7 Best Things to do in Phuket [2023]: First-timers guide!

Phuket is at the top of the list of the best places to visit in Thailand. Always been among Thailand's most iconic vacation spots and has become even more tourist-friendly over the years. This means plenty of choices when it comes to where to stay in Phuket and things to do. The biggest drawing card to Phuket is the abundance of activities and attractions. 

In the mood for a beachy holiday at a luxury resort and self-care spa days? Don't forget this beach vacation packing list! Or maybe you're ready to party and explore the famous nightlife. 

There's so much to choose from! And the good news is that many of these awesome things to do in Phuket don't cost a great deal of money.  

Where is Phuket?

Phuket is Thailand's largest province in the southern region. It's an exotic paradise located​​ in the Andaman Sea, spanning an area of 543 km². It's also home to the country's largest island, Phuket Island.

What you should know about Phuket

If you're looking to travel somewhere beautiful while still staying within your budget, Phuket should be at the top of your list! But why?

What's Phuket best known for?

It's hard to mention one specialty of Phuket because it's well-known for many things. 

But in a nutshell, this is what you can expect:

• Unique beaches
• Exciting nightlife
• Eye-catching street markets
• Mouth-watering cuisine a
• Giant white marble Buddha
• Scuba diving

What are the dos and don'ts in Phuket?

Any place you travel to expects you to follow the local laws. Phuket is no exception. In Phuket, these are some common things to do and avoid:

• Show respect for the Thai National Anthem
• Respect Thai customs and culture
• Avoid touching the head of Thai people
• Avoid underdressing in public
• Remove your shoes when visiting temples or someone's home
• Dress appropriately at mosques. 

If you visit a mosque, men should wear a hat, and women should dress modestly and wear a head covering such as a scarf or a shawl. 

What can you do in Phuket in 4 days?

• Hiking 
• Scuba diving 
• Mountain climbing
• Visit the beaches!

Tips for visiting Phuket

Phuket has earned the title "The Pearl of the Andaman" because of its stunning beaches. When visiting a beach paradise, you can expect the weather to be scorching hot. 

So it's ideal to have sunscreen in your backpack at all times. 

The Thai Baht is Phuket's national currency, and you'll find countless money exchange stores nearby. 

Finally, if you plan on visiting attractions, remember that people in most places in Phuket don't speak English fluently. Consider hiring a translator to help you communicate. 

Top things to do in Phuket

Ready to plan your trip and maximize fun while keeping to the budget? Here's a list of the seven top-rated things to do in Phuket and the cheapest places to visit.

While there are countless things to do in Phuket, Thailand, the following are some top-rated activities.

7. Visit the old Phuket town

You'll find a vast range of restaurants, bars, and shops in Phuket Town. A food tour of The Old Town comes highly recommended! 

Here you can taste the best local delicacies and get the inside scoop on all the history. The town has a historic vibe with its narrow streets, alleyways, and century-old Sino-Portuguese townhouses. 

Some of the top places to visit in Phuket's Old Town are Phuket Weekend Market, Phuket Thai Hua Museum, and Night Sunday Market.

6. Chill out on sandy beaches

Relaxing on one of the many beaches is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Phuket. You can sunbathe and chill at several beaches, including Kata Beach, Banana Beach, and Bang Tao Beach. The beaches are a great way to spend an afternoon.

5. Hang out with friends at nightclubs in Phuket

If you're looking for a fun, energetic night out with friends, then a nightclub is the best place to go in Phuket. 

All the bars and clubs in Phuket are tourist friendly and serve food and drinks. There are a plethora of popular nightclubs, such as Hollywood Phuket and Tiger Nightclub.

4. Appreciate the great architecture at the buddha statue

The Big Buddha is one of the best attractions in Phuket. If you catch a sightseeing boat, it will take you around the island and provide an excellent view of this massive statue. 

You can view the monument from anywhere on the island. However, it's exceptionally breathtaking at night. The Buddha appears golden because of the lights reflecting off its surface, making it among the best things to do in Phuket at night.

3. Enjoy the Phuket Fantasea Show

Are you curious about Thailand's customs and history? Visit the Phuket FantaSea theme park! This cultural theme park boasts a 45-minute light and musical extravaganza showcasing traditional Thai culture and folklore. 

The Fantasea Show is fun for all ages and another one of the great things to do in Phuket at night. You can enjoy an evening of water acrobatics, dancing, and explosions set to popular songs.

2. Watch the sunset at Promthep Cape

Are you looking for the best romantic spot in Phuket? Promthep Cape is one of them!

Located in Rawai, Mueang Phuket District, it's an ideal location where you can get panoramic views of the entire island. 

Don't forget to take sweet sunset selfies with your loved ones here and catch the golden sunset.

1. Explore Phuket's history at the Trickeye museum

Are you looking for great things to do in Phuket with your family and friends of all ages?

Head to the Phuket Trickeye Museum and immerse yourself in optical illusions and an interactive 3D painting exhibition. It's Phuket's first interactive 3D museum focusing on how life was centuries ago on this beautiful island.

Keeping track of your Phuket itinerary

Whether you're there for a quick getaway or an extended stay, Phuket is the jewel of southern Thailand and is definitely worth visiting. 

This region is attractive for reasons other than the sun, beach, and sea. You can also find some great cultural experiences in Phuket and all across Thailand.

With so many appealing things to do in Phuket, it's easy to get caught up in browsing and researching. The trick is keeping track of all your ideas.