How to Spend a One or Two-week Vacation in Phuket - The Perfect Travel Itinerary for a One to Two-Week Phuket Holiday

Phuket stands out as Thailand's premier beach holiday destination, beloved by many for its mythical charm and paradisiacal allure. With some of the nation's finest beaches, Phuket caters to honeymooners, families, and solo travellers alike, boasting not only cultural landmarks but also activity hubs perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Whether visitors have one week or two to spare, here's how to craft a meaningful and unforgettable getaway in the beach capital of Phuket.

1. Making the Most of the Duration and Finding a Convenient Hotel

The travel itinerary described below is suitable for an unforgettable week in Phuket although those who have an additional week on hand can simply spend more time engaging in the activities and excursions listed instead of rushing from one highlight to another. Regardless of the duration of the stay, there's no denying the advantage that a well-situated resort can offer. Apart from occupying a scenic location by a beach, the perfect Phuket resort should also offer easy access to local landmarks and the best restaurants in the area. So whether one reserves a suite at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas or any similar resort, it's crucial to choose a property that is strategically situated. 

Image via Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

2. Day One

The best way to kick-start a stay in Phuket is with breakfast in Old Town. After munching on pancakes and iced coffee at Old Town's iconic Pancake Corner, visitors can work off the calories with a hike up Nakkerd Hills to pay homage to the Big Buddha. After concluding a tour of Wat Chalong, tourists can venture down to Wang Talang to pick up some handicrafts. The post-lunch hours can be spent taking in the breathtaking views from Khao Rang Hill while spending the afternoon at Patong Beach with its beach bars and restaurants is the perfect way to call it a day.

3. Day Two

Racha Island and Coral Island should be the focus of the second day in Phuket as these off-shore islands are some of the top adventure hotspots in the region. Hop on a boat bound for Chalong Pier and start the day trip with a kayaking session or snorkelling tour off the coast of Coral Island. After lunch, travellers can pop over to neighbouring Racha Island for some quiet beach time or another snorkelling adventure before heading back to Phuket before sundown.

4. Day Three

The third day on holiday must start with a hike up to the Karon Viewpoint where panoramic views are a guarantee at sunrise. After hiking down the hill, visitors can sign up for an ATV tour of the pastoral regions of Phuket where most locals carve out a living. The afternoon hours of the third day can be spent at Hanuman World. End the day with a relaxing massage at a local spa down Srisoonthorn Road as one's weary muscles will need the pampering.

5. Day Four

A day tour of Maithon Island should take up most of the fourth day in Phuket as the island is a snorkelling and kayaking hub like no other. Those who book a tour of the island with a local tour operator can enjoy lunch on the boat and then head over to the biggest oceanarium in the country, Aquaria Phuket. 

6. Day Five 

No trip to Phuket will be complete without spending a day beach hopping from one pristine beach to another. Sign up with a local tour operator to head to exquisite beaches including Kata Noi Beach, Nai Harn Beach and Surin Beach on this glorious day full of sailing adventures and water sports activities. 

7. Day Six

Catamaran sailing and snorkelling near Yanui Cape should be the main activity of the sixth day of the holiday where one can sleep in and enjoy breakfast in bed before catching the transfer vehicle bound for Yanui Cape, which sets out after 2 pm.

8. Day Seven

Discover Phuket's hawker centres, street food venues and local cuisine on a private food tour. The day-long tour not only includes pit stops at local restaurants and street food stalls but also the Fruit Market and the Chillva Market.