Phuket is a true gem for travelers. The island boasts numerous must-see attractions that deserve at least one visit in a lifetime. Of course, covering them all in a single trip is nearly impossible. Our Phuket travel guide offers ideal island itineraries to help you explore the top sights.
You can choose between a short 3-day trip or a more extensive 7-day excursion. The routes include visits to key natural landmarks, historical and cultural sites, and nearby islands. How can you make the most of your Thai vacation? Read on to find out!
Where to Stay in Phuket?
The first thing tourists should take care of is booking accommodation. It’s best to do this in advance, as availability may be limited. The island offers a wide range of options—from budget to luxury. There are plenty of choices for travelers who prioritize comfort. A great vacation can be enjoyed at these 4-star hotels:
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Wekata Luxury
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Grand Kata VIP
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KK Karon Kata Boutique Hotel
You can book comfortable rooms to suit any taste, with guaranteed high-quality service and convenient locations close to planned excursion spots.
An alternative option is villa rentals. Check out our Rawayana Central Park Villas complex. Spaciousness, privacy, freedom from hotel schedules, and maximum comfort are just a few reasons to choose our villas.
7-Day Itinerary
A 7-day Phuket adventure allows you to explore the island’s most iconic landmarks and districts. You’ll also have time to visit nearby attractions and create unforgettable memories. The week-long itinerary includes:
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Day 1: Visiting Phuket’s best beaches and enjoying the sunset.
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Day 2: Exploring the west coast and diving into the island’s nightlife.
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Day 3: Fun activities for kids.
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Day 4: Visiting historical and cultural landmarks.
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Day 5: A sea adventure.
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Day 6: A tour of famous nearby islands.
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Day 7: Wrapping up the trip in Railay and Krabi.
Let’s take a closer look at each day.
Day 1: Nai Harn Beach, Rawai Pier, Sunset at Promthep Cape
Start your journey in Phuket’s southern areas. The best way to begin your island exploration is by visiting its beaches. A walk on the soft sand and the sound of waves will help you soak in the moment.
This day is dedicated to two beaches:
Nai Harn – A relatively uncrowded, clean, and peaceful beach. The sea shimmers in shades of blue, from light turquoise to sapphire, surrounded by palm and almond trees. We offer a daily shuttle bus from our villas to the beach—bookable at reception or via this link: Shuttle Bus Booking.
Yanui – A small, hidden gem where you can enjoy tranquility, try SUP boarding or kayaking, grab a coffee, shop a little, or visit the seafood market.
Rawai Pier – A clean beach with shaded areas. Nearby is a fishing village where you can buy fresh seafood and experience local culture.
End the day with a breathtaking sunset at Promthep Cape, offering stunning views of the Andaman Sea and nearby islands. While waiting for the sunset, explore the cape and pick up souvenirs from local shops.
Day 2: Karon, Kata, and Patong Beaches + Nightlife
Day two is all about the west coast. No trip to Phuket is complete without visiting Kata Beach, famous for its cleanliness, lush surroundings, and water sports. While boat trips aren’t included today, you can try snorkeling near the coral reefs.
A short walk away is Karon Beach, one of the longest on the island. Its turquoise waters and quartz-rich “singing” sand make it perfect for families.
In the evening, head to Patong—the heart of Phuket’s nightlife. Start with a sunset at Patong Beach, then explore Bangla Road, filled with bars, clubs, and lively shows. For a quieter evening, enjoy a beachside dinner with ocean views.
Day 3: Fun for Kids
Keep your little ones entertained at Rawai Park, the island’s only venue offering multiple kids’ activities:
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A children’s pool with water slides
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A playground (with a rain cover)
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A playroom with toys
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A trampoline center
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Event zones
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A café with kid-friendly desserts
Animators organize fun activities, and birthday parties can be arranged. Free entry for our villa guests.
Day 4: Temples & Phuket Old Town
A cultural must-see includes:
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Lord Srimanth Ganapathi Bappa Dewalay (Hindu temple dedicated to Ganesha).
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Wat Prathong (featuring a golden Buddha bust).
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Wat Sri Sunthon (with a reclining Buddha).
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Wat Phra Nang Sang (Phuket’s oldest Buddhist temple).
Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees), remove shoes before entering, and check photography rules.
Phuket Old Town showcases colonial-era architecture, cozy cafés, and museums. Visit the Sunday Night Market for souvenirs and street food.
Day 5: Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island
A UNESCO-listed bay famous for limestone cliffs, caves, and James Bond Island (featured in The Man with the Golden Gun). Take a boat tour and visit Khao Ping Kan for photos and seafood.
Day 6: Phi Phi Islands & Maya Bay
Ferry to Phi Phi Don (the only inhabited island) and explore:
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Long Beach (great for swimming/snorkeling).
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Loh Dalum (nightlife hub).
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Viewpoint (panoramic vistas).
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Viking Cave (ancient ship drawings).
Don’t miss Maya Bay (The Beach filming location), surrounded by towering cliffs.
Day 7: Railay & Krabi Attractions
Wrap up your trip in Krabi, visiting:
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Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple with a steep climb).
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Thung Teao Forest (Emerald Pool & waterfalls).
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Than Bok Khorani National Park (multi-tiered waterfalls, caves).
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Railay Peninsula (secluded beaches, rock climbing).
3-Day Itinerary
Short on time? Try this condensed version:
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Day 1: Old Town, temples, Patong nightlife.
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Day 2: Island tour (Phi Phi/Phang Nga/Krabi).
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Day 3: Beach hopping (Patong, Kata, Karon, Nai Harn) + sunset at Promthep Cape.
Travel Tips
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High season (Nov–Feb): Great weather but higher prices.
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Low season: Fewer crowds, better deals.
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Pack sunscreen, light clothing, and modest attire for temples.
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Book early (especially Rawayana Central Park Villas for comfort).
FAQ
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Best time to visit?
Nov–Mar for beaches; off-season for lower prices.
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Top temples?
Big Buddha, Wat Sri Sunthon, Wat Prathong.
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Best beaches?
Patong, Nai Harn, Kata, Karon.
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Nightlife?
Bangla Road (Patong).
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Kid-friendly spots?
Rawai Park, Karon/Nai Harn beaches.