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Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and definitely one you can’t miss. The island (which is also a Provence) is known for its stunning beaches and hectic party scenes. But Phuket is so much more than that, I have put together a 5 day Phuket itineraryĀ to share the many different aspects of this beautiful island.
The best way to really experience Phuket in 5 days is to get a bit of everything. In this itinerary, I have included beaches, markets, temples, nightlife, outdoor adventures & relaxation.
Plus, I have included heaps of budget-friendly things to do in Phuket. Even though Thailand is a cheap destination, if youāre constantly pulling money from your wallet, it does add up. So many of the things included below are free.
Then at the bottom, I have included bonus tips for planning your trip to Phuket.
5-Day Phuket Itinerary
Day 1
Highlights; Patong Beach & massages
MorningĀ
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.Ā
Ā AfternoonĀ
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.Ā
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.Ā
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 PatongĀ 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.Ā
Also, every night there will be plenty going on along Bangla Road walking street, even if youāre 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 Iām sure the driver will have the lights flashing & music pumping for you.
Day 2
Highlights; Big Buddha & Phuket Town
MorningĀ
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.Ā
Unfortunately, when I went a massive store rolled in and we ended up pretty wet. But that also meant minimal crowds.Ā
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. Itās such an awesome area.Ā
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 (youāll see a roundabout with a fountain in the middle).Ā
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.Ā
EveningĀ
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.Ā
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.Ā
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 Leonardoās movie āThe Beachā 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 arenāt 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.Ā
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.Ā But no one can say they have done Phuket, without having a night out on Bangla Road!
Day 4
Highlights; Beach & shopping.
MorningĀ
If there are hangovers in the air today maybe take it easy this morning. Which wouldn’t be a waste of time, with beautiful beaches or resort pools being close by!
Some of the other best beaches in Phuket are Karon, Kata, Nai Harn, Kamala and Kata Noi Beach.
Afternoon
Itās hard to come to Phuket and not do any shopping, there’s seriously so much variety here and it isn’t all tacky souvenirs. Beautiful homewares, branded clothing stores, unique gifts and plenty of locally made crafts.
Some of the best places to go shopping in Phuket are;
Jungceylon Shopping Mall, located in the heart of Patong this mall has everything and generally the prices are all fixed.
Phuket Weekend Market, for a more local feel (and if youāre in Phuket during the weekend) this market will have you coved. Itās located closer to Phuket Town but has everything you could imagine. Clothes, souvenirs, bags, shoes, artwork and of course heaps of local street food.
Bangla Road & Patong Beach, along Bangla Road and the street opposite the beach there are also heaps of shops where you could find what youāre after.
Sometimes find it easier to shop in these areas as opposed to a hectic market, where you can feel a little bit more trapped.
Are you due for a dentist’s check-up? Something many people don’t think of when travelling to Thailand is how affordable Dentist checkups can be, and this certainly isnāt downgrading the quality of the clinics or the experience of the Dentists.
I got a check-up and clean at Sea Smile Dental Clinic and the price was 1,500THB, in Australia, this would have cost me three times that.
I highly recommend Sea Smile Dental Clinic.
Evening
Then spend the evening finishing off your Phuket shopping at Kata Walking Street Night Market. This was the first night market in South East Asia I visited after Covid and it was a little bit confronting, to be honest! It was insanely quiet, with no busy vendors or tourists everywhere carrying multiple bags. I felt so sad!
This market is massive though and had a wide variety of stores, plus heaps of food so come hungry. It’s open daily from 5 pm and I hope next time I visit business is more lively.
Day 5
Highlights; ATV TourĀ & Bangla Boxing Stadium
Morning
For the last day of this Phuket itinerary, Iām suggesting some adventure that will get the blood pumping.
If you consider yourself a bit of an adrenaline junkie or are interested in trying something new with the safety of a guide, this tour is for you! While navigating rugged terrain on your own quade bike, you’ll be exploring an unseen side of Phuket.
Riding through muddy waters, mangrove forests and lush jungles, this is an exciting way to explore Phuket’s beautiful landscape.Ā
Like the Phi Phi Island day trip, this ATV tour can be booked via GetYourGuide or any of the local travel agents around Phuket.
GetYourGuide – ATV Mangrove Jungle & Hidden Beach Tour
Evening
Iām quite certain that at some point during your previous days in Phuket, you would have heard ātomorrow night, tomorrow night, Bangla Boxing Stadiumā blurring from the truck’s speakers while being driven around Patong.
Bangla Boxing Stadium is the biggest Muay Thai stadium in Phuket and no Phuket itinerary would be complete without going and experiencing one of Thailandās most popular sports. Prices start at 1,500thb and ringside seats are 1,800thb.
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Getting to Phuket
Phuket international airport is 35km from Patong beach. There are several options to get to your accommodations from the airport and the one you pick will depend on your budget.Ā
Pre-booking an airport transfer is generally the most convenient option but this can be expensive. There is also a local bus that will only cost a few dollars, and there is also a fixed-price taxi rank at the front of the terminal.
An app I love to use for these situations is Rome2Rio. You put in your exact location & destination address and the app gives you all the transport options & estimated prices, plus gives walking directions as required.
Where to Stay in Phuket
Whenever I stay in Phuket I like to find somewhere that has it all (am I asking too much?). I like to be reasonably close to the nightlife of Patong, but far enough away to still enjoy peace & quiet.
Staying within a short walk from Bangla Road is all fun and games until you canāt even leave your hotel without being asked if youād like a massage or tailor-made suit.Ā
These are a few of my favourite resorts in Phuket, they are all close to the beach and some include a free shuttle bus to Patong Beach.
Best Time of Year to VisitĀ Phuket
If you arenāt afraid of a little rain I don’t think there’s ever a bad time to visit Phuket, although it’s best to try and avoid extreme heat or storms.
November – March; This is Phuketās high season, the weather can be slightly cooler and thereās a lot less rain. The average daily temperature during these months can range from 24 – 30 degrees.
April – May; The temperatures will start to get warmer, with an average of 34Ā°. But also the rain will start to increase towards May, I was in Phuket in May 2022 and most days were either rainy or overcast.
June – October; this is Phuket’s low season, the temperature will still be very warmĀ & humid but expect to see a lot more rain and roughest seas. September is a very popular month for surfers as there are a lot of waves at Kata Beach.
I loved being back in Thailand after the pandemic. It continuously felt like the locals were so happy to see us and thankful for tourists returning. Plus I was never hassled or felt any extra pressure from businesses to purchase something from them.
I hope this Phuket itinerary has helped you with your holiday planning. Thailand is a stunning country (and one of my favourites), and I have no doubt youāll have an amazing time.
Where to after Phuket?
Click here to read my guide on Khao Sok National Park. Only a few hours north of Phuket, and it’s absolutely incredible.Ā
Thanks for reading,
Happy Travels
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
Love this epic guide to all the best things to do in Phuket. My two sisters-in-law are originally from Thailand so would love to explore this beautiful country.
Phuket is a place Ive always to visit. I would definitely rather have the rain than extreme heat and humidity. Thanks for sharing.
This is a great guide to Thailand, particularly if you only have 5 days to spend there. Thanks for the inspiration.
I really loved this Phuket 5 days itinerary and in fact, I pinned it as I am headed to Thailand (hopefully, if the world doesn’t close!) in October! I can’t wait to explore this beautiful country and this guise will be very helpful to plan my time in Phuket! Thanks for sharing it!
Thank you so much Lasma. Your upcoming trip sounds so exciting, fingers crossed rona doesn’t show it’s ugly head again. But surly not, have fun
This is such a great itinerary! I have never been to Phuket or anywhere else in Thailand, but it is on my bucket list. I would love to visit the Phi Phi Islands. They look amazing.
What an awesome itinerary! I’m visited Phuket before but went more with the flow. This is a much more structured approach and I’m here for it!
Thank you so much
This is a great 5 day Phuket itinerary! Iām saving it for later – Phuket is a bucket list destination for our family. š
Phuket is a bucket list destination for our family. š love the 5 day itinerary and saving for later.
Thailand is on my list of places to visit – and Phuket sounds like so much fun. I’d love to see the town and take the local buses – just to get a real vibe for the place. Thanks for the tips!
Being that I’m a solo traveller, it can be difficult finding things to do a night. I love that there are a lot of night markets and restaurants to stay busy and do some people watching.
What a great itinerary and beautiful photos! Iād love to find my way back to Phuket again one day and check out some of the spots that I missed last time! Thanks for sharing! Xx Sara
I absolutely love this list – a great variety of activities both day and night. I would love to visit Phuket again someday soon!
Thank you so much
I can’t wait to visit Thailand and Phuket, hopefully in November! I save this for inspiration and I believe I can follow a lot of your tips! thanks for sharing!
That’s great to hear, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time
This is a great guide. Thank you for sharing!
Looks like a great schedule! Still hoping to make it there one day š
A great round up of things to do in Phuket. My son is heading there next year so will show him this post.
Awesome, thanks so much Angela
Lovely guide for 5 days Phuket itinerary. I was struggling to make my trip plan and you made it easy. Perfect! Thank you Elyse. š