How to Spend a One or Two-week Vacation in Phuket - Guide to Spending One to Two Weeks in Beach Paradise Phuket

As one of Thailand's most popular travel destinations and beach hubs, Phuket is a dream destination for tourists around the world. While most visitors head to Phuket for a weekend away or a short holiday, those who are fortunate enough to have one to two weeks in Phuket can experience all that the island has to offer. From exploring the heritage of Old Town to touring Phuket's iconic temples, here's how to spend a meaningful week or two in the area.

Phuket Itinerary Tip 

Those who have two weeks at their disposal can simply expand the one-week itinerary below so that more time can be spent exploring the highlights and activity bases mentioned. Keep in mind that while there is a lot to do, it is important to take one's time and fully experience the attractions and activities available in this part of Thailand to truly enjoy a memorable holiday.

Day 1

Whether you are based at Anantara Mai Khao Phuket villas or a luxury Phuket resort in the heart of Phuket town, your first outing should be to Old Town. Apart from wandering around the streets of Old Town and admiring its architecture and shophouses, visitors can grab a scrumptious breakfast from the pancake stands and other restaurants in Old Town. After exploring Old Town and shopping for souvenirs, you can head on to the summit of Nakkerd Hills where the Big Buddha statue is found. Spend your first day in Phuket with a cool bath at Patong Beach where foot massages are also available for your aching feet. 

Christophe95, Soi Rommanee, Phuket Town, CC BY-SA 4.0 

Day 2

Dedicate the second day of the trip to discovering off-shore isles off the coast of Phuket such as Coral Island. Hop on a catamaran from Chalong Pier to head to this kayaking and snorkelling hotspot where one can spend the whole day swimming, relaxing and working on one's tan. Those who are in Phuket for two weeks can spend a day or two on Coral Island while those who are only staying a week should move on to Racha Island towards the evening on the same day.

Day 3

The third day of your week in Phuket can be the most active day on holiday as it should kick off with a hike up to Karon Viewpoint to catch the sunrise. After returning to the hotel for breakfast, you can head out to enjoy an ATV adventure. Driving an ATV along Phuket's bumpy roads and wildernesses is likely to wear you out so make your way to the massage parlours down Srisoonthorn Road afterwards. 

Day 4

Board a catamaran bound for Maithon Island at 9 a.m. on your fourth day in paradise as the isle is another breathtaking off-shore hotspot where one can enjoy an array of water sports activities and even a BBQ lunch on board the catamaran. Dolphins are also frequently spotted on this journey to and from the island. Spend the rest of the day at Phuket Aquaria, Thailand's biggest oceanarium. 

Day 5

It's time to go beach hopping in Phuket so don your bathing suit and start the day with a splash at Kata Noi Beach. After trying your hand at parasailing and jet skiing at the venue, make your way to Surin Beach where sunbathing is a must. The last stop should be Nai Harn Beach as it's also near the Wat Nai Harn Monastery and the Nai Harn Lake. 

Day 6

Relax and spend some much-needed downtime in your beach villa on the day before you leave Phuket or head to a local spa for a massage and a facial. Sign up for a sunset catamaran tour of Yanui Cape and enjoy dinner onboard and return to the hotel by 7 p.m. so you can have an early night in. 

Day 7

Your last full day on the island is the perfect time to immerse yourself in a food tour where Phuket's best eats and restaurants are highlighted. In addition to trips to local fruit markets and the Chillva Market, private food tours also include food prep demos by chefs. Those who are more culturally inclined can opt for a temple tour of Phuket with pit stops at Chalong Temple and Promthep Cape.