmosphere of the old town.

Main attractions of Phuket Town

Phuket Old Town is full of attractions that are worth visiting for anyone who wants to get to know the history and culture of this amazing place better. One of these attractions is The Memory at On On Hotel , which is the oldest hotel on the island. Built in 1929, this hotel has become a symbol of the era of prosperity of Phuket Town. Today, it offers its guests cozy rooms and an old-world atmosphere, while maintaining all the modern amenities.

Another important place is the Thai Hua Museum , located in a former Chinese school. This museum tells the story of the Chinese diaspora in Phuket, as well as the cultural and historical ties between China and Thailand. The museum exhibits old photographs, documents, household items and art, which allow you to better understand how Phuket’s unique culture was formed.

An equally interesting place is the Phra Pitaka Chinpracha Mansion , an ancient building built in the style of Chinese-Portuguese architecture. Today, this mansion houses the Blue Elephant Restaurant , which offers royal Thai cuisine. A visit to this place is a unique opportunity to combine a gastronomic experience with immersion in the history of the old town of Phuket.

Unusual excursions in Phuket Town

For those who want to learn more about Phuket Old Town, there are various tours that allow you to delve deeper into its history and culture. One of these tours is a walking tour of the historical sites of Phuket Town. During this tour, you will be able to see old temples, colonial buildings, and learn interesting facts about the life of the city in the past.

An equally interesting excursion is a visit to the old markets of Phuket, where you can not only buy fresh products and souvenirs, but also try authentic Thai food. Markets such as Ranong Market offer a variety of exotic fruits, fresh seafood and aromatic spices that attract the attention of tourists and locals.

Temples and Shrines of Phuket Town

Phuket Old Town is famous for its temples and shrines, which are an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. One of the most famous temples is the Jui Tui Temple , located on Ranong Road . This temple is dedicated to the Chinese god Yu Huang, who is considered the patron of sailors and merchants. The temple is impressive in its architecture and interior decoration, which includes many carved wooden decorations and sculptures.

Another important temple is the Put Jaw Temple , which is also located in Phuket Old Town. This temple was built in the early 19th century and is the oldest temple on the island. It is dedicated to the goddess Guan Yin, who is revered as the patroness of mercy and compassion. The temple hosts numerous religious ceremonies and festivals that attract both locals and tourists.

Lung Sun Shrine is another important place in Phuket Old Town where you can feel the spirit of the past. This small but very beautiful shrine is located on one of the narrow streets of Phuket Town and is dedicated to the spirits of ancestors. Inside the shrine you will find many images and statues that symbolize various aspects of Chinese mythology and religion.

Phuket Town Markets

Phuket Town Markets are a must-see when visiting Phuket Old Town. Not only can you buy souvenirs and local products here, but you can also experience the real atmosphere of the city.

Ranong Market is one of the most famous and popular markets in Phuket Old Town. This market is open daily and offers a wide range of goods: from fresh vegetables and fruits to seafood and meat. Here you can also find many cafes and stalls serving authentic Thai food. Ranong Market is a great place to try local cuisine and buy exotic products that are difficult to find elsewhere.

The Thalang Road Night Market is another interesting place to visit in Phuket Old Town. This market is open on weekends and attracts tourists with its bright lights, live music and a variety of street food. Here you can try dishes from different regions of Thailand, buy souvenirs and enjoy the evening atmosphere of the city.

Where to eat in Phuket Town

Phuket Old Town is famous for its restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy Thai and international cuisine. In this section, we will tell you about some of them that deserve special attention.

Cafe China Inn

China Inn Cafe is a cozy place located on Thalang Road . It occupies one of the historical buildings that retains its colonial charm. China Inn serves Thai and Chinese cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients. It is the perfect place for lunch or dinner after a walk around Phuket Old Town.

The interior of China Inn is designed in a traditional style with elements of Chinese architecture, which creates an atmosphere of coziness and tranquility. Here you can enjoy dishes such as Tom Yum, Pad Thai, as well as a variety of curries and soups.

Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion and Blue Elephant Restaurant

Phra Pitaka Chinpracha Mansion is one of the most famous buildings in Phuket Old Town, built in the Sino-Portuguese style. Today, it houses the Blue Elephant Restaurant , which offers its guests royal Thai cuisine. A visit to this place is a unique opportunity to try exquisite dishes in a historical setting.

Blue Elephant is known for its signature dishes such as red duck curry and seafood tom yum. The restaurant also offers Thai cooking classes where you can learn the secrets of traditional recipes and learn how to cook authentic dishes.

The Drawing Room

The Drawing Room is a stylish cafe located in one of the historical buildings of Phuket Town. It serves a variety of international dishes, as well as coffee and desserts. The Drawing Room is famous for its cozy atmosphere and attentive service, making it a popular place among tourists and locals.

The cafe menu includes both light snacks and full meals. Particular attention is paid to the quality of ingredients and the originality of the dishes. The Drawing Room is a great place for those who want to relax after a walk around the old city and enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner.

Hotels and Museums in Phuket Town

Phuket Old Town is home to several hotels and museums that offer not only comfortable accommodation but also a unique experience of immersion into the history and culture of the city.

Отель The Memory at On On

The Memory at On On is the oldest hotel in Phuket, opened in 1929. Situated on Thalang Road , this hotel is a historical monument and offers guests a glimpse into the past. The hotel has retained its original architecture and style, making it a true gem of Phuket Old Town.

The Memory at On On offers its guests cozy rooms decorated in a classic style, as well as all modern amenities. This place is ideal for those who want to enjoy history and comfort at the same time.

Museum Tai Hua

The Thai Hua Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to the history of the Chinese diaspora in Phuket. The museum is located in a former Chinese school and offers visitors an exhibition on the life and traditions of Chinese immigrants.

The museum exhibits old photographs, documents, household items and art, which provide insight into the cultural and historical ties between China and Thailand. The Thai Hua Museum is a must-see if you are interested in the history and culture of Phuket Old Town.

Hotel and Museum “Thavorn”

Thavorn Hotel & Museum is a unique place where comfortable accommodation and the opportunity to learn more about the culture and history of Phuket are combined. The hotel is located in a historical building and offers its guests not only cozy rooms, but also a visit to the museum dedicated to the history of Phuket Town.

The Thaworn Museum contains a rich collection of items related to the island’s history, including old photographs, paintings and documents. Staying at this hotel will allow you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Phuket’s old town and learn more about its past.

What to do in Phuket Old Town?

Phuket Old Town offers a variety of interesting activities and entertainment that will allow you to get to know this amazing city better.

A walk along Soi Romani

A walk along Soi Romani is a great opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of Phuket’s old town, see old buildings and take beautiful photos. This street is known for its colorful houses and historical buildings that have been restored and converted into cafes, shops and galleries.

During your walk you will be able to visit small cafes, try local sweets and drinks, and buy souvenirs to remember your visit to Phuket Old Town. Soi Romani is a must-see place if you want to feel the spirit of old Phuket Town.

Conclusion

Phuket Town Old Town is a place where history and modernity merge together, creating a unique atmosphere that attracts tourists from all over the world. Walking along its streets, visiting temples, museums and cafes is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of this amazing city. No matter how much time you spend in Phuket Old Town, it will definitely leave you with the warmest and most unforgettable impressions.