Imagine us landing on this enchanting island, greeted by warm breezes and the intoxicating scent of frangipani: welcome to Phuket, Thailand’s glittering jewel.
As insatiable travelers, the idea of diving into the fascinating world of Phuket awakens in us a shiver of anticipation.
This destination, famous for its paradisiacal beaches, rich culture and exciting nightlife, attracts more than 9 million people every year in search of adventure and relaxation.
As soon as you set foot on the island, Phuket reveals itself as a jewel box of wonders: from bustling local markets to superb waters that invite underwater exploration, to sanctuaries imbued with tranquility.
Phuket promises a beautiful escape, an enchanted parenthesis, in a setting where every day is an invitation to contemplation.
Follow us as we explore four must-do Phuket experiences, adventures that will get you in tune with the vibrant rhythm of this southern Thai island.
Visit Phuket: Wat Chalong Temple and the Great Buddha
Wat Chalong temple, located in the Chalong area about 8 km from Phuket town, is one of Phuket’s most popular and important temples.
This magnificent complex is a place of prayer for Buddhists and a fascinating site for visitors. The pagoda contains a fragment of the Buddha’s bone, adding spiritual depth to the site.
Not far away stands the Great Buddha, a majestic hilltop statue offering a panoramic view of the island. This monument is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a symbol of peace and serenity.
The ascent to the Big Buddha is punctuated by spectacular viewpoints, making your visit even more memorable.
Dream Islands: Koh Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay
When you think of Phuket and the surrounding area, images of beautiful Phang Nga Bay and the Phi Phi Islands immediately spring to mind.
These iconic sites are famous for their breathtaking scenery, made up of limestone rock formations, emerald waters and white sandy beaches.
- A trip to Koh Phi Phi offers the perfect escape, with its crystal-clear waters ideal for diving and snorkeling, a real tropical spot.
- As for Phang Nga Bay, it’s famous for its James Bond Island, named after his appearance in the film “The Man with the Golden Gun”.
Exploring these islands is an adventure not to be missed, a unique opportunity to connect with nature in all its splendor.
Phuket Town: a blend of culture and history in Phuket Town
Phuket Town is distinguished by its Sino-Portuguese architecture, colorful streets, lively atmosphere and old town status.
Walking its streets is like stepping back in time, each corner telling a story of the island’s multicultural heritage. Pastel-fronted townhouses, antique stores and local markets offer an authentic Phuket experience.
Be sure to visit Phuket Town’s weekend market, one of the most popular, where you can sample a variety of Thai dishes, discover local crafts and feel the energy of the local community.
What to do in Phuket Partying in Patong
Patong is a town and beach located on the west coast of Phuket Island, in the province of Phuket. It is considered Phuket Island’s main seaside resort and center of nightlife.
This is where you can dance the night away, and during the day you’ll find plenty of shopping opportunities.
Patong is home to several large nightclubs and trendy clubs, including Illuzion, White Room, Banana Disco, Hollywood and Tai Pan.
Patong beach stretches 2.8 km along Phuket’s west coast. It’s a very popular hub offering a variety of activities thanks to its restaurants, bars and beach and water sports. The atmosphere here is quite striking.
Try out Patong’s most popular rooftop bars
You can’t stay in Patong without visiting one of its rooftop bars. Here are our top addresses:
- ON TOP PHUKET ROOFTOP BAR & POOL2: A rooftop bar with pool offering panoramic views over Patong.
- Kee Sky Lounge3: this rooftop bar has a nautical decor and breathtaking views over Patong.
- Patong Sunset View Restaurant3: rooftop restaurant and bar with a breathtaking view of Patong Bay.
- L’Arôme by the sea3: bar and restaurant overlooking the sea.
Kata Noi, Nai Yang, Kamala, Bang Pae, Phuket’s beaches: a paradise for sun lovers
Phuket is world-famous for its beaches, and rightly so. From Kata Noi to Kamala, from Nai Yang to Bang Pae, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Whether you’re looking for a lively beach with water sports or a quiet spot to relax, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for you.
- Kata Noi beach, for example, is an ideal haven for those who love tranquillity, while Kamala attracts families with its relaxed atmosphere, calm waters and facilities.
- For a wilder experience, Nai Yang and Bang Pae are bordered by national parks offering superb hiking and unique immersion with local wildlife.
How to get to Phuket: from France and from Bangkok
The adventure to Phuket often begins with the question of access, especially if you’re traveling from France, or regional hubs like Bangkok.
From France
Travelling from France to Phuket is a relatively seamless experience, given the island’s popularity among European travellers. Most itineraries involve a stopover, as there are no regular direct flights between France and Phuket.
The most common stopovers are at major Middle Eastern airports such as Doha, Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or at Asian hubs like Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Total travel time can vary between 14 and 18 hours, depending on the length and location of the stopover.
From Bangkok
Several flights connect Bangkok and Phuket daily, offering maximum flexibility for travelers.
Airlines such as Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and low-cost operators like AirAsia and Nok Air, offer frequent flights between Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) airports and Phuket International Airport (HKT).
The flight takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for maximizing your time in Thailand.
In addition to flights, there are more adventurous and economical alternatives such as buses or trains to Surat Thani, followed by a ferry transfer to Phuket, although these options require more time and planning.
To discover Phuket is to embrace a multitude of experiences, from the spirituality of the temples to the natural beauty of the islands, from the cultural richness of Phuket Town to relaxation on its heavenly beaches. Each of these experiences offers a unique insight into the Thai “Mai pen laï” lifestyle and leaves indelible memories. We invite you to explore this beautiful island and discover for yourself why Phuket remains one of the most popular destinations in southern Thailand.
