Phuket: Old Town, Wat Chalong & Big Buddha City Tour Pickup

Summary

Phuket’s vibrant old streets, temples and hilltop views in half a day

You’ll start your Phuket city tour with hotel pickup before exploring Wat Chalong’s peaceful grounds and climbing up for panoramic views. See the Big Buddha from its hillside perch, then wander Old Town’s colorful lanes with your guide pointing out local secrets. End your half-day with sweeping island vistas—leaving you quietly changed by Phuket’s mix of energy and calm.

What’s the experience like?

The van picked us up right outside our hotel in Patong — I was still finishing my iced coffee when our guide, Somchai, waved and grinned. He had this gentle way of pointing things out as we drove through Kata and Karon. The sea was that weird turquoise you only ever see in travel magazines, but then you’d catch flashes of local life: a woman balancing fruit on her scooter, kids chasing each other barefoot by the roadside. It was humid but not too hot yet, and I remember the windows fogging up for a second when we stopped at Wat Chalong.

I’m not usually big on temples but Wat Chalong felt different — incense drifting everywhere, gold leaf catching the light. Somchai told us about the monks who helped during the tin miners’ rebellion (I had to Google it later). We climbed up to the terrace and there was this hush above all the chatter below. I tried ringing one of those bells for luck; not sure if I did it right. From there we headed to see the Big Buddha — though because of a landslide last year, you can’t get right up close now. Still, standing behind that marble giant with wind tugging at my shirt and all of Phuket laid out below... it’s hard to explain. You just sort of stand there for a minute.

Old Phuket Town was next — honestly, I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. The shophouses are painted these faded candy colors; street art pops up where you least expect it (I nearly walked into a mural while taking photos). Somchai introduced us to his friend who sells tiny hand-painted magnets on Thalang Road — she laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in Thai. We finished at Khao Rang Hill for one last view over town. The sun was already getting low and everything looked softer somehow. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m back home stuck in traffic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Phuket cultural and scenic highlights

• Pick up from Patong hotels
• Drive through Kata and Karon areas
• Visit Wat Chalong temple
• View Big Buddha from Nakkerd Hill
• Explore Old Phuket Town streets
• Enjoy panoramic views at Khao Rang Hill

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Phuket city tour?

Yes, complimentary pickup is included for hotels in Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach areas.

Can I visit inside the Big Buddha statue during this tour?

No, due to a recent landslide access to the main Big Buddha area is restricted; you can view it from a nearby open area.

How long does this shared Phuket city tour take?

This is a half-day tour covering key sights around central Phuket including Old Town and major temples.

What are the main stops on this Phuket city tour?

The tour visits Wat Chalong temple, Big Buddha (from outside), Old Phuket Town walking area, Patong Beach drive-through, and Khao Rang Hill viewpoint.

Is lunch included on this Phuket Discovery Tour?

No lunch is included but there are opportunities to buy snacks along the route or at viewpoints.

Are entry fees covered in this city tour?

Entry fees are included for all scheduled attractions on the itinerary.

Can infants join this shared city tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

If I'm staying outside Patong/Kata/Karon can I still join?

Yes, but there is an extra charge or private van option depending on your location—see details in booking info.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transport with hotel pickup and drop-off from central areas (Patong Beach, Kata Beach or Karon Beach), all entry fees to attractions like Wat Chalong and Khao Rang Hill viewpoint, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local throughout your half-day journey around Phuket’s highlights.