How to Experience Phuket in 24 Hours - Top Things to See and Do

Phuket is Thailand’s largest Island and it has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for cultural sites to visit, a happening nightlife, authentic cuisine, beautiful viewpoints or cool breezy beaches to visit. The island is located off the western coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea and most people visit it while passing through with only a day or two to explore it. Let us take a look at how you can spend your 24 hours in Phuket, to cover the best places to visit.

Where to Stay in Phuket

When it comes to choosing your place to stay in Phuket you will have many options to decide from. A little luxury will go a long way and Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas have some of the best rooms and amenities you could expect to experience during your stay in Phuket. With plush luxurious suites and luxurious villas, you can rest assured that you will have a relaxing and comfortable stay when you finally turn in for the night.

Spend your Morning with the Elephants

Start your morning by heading over to visit the Hidden Forest Elephant Reserve to have a look at the sanctuary that provides refuge and ethical treatment to these gentle giants. Here you will have the unique opportunity to interact with the elephants and learn about their backgrounds and stories of their previous lives in the tourism industry, where they were used for entertainment and riding. The experience is a highly informative one that teaches its visitors about the importance of conservation efforts and ethical wildlife interactions making it one of the best things to do in Phuket. After spending your time with the elephants you can also have lunch at the Elephant Reserve to experience simple but authentic Thai cuisine. The dishes that you will be served, highlight the aromatic flavours of Thailand and are prepared from local ingredients from the surrounding area. While enjoying your meal you can continue watching the elephants play in their natural environment while you savour the tastes of Phuket.

Your Afternoon in Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town should be the next place to visit on your list, after having lunch. The town is a beautiful place that has immense history, culture and art in its background. When you visit you will notice the lovely Sino-Portuguese architecture, which is a reminder that Phuket once used to be a vibrant trading hub. You will also come across many works of graffiti art and stunning murals that make for the perfect background when taking pictures for your social media. There are many galleries and shops offering endless street food, souvenirs, handicrafts and artwork on display as you walk around Phuket Old Town. While making your way through its streets it will be like a journey through time seeing the historical old buildings and the modern cultural expressions of graffiti art.

Ryomaandres, Phuket Old Town 3, CC BY-SA 4.0 

Visit the Big Buddha Of Phuket

The Great Buddha of Phuket was built in 2004 after the tsunami hit Thailand. Admission to the temple is free, though it takes a climb of 268 steps to reach the top. At the base of the statue is a temple of worship and a museum that showcases the craftsmanship and workmanship that went into creating the famous statue. Keep in mind that since it is a place of worship, you should be mindful and respectful of your attire and behaviour.

Visiting the Chillva Market

As the sun sets you should head over to check out the Chillva market which is open every day except Sundays, from 5 pm till about 11 pm. At the market, you will find many local vendors selling traditional handmade jewellery, authentic street food, gadgets and pieces of art. There is plenty of local entertainment as well as pop-up bars so you can have a fun night out shopping and eating exotic foods and local delicacies.