Phuket's historic Old Town, featuring Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, and authentic Thai-Chinese cuisine.

About Phuket City Center

Phuket Town (Phuket City) is the island's administrative capital, a charming contrast to the beach resort strips. The Old Town's Thalang Road and surrounding soi (lanes) showcase beautifully restored Sino-Portuguese shophouses—colorful two-story buildings reflecting the tin mining era when Chinese immigrants and Portuguese traders shaped the island's culture.

The Old Town has become Phuket's cultural hub, with street art murals, boutique cafes in converted shophouses, local museums, and the ornate Jui Tui and Put Jaw shrines. The Sunday Walking Street market transforms Thalang Road into a night bazaar with local food, crafts, and live music. Authentic Phuket cuisine—hokkien mee, moo hong (braised pork), and oh tao (oyster omelet)—is best sampled here.

Phuket Town also serves as the departure point for ferry services to Phi Phi Islands, Krabi, and other Andaman Sea destinations. The town offers significantly cheaper accommodation and dining than the beach areas, making it popular with budget travelers and those seeking a more local experience.

Nearby Landmarks

Thalang Road Jui Tui Shrine Phuket Old Town Rang Hill viewpoint Clock Tower

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Exit arrivals and go to the official taxi or minibus counter. Purchase a ticket to Phuket Town. The drive south takes 30-45 minutes via Route 402. Alternatively, use the Grab app for a metered ride.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Airport taxis and minivans operate 24/7. A nighttime taxi to Phuket Town costs THB 600-800 ($17-23). Grab ride-hailing works at Phuket Airport. The Old Town is quiet after 10 PM on weekdays, though weekend night markets run until midnight. No airport buses run at night.

Luggage Tips

Airport taxis are sedans or minivans with luggage space. The Phuket Smart Bus has limited luggage room. Phuket Town hotels typically have vehicle access for drop-off. The Old Town's narrow soi may require a short walk from the taxi drop-off point to boutique hotels.

Accessibility

Phuket Airport has wheelchair assistance (request through airline). Airport taxis can accommodate folded wheelchairs. Phuket Town's Old Town streets are narrow with uneven sidewalks and occasional steps at shophouse entrances. Main roads are more accessible. Beach wheelchair services are limited.