The historical district is a must-see in the city, with fine examples of Sino-Portuguese architecture concentrated along Dibuk, Thalang and Krabi roads standing as monuments to Phuket’s Chinese heritage.
Some of the mansions and shop houses are beautifully restored, with many still inhabited by local families.
In the same area, and scattered throughout Phuket City, there are a number of Chinese shrines , which are hubs of activity during festival times.
Blue song taew buses connect Phuket City to all the main beaches, making regular runs for 15-25 Baht during daylight hours.
Catch these on Ranong Rd. Phuket City is also the place where inter-provincial buses depart and arrive, at the bus station on Phang Nga Rd, opposite the Royal Phuket City Hotel.
Phuket City also boasts the best variety of food on the island, much of it available at local prices.
If you’re hoping to sample local dishes such as mii pat (yellow noodles), kanom jiin (Chinese style rice noodles with curry), khao mun kai (chicken and cooked rice) or roti (Muslim-style pancakes), then Phuket City is the place to come.
Recommended Thai restaurants: Lemongrass (Dibuk Rd), Thammachart (Soi Phuthon), Phuket View, Tung Kha Cafe (both on Rang Hill). Newly opened is Baan Klung Jinda Restaurant on Mae Luan Rd, in the beautifully restored former residence of the Phuket Provincial Treasurer.
There’s also a growing number of restaurants serving up great Western food at reasonable prices, and some truly classy spots, including Salvatore’s (Rassada Rd), Ka Jok Sii (Takuapa Rd) and La Gaetana (Phuket Rd). You can also find all the major fast-food outlets and inexpensive fresh food courts at Robinsons, Big C and Tesco-Lotus shopping centres.
Phuket people love shopping and there are lots of great spots to pick up clothing, local handicrafts and more for a bargain in Phuket City. Check out the city’s night markets, stroll along the streets of downtown or stop in at a department store – the variety of goods on offer is truly bewildering. See Shopping for more information.
