Phuket is full of fun local markets to explore, but one stands out above the rest! Every Sunday the Night Market in Phuket Old Town explodes with lights, colors, and endless street food. Join us as we take you to Phuket Walking Street and show why it’s the best way to end your weekend on the island!
Getting to Phuket Night Market
The Sunday Night Market in Phuket is located in the heart of Old Town on the famous Thalang Road. On our first trip, we rode our motorbike there and were able to find parking on one of the side streets.
You can also take a taxi or tuk-tuk from any of the major beach towns around the island. We rented a scooter in Phuket and it took us about 30 minutes to get there from Kata Beach.
The second time we went to the Phuket Night Market we were actually staying in old town! This area is fun to explore and there are so many great options for places to eat. If possible, spend a night in old town on a Sunday when you can also see Phuket Walking Street in all its glory.
→ 10 Reasons You Can’t Miss Old Town in Phuket Thailand
About Phuket Walking Street
The Phuket Night Market is also known as Lard Yai which means “Big Market” in the Thai language. After seeing it for ourselves, we can definitely see where it gets its name! As soon as we stepped foot on Thalang Road there were carts set up as far as the eye can see.
The food is sizzling hot and smells waft into the air drawing you in. All of this excitement is surrounded by the colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture which makes the experience even more unique.
The Sunday Phuket Night Market opens around 4pm. If you get to the market early on you can see the sunset over the gorgeous buildings and watch as the market lights up.
→ What’s Thai Food? 40 Delicious Dishes & Drinks You Must Try!
What’s at the Night Market in Phuket?
Drinks: There are plenty of drinks to enjoy including coffee, juices, and smoothies. Additionally, many of the restaurants offer takeaway cocktails with alcohol.
Art: The setting of the Phuket Night Market brings plenty of local artists in to paint and sell their work. You can even have a portrait done of yourself on the street!
Clothing: Clothes are a big part of every Asian market and the Phuket Walking Street is no different. Enjoy a fun day of shopping with lots of great deals to be had.
Music: Up and down this Phuket Town Night Market are different musical acts. Stop and take a seat with a drink and have a listen!
Souvenirs: Last but not least, you know there are tons of souvenirs at the Night Market in Phuket. Take home some arts and crafts, jewelry, and more gifts for family and friends.
Best Food at The Night Market in Phuket
In our opinion, the street food is the best part of the Night Market in Phuket! You’ll find everything from BBQ to noodles and Thai specialty desserts. We had a hard time deciding on what to eat because honestly, we wanted it all.
When visiting the Sunday night market in Phuket Old Town plan to eat dinner here as you sample your way around all the food stalls. The market is certainly catered towards tourists but all the food is authentic and delicious.
We spent over an hour sampling different stands. In the end, we were completely full but only spent the equivalent of $4 each. For more of the best food in Phuket Town check out our restaurant guide below!
→ Best Restaurants in Phuket Town: One Day Food Lovers Guide
More Great Phuket Night Markets
Not able to make it to the Sunday Night Market in Phuket? Don’t worry! There are plenty of other amazing night markets to enjoy. Some we stopped in at randomly when out on our motorbike, while others we made a point to go to. Either way, make sure to visit a couple of these on your trip to Phuket!
Weekend Market (Naka Market)
Not to be confused with the Sunday Night Market in Phuket, the nearby Weekend Market is definitely worth a visit. It’s known as “Naka Market” to locals as its close by to one of Phuket’s most stunning temples of the same name. Located just outside Phuket Town, this is a great spot to hang out on a Saturday or Sunday after the beach.
Malin Plaza
This Phuket Night Market is open every day and offers anything you could think of shopping-wise! There is a wide array of street food and drinks available and has more of a party feel to it because of where its location near Patong. If you’re in the area then definitely have a stop into Malin Plaza.
Indy Night Market
Another great market to explore in Phuket Town is on Dibuk Road. The Indy Night Market is smaller than most of the others but offers many gorgeous and handmade souvenirs. This is a place where tourists and locals alike can enjoy between Wednesday and Friday.
Chillva Market
As one of the newer and more hip Phuket Night Markets, Chillva is a fun place just off Yaowarat Road. The best time to go is Thursday to Saturday when most stalls are set up. There is also a stage with musical performances to take in while you have a meal.
Kata Night Market
Kata Beach is one of our favorite areas to stay in Phuket so we came by this one regularly. The location right on the beach makes it easy to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat any night of the week.
Usually, they open mid to late afternoon but we preferred to walk up after sunset. There are also street food carts on the end that serve up delicious Thai food all day!
→ Why You’ll Fall in Love With Kata Beach Phuket
Where to Stay in Phuket Town
Fun Vacation – The Memory at On On Hotel – Stay at Phuket’s first hotel! Built in 1927, the On On Hotel was constructed in the signature Sino-Portuguese style and retains its historical charm. It was even featured in the 2002 blockbuster “The Beach” with Leanardo DiCaprio.
Boutique Hotel – Casa Blanca Hotel – Located in the heart of Phuket town, Casa Blanca mixes elegance with vibrant decor. Swim in the pool after a day of exploring, all while being close to many great restaurants.
Budget But Nice! – Baan Sutra Guesthouse – Basic but clean rooms that are great if you’re on a budget. Set one street over from the famous Thalang Road and walking distance to everything in Old Town.
Hostel Life – Aekkeko Hostel – Fun hostel in Phuket Old Town. There is an onsite bar to meet other travelers and you can have your pick from both dorm beds or private rooms.
Have any questions about the Sunday Night Market in Phuket or want to share your own experiences on the island? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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Thailand Travel Planning
Flights: We always find our cheap flight deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. That’s how we found flights from Bangkok to Phuket for $12 USD, and Thailand to Vietnam for less than $50!
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Transportation: While traveling through Thailand 12Go is where we find all our ferries, trains, buses, and transfers! You can find everything from island hopping speed boats to the night train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide to find activities all over Phuket! You can find everything from a James Bond island luxury sunset cruise, to Phuket Old Town 15-taster food adventure, and 5-hour island tour!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection. We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
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Helpful Thailand Articles
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Phuket Beaches: 15 Best Beaches – Nai Harn & Yanui – Kata Beach – Kata Noi – Nui Beach
Koh Phi Phi: Ferry from Phuket – 25 Things to Know – Maya Bay Private Tour – 3 Viewpoint Hike – Monkey Beach – Phi Phi Don Boat Tour
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
The Phuket night market is a blast. We loved walking around and trying to find great street food. So cheap and so fun!
Author
So much fun! Love the Phuket Night Market (-:
This looks so fun! And, as a NON morning person, a night market is way more my jam than a early morning market. LOL!
Author
haha yes! It’s the perfect night activity on Phuket
Oh I can just image how delicious the food smells in the air of the market!
Author
Lots of great street food at the Phuket Night Market!
Ever since seeing Phuket on a show I love to watch I have been wanting to go, thanks for breaking down the market.
Author
The Phuket night market is so worth visiting! Hope you get to go someday.
These markets look amazing! I love wandering through craft and food markets like these. I always wind up finding the coolest little treasures! Plus, it’s always just a great way to learn more about a new place.
Author
Definitely! This is one of our favorite night markets in Asia (-: