Old Phuket Town is the cultural and historical heart of the island, featuring beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings painted in vibrant colors. Walking through these charming streets feels like stepping back in time to when Phuket was a wealthy tin-mining hub. Today, it's a delightful blend of history, art, cuisine, and local life with colorful shophouses, trendy cafes, art galleries, and the famous Sunday Walking Street market. For more attractions, explore our complete things to do guide.
Main Streets to Explore
Thalang Road
The heart of Old Town. Main historic street lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Sunday Walking Street market takes place here every Sunday 4-9 PM.
Soi Romanee
Instagram-famous narrow alley with pastel-colored buildings. Once the red-light district, now one of the most photographed spots in Phuket. Best visited in morning light.
Dibuk Road
Parallel to Thalang, features beautifully restored shophouses, art galleries, boutique hotels, and the famous Kopitiam by Wilai cafe.
Krabi Road
Less touristy with local shops, traditional Chinese medicine stores, and authentic eateries. Experience real local daily life.
What to See and Do
📸 Architectural Photography
Colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings are incredibly photogenic. Early morning offers best light. Look for ornate balconies, shuttered windows, and decorative tiles.
🎨 Street Art & Murals
Discover vibrant street art throughout Old Town. Large murals depict local history and culture. Maps available showing locations of major pieces.
☕ Cafe Hopping
Fantastic cafes in restored buildings. Try Kopitiam, Torry's Ice Cream, Raya Restaurant, and artisan coffee shops.
🛍️ Unique Shopping
Browse boutiques selling local crafts, vintage items, clothing, jewelry. More unique than typical tourist shops.
🏛️ Museums & Galleries
Visit Thai Hua Museum (Phuket history), Chinpracha House (restored mansion), and various galleries showcasing local art.
🎪 Sunday Walking Street
Every Sunday 4-9 PM, Thalang Road becomes bustling night market. Street food, handicrafts, live music, and performances.
Where to Eat
Local Thai Favorites
Raya Restaurant: Historic building serving authentic Phuket cuisine since 1947. Try Moo Hong (braised pork) and Kua Kling (dry curry).
Kopitiam by Wilai: Traditional coffee shop in beautiful Sino-Portuguese building. Famous for kaya toast and local coffee.
Modern & Fusion
Suay Restaurant: Farm-to-table dining in restored warehouse. Creative Thai cuisine with organic ingredients.
Dibuk House: French-Thai fusion in colonial mansion. Elegant setting with courtyard seating.
Practical Information
⏰ Best Time to Visit
- Early morning (7-10 AM) for photos
- Late afternoon (4-7 PM) for golden hour
- Sunday afternoon for Walking Street
- Avoid midday heat (11 AM-3 PM)
🚗 Getting There
- Central Phuket Town location
- 20-30 min from beach areas
- Taxi/Grab: 300-500 THB
- Free parking on side streets
⏱️ Time Needed
- Quick walk: 1-2 hours
- Leisurely explore: 3-4 hours
- Full day with lunch: 5-6 hours
- Sunday market: 2-3 hours
Visitor Tips
📸 Photography: Best spots are Soi Romanee, Thalang Road, and side alleys. Morning light is ideal.
👟 Comfortable Shoes: You'll walk a lot exploring streets and alleys. Some areas have uneven pavement.
💰 Bring Cash: Many small shops and street vendors are cash-only. Sunday market is mostly cash.
🗺️ Get a Map: Free walking maps available from hotels or tourist information centers.