No Thailand journey is full with out visiting the nation’s largest and hottest island – Phuket!
Positioned within the south of Thailand, within the attractive Andaman Sea, Phuket is understood for its stunning seashores, buzzing evening markets, breath taking pure surroundings and world-class resorts.
However being such a giant and vibrant island, which seashores, points of interest and different islands must you go to and the way do you match all of the highlights into one epic Thailand journey!? Effectively, this put up accommodates all you should know…
As an expat who has been dwelling in Phuket for over 3 years and has explored it from high to backside, I’ve created what I believe is the very best Phuket itinerary with my insider suggestions.
This fun-filled 7 day itinerary for Phuket, Thailand consists of the must-see’s, hidden gems, and island hopping to Koh Phi Phi and Krabi whereas skipping the over-rated locations to benefit from your time right here.
The Final 7 Day Phuket Itinerary – Methods to Spend 7 Days in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi.
The primary a part of planning your Phuket itinerary is setting your dates and reserving in your flights and lodging.
The most effective time to go to Phuket weatherwise is between December and March and Phuket’s worldwide airport makes attending to the island simple. (extra data on this later within the put up.) I at all times discover the very best flight offers at WayAway and use Reserving.com for lodging.
The place To Keep in Phuket, Thailand
As Thailand’s largest island, there’s an enormous vary of various areas and locations to remain in Phuket to swimsuit all budgets and kinds of traveller.
From luxurious lodges and household pleasant resorts, to finances lodges and backpacker hostels, there’s no scarcity of alternative so the very best place for you’ll actually rely upon what you might be on the lookout for.
Every place has a really completely different vibe so you will discover out extra about Phuket’s finest lodges, resorts, and areas in my complete information on the place to remain in Phuket.
The most effective seashores in Phuket are positioned on the West Coast. Energetic Patong Seaside is finest for nightlife and finances vacationers, whereas Kata seaside, Karon seaside and Kamala seaside are in style with households and {couples} as they provide a extra balanced expertise.
Additional north, Bang Tao seaside and Mai Khao seaside provide unspoiled seashores, luxurious resorts and a peaceable ambiance. Previous Phuket City is the historic and cultural coronary heart of the island and presents cafes, markets and vibrant, historic boutique lodges.
To comply with this itinerary I’d suggest staying close to Nai Harn and Rawai within the south as these are probably the most beautiful and stylish areas to remain proper now.
Listed here are my high lodging picks for Nai Harn and Rawai that present a handy base for this Phuket itinerary:
- Finest Luxurious Resort: The Nai Harn – Perched on a hill overlooking Nai Harn seaside this beautiful 5 star lodge presents a beach-club model pool and bar space and a tremendous breakfast buffet!
- Finest Mid-Vary Resort: Selina – Fashionable “all-in-one resort” with a beachfront restaurant and pool, wellness deck, and co-working area excellent for digital nomads.
- Finest Price range Hotel: Roost Glamping – Distinctive and glamourous tenting expertise with a pool and correct beds in fashionable bells tents surrounded by nature.
Remember that it’s a 1-hour (or extra) drive from Phuket Worldwide Airport which is positioned within the north of the island to Rawai within the South.
Staying at Kata Seaside can also be an excellent choice as there’s a bit extra alternative and it’s extra centrally positioned however the seashores are busier right here.
How Lengthy To Spend In Phuket
There’s so many stunning locations to go to and issues to do in Phuket {that a} weekend or 3 days in Phuket shouldn’t be sufficient time to see all of it.
Together with exploring completely different seashores and points of interest on Phuket island itself, you’ll additionally need to go to just a few close by islands. And possibly you need to see the close by provinces of Phang Nga or Krabi, too?
If that’s the case, I extremely suggest staying not less than 7 days in Phuket (or extra). Seven days is simply sufficient time to get pleasure from all the highest choices of Phuket, plus take a look at the well-known Phi Phi islands and a few components of Phang Nga Bay and Krabi too.
Whereas the next itinerary can simply match into seven days, when you have extra time and need to take it slower I like to recommend staying in Phuket for 10 days or 2 weeks. You may prolong your keep in Krabi, add a pair extra island day journeys or keep just a few nights on Phuket’s different stunning islands like Koh Yao Yai.
For extra inspiration take a look at my Phuket Island Hopping And Day Journeys information – I assure you gained’t get bored!
However how will you match all of it into seven days? The next 7 days in Phuket itinerary will present you the way!
The Finest 7 Day Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive, Settle In and Loosen up
Ease into your 7 day Phuket itinerary by spending the primary day settling into your lodge and having fun with the seashores and native points of interest.
When you’ve checked into your lodging, head to the attractive Nai Harn seaside to refresh within the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea and take in the solar.
Simply earlier than sundown, drive or hike up the hill to The Windmill for an epic sundown. Alternatively, head to the close by Yanui seaside for a sundown kayaking session!
Go for dinner at one of many unimaginable seafood eating places alongside Rawai Seaside. I like to recommend Nikita’s (guide forward to get a waterside desk!). After dinner, head throughout the street to Freedom Bar or Rawai Reggae Bar for stay music and drinks.
Or, in case you are feeling jet lagged and need to get an early evening for a giant day of seaside hopping tomorrow, deal with your self to one of many spa therapies at your lodge.
Day 2 – Discover Phuket’s Well-known West Coast Seashores
Phuket is residence to a few of the finest seashores in Thailand, so it solely is sensible to start your Phuket itinerary with a seaside day!
Morning
Begin the day by climbing as much as Promthep Cape in Rawai – probably the most southern level in Phuket. This beautiful peninsula will get crowded each night for sundown, however within the morning, it’s peaceable and exquisite. You possibly can benefit from the view from the highest or hike all the way down to the top of the cape.
From right here, head to Kata Seaside for a morning surf session however make certain to cease on the viewpoint the place you may get a surprising view of three seashores.
If you favor to sunbathe, take a look at Kata’s smaller sister – Kata Noi Seaside. This tiny cove is residence to quite a few luxurious resorts, giving it an nearly personal seaside vibe.
Afternoon
Get pleasure from lunch in Kata city earlier than taking a brief drive to Karon Seaside, one of many longest and most beautiful white sand seashores in Phuket.
Alongside the way in which, cease on the fashionable ‘A Blanket & A Pillow Cafe‘ for an iced espresso with an epic view overlooking the south of Karon seaside.
Conclude your afternoon with a protracted stroll or enjoyable seaside therapeutic massage on Karon Seaside earlier than heading to Patong for the night.
Night
Hail one of many many tuk tuks for a enjoyable experience to the well-known Bangla Highway at Patong seaside, a bustling strip of bars and nightclubs.
Tuck into some scrumptious and inexpensive Thai delicacies at Patong Night time Market. Right here, you may get a few of the most cost-effective and tastiest Pad Thai, scrumptious recent fruit, and Thai desserts.
Patong is undoubtedly the hub of Phuket nightlife, however Bangla Highway will be fairly noisy and seedy so isn’t everybody’s cup of tea however it’s value checking it out not less than as soon as.
For those who choose a extra chilled and chic night, head to one of many rooftop bars for spectacular sundown views or again to Karon Seaside for cocktails and fireplace reveals at Tann Terrace.
Day 3 – Get pleasure from Unspoilt Seashores and Elephant Sanctuaries
For day 3 in Phuket, discover the island’s north, the place you can find many extra beautiful seashores and fabulous points of interest.
Morning
Bang Tao Seaside is 6 km of white sand with crystal clear waters splendid for swimming. The close by Surin Seaside is way smaller however has a wild, untouched vibe. Elements of it are additionally shaded by palm bushes, serving to you escape the warmth!
Afternoon
I like to recommend having fun with a leisurely lunch full with an ice-cold beer at one of many seaside golf equipment, similar to Hugo Hug, Carpe Diem, or Catch.
After lunch, in order for you extra seaside time, head to Banana Seaside or Mai Khao Seaside, two peaceable and exquisite seashores within the far north of the island.
For those who’re all beached out, head to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary in Thalang. In contrast to lots of Phuket’s ‘elephant camps, ‘ this moral elephant sanctuary doesn’t hurt elephants by providing rides or bathing classes. As a substitute, you’ll be able to admire the attractive mammals from above on a 1.5-hour cover walkway tour.
Night
Searching for an epic eating expertise? Then, on the way in which again to your lodge, cease at Three Monkeys, one in all Phuket’s most well-known eating places. Three Monkeys boasts a breath taking hilltop location constructed amidst a lush rainforest. The food and drinks are a bit dearer than different locations, however it’s value it as a result of the views and expertise are priceless!
Day 4 – Uncover Temples, Thai Tradition and Phuket Previous City
Now you’ve seen a few of Phuket’s seashores it’s time for some Thai tradition! On day 4, go to Phuket city to see Phuket’s cultural hub and discover some close by temples.
Morning
Begin the day with a Thai cooking class the place you go to an area market to purchase the substances earlier than making some well-known Thai meals similar to pad thai, vegetable spring rolls and inexperienced curry. On the finish of the cooking class, you’ll be able to style your creations, filling your stomach for a day of sightseeing.
Afternoon
Proceed your cultural exploration with a go to to Wat Chalong, one in all Phuket’s most vital historic landmarks. This temple is simply as in style with locals as it’s with vacationers. So you’ll be able to study first hand in regards to the Thai tradition of merit-making, a Buddhist follow for clearing unhealthy karma and bringing good luck.
For sundown head as much as the well-known Massive Buddha close by. This isn’t your customary temple; it’s a 45-meter (148 ft) tall and 25.45-meter (83.5 ft) large white Buddha statue sitting atop one of many highest mountains on Phuket island.
The concrete statue is roofed with Burmese white marble, and you may spot it from numerous factors on the island. Nonetheless, it’s nicely value seeing it up shut, the place additionally, you will get an unimaginable view over the south of the island. It’s a well-liked sundown spot.
Night
Within the night, head to Phuket Previous City to take a look at the colorful historic shophouses, boutiques and cafes. For dinner strive some top-quality Thai meals or worldwide delicacies.
For those who’re visiting Phuket Previous City on the weekend, take a look at the evening markets for reasonable however scrumptious road meals. Attempt to go to on a Sunday to expertise the Phuket Sunday Strolling Avenue Market, when the streets actually come to life and an awesome place to choose up some cool and distinctive souvenirs and presents!
For those who’re there on a weekday, don’t fear, as there are many unimaginable eating places in Phuket City. Go Benz is extraordinarily in style amongst locals, with lengthy queues main down the road each evening.
Then, for dessert, seize some French toast from Phuketique earlier than having fun with a cocktail or two at one in all Phuket City’s MANY cute bars.
The most effective and best strategy to see all of those cultural points of interest is with a tour like this half day Phuket Metropolis Tour which takes you to the Massive Buddha, Wat Chalong, Phuket City and a tremendous viewpoint.
Day 5 – Go to Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island
For day 5, it’s time to get out of Phuket and discover the beautiful Phang Nga Bay, positioned within the subsequent province north of Phuket.
Morning & Afternoon
Probably the most in style methods to discover Phang Nga Bay is with a boat journey to James Bond Island. This island grew to become well-known after getting used as a filming location for the 1974 James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun.”
There are lots of various kinds of boat journeys out there to James Bond Island, together with through pace boat, luxurious yacht, and conventional long-tail boat.
I like to recommend selecting a day journey that features kayaking, similar to this James Bond Island Day Journey With Lunch. This journey consists of kayaking by way of the caves of Panak Island and sea canoeing round Koh Hong Island’s emerald lagoons – the highlights of the Phang Nga Bay.
Night
As most James Bond Island hopping journeys final 8 to 9 hours, count on to return to your lodge round 6 p.m.
As tomorrow entails one other huge day journey, I like to recommend a quiet dinner close to your lodge earlier than an early evening. If you need one thing distinctive, take a look at Rock Salt at The Nai Harn or Rustic And Blue overlooking Rawai Seaside.
Day 6 – Go to The Phi Phi Islands And Maya Bay
No itinerary for Phuket is full with out a day journey to Phi Phi islands and the well-known Maya Bay. So set an early alarm to benefit from this unimaginable a part of Phuket and Krabi!
Morning & Afternoon
The easiest way to get to Phi Phi islands from Phuket is through speedboat. There are MANY excursions out there, which you’ll be able to guide on-line or in particular person, or you’ll be able to take the public ferry instantly from Rassada Pier in Phuket City.
Most excursions will decide you up out of your lodge and embrace a number of stops within the Phi Phi islands. For instance, this high rated Phi Phi Islands and Maya Bay Day Journey consists of three snorkeling stops, together with sightseeing stops in Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Seaside (the place you’ll be able to see wild monkeys) and lunch.
Maya Bay is the most well-liked vacationer vacation spot within the Phi Phi islands, famed for being the filming vacation spot for the 2000 movie “The Seaside.” When you can now not swim at Maya Bay it’s nonetheless a spectacular sight to witness. Bamboo Island is one other spotlight on Phi Phi island hopping excursions on account of its serene location for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Night
If you wish to benefit from the island’s celebration vibe spend the evening on Phi Phi Don (the archipelago’s solely inhabited island). Whereas the island is significantly dearer than mainland Phuket or Krabi, there are many finances lodging alongside the posh lodges.
If you wish to expertise the island’s nightlife keep someplace like Phi Phi Villa Resort. This beachfront resort is shut sufficient to Ton Sai Village to benefit from the events however far-off sufficient to get a peaceable nights sleep!
Alternatively, you’ll be able to take the ferry from Ton Sai pier in Phi Phi Don to Krabi and luxuriate in a night in Krabi City or at Ao Nang evening market earlier than the ultimate day of your Krabi Phuket itinerary. There are lots of lodges in Ao Nang however my favorite place to remain in Krabi is the beautiful Railay Bay Resort.
Remember that the final ferry to Krabi is at 5 p.m. and takes 2 hours. You too can get a personal speedboat switch at a time that fits you which of them solely takes 1 hour and features a switch to your lodge or the airport.
Day 7 – Discover Krabi And Railay Seaside
On the ultimate day of your Phuket and Krabi itinerary, spend a while exploring the sights, points of interest, and seashores in Krabi.
Morning
For those who stayed in Krabi final evening, you can begin the ultimate day of your Phuket Krabi Phi Phi itinerary vibrant and early. You may even be a part of a jam-packed 4 Islands Krabi Day Tour, which visits the attractive Phra Nang Cave Seaside at Railay, together with stops at Koh Poda, Rooster Island, Koh Tub, and Koh Mor.
Nonetheless, for those who stayed in Phi Phi the evening earlier than, take the primary ferry to Krabi at 9 a.m. or the ten a.m. speedboat, arriving by 11 a.m.
One must-visit in Krabi is Railay Seaside. You possibly can take a protracted tail boat right here to discover the unimaginable limestone cliffs, kayak by way of the hidden lagoons, and hike the spectacular bat cave.
Afternoon
When you’ve labored up an urge for food, eat lunch at one of many eating places alongside Ao Nang seaside earlier than a spot of sunbathing. Or escape the crowds by driving half-hour north to the peaceable Klong Muang Seaside.
For those who’re up for extra of a jungle journey you possibly can discover the Tiger Cave Temple, and bathe within the sizzling springs and emerald pool. This Krabi Jungle Tour will take you there.
Night
For those who’re leaving Krabi in the present day, head to the airport to catch your flight. To keep away from touring again on your self to Phuket you may need to contemplate flying out from Krabi airport. In any other case, get pleasure from a ultimate evening in Krabi City earlier than your onward journey tomorrow!
Extra Suggestions For Planning Your Itinerary For Phuket
Earlier than you guide in your Phuket itinerary, right here’s just a few necessary suggestions that can assist you plan your journey to Phuket.
Finest Time to Go to Phuket
As a tropical island, Phuket is heat all yr spherical, however has completely different seasons that you need to be conscious of.
The most effective time to go to Phuket is between December to March when you’ll be able to count on persistently good climate – blue skies and loads of sunshine however it’s not too sizzling and humid.
That is additionally the peak vacationer season and the busiest, and costliest, time to go to Phuket, so you need to determine in your itinerary prematurely and guide in your lodging, actions and day journeys earlier than arriving to keep away from disappointment.
I at all times use Reserving.com to guide lodges, flights and transfers. The most effective place to guide actions, excursions and day journeys prematurely is on Viator or Get Your Information, as a result of there’s lots of alternative and you may learn opinions so you recognize what to anticipate and might guarantee your journey is a memorable expertise for all the best causes!
April and Might are an excellent time to go to for those who don’t thoughts the warmth. The island shouldn’t be too crowded by this time, however it may be very popular, starting from 27°C to 36°C, which makes sightseeing just a little uncomfortable.
Additionally contemplate November, it may be a stunning month to go to as Phuket is comparatively quiet however the climate can unpredictable because it’s the top of the wet season.
June to October is the wet season which sees quick however frequent tropical downpours, cloudy and overcast skies. You’ll nonetheless get some sunny, dry days however the climate will be fairly unpredictable and tough seas imply that it’s generally not secure to swim throughout this time.
Methods to Get to Phuket and Get Round
Touring to Phuket is straightforward because the island is residence to Phuket Worldwide Airport (HKT) It’s Thailand’s second busiest airport and receives many direct flights from all around the world. I discovered the very best flight offers at WayAway.
For this Phuket – Krabi itinerary you may need to contemplate flying into Phuket airport after which flying out from Krabi Airport to keep away from touring again on your self.
There are additionally buses from all around the nation, the very best place to guide buses, trains and even ferries in Thailand is on 12Go Asia. However as Phuket is roughly a 12-hours from Bangkok, flying could be the quickest and best choice, even for those who’re visiting Phuket as half of a bigger journey round Thailand.
Most nationalities can both get a visa exemption for 30 days, or a visa on arrival, which makes coming into Thailand simple and handy.
When you arrive there are a number of choices for getting from the airport to your lodging. The best approach is to guide an airport switch by way of Reserving.com, your lodge or a good firm. There are additionally taxi and bus providers on provide on the airport.
Taxis in Phuket will be costly, by Thai requirements, so agree the speed first earlier than hopping in. I like to recommend utilizing on-line apps like Seize or Bolt for a less expensive and extra handy choice.
For those who’re on a finances then you’ll be able to journey round Phuket through the use of the Good Bus, which runs between the airport and Rawai stopping in any respect the foremost seaside cities. A single experience is 100 THB, and you too can purchase day or multi-day passes.
Driving in a tuk-tuk could be a enjoyable expertise that you need to undoubtedly strive not less than as soon as once you’re in Thailand, however they’re dearer than taxis and most fitted for brief distances.
For probably the most freedom you’ll be able to hire a scooter or motorcycle to discover Phuket. Nonetheless, the roads will be busy and windy so I’d solely suggest this if you have already got expertise driving in Thailand or Asia earlier than. Be sure to have a global driving license (the police do examine) and insurance coverage that covers this too.
Prepared To Begin Planning Your Personal Phuket and Krabi itinerary?
I hope this 7-day Phuket itinerary has given you plenty of inspiration for what to do in Phuket. Koh Phi Phi and Krabi. This itinerary options all the highest sights of this magnificent Thai island in addition to the encompassing space and, as some of the various Phuket itineraries, there’s something for everybody.
Whether or not you discover temples fascinating, search serene snorkeling spots or the proper mango sticky rice, or just need to loosen up on picture-perfect seashores, following this itinerary for Phuket and Krabi will present you a few of the most beautiful locations in Thailand and is certain to be a tremendous journey!
I hope this itinerary helps you intend your journey to this wonderful a part of Thailand and don’t neglect to take a look at my different weblog posts and journey guides that can assist you plan your journey to Phuket and the remainder of Thailand.
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