Old Phuket Town
The historical centre of Phuket City
Old Phuket Town is the historical and cultural heart of Phuket City, the island’s capital. Officially renamed Phuket City in 2004, it’s still affectionately called Phuket Town by long-time residents. Unlike the bustling resort areas along the west coast, Old Phuket Town retains a strong sense of authenticity — this is where you’ll find the “real Thailand” hidden behind colorful Sino-colonial façades and quiet side streets.
Wander a little, and you’ll discover beautiful temples and shrines, a pier, several viewpoints, and an ever-growing collection of bars, cafés, and restaurants. For those willing to look beyond the beaches, Phuket Town offers a glimpse into the island’s fascinating past and creative present.
A Town Shaped by Tin and Trade
Phuket Old Town’s roots reach back to the tin-mining boom of the 18th and 19th centuries. European traders had already taken note of Phuket’s mineral wealth as early as the 16th century, but it was the arrival of Hokkien Chinese immigrants that truly transformed the island’s economy. Many of the elegant Sino-Portuguese mansions and shop-houses seen today were built during that prosperous era, showcasing a unique blend of Chinese, Portuguese, and local Thai influences.
These pastel-colored buildings, with their arched windows, ornate doors, and decorative stucco, line streets such as Thalang Road, Dibuk Road, and Soi Romanee, making them perfect for leisurely walks and photographs.
Phuket Old Town Today
Today, Old Phuket Town has evolved into a vibrant, artsy neighborhood, loved by both locals and visitors. The area’s vintage charm is now complemented by trendy cafés, live music bars, boutique shops, and art galleries, while night markets and street food stalls add a lively, friendly atmosphere after dark.
It’s a delightful place to explore at any hour — wander during the day to admire the architecture and street art, or return in the evening to enjoy the creative nightlife scene that continues to grow here.
Old Phuket Town highlights
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Splendid Sino-colonial architecture and colorful heritage buildings
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Elegant mansions from the tin-mining era
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Vibrant cafés, markets, and art-filled streets perfect for strolling and photography
Heads up
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Parking can be difficult, especially in the evening and on weekends
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Be cautious when crossing the streets — pedestrian crossings are not always observed by drivers
Old Phuket Town Photos
Phuket Old Town location map
Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & Writer
Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.
Last visit & photos: Old Phuket Town — 28 August 2025
