Phuket Town (Muang Phuket) is the capital and main center on Phuket and although fun to wander around is not really worth the effort unless you are perhaps on an extended break.
Phuket Town lies in the southeast of the island, the opposite side of the island to the main Andaman beaches, and is a bit of a scruffy town with little tourist value. Delve deeper, however, and you will find plenty to look at, such as charming Chinatown, loads of museums and some decent shopping.
If you fancy staying in Phuket Town you may be pleasantly surprised by the relative cheapness of the hotels here. You can also rub shoulders with the locals in the many bars and cafés of central Phuket Town. Attractions to keep note of in Phuket Town include Chinatown along Thalang Road, Jui Tui and Put Jaw temples, and the Central shopping complex just out of town.
Getting There & Away
Phuket Town is well connected to the rest of Phuket, with taxis, buses and shared minivans coming in direct from the airport - taxi time is about 40 minutes. Not many visitors stay solely in Phuket Town but you can get here from virtually any beach. Phuket Town is about 20 minutes over a hill from Patong by taxi but be sure to avoid rip-off tuk-tuk.
Things to Do
Phuket Town Attractions
- Old Phuket
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This part of town features many fine old mansions and shops built in the sino-portuguese style.
- Saphan Hin
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For an unrivalled view over phuket town and the bay, climb this nearby hill to the viewpoint at the top.