Within an area of less than three square kilometres stretching across Thalang, Dibuk, Phang Nga, Yaowarat, Krabi Road, and Soi Rommani lies Phuket Old Town, a historic neighbourhood shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. Thai, Chinese, Arab, Indian and European traders began settling here during the reign of King Rama V, when Siam opened its doors to foreign investment in the tin mining industry, bringing prosperity to Phuket in that era.

More than a century later, traces of this multicultural heritage remain beautifully intact. The district’s iconic Sino-Portuguese architecture reflects layers of history while blending seamlessly with modern creative life. Many restored buildings now house boutique hotels, cafés, dessert shops, fabric stores, local eateries and souvenir shops alongside long-standing hardware and general stores that continue to serve local residents. It’s a rare neighbourhood that has evolved for tourism while still supporting the needs of its original community.

A visit to Phuket Old Town wouldn’t be complete without sampling its local treats. Stop by Torry’s Ice Cream to try Bikomoi, black sticky rice topped with coconut milk, a beloved Hokkien dessert that keeps visitors coming back, or taste Phuket-inspired ice cream flavours like Phuket pineapple or kopi brownie. Another must-try is O-aew, a refreshing shaved-ice jelly dessert available at several well-known stalls such as O-Aew Pae Khiang, O-Aew Original, and O-Aew Dibuk Road.

If you visit on a Sunday, don’t miss the lively Lard Yai Sunday Walking Street on Thalang Road, where you can shop, snack and soak up the festive atmosphere from 16:00 to 22:00.

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