5-Day Phuket Itinerary
Day 1
Highlights; Patong Beach & massages
Morning
Travelling can be tiring so day 1 should be reasonably relaxing, and what better introduction to Phuket than the famous Patong Beach. Head to the beach early before it gets too busy and you can hire one of the many sun beds for 200 Bhat.
Throughout the day beach vendors will approach you trying to sell everything from fresh fruit, ice cream, sunglasses and paintings. You could politely decline or if you’re keen to start your shopping this is a very easy option.
Along Patong beach, there are also heaps of fun water sports available. Pre-booking isn’t required and they are generally pretty cheap. Some of the activities you will see are jet skis, parasailing & banana boat rides.
Afternoon
After a long hard day at the beach, you deserve a little pampering. There are countless massage parlours around Phuket and prices start from 300 baht.
The salons will have menus but they are always happy to put together a custom package for you and don’t be afraid to barter with the price.
My favourite massage will always be a traditional Thai massage, this massage doesn’t use oils and can be pretty rough but after all that twisting and pulling of your limbs, you’ll feel amazing.
Evening
It can often be far too hot in Phuket to wander around the markets during the day so in this itinerary, I recommend visiting night markets.
Malin Plaza Patong is a popular night market in Phuket and is only a short drive from Bangla Rd or a 20-minute walk. This market is open 7 days a week from 11 am to midnight.
Also, every night there will be plenty going on along Bangla Road walking street, even if you’re not there for bars & clubs, it’s always fun to check out!
The shops & street food stalls are also open till late.
Then to get back to your hotel a fun transport option is a tuk-tuk. Each one has its unique style and I’m sure the driver will have the lights flashing & music pumping for you.
Day 2
Highlights; Big Buddha & Phuket Town
Morning
Rain, hail or shine every Phuket itinerary should include a visit to the Big Buddha. This is a free attraction and offers some of the best views on the whole island.
Unfortunately, when I went a massive store rolled in and we ended up pretty wet. But that also meant minimal crowds.
The Big Buddha stands 45 metres tall and is made from beautiful white marble. You can actually purchase a chunk of marble, write your name or a message on it and it will be forever placed inside the Big Buddha.
I mentioned above that visiting the Big Buddha is free, but it’s expected that all visitors leave a donation in any amount. Also, dress modestly during your visit.
Afternoon
This afternoon you should visit Phuket Town. I only wish I had explored Phuket town during my previous trips to Phuket. It’s such an awesome area.
When my husband and I went in May we paid 600thb from Karon Beach to the Big Buddha, the driver waited for us and then dropped us near Thalang Road in Phuket Town.
Then from there, you can explore on foot. If you wanted a return trip they would charge an extra 500B (approximately).
We decided to get the local bus back for only 30thb and they left every 30 minutes from Ranong St, near the corner of Yaowarat Rd (you’ll see a roundabout with a fountain in the middle).
So Phuket Town is a historical city with brightly painted townhouses and plenty of European charm. Cafes and beautiful stores line the streets, filled with clothing & home wear. Plus lots of accommodation options that are generally cheaper than the more touristy areas of Phuket.
If your days in Phuket line up, Phuket Town also hosts a night market every Sunday from 4 pm. This market is on Thalang Road and during this time the road is closed off to traffic.
Evening
After a day of exploring I suggest heading to a nearby 7/11, grabbing a couple of beers (for 40B each) and watching the sunset on the beach.
Day 3
Morning
Highlights; Day Trip to Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay
See a whole new side of Phuket from the water by taking a day trip to Phi Phi island, Maya Bay and undoubtedly spend time at an incredible snorkelling area.
A day trip like this is a must for any Phuket itinerary, although it can get busy and very touristy the scenery is still stunning. And it’s a nice change having everything organized for you.
Maya Bay was made famous after it was featured in Leonardo’s movie “The Beach” and for a while, the bay was losing its beauty with the number of boats that arrived daily. Thankfully the Thai government no longer allows boats to come into the bay and visitors aren’t even allowed to go swimming. I think this is for the best and mother nature would be very happy!
A day trip to Phi Phi can be booked online with GetYourGuide , or around Patong, you will easily be able to find a local tour agency that can organize everything for you.
GetYourGuide – Phuket: Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Trip with Lunch
Evening
The good, the bad, and the crazy can be found along Bangla Road at night. This walking street in Phuket comes alive at night. Lined with bars, clubs, street food and of course locals trying to sell you tickets to ping pong shows. But no one can say they have done Phuket, without having a night out on Bangla Road!