If you’re planning a trip to Phuket and want to experience something special beyond the beaches, Phuket Old Town is a must-visit. A place where pastel streets, rich culture, and timeless stories collide, this place quickly became one of my favourite memories on the island.
The Picturesque Phuket Old Town
This vibrant district is packed with history, colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture, and an incredible multicultural heritage shaped by centuries of trade and migration. It’s one of the best things to do in Phuket if you love history, photography, or simply strolling down beautiful streets.
We spent our afternoon admiring the rows of brightly painted shop houses and intricate details that told stories of Phuket’s past. Every corner offered another picture-perfect moment: colourful facades, vintage wooden shutters, hidden courtyards, and even a flower wall!
A quick thanks to Joslyn’s amazing phone with enhanced AI edits – no more being lost in the crowd!
A Unique Cultural Experience: Dressing Up in Traditional Thai Costume
To make our adventure even more memorable, we decided to rent traditional Thai costumes from Sanae Thai Closet, a wonderful little shop located on the second floor of a building right in Phuket Old Town. Their package included the full traditional outfit plus hair styling, making the whole experience effortless and fun.
The staff helped us to wear the elegant fabrics and gold-toned accessories, then styled our hair into gorgeous, intricate updos.
Locals and tourists alike smiled warmly at us as we passed by, and a few even asked for photos. The whole dress-up experience was such a beautiful reminder of how proud the community is of their heritage and how welcoming Phuket Old Town feels.
Discovering the Heritage of Phuket
Phuket Old Town’s rich history comes alive as we wander its streets. The town’s multicultural roots, influenced by Chinese, Malaysian, Indian, and European settlers, are still celebrated today through its festivals, cuisine, and architecture.
If you want a deeper dive into this fascinating history, the Phuket Thai Hua Museum and the Chinpracha House are recommended, and unfortunately, we reached the sites too late. Now this leaves us a tinge of regret and an excuse to come again!
Tips for Exploring Phuket Old Town
- Go early: Mornings are cooler, and the streets are less crowded – perfect for taking photographs.
- Take your time: Wander slowly, pop into little cafés, and admire the architecture.
- Dress up! Renting a traditional costume adds a magical, playful layer to the adventure.
- Stay hydrated: There are plenty of cute coffee shops and smoothie stands around for refreshing pit stops.
Final Thoughts
Phuket Old Town gave me something I didn’t even know I was craving: a chance to slow down, dress up, and immerse myself in a beautiful, living story. If you’re planning your trip and wondering about things to do in Phuket Old Town, make sure to set aside a full day to explore its vibrant streets and have a meal at the famous Blue Elephant Restaurant 💖
Whether it’s admiring colourful Sino-Portuguese shop houses, learning about the town’s multicultural past, shopping for beautiful trinkets and souvenirs, or twirling down pastel streets in a traditional Thai outfit, Phuket Old Town is truly an unmissable stop on your Phuket adventure.
Not a sponsored post.
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