Phuket is a tropical paradise filled with natural beauty and activities. It’s famous for its white sand beaches, clear waters and fascinating Buddhist temples. This Thai island is the perfect destination for those looking for a mix of relaxing on the beach, interesting historical sites and a lively nightlife. To help you navigate the many excursions and activities, we’ve collected some of the must-sees below:
The six best activities and excursions to do in Phuket
1. Visit the Big Buddha Statue
The Big Buddha is one of the most iconic monuments in Phuket. Standing 45 meters tall and perched on Nakkerd Hill, this statue is visible from almost the entire southern part of the island. In addition to offering spectacular views of the surrounding area, the serene atmosphere and chanting of the monks give visitors a sense of tranquillity and peace. It’s free to visit and is an experience not to be missed.
2. Explore Phuket Old Town
Step back in time by walking through the streets of Phuket Old Town. Famous for its colourful blend of Chinese and Portuguese architecture, the old town is filled with ornate shops, cozy cafes, shrines and museums. Don’t miss the local markets for authentic Thai street food, including the famous Thalang Road night market.
3. Take a trip to the Phi Phi Islands
A short distance from Phuket are the beautiful Phi Phi Islands, made famous by the movie The Beach. If you love snorkelling, you’ll find yourself in paradise as the clear waters around the archipelago are home to heaps of marine life. The towering green cliffs overlooking the sea complete the picture, creating a landscape that’s hard to forget.
4. Visit Wat Chalong Temple
Wat Chalong is the largest and most visited Buddhist temple in Phuket. With an interesting history and richly decorated architecture, this site is the ideal place to learn more about Buddhism. The highlight of the complex is the Great Chedi, which is said to contain a bone fragment belonging to the Buddha himself.
5. Cruise Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay is famous for its towering limestone cliffs rising from the emerald waters. A boat tour is the best way to see these natural wonders up close. You can also explore the caves and lagoons by canoe or visit the iconic James Bond Island.
6. Party on Patong Beach
Patong Beach is the hub of Phuket’s nightlife, with an abundance of bars, nightclubs and beach clubs. During the day, you can relax on the sand and enjoy water sports, but at sunset the area comes alive with neon lights, music and parties that last until dawn.
