24 Hours in Phuket: What to Do, See, and Eat

Let’s say you’ve enjoyed Phuket’s islands to the fullest. You’ve soaked up enough of the waters, now it’s time to explore the land. You have 24 hours to do anything and everything, what do you do? 

We’ve got a “Phuket” full of ideas for you. 😉👉🏻 From nature adventures, nightlife activities, to good eats, we’ve listed down all of the Phuket must see attractions. Here’s a guide on Phuket what to see and how to make the most out of a full day!

Phuket experiences two seasons: wet and dry. However, it’s a great destination to visit all year round. The dry season, which lasts from December to mid-April, is ideal for beach lovers looking to make the most out of the sunny weather. Conversely, from June to mid-October, you can expect rainy weather. However, this period offers lower prices and generally warm temperatures, making it a budget-friendly option. Keeping these in mind will help you decide Phuket what to see and the best time to visit.

We all know that Thai food is nothing short of amazing, so Phuket would be a haven for foodies. Each meal usually combines several elements such as dry (such as stir fries, grills, deep-fried dishes), wet (including curries, soups, anything broth-based), spicy, and fresh (side dishes such as mango and papaya salads). These create a perfectly balanced Thai meal! 🍲

The attractions in Phuket would take much time to reach on foot. You can always take public transportation such as tuk-tuks (three-wheeled motorized vehicles) or songthaews (a pickup truck converted into a passenger vehicle) for a more unique experience, or rent a car so you can go wherever you please on your terms.

Start your day at Patong beach, one of the top spots on any Phuket what to see list. 📝

Here, you can have breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes. Don’t forget to try an authentic Thai breakfast like kanom jin (cold rice noodles with curry) and salapow (Chinese dumplings), they’re a must-try in Phuket.

For a more interactive breakfast experience, why not join a cooking class? You’ll start by exploring a local market with the guidance of a professional Thai chef. Then, you get to choose what dish and course you’d like to create, and eat it right after! This is a must do in Phuket to really immerse yourself in the local culture and discover true Thai taste.

We want this morning to be as chill and laid back as possible, especially when we have so much packed for the day. As a pick-me-up, get yourself a Thai massage- they’re popular all around the world thanks to their unique stretching, movement, and pressure techniques. It’s a Phuket must do!

The famous Big Buddha is a must see in Phuket. This landmark not only offers a glimpse of local spirituality but also rewards you with unforgettable views.

After having a heavy breakfast, your adventure begins.

If you’re planning your itinerary and wondering Phuket what to see beyond the beaches, add a jungle ATV ride and zipline adventure to your list. You’ll encounter bumpy off-road trails, glide through treetops on a zipline, and stumble upon hidden spots you’d never see from the usual tourist routes. It’s pure thrill and stunning scenery rolled into one. 

Animal lovers shouldn’t miss a visit to an elephant jungle sanctuary. Here, you can spend the afternoon getting up close with gentle rescue elephants: feeding them, walking alongside them, and even joining them for a playful mud bath. 🐘

By the late afternoon, head to Phuket Old Town. It’s a district full of temples, shrines, shophouses, and Sino-Portuguese houses. If you love history, culture, street food, and bustling markets, then you must check it out.

If you’re already in Old Phuket Town, then you might as well go on a food crawl. It could be quite overwhelming with the variety of dishes available, so having a guide will make your experience much better.

After a day of exploring, it’s time to let loose and experience Phuket’s vibrant nightlife. 

For those deciding Phuket what to see after dark, its nightlife scene is legendary.

From lively beach bars to nightclubs, this place knows how to keep the energy flowing into the early hours of the morning. Get ready for a night you wouldn’t want to end! 🕺🏻🪩

Just when you thought your day was about to end, remember, you’ve got 24 hours! Catch the magic of the sunrise. We recommend the Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, which opens as early as 4:00 am. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your 24 hours in Phuket. Otherwise, you can also check in at a nearby hotel to rest and take in the priceless view.

There are lots of things to do in Phuket in 1 day. From relaxing activities like booking a cooking class, having a massage, checking out scenic views, or bathing elephants, to more thrilling adventures like zip lining, riding an ATV, or going on a night out. Food in Phuket is also great, so food crawls are a must!

Phuket is known for its vibrant nightlife. There are lots of parties in beach bars or nightclubs that guarantee a great time. Since the fun doesn’t stop ‘til the sun comes up, you can even watch the sunset in one of Phuket’s many viewing decks.

There are many things to do in Phuket, but if you only have 24 hours, you can cover all the highlights in a day. You can enjoy its beaches, cultural landmarks, and delicious food.