Phuket: Private Day Tour with Old Town, Big Buddha & Lunch

Summary

Phuket’s temples, street colors & secret lunch with a local guide

You’ll wander Phuket’s temples with a local guide who makes every stop feel relaxed—even if your plans go sideways. Savor spicy noodles at a hidden lunch spot after exploring colorful Old Town streets. Snap ocean views from Rock Beach Swing and Karon View Point before heading back with sand still clinging to your feet.

What’s the experience like?

The day didn’t start exactly as planned—my flip-flop broke right as our driver pulled up outside the hotel. He just grinned and pointed to a 7-Eleven across the street (“No problem, we wait!”), so I hobbled over and grabbed a new pair. That set the tone: nothing rushed, everything easy. Our guide, Nok, had this gentle way of making even traffic jams feel like part of the adventure. She told us stories about Phuket’s Big Buddha as we wound up Nakkerd Hill—the statue really is massive, but what stuck with me was the little bell chimes in the breeze and the smell of incense from a nearby offering. It felt peaceful up there despite all the people snapping photos for their Instagram tours.

Wat Chalong was next—a swirl of gold trim and pink tiles in the sun. Nok showed us how to wai properly (I got it backwards at first; she laughed and fixed my hands). The air inside was thick with candle smoke and something floral I couldn’t place. After that we drove into Phuket Old Town, which is just full of color—shutters painted blue or yellow, tangled wires overhead, tiny shops selling batik fabrics and fried banana snacks. I tried to order coffee in Thai; Li behind the counter smiled politely at my accent but handed me something strong enough to wake anyone up.

Lunch was at some tucked-away spot Nok called her “secret”—no sign out front, just locals eating quietly under ceiling fans. We had spicy noodles and something with fresh lime that made my lips tingle for ages (in a good way). Afterward came that Rock Beach Swing spot—honestly thought it’d be cheesy but ended up laughing so hard on that swing I forgot about taking photos for once. The view over the ocean was hazy blue and endless; I still think about that moment sometimes when work gets loud back home.

Karon View Point was our last stop before heading back—windy up there, hair everywhere, but you could see all those beaches lined up along Phuket’s coast like a postcard nobody bothered to edit. Nok pointed out where she grew up down below, waving her hand vaguely toward a cluster of roofs. It felt personal somehow—like seeing someone else’s memory layered over your own new one. And then we just drifted back toward the hotel through late afternoon light.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Phuket sightseeing and photo tour

• Pick up at hotel
• Visit Phuket Big Buddha
• Visit Wat Chalong Temple
• Explore Old Phuket Town
• Enjoy lunch at secret restaurant
• Take photos at Rock Beach Swing
• See views from Karon View Point
• Return to hotel
• Arrive back at hotel

Top questions

What places do you visit on this Phuket private tour?

You’ll see Big Buddha Phuket, Wat Chalong Temple, Old Phuket Town, have lunch at a local restaurant, visit Rock Beach Swing for photos, and stop at Karon View Point.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Phuket is included in the tour price.

How long does this private Instagram tour last?

The tour starts around 10:00 AM with pickup and ends around 4:45 PM when you’re dropped back at your hotel.

Are entry fees covered on this tour?

Yes, admission fees for all listed attractions are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Lunch at a local restaurant is included in your private day trip experience.

Can I join if I’m not very fit or have mobility issues?

This tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels according to info provided.

Do I need to bring my own camera?

No professional camera is provided but your guide can take photos using your phone if you want.

What should I wear for visiting temples like Wat Chalong?

Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered—to respect temple customs in Thailand.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable hotel pickup by private car with air conditioning, bottled water throughout the journey, entry fees to all main sites like Big Buddha and Wat Chalong Temple, plus lunch at an authentic local restaurant before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon—all guided by someone who knows these streets inside out.