Travel Guide to Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam – Tours VS Visiting By Yourself

Cu Chi Tunnels are a huge tunnel system spawning over 121 km near Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), in the Cu Chi District. They’re one of the most popular tourist destinations in HCMC and in all of Vietnam and an important symbol of the American War… which is why I won’t be at all surprised if you have them on your travel itinerary as well. These tunnels are a must-visit, regardless if you’re passionate about history or not!

In case you’re planning a trip there soon, this complete travel guide to Cu Chi Tunnels will tell you everything you must know before your visit!

Let’s go:

Quick info and a bit of Cu Chi Tunnels history

If you want to symbolize the determined spirit of the Vietnamese people, no other site can be as symbolic as the Cu Chi Tunnels. This 75-mile (121km) immense network of connecting tunnels located in the Cu Chi district of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam has turned into a war memorial park and is now a popular tourist destination in Asia.

The construction of the tunnels began in the late 1940s during the war against the French, to provide a way to communicate between villages and to evade French army sweeps of the area. It took over 25 years to build the entire underground network that stretched up to the Cambodian border, with repairs to the old tunnels and extensions taking place in the 1960s.

The tunnels’ great significance to the Viet Cong came about in their confrontation with American forces, playing a major role in their surviving (and eventual overcoming of) the Vietnam War. The tunnels were utilized by Viet Cong soldiers as a hiding place during the war. They also served as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon stocks, and living quarters for countless Vietnamese guerillas. The tunnel network, sections of which were several stories deep, incorporated numerous trapdoors, constructed living areas, storage provisions, weapon factories, field hospitals, command centres, and kitchens.

Now you can see very little evidence of the fighting and bombing that shuddered Cu Chi during the war. In the late 1960s, America carpet-bombed the whole place and destroyed most of the tunnels and everything around. In spite of the tunnels’ destruction, they served their purpose and played a key role in North Vietnam winning the war.

So I guess it’s needless to say that Cu Chi tunnels are one of the most important sights in Ho Chi Minh City and they should definitely be on your itinerary for the city, regardless if you’re passionate about the Vietnam War or history in general.

Now let’s find out everything tourists need to know before visiting the Cu Chi tunnel system in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):

Where are the Cu Chi Tunnels located?

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located around 60 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, in southern Vietnam. It takes around 1h30min to get there from HCMC by car and 2 hours by bus.

Cu Chi Tunnels address: Đ. Tỉnh Lộ 15, Phú Hiệp, Củ Chi, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 733814, Vietnam. Find it on Google Maps here.
Co-ordinates: 11.142680, 106.462304

Cu Chi Tunnels entrance fee

If you are visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels with a tour, your entrance price will be covered in the tour price. If you are making your own way to the underground tunnels, you can easily buy your tickets on arrival.

Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc have different entrance fees:

Ben Dinh entrance Fee: 110.000 VND (4.80 USD) per person
Ben Duoc entrance Fee: 90.000 VND (3.90 USD) per person

There’s also a shooting range at Cu Chi where you can try your hand at real shooting just like the soldiers, for separate prices. You can choose your desired gun which will come with a 10-bullet set. If this interests you, below are the prices for 1 bullet:

AK 47: 40.000 VND
M16: 35.000 VND
M30: 30.000 VND
M60: 40.000 VND
and more

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Which site should I visit: Ben Dinh vs Ben Duoc

There are two tunnel display sites that you can choose to visit: Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc.

Personally, I would recommend visiting Ben Duoc, as it contains part of the earliest, authentic tunnel system used by the Viet Cong and provides a more authentic experience. However, if you’d prefer a more comfortable visit, Ben Dinh has been altered for tourists with tunnel recreations and repairs to make tunnels more spacious to accommodate travellers. Great for families too!

In terms of distance, Ben Dinh is closer to Ho Chi Minh, while Ben Duoc is a bit further away.

In both Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc, low-power lights have been used in the tunnels to make travelling through them easier, and both sites display the different types of booby traps that were utilised during the war, so when it comes to safety and information, both sites have you covered. Plus, another nice thing while you’re there is that you can also enjoy a very simple meal similar to what Viet Cong guerillas would have eaten in those days. Interesting!

TOP TIP: If you’re a history buff, make sure you go to the War Remnant Museum as well. There’s also a pretty beautiful temple at Ben Duoc, built in the memory of all Vietnamese people that were killed at Cu Chi – worth a quick glance as well!

Best time to visit Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels opening hours:

Sunday – Friday from 7 AM to 6 PM
Saturday from 7 AM to 5 PM

If you are going there with a tour, you can choose from a morning one that usually starts at 8 AM or an afternoon tour from 12:30 PM. Make sure you reserve around 2 hours to explore the site and 4 to 5 hours in total for the trip with transportation included. More details and recommendations below!

If you want to visit by yourself, early morning would be the best idea in order to beat the crowds. As close to the opening time as possible!

As for the season, it’s generally considered that the Cu Chi Tunnels are best visited during the dry season, from October to April. You can visit during the rainy season (May to November) as well and there will be no flooding inside the tunnels, but it will be a less comfortable experience as the grounds are mainly outdoors. Extra humidity and muddy, so be prepared!

How to visit Cu Chi Tunnels

There are plenty of travel agencies in District 1 that provide half or full day trip options to the Cu Chi tunnels. Morning tours generally go from 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM, while afternoon tours are from 12:30 PM to 6:40 PM.

Most of these tours include pick up and drop off at centrally located hotels in District 1, an English-speaking tour guide, tapioca, hot tea, and bottled water. The best part about guided tours is that a knowledgeable local guide will tell you heaps of interesting information and underground stories about the tunnel system, booby traps, “tunnel rats” soldiers and more. And for an extra fee, some tours also take you to the Cu Chi shooting range where you can try shooting an AK 47 or other guns. Real bullet experience, guys!

Costs start from 200.000 VND (8.70 USD) and can reach up to 2.000.000 VND (86.80 USD) according to the transportation and facilities provided during the trip.

Here are some hand-picked tour options that you can book in advance. Scroll down to find out how to travel to Cu Chi Tunnels by yourself in case you don’t want to join a local tour:

a) Organised tours

GROUP TOURS:

Cu Chi Tunnels: Morning or Afternoon Guided Tour – my top recommendation for a half-day tour to the tunnels!
Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour
Full-Day Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Tour
Cu Chi Tunnels Guided VIP Tour with Transfers by Limousine
Cu Chi and Mekong Delta 2-Day Tour with Airport Transfers – if you don’t want to squeeze the two into a one day tour, this one is great because everything happens in two days: the tunnels on the first day and Mekong Delta on the second day.

PRIVATE TOURS:

Find more tours

b) How to get to Cu Chi Tunnels by yourself

The most challenging part about visiting the Cu Chi tunnel complex by yourself is getting there. In order to help you out, I have noted the most popular options below:

BY BUS

The cheapest transport to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi Tunnels is by public bus. From the Central Bus terminal at 23-9 Park in District 1, take bus 13 headed to Cu Chi bus station. From Cu Chi bus station (the last stop on bus 13), switch to bus 79 headed to Ben Duoc Tunnel. You can walk to the tunnel entrance from there.

The total travel time is around 2 hours and it will cost 16.000 VND one-way (0.70 USD). Keep in mind that the final bus back from the Ben Duoc bus stop leaves at around 5:30 PM.

BY BOAT

If you enjoy waterways then a boat tour could be the ideal travel option for you to explore Cu Chi tunnels. There are several boat tour companies offering services to the Cu Chi Tunnels such as the Saigon River Tour Company and Les Rives. My recommendation is to book this VIP speedboat tour online.

BY TAXI

If you are travelling with a small group or family, hiring a taxi to Cu Chi tunnels is probably your best option. Ma Linh and Vinasun are two popular taxi companies in Ho Chi Minh City where you can book your trip to the tunnels in advance. The price should be around 500.000 to 600.000 VND (21.70 to 26 USD). Booking a Grab (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) is also a good, cheaper option.

BONUS: My top tips for Cu Chi Tunnels

Now that you know all the most precious, practical information about exploring both Ben Duoc and Ben Dinh sites at Cu Chi, I couldn’t let you leave without sharing some of the best tips I learned while I was there!

Claustrophobic? High blood pressure? You can still see the grounds and learn about the tunnels function without having to go into the underground tunnels themselves.
Please note that there are sometimes bats inside the tunnels at Ben Duoc;
Though there is no dress code for the tunnels, wear clothes that you won’t mind getting dirty.
Make sure you wear a comfortable pair of shoes, as there is a lot of walking.
Remember to bring; water bottle, sun-block, bug spray, and insect repellent.
Careful about pickpockets – just to be safe, make sure you keep an eye on your belongings at all times!
There’s a shooting range nearby, so if you’re afraid you’ll be bothered by the loud firing noises, make sure you bring some earplugs with you.

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for Ho Chi Minh

Picture of canon camera on a deck in nature.

Here’s our camera gear that we take all around with us as we travel, perfect for your Vietnam trip and the tunnels too. It has everything you’ll ever need!

CAMERA: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

EVERYDAY LENS: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens

WIDE ANGLE LENS: Sigma 10-20mm f3.5 EX DC

PORTRAIT LENS: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG

GOPRO: GoPro HERO8 Black

TRIPOD: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect

NV FILTER: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter

CAMERA BAG: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack

HARD DRIVE: LaCie 4 TB

RELATED READ: If you want to read more about our photography gear, I recommend checking out my dedicated article: What’s in my Camera Bag – All My Travel Blogging Gear

This was my complete guide for the famous Cu Chi Tunnels in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh). I have gathered all the most important information in this post – a bit of history about the Vietnam War tunnels, entrance prices, recommended tours, what you should expect to see there, plus some precious tips. In short, you have everything you could need to know here before your trip to this famous complex in Southern Vietnam!

In case you need more helpful tips and information for your trip to Ho Chi Minh, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts and stories about this wonderful place. And here you can find all my articles about Vietnam!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Vietnam?

Check out all my Vietnam Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Want to have to have A complete travel guide to the City? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Vietnam so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

12 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam – A Complete Guide To the City

In case you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh soon, I have two important things to say. First: I envy you, you’ll have SO much fun! And second: beware, as this city is so amazing, you’ll need quite some days in order to see everything. If you’re eager to create a bucket list for your trip, scroll down to find my ULTIMATE list of things to do in Ho Chi Minh, together with my accommodation recommendations, dishes to try and information about how to get around the city.

Ho Chi Minh is the biggest city in Vietnam and an amazing destination that caters to all types of tourists out there. The city was called Saigon in the past and it was the capital of South Vietnam. Only after the Vietnam War the city changed to Ho Chi Minh, but be prepared to hear both names during your trip – and in this article as well!

Ho Chi Minh city is known for its gastronomy (pho soup, anyone?), beautiful pagodas, numerous cultural spots and interesting buildings.

Are you convinced? Let’s find out about all the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh city!

12 Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam

There are SO many unmissable things to do in Ho Chi Minh city, that it was a real struggle to keep my list at only 12 activities. Regardless of how hard it was, I made it! So here’s my complete list of Ho Chi Minh city attractions:

1 – Nguyen Hue Walking Street

This pedestrianised promenade is found at the centre of District 1, surrounded by 19th century French colonial architecture. At one end you can find the Saigon River and at the other the People’s Committee with a statue of Ho Chi Minh, the war hero who the city is named after. This street is where you’ll find a lot of restaurants, hotels, malls and the famous Coffee Apartments that we speak of later in this guide. Definitely one of the best spots for walking around in the city of Saigon!

2 – Coffee Apartments

Now covered in shining, multicoloured neon lights, the old building at 42 Nguyen Hue has had a long life. Built in the 1950s, the old apartment block used to house the Government and US military. Now, you’ll find nine floors of independent cool coffee shops, tea parlours, fashion boutiques, hip bars and street food eateries. One of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh for cool tourist pictures!

3 – Bitexco Financial Tower & Saigon Skydeck

Look up and you will see the Bitexco Financial Tower. Dominating the city’s skyline, this 68-floor skyscraper presents a distinctive sky deck and helipad which makes it easy for visitors to spot. By the way, in 2011, it was named the tallest building in Vietnam!

The building has an observation deck for tourists on the 50th floor (Saigon Skydeck) which costs 200.000 VND (a bit less than 9$) to enter. However, I would recommend visiting the EON Heli Bar on the 52nd floor instead. The price of a drink is less than the entry cost to the observation deck and you’ll get 360° views of the city. Go late afternoon to grab a good window table and stay for sunset over Saigon city!

TIP: The entrance to the EON Heli Bar can be tricky to find. Head to the building’s main entrance, go up one floor with the escalator and follow the signs for the 52 bar. You will be shown a lift that will take you directly up to the bar on the 52nd floor.

4 – Central Post Office

The iconic Saigon Central Post Office, built in the 19th century by no other than the architect of the Eiffel Tower (sounds pretty random, I know), is known for its stunning architecture! It’s a French colonial building with details from both Gothic and Renaissance eras, so a pretty unique thing to see in Ho Chi Minh. Outside, the entrance of this bright yellow building is marked with a large clock; inside, looping arches frame the high ceiling.

TIP: This is still a functioning post office with two wings branching out from the main office, so you can take the opportunity to send a postcard home.

5 – Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral (no, not the one in Paris, but VERY close!) was built by the French colonies between 1863-1880. Before the re-construction, a competition was held to decide who the architect of the church would be. The winner, Jules Bourard, decided to build a smaller version of Paris’ original Notre Dame. Today, the cathedral is a place of worship for the catholic community in the city of Ho Chi Minh.

By the way, you can visit the Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh city free of charge!

FUN FACT: The Cathedral is located in Paris Square and it has a red brick facade brought all the way from Marseille.

6 – Cu Chi Tunnels

This network of tunnels, located in the Cu Chi District, played a huge part in the Viet Cong surviving (and eventually overcoming) the American War. The tunnels, dug deep and running across a large part of the country, were the main war bases for the Viet Cong. Not only were they used as hiding spots during combat, they also contained entire living spaces – kitchens, supply routes, communications, medical aid rooms and storage for food and weapon supplies.

TIP: I recommend visiting this place with a professional guide in order to fully understand the importance and rich history of this place. For example, on this half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels you can learn interesting facts of how the Viet Congo resisted against the US Army, how they lived in the tunnels, and much more. Alternatively, you can combine Cu Chi Tunnels with the Mekong Delta (more info about it below) and take this VIP tour instead.

7 – War Remnants Museum

Speaking of the war… the War Remnants Museum is devoted to telling the history of the Vietnam War. After passing through the ticket offices, you encounter a courtyard filled with aircrafts used by the United States Army. The inside of the museum is split into areas which showcase different aspects of the war; the worldwide fight for peace, the photographers and press that helped share the reality, horrific stories of war crimes, and much, much more.

Warning to the wary, this is an emotionally heavy experience, but also incredibly interesting and important.

War Remnants Museum entrance fee: 40,000 VND (1.70$)

TIP: If you’re passionate about this subject, I recommend booking this War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels full-day tour; you’ll learn tons of precious information from your guide!

8 – Tân Đinh Church

The Tan Dinh Church, famous to tourists for its cotton candy pink colour, may be the most photogenic site in town! It features details of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and it’s also the second biggest church in Ho Chi Minh, after Notre Dame Cathedral!

FUN FACT: In 1887, Sisters of Saint-Paul de Chartres were invited to set up a boarding school and an orphanage by the church, giving home to over 300 children within three years. Afterwards, a publishing house was added, where disadvantaged children were taken in and educated.

9 – Independence Palace

The Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, is famous worldwide because of the events of 1975 – a tank led by the Northern Vietnamese Army crashed through its front gates to date the end to the Vietnam War. The building now functions as a museum and the most interesting feature of the Independence Palace is its basement, where you’ll find the war rooms and tunnels, telecommunications rooms, and other equipment used to spread war propaganda.

10 – Ben Thanh Market

One of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh city for foodies! From local handicrafts to knock-offs of branded goods, Ben Thanh Market is the place to shop for ALLLL kinds of things and it’s located in District 1. From Rolex replicas to Nike sneakers, tailor-made suits, designer handbags, porcelain tea sets and painted fans – this market provides a mish mash of bits and bobs to fill your suitcase with. And let’s not forget about the street food stalls at Ben Thanh Market as well! Alternatively, you can also visit Binh Tay Market.

TIP #1: Remember to always, always bargain! Their first price will be a “tourist price” that will have you paying way too high.

TIP #2: I recommend visiting the market in the morning, as vendors will offer smaller prices because they want to make their first sale quickly. Why? Good question. They say this will bring them good luck for the day!

11 – Binh Quoi Village

Located only a short car ride from Ho Chi Minh City, the Binh Quoi Tourist Village is a real-life replica of a traditional Vietnamese village. It has been created amazingly well and has a real sense of authenticity! My personal highlights were the lakes and ponds with large lily pads, traditional fisherman boats and bamboo bridges.

By the way, Binh Quoi is a great place to visit if you love photography, as there are so many hidden, picturesque corners to explore!

TIP: Make sure you stay for lunch, as they prepare an amazing buffet where you can feast on some incredible Vietnamese food. The price is higher than local restaurants in Saigon, but you’ll be able to try everything!

12 – Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is the Southeastern region of Vietnam. The river and its subsidiaries are now home to a whole river-world where you can find villages and its pagodas, markets, houses, and so much more – a great place to taste some authentic Vietnamese life! The Mekong Delta can be visited on day trips, where you will paddle in between villages, eat at delicious riverside restaurants and explore the life of the river communities.

TIP: I recommend this 9-hour tour for 45$ that will take you on a rowing boat adventure for 9 hours.

BONUS: Extra things to do in Ho Chi Minh city if you have more time

Extra things to do in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

The 12 attractions in Ho Chi Minh above are totally unmissable, but if you have some more time for exploration or this is not your first time visiting Saigon, then you might be eager to find out about some extra things to do. No worries, here’s my list of bonus places to visit in Ho Chi Minh city:

Drink a cocktail on a rooftop bar – yep, rooftop bars are a real thing in Ho Chi Minh city and AIR Saigon is one of the best places to enjoy a drink with a view and some live music;
Jade Emperor Pagoda – actually, you can add this to your list of top things to do! The Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most famous and beautiful in the city;
Cao Dai Temple – one of the most beautiful temples in the city, if you ask me!
Giam Lam Pagoda – colourful and impressive, it is said that this is the oldest temple in the city;
Pham Ngu Lao Street and Bui Vien Street – if you’re interested in experiencing the nightlife of Saigon. By the way, Bui Vien Street is also known as the “Backpacker Street” because there are many affordable hostels there;
Tao Dan Park – a nice place for a walk, plus one of the best spots to try the famous phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk);
The History Museum – if you’re a Vietnamese history lover, I recommend going to this museum;
Fine Arts Museum – another cool museum if you’re interested in Vietnamese art;
Giac Vien Pagoda – if you want to see an authentic pagoda that wasn’t restored over time;
Saigon Opera House – if you want to see some theatre shows.

Best tours of Ho Chi Minh city by type of traveller

I know, the list of things to see in Ho Chi Minh city is huge and super interesting, but if you don’t want to deal with all the hassle of organising your entire itinerary by yourself, an excellent solution would be to book some already organised guided tours. Below I have chosen some of the best ones I could find in the city:

Private tour of the city by motorbike – for travellers that want to see all the highlights of the city stress-free, with a private guide;
Private Street Food Evening Walking Tour – for foodies that want to taste the local gastronomy during a complete food tour;
Ben Thanh Market Tour and Cooking Class – if you want to learn how to actually make some Vietnamese food by yourself;
War Remnants Museum & Ben Thanh Market – if you want the best of both worlds: Vietnamese history and gastronomy;
Bitexco Tower and Dinner Cruise – for a more luxurious experience.

Find more tours

BONUS: Organised day trips from Ho Chi Minh

If you have some more time on your hands and you’re up for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh, here are your best options:

Mekong Delta rowing boat tour
Cu Chi Tunnels: Morning or Afternoon Guided Tour
Cu Chi Tunnels & VIP Speedboat Tour – a more VIP version of the tour above;
Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels combined – if you simply don’t want to choose!
Cao Dai Temple & Black Lady Mountain Tour
Vam Sat Mangrove Forest
Vung Tau Beach

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh city is no short on accommodation options. You can choose from anything from hostels and budget places to more luxurious hotels that offer everything you can wish for. District 1 is the BEST place for tourists visiting Saigon, especially if you want to be close to all the main attractions. Here’s my top recommended accommodation for travellers visiting Saigon for the very first time:

LUXURY: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint

MID-RANGE: Lotus Central Hotel

BUDGET: The Akoya Ben Thanh Hotel

HOSTEL: The Common Room Project

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Somerset Ho Chi Minh City

Book your hotel in Ho Chi Minh

RELATED READ: If you want to find out more information about where to stay in Ho Chi Minh city, including hand-picked recommendations for accommodation and advice about which part of the city to choose, you can read this article: Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh.

What to eat in Ho Chi Minh City & Best restaurants in the city

When it comes to gastronomy, Vietnam is a very special place and Ho Chi Minh city is one of the top destinations if you want to get a taste of real, authentic food! If you’re heading to Saigon and want to make sure you don’t miss anything important when it comes to street food and restaurants, make sure to get a taste of each of the following dishes:

PHO

An absolute must while you’re in Ho Chi Minh! This is an authentic Vietnamese noodle soup with different types of meats. Because it’s so popular among locals and tourists alike, you’ll find this dish everywhere in the city, but one of the best places to go is Pho 24.

BANH MI

Banh Mi is one of those unmissable dishes to try while you’re in Vietnam. It’s basically a baguette sandwich with pickled vegetables, pork (usually), cilantro and some chili. It may sound simple, but it’s bursting with flavours! You can try one of the best banh mi sandwiches at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa.

BANH XEO

This is a crispy pancake made of rice flour, stuffed with various fillings. It is traditionally eaten using your hands, so get ready to get messy eating a banh xeo like a real Vietnamese! You can find the best one at Banh Xeo 46A.

OC

If you’re feeling adventurous, then you should try Oc – a platter full of shellfish (clams, shimp, snails, crabs) cooked in sauce, steamed or grilled. There are various options for this dish, depending on what shellfish and cooking methods you prefer. I recommend going to Oc Dao in Saigon for some of the best culinary experiences when it comes to oc.

CA KHO TO

If you love fish, this is an absolute must-try. Picture this: caramelised, braised catfish soaked in a rich gravy made of soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic and more spices. All served in a clay pot, alongside a bowl of steaming rice. Yummy! One of the best versions in Saigon is found at Dong Hoa Xuan.

TIP: If you’re really into gastronomy and you want to learn how to make some traditional Vietnamese dishes, a cooking class is one of the best ideas. This Farm-To-Table Healthy Cooking Class is a very good option, as well as this Ben Thanh Market Tour and Cooking Class.

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

When it comes to Ho Chi Minh, getting from point A to point B might be a bit of a challenge because of traffic, which is similar to everywhere in Vietnam. But if you’re fully informed about the public transportation system of HCMC, everything will be a breeze! Here’s what you need to know:

WALKING

If you’re staying in the city centre (read: District 1), the easiest and most convenient way to get around the city is by foot. The central area of Ho Chi Minh is not that big and if you’re only planning on visiting the main attractions in the center, you’ll be fine just by walking.

TAXI

The best way to get from point A to point B while you’re here is to take a taxi: Mai Linh or VinaSun are two reliable, scam-free options. Alternatively, you can use the Grab taxi app, which is only available in the big cities of Vietnam.

MOTORCYCLE TAXI / XE ÔM

These are like taxis, only they’re… motorcycles, of course. This means they’re faster and way more convenient than a car or bus when you travel during high traffic. Perfect for short distances! And don’t forget to wear a helmet, please (should be provided by the driver).

BUS

Although they’re cheaper, they are way slower than a taxi or a motorbike. Still, buses can be convenient ways of getting around the city if you’re on a super tight budget, as the usual fare is 0,50$.

HOW TO GET TO THE CITY FROM THE AIRPORT

The most popular option is to take a shuttle bus from the airport to the center of the city (45 minutes, no more than 2$). Or, alternatively, if money is not a problem and comfort is a priority, I recommend you to take a private transfer for stress-free transportation.

When it comes to Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is truly a remarkable destination. This wonderful city caters for all types of travellers, from backpackers eager to explore some of the most beautiful pagodas as food markets (such as Ben Thanh or Binh Tay Market) to luxurious travellers that are coming to Saigon to spend their days sipping on a cocktail on a rooftop bar. Regardless of what your travel style is, Ho Chi Minh won’t disappoint!

In my complete Ho Chi Minh travel guide above I’ve told you everything you need to know about the best things to do in Saigon – from the Insta-famous Coffee Apartments to Cu Chi Tunnels and some day trips as well. I’ve also offered you LOTS of precious information regarding accommodation in the city, must-try dishes and public transportation. I hope this travel guide was useful!

Although Ho Chi Minh is pretty much amazing, it’s not the only destination in Vietnam worthy of a plane ride. If you want to read more about other cities and my complete adventures in Vietnam, I recommend clicking here.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Vietnam?

Check out all my Vietnam Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Vietnam so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

9 Things to Do in Hoi An, Vietnam – A Complete Hoi An Guide

If you’re heading to Hoi An in Vietnam soon, I hope you’re ready for a real adventure! Scroll down to find my recommended list of things to do in Hoi An, as well as a complete Hoi An guide that includes the best accommodation options for all types of travellers, as well as the best places to eat and precious information about how to get around the city – and more!

Hoi An (Hội An) is a charming town located on the central coast of Vietnam and an underrated tourist destination – that’s if you ask me, of course. Stepping into Hoi An is like stepping into another world. In fact, it’s more like stepping back in time to when there were no skyscrapers, electronics and traffic full of cars. Old temples, a Japanese bridge, An Bang beach, night markets… Hoi An has it all – and my heart, too!

There is a simplicity to Hoi An. And this simplicity creates a charm and magic that make this town the most loved destination in all of Vietnam. Are you ready to find out everything you need to know about the best things to do in Hoi An? Let’s get going:

9 Best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

There are countless unique things to do in Hoi An, but I did my best and made a special selection below with some of the most exciting places and activities that turned my vacation into an unforgettable experience:

1 – Hoi An Old Town

Hoi An Old Town is one of the most special places in this town – and in all of Vietnam, if you ask me. The reason is pretty simple: the Old Town of Hoi An wasn’t bombarded during the Vietnam War, so all the beautiful, ancient buildings are still well-preserved here. Taking a walk around Hoi An Ancient Town is a top activity here; while you’re there, take your time and admire the unique architecture of this place and maybe stop for a coffee in one of the numerous coffee places. By the way, did you know that Hoi An Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

2 – Hoi An Central Market

If you’ll take a stroll down the banks of the Thu Bon River, you’ll discover one of the gems of the city right there: I’m talking about Hoi An local market, of course, also known as Chợ Hội An! This is a great place to buy some handmade souvenirs to bring back home to your loved ones. You’ll find everything you wish for there, from silk dresses to spices and, of course, a lot of amazing street food stalls!

TIP #1: The best time to visit is after 8 PM when there are fewer crowds around.

TIP #2: If you have the time, make sure to visit Hoi An Night Market as well!

3 – Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the most interesting Hoi An attractions in the centre of the city. Its ornaments are simply stunning and it’s the perfect place to take some superb photos!

TIP #1: If you want to enter the bridge, you’ll need a Hoi An Old Town Ticket – a basic ticket worth 120.000 VND (5,20$). This was created as an initiative to preserve the old, precious buildings of this city – you’ll often be required to present it when entering parts of the historic centre, so it’s best to have it on you at all times. You can buy it at numerous attractions throughout the centre of the city.

TIP #2: If you’re already close to the Japanese Bridge, make sure to visit Phung Hung Old House as well, as they’re very close to each other!

4 – Fujian Assembly Hall / Phuc Kien

This gorgeous building (spoiler alert: it’s PINK!) dates from the 17th century and it’s one of the most beautiful things to see in Hoi An. It’s actually a sacred place built by the Fujian Chinese community and it has a gorgeous gate full of carvings of Chinese figures.

Fujian Assembly Hall entrance fee: you can enter using your Hoi An Old Town Ticket (more info above).

5 – My Son Sanctuary

Okaaay, I’m cheating a bit here (but it’s worth it!), as My Son Sanctuary is not technically inside Hoi An, but a bit outside of it. No worries, nothing that can’t be managed during a day trip from the city. Why am I saying that My Son Ruins are worth visiting (despite the weird name, lol)? Well, because this sanctuary hosts beautiful, ancient temples dating from the 4th to the 13th century – that’s a LONG time ago! Plus, My Son ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so if this doesn’t convince you, then you just need to take a look at some pictures!

My Son Sanctuary entrance fee: 150,000 VND (6,50 US$). I recommend visiting with an organised tour and a professional guide so that you can learn the history.

6 – Get tailor-made clothes just for you

getting tailor-made clothes in hoi an vietnam

This is SUCH a thing to do in Hoi An! Vietnam is well-known for its textile industry and going back home with a custom made suit or dress might just be the highlight of your trip!

The process is pretty simple and fun: you’ll first have to find the ideal tailor for you and your needs (some of them are more expensive, with high-quality materials, while others offer more regular services), show them the item you want made (Pinterest boards are ideal for inspiration!), pick your fabrics, get fitted (so the final piece will perfectly suit your body and preferences) and then pick up your custom-made items.

When I was in Hoi An, I actually had 3 identical dresses made across 3 different tailors of different budgets, as a fun little experiment. It was a very interesting experience seeing how the quality varied! If you want to read more about it, I recommend checking out this post.

7 – Beaches near Hoi An

I know I said that Hoi An is a superb ancient town, but let’s not forget that it’s also located on the coast of Vietnam, which can only mean one thing: cool beaches! Sunbathing! Fun in the water! Yep, all of the above is possible, and you’re even spoiled with choices when it comes to Hoi An, as there are more than a couple of beaches to choose from. Here are two of the best options:

An Bang Beach – one of the best beaches in Hoi An (3km from the Old Town, which makes it a popular bike ride away); there are no big crowds here and you’ll find plenty of seafood restaurants as well;
Cua Dai Beach – another excellent option, only 4km away from the city;

8 – Hoi An’s countryside and the rice paddies

If you ever get bored of roaming around the city, head over to the rice paddy fields near Hoi An for a taste of traditional Vietnam!

The best way to visit the rice paddies is by renting a bike. There are many little paths that you can take while exploring the area, and you’ll quickly see that there are also lots of buffalos around the fields that you cycle through. We even made friends with a super friendly one and I got a buffalo ride (don’t even ask… travelling Vietnam was an unforgettable experience, haha!). If you’re up for a longer ride, you can even arrive at An Bang beach at the end of Hai Ba Trung Street for a complete experience in Hoi An.

Alternatively, you can visit with a guided tour such as this 5-hour small group countryside tour. It includes the Japanese Bridge and some local food tasting as well!

9 – Hoi An Lantern Festival

Compared to other festivals around the world, Hoi An Lantern Festival has one amazing perk: it takes place once every month, on a specific day. The dates differ each month, so I recommend checking the upcoming events here.

I think this is one of the most fun things to do in Hoi An and a unique activity; in fact, many travellers visit the town only for this festival! The lantern festival takes place in the Old Town when hundreds of candle lit lanterns are released into the water.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget your camera for this one!

BONUS: Extra things to do in Hoi An

Except for the 7 Hoi An tourist attractions above, here are some extra things to add to your itinerary if you have more time:

Quan Cong Temple – pretty Chinese temple that stands as an example for the different cultural influences of Hoi An;
Take a cooking class and learn about traditional Vietnamese cuisine – Vietnamese cuisine is one of the richest and most delicious in the world, so why not spend a couple of hours cooking some authentic dishes? There are so many good cooking classes out there!
Get a Vietnamese massage – perfect way to relax at the end of a full day exploring the city;
Hoi An Museum – if you’re a history lover, here you’ll learn a lot of things about this charming town;
Hoi An Silk Village – this place is not located in the city centre, but it’s well worth getting there (it’s in Quang Nam, no more than 1km from the Old Town) if you want to learn more about silk weaving and the local artisans;
Tan Ky Family House – historically speaking, this is one of the most important buildings in the city, with beautiful Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese architecture and antique furniture;
Explore the nightlife of An Hoi – Hoi An… An Hoi… I think things can get a bit confusing here, right? No, I didn’t misspell anything – An Hoi is a small island right near Hoi An, where Hoi An Night Market is located and it’s also known as the nightlife hotspot sound the area;
Lantern Market – a cute, colourful market where you can buy different types of lanterns. For a small fee, you can pose within the lanterns for a photo;
Tra Que Village – Go there to indulge in yummy exotic fruits and vegetables, right from the source;
Day trip to Da Nang – located only 45 minutes away from Hoi An, this large city offers plenty of things to do and see and a unique mix of traditional and modern. If you’re interested, I recommend my dedicated article: 10 Unmissable Da Nang Tourist Attractions
Marble Mountains – another day trip idea close to Da Nang – 5 limestone and marble mountains with natural caves and temples. I’m telling you all about this place here: Da Nang Marble Mountain – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Best tours of Hoi An by type of traveller

If your bucket list for Hoi An is becoming longer and longer after reading this article and you want to make sure you don’t miss anything interesting from your itinerary, I got you! You don’t have to stress over creating the ideal trip – a great way to visit all the highlights of Hoi An is to book some tours of the city where you’ll be guided by a professional guide. It’s a win-win situation! Here are some of the best options I could find:

Hoi An walking tour in the Old Town – for those that want to see the highlights;
Free bike tour of Hoi An – for backpackers and those on a budget;
Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class – for travellers that want to get a glimpse of Vietnamese rural life;
Local cooking class – for foodies interested in learning how to cook authentic traditional dishes;
Sunset dinner cruise – for all the romantics out there;
Day trip to Cham Islands – for active travellers that want to do some snorkelling.

More Hoi An tours

Where to stay in Hoi An, Vietnam

It’s not hard to find a nice place to stay in Hoi An, no matter what your budget is. The trick is to look for a place that’s near the places that you want to visit. And the most popular and best area to stay in Hoi An is, of course, the Old Town.

What’s great about Hoi An is that you actually have the option to either stay near the historical sites or by the beach. Either way, you’ll surely have the most amazing time! Here’s my list of the best hotels in Hoi An:

BIG SPLURGE: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Lantana Hoi An Boutique Hotel and Spa

BUDGET: Sun Paradise Villa

HOSTEL: Tribee Ede

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Bespoke Villa Hoi An

More hotels in Hoi An

Best restaurants in Hoi An & what to eat

When it comes to food, Hoi An is THE place to be! It’s well-known that Vietnamese food is bursting with amazing flavours, so you absolutely cannot leave this town (or country) without sampling some of their most popular dishes. Here is my list of the best food in Hoi An, together with the places where you’ll find their best versions:

BANH MI

Eating Banh Mi is a complete must-do in Hoi An! Hoi An has some of the best shops that serve this dish in the entire country – a baguette filled with meats and vegetables. Banh Mi Phoung and The Banh Mi Queen are two of the places in Hoi An where you’ll find the best Banh Mi (the authentic version, of course).

CAO LAU

You can’t visit Hoi An city without trying the famous Cao Lau, a hearty noodle dish with Char Siu pork or shrimp, bean sprouts, fresh greens and local herbs. You can find this dish in most stalls in Hoi An, but we sampled ours at a local place called Thanh Cao Lau, which still follows the traditional way of making this dish.

WHITE ROSE DUMPLINGS

Named because of their resemblance to the flower, the white rose dumplings, also known as Banh Bao Banh Vac, are another must-try in Hoi An. They are made with rice flour and stuffed with a shrimp filling and you can enjoy them on many stalls around the Central Market Hoi An. But if you want a truly authentic experience, dine at White Rose Restaurant – the place where these dumplings originally came from!

OTHER MUST-TRY VIETNAMESE DISHES: egg coffee (more like a custard dessert than a coffee, don’t get scared!), spring rolls, Banh Xeo.

Getting around Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is not a big town, and all of its top attractions are located inside or super close to the Old Town. Which can only mean one thing, my friends! Getting around the city can be easily done by walking or by biking. If you opt for biking, make sure to ask your hotel first; often they offer free bikes so you’ll save some money this way!

HOW TO GET TO HOI AN:

Sadly, Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport, but don’t be sad! You can easily reach this town if you fly to Da Nang Airport, then take the public bus for 1 US$ (45-minute ride). Or you can take a taxi. Or a private transfer.

All right you guys, this was my COMPLETE Hoi An travel guide! As I mentioned at the beginning of this article (and I’m sure that I’ve 100% convinced you by now), Hoi An has something to offer to all types of travellers out there. Regardless if you choose to get some custom made dresses made or if you just want to lay on An Bang beach, indulge in yummy food, light some lanterns at the festival, take a Vietnamese cooking class or spend your night exploring a local market, Hoi An is your destination.

Hoi An may be an incredible place in Vietnam, but it’s not the only worthy destination in the country. If you want to read more about my adventures in this incredible country, I recommend checking out all my articles here.

xoxo,

Melissa

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13 Best Beaches in Phuket, Thailand + The Best Beach Resorts

Phuket is renowned for being one of the greatest beach destinations ever – not just in Thailand, but in the entire world! Phuket is known for its amazing white sands, beautiful palm trees, clear, glittering seas and lively towns, making it the tourist hot spot it has become today.

In case you’re planning a vacation in Phuket soon, you must be searching for the best beaches to spend your day getting that perfect tan, swimming, snorkelling or simply sipping from your cocktail. No worries, I got you! In this article, I’m taking you through 13 of my favourite beaches that Phuket has to offer. I wanted to limit the list to just 5 beaches at first, but I quickly realised there are SO many amazing strips of sand with perfect water in Phuket, that it would’ve been a shame to not share truly the best ones with you all.

Moreover, I’ve also given you my recommendations for the best Phuket resorts that have their own private beach (perfect for a honeymoon, for example) and the best spots in Phuket to watch the sunset. Are you ready?!

Disclaimer: I take no responsibility for any irrational flights spontaneously booked to Thailand after reading this post! 😉

Best beaches in Phuket Thailand by interest and type of traveller

Okay, before proceeding to my (rather) long list of beaches in Phuket, I want to help you decide on the best one for you. And it’s simple: it all depends on what you’re looking for! Sure, all 13 beaches below are simply gorgeous, but some are better for snorkelling, for example, while others are more laid-back or family friendly. In order to help you choose, I have created the customised list below:

Best beach in Phuket for couples: Nai Thon Beach or Mai Khao
Best beach in Phuket for families: Kamala Beach
Best beach in Phuket for swimming: Kata Beach Phuket
Best beach in Phuket for snorkelling: Ao Sane Beach or Ya Nui
Best beach in Phuket for nightlife and beach clubs: Patong Beach
The most popular beach in Phuket: Patong Beach
Best hidden beach in Phuket: Laem Singh

A couple of things to know before

Which side of Phuket has the best beaches?

You have two easy choices here: either the Southern or the West Coast. The East Coast is lush and full of forests, so it’s not really considered the beach destination. But the good thing about the South and West Coast is that most of the great beaches are located close to each other, so in case you want to tick more than a couple of spots off your list, you’ll be able to do so in Phuket.

In order to clearly visualise what I’m talking about, I recommend checking out the Phuket map below which indicates where each of the beaches I’ll be talking about is located:

Where can you swim in Phuket?

You might think that all beaches in Phuket are perfect for swimming. Well, that’s not exactly accurate. Some beaches can become dangerous for swimming, especially during low season, because of rough currents or jellyfish – Banana Beach is just an example and sometimes even Karon Beach. Other than this, most of the beaches I’ll be mentioning below are safe to swim in. Remember that it all depends on the weather and the time of the year you decide to visit, so I recommend checking the updated info for each of the beaches you want to visit beforehand.

13 Best Beaches in Phuket, Thailand

Now enough with the boring information, let’s find out about the best beaches in Phuket!

1 – Kata Beach (Kata Noi & Kata Yai)

Although most articles on the web are talking about Kata and Kata Noi Beach as two different spots, I’ll be including them in one big recommendation. Why? Because Kata Beach (also known as Kata Yai) and Kata Noi are extremely close to each other and very similar too, so whichever one you choose, you’ll be good. Just note that Kata Noi Beach is a bit less crowded and a bit harder to reach.

Kata Beach is situated nearby the touristic towns of Patong and Karon. With a 1.5 km-long stretch of sand, this beach has all the facilities and activities you’d find in Patong, but with the benefit of also having a bit fewer tourists (with an emphasis on ‘a bit’ – it’s still super popular!). This is a great place to come and soak up the sun, it’s excellent for swimming and it’s a great beach for families as well. There are also multiple shops and eateries here, as well as some cool bars. Kata Beach always seems to be busy, but never overcrowded!

BEST HOTEL ON KATA BEACH: Kata Rocks on Kata and The Shore at Katathani for Kata Noi Beach
BEST RESTAURANT ON KATA BEACH: The Boathouse Restaurant

2 – Freedom Beach

Soft white sand, clear waters and a quiet atmosphere – Freedom Beach is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket! But there’s one thing to note, though… When it comes to Freedom Beach, part of the fun comes down to the difficulty of getting there! You only have two options: hiking down from the top of the hill or getting there by boat.

From the closest road, there is a 15-20 min steep downhill hike to access this paradisiac strip of sand. Personally, I loved it; a little bit of adventure always adds to the experience! But if you aren’t the active type I need to warn you; this hike will make you weak at the knees (literally, not just from the view!) and leave you cursing your flip flops and wishing for trainers. Is it worth it, though? Definitely yes!
Really hate the thought of that hike? You can also get to Freedom Beach via long tail boats from Patong Town, Kata, Karon or Kamala Beach, but only during the high season (December to June). We hiked there and them jumped on a boat back to town, which was also a lot of fun!

When you finally arrive, you’ll find that this so-called ‘hidden beach’ is Phuket’s worst kept secret. Long-tail boats are lined up near the shore, ready to ferry visitors back to the town of Patong. Small stalls are set up under the shade of palm trees selling coconuts, soft drinks and water. Even though the beach isn’t overcrowded, it also isn’t empty (well, at least there are no loud jet skis…). The secret of this pretty little bay is out and it’s clear as to why. With incredibly soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters, Freedom Beach may no longer be hidden, but it’s definitely still a gem!

BEST HOTEL ON FREEDOM BEACH: There is no overnight accommodation directly on the beach. The closest hotel is Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong, less than 1 km away.
BEST RESTAURANT ON FREEDOM BEACH: There’s a small restaurant serving Thai food on the northern end, but it’s a gamble on whether it’s open or closed depending on season/year.

3 – Patong Beach

Patong Beach is the longest and one of the most popular Phuket beaches! Because of this, the entire 2.5 km long stretch of white sand is very crowded and noisy most of the time, but it’s still an excellent place to enjoy the bustling nightlife of the West coast. Plus, it’s right near Patong Town where you’ll find countless restaurants, shops, massage parlours and hotels, so you’ll have everything you need nearby. And the beach is full of water sports as well!

BEST HOTEL ON PATONG BEACH: There are tons of accommodations to choose from in Patong Town, but only a handful of them are actually on the beach. Out of them all, I recommend Amari Phuket.
BEST RESTAURANT ON PATONG BEACH: Sizzle Rooftop Restaurant

4 – Karon Beach

Karon is the second biggest beach strip in Phuket and among the most popular tourist spots! And the reason is pretty clear: fine sand, incredible blue waters and lots of activities to be done here: shopping, dining and a little bit of clubbing as well. During the high season, of course. Karon Beach is lined with beautiful trees for some well-deserved shade and it even has volleyball nets and more than enough restaurant options to choose from. The water is perfect for swimming in the high season, but it can get dangerous in the low season because of strong currents, so beware!

BEST HOTEL ON KARON BEACH: Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort
BEST RESTAURANT ON KARON BEACH: Eat. Bar and Grill

5 – Nai Harn Beach

Situated at the southern end of Phuket is the laid-back Nai Harn Beach. And trust me, this one’s not like Patong or Kata. Nai Harn is more popular with locals and expats than tourists, but it still makes my list due to its pure white sand coupled with its crystal-clear waters.

Nai Harn is generally pretty chilled and doesn’t get overly busy, so you can enjoy it and its surroundings at your leisure – which is a great plus considering you’re in one of the most popular beach destinations in the world! This is probably why Nai Harn is considered to be the best beach on Phuket by so many. Although… yes, it does get busier with tourists from December to April.

BEST HOTEL ON NAI HARN BEACH: The Nai Harn
BEST RESTAURANT ON NAI HARN BEACH: Rock Salt

6 – Surin Beach

Surin Beach was once one of the top spots for renting lounges, sipping drinks in the numerous bars, eating and, of course, shopping from the countless vendor stalls. It was vivid, crowded and there was always something happening around. Not anymore! Nowadays, Surin is a natural beach, with all the amenities GONE. Everything changed after a dispute with the government, which made most shops and restaurants get demolished in no time.

But! This makes it even better, trust me. Maybe one of the most unique Phuket beaches, if you ask me. Surin Beach is now wild and pristine, lined with beautiful trees and some amazing resorts to choose from. You won’t go there for entertainment anymore, but for relaxation and admiring raw nature. Which is totally worth it!

BEST HOTEL ON SURIN BEACH: The Surin Phuket
BEST RESTAURANT ON SURIN BEACH: Most beachfront eateries are now completely gone, but there’s still a good one left – Patcharin Seafood. You can also find food vendors just behind the line of trees if you’re craving some cheap Thai food.

7 – Bang Tao Beach

Bang Tao Beach (also written Bangtao) is located right between Patong and the airport and it’s a gorgeous, long strip of white sand (one of the longest, actually). There wasn’t much going on around here in the past, but Bang Tao became a vivid, laid-back place and one of the top beaches in Phuket Island over recent years. You’ll find anything you need here, from cool beach clubs to world-class restaurants and some unforgettable hotels as well. Although it may not be as beautiful as Surin Beach, it’s full of good amenities and activities (including a water park!) and, best of all, it’s not that crowded. Cha-ching!

BEST HOTEL ON BANG TAO BEACH: SAii Laguna Phuket
BEST RESTAURANT ON BANG TAO BEACH: There are numerous small, traditional food stalls on the beach serving Thai food while you’re seated on a bamboo chair. For a more elegant experience, I recommend Palm Seaside Restaurant.

8 – Ya Nui Beach

Ya Nui Beach (nearby Nai Harn Beach) is a tiny, charming bay tucked into a cove in the south of Phuket. At first, it looks like the picture-perfect image of a secret beach, but don’t be under any illusions! Word is out and this place can get very busy at times. Don’t let that put you off though. Golden sands, crystal clear blue waters, thatch-roofed restaurants serving local Thai food; just a few of the reasons you should add it to your list.

Although small, Ya Nui is just perfect for diving and snorkelling!

BEST HOTEL ON YA NUI BEACH: There are no hotels directly on the beach; I recommend Ya Nui Resort which offers a free shuttle to Ya Nui Beach.
BEST RESTAURANT ON YA NUI BEACH: One More Restaurant

9 – Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach, located right between Patong and Surin, is a charming, laid-back option if you want to stay away from the tourist crowds. You won’t find any water sport options or big parties here, making Kamala the perfect choice for a relaxed holiday. It’s also one of the cleanest Phuket beaches! After a full day of relaxing in a hammock, you can go to Kamala Town nearby where you’ll find cute cafes and some very good restaurants. No worries, there are some amazing beachfront eateries and the sunset here is pretty incredible!

BEST HOTEL ON KAMALA BEACH: Twinpalms MontAzure
BEST RESTAURANT ON KALAMA BEACH: Coconut Garden or Café del Mar Beach Club

10 – Paradise Beach

“Paradise Beach”… I guess the name says it all, right? And yes, I can confirm – the sand is golden and soft, the waters are pretty much perfect and the tall palm trees make the entire setting look heavenly! Paradise Beach, located only 10 minutes from Patong, is a rather small and remote cove (150m long) and was once a secret beach. Now, the beach has transformed into a luxurious beach club called Paradise Beach Club, a traveller’s dream. Other than this, the beach is also perfect for some snorkelling as well, as there’s a gorgeous coral reef only 100m offshore.

Paradise Beach Club offers plenty of options for bars and restaurants and you can rent beach chairs as well. And if you’re interested in the Koh-Phangan-type of parties… search no more, the full moon party organised here is for you!

NOTE: Just remember that you need to pay an entrance fee of 200 baht (6.40 US$) to access the beach and all its facilities and that the beach is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.

BEST HOTEL ON PARADISE BEACH: There are no hotels on the beach except for Paradise Beach Club’s only accommodation, which is a hostel – Paradise Beach Backpackers. Alternatively, I recommend staying at a hotel nearby. Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa is fabulous and it’s only 1 km away.
BEST RESTAURANT ON PARADISE BEACH: There are plenty of good restaurants at Paradise Beach Club to choose from.

11 – Nai Thon Beach

Nai Thon Beach is located only 10 minutes from the airport and I think it’s one of the most underrated beaches on the entire island! It’s beautiful, it’s pristine and it’s the very definition of relaxation. There aren’t a lot of things to do on the beach except swimming and sunbathing, but a short walk away you’ll find Nai Thon village with local eateries and shops. You’ll also find the Phuket Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.

In short, let’s enjoy the peace of Nai Thon Beach while we can, my friends!

BEST HOTEL ON NAI THON BEACH: Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach Phuket
BEST RESTAURANT ON NAI THON BEACH: Naithon Beach Club

12 – Laem Singh Beach

Gorgeous sandy beach with lush green trees and a perfect place for relaxation. The fact that you’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself is one of the best things about Laem Singh Beach!

Laem Singh was, sadly, closed in April 2017 after being one of the most loved Phuket beaches ever. It is said that the owner decided to ban everyone from entering his beach. The beach remained closed until the end of 2017 when it was sold to a new owner. But people found a way to fix the situation – since 2018 you can get to Laem Singh Beach by sea if you take the small orange boat from Surin Beach (100 baht/person). So, luckily for us travellers, the beach is now accessible again!

BEST HOTEL ON LAEM SINGH BEACH: Surin Beach Villa
BEST RESTAURANT ON LAEM SINGH BEACH: Although there aren’t many amenities (read: at all) on this beach, you can find one cute restaurant on the rocks – it looks like a terrace made of wood with red umbrellas and the food is really nice!

13 – Mai Khao Beach

Mai Khao Beach is one of the longest in Phuket and, surprisingly enough, it’s still very pristine and laid-back… almost untouched! The water is calm and the beach is much emptier than many of the other popular beaches further south on the island – there aren’t even beach chairs and umbrellas yet, but you can find a couple of newly built hotels instead.

By the way, Mai Khao Beach stretches right past the airport and is known for its popular photo-op location where you can stand just in front of the runway as the planes land and take off right over your head. Cool, right?

TOP PHOTO TIP: Make sure you check the flight schedules to see when planes are set to take off / land. This will save you some time and stop you from waiting around for ages in the sun.

BEST HOTEL ON MAI KHAO BEACH: Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa
BEST RESTAURANT ON MAI KHAO BEACH: Kin Dee Restaurant. There are also around 10 bamboo-style eateries serving Thai food on the northern end of the beach.

Other notable beaches in Phuket worth mentioning

It’s not that the beaches below are not worth it, but my list above was already getting pretty long so I had to make some kind of differentiation! Here are some extra beautiful beaches for you to check out:

Ao Sane – Nearby Nai Harn Beach and a TOP spot for snorkelling! For once, this is actually a secret beach in Phuket, without any jet skis or noisy tourists.
Pansea – North of Surin Beach, this hidden gem can be reached by boat from Surin or Bang Tao. Alternatively, you can reach it by walking if you take the steep path that separates Surin from Pansea.
Nai Yang – Right near Mai Khao Beach and Sirinath National Park. There are a couple of luxury resorts here, as well as some restaurants, but aside from these, the beach is still untouched.
Rawai – not really your go-to place for swimming, but rather for snapping some pictures and getting a gorgeous view of the other beaches and nearby islands. It’s also the best spot for island hopping to the best beaches near Phuket such as Banana Beach (see the next section)
Panwa / Khao Kat Beach – this is one of the few beaches on the East coast worth mentioning. Although you can’t swim here, you can still visit it if you want to discover a pristine, wild beach and a few luxury villas as well!

Best beaches NEAR Phuket (day trip beaches)

I know you might be wondering why I didn’t mention the famous Banana Beach here?! Well, there’s a simple reason behind it: because Banana Beach is not actually in Phuket, but rather close by. So I included it on my list of beautiful beaches that are not TECHNICALLY in Phuket:

Banana Beach – This is a superb hidden gem that can be reached by a long-tail boat from Rawai Beach. Once there, you can snorkel, kayak and even do some parasailing!
Railay Beach – This beach in Krabi Province is simply superb with limestone cliffs and it’s an ideal spot for rock climbers.
Phra Nang Cave Beach – This one’s near Railay Beach and it hosts an AWESOME cave and calm waters, perfect for swimming and climbing as well.

BONUS #1: 10 Best Phuket resorts with private beach

I’ll keep this bonus section short and sweet with some of the best beach resorts in Phuket that offer an excellent service and that have their own private beach reserved for their customers only:

BONUS #2: Best sunset spots in Phuket

If you’re dreaming of admiring the sunset from a perfect location in Phuket, the list below includes the best bars and places to do so! And trust me, although it may sound a bit boring, seeing the sunset in Phuket is something truly special and unforgettable! Do you have your pens ready? Here goes:

Promthep Cape – this is the southernmost point of Phuket and definitely THE most popular place to watch the sunset!
Baba Nest – spectacular 360 bar belonging to Sri Panwa Resort. You cannot enter without a reservation, so make sure you make one several days in advance;
The Boathouse Phuket – beautiful spot where you can admire the sunset while you’re sipping on a signature cocktail;
Big Buddha – 45m tall Buddha statue with incredible views of Kata and Karon beaches drenched in the sunset light;
Kata Rocks – gorgeous hotel on Kata. Seeing the sunset from their infinity pool is an amazing experience;
After Beach Sunset Bar – nice bar with accessible prices and Thai dishes;
360 Degrees Restaurant – how about some fancy cocktails and tapas while watching the sun setting over the Andaman Sea?
Heaven Restaurant & Bar – the best out of the 3 hillside sunset spots in Kata Noi;
Little Tiger – near Marriott Resort on Patong Beach, this is kind of a hidden gem that also serves some yummy dishes.

This was my COMPLETE list of the best beaches in Phuket for all types of travellers! Regardless if you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway on the island or a family looking for calm waters where the little ones can splash around, rest assured that you’ll find something in my list above. Plus, I have also given you my hand-picked recommendations for the best beach resorts and the best sunset bars in all of Phuket. What more can you wish for

Excited to read more about the gorgeous island of Phuket? Click here to find all my articles about this unique island destination in Thailand.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket, Thailand?

Check out all my Phuket Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour around Phuket? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Phuket so you don’t miss a thing!

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Phuket Old Town, Thailand – Quick Travel Guide

The region of Phuket in Thailand is one of the most famous destinations in the world, with over 3 million tourists visiting each year! In case you’re planning a visit here and you want to enjoy more than just the beaches, then this Phuket Old Town guide is here to help!

In the following post, I will tell you everything you need to know about the best attractions, excellent hotels, where to eat – and more!

All about Phuket Town

While most travellers are aiming for those superb beaches and white sand, which are oh-so-Thailand, I’d dare to say that Phuket Old Town is a hidden gem. Yes, it’s true, the southern islands of Phuket provide some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and a party scene that people literally fly across the world to experience. However, Phuket Old Town is slightly different to that – it’s basically the cultural centre of Phuket, with a focus on art and architecture. And let’s not forget about those pretty colourful houses!

By the way, here’s a Phuket Old Town map, so you can better understand its location on the island:

But why should you add it to your itinerary, though?

The answer is simple: easy island access! Phuket is a big island and it can be hard to know which area is the best place to stay. If you’re planning on doing a lot of day trips across to the paradise islands off the east coast, staying in Phuket Old Town is a no-brainer. Located 10 minutes by car from the main port, staying in Phuket Old Town can save you up to an hour of driving time just to reach the port.

This was a major deciding factor for us, as we didn’t want to spend so much time travelling and also, taxis in Phuket are expensive! You can find operators in Phuket Old Town providing both private and tour group island expeditions to Koh Phi Phi or James Bond Island, along with other islands.

Plus, it’s a great place if you want to experience a dose of Thailand’s history and culture – thigs you (unfortunately) won’t get to experience while you’re on the beach, with a cocktail in your hand.

Phuket Old Town – 6 Things to do

This place MAY be small, but it’s full of wonderful things to explore! Scroll down to find my recommended list of Phuket attractions you shouldn’t miss while you’re there. And the best part is that, if you only have a short time in this part of Thailand, you can easily squeeze all these in one day:

1 – Wander around on Soi Romanee Street

Melissa in Phuket Old Town wearing a pink dress in front of a pink house

Let’s start our adventure by taking a relaxing walk, shall we? Soi Romanee (or Soi Romance) is the oldest street in Phuket Old Town and one of the prettiest spots for a walk and some pictures. Soi Romanee Street is famed for its colourful Sino-Portuguese houses, now home to restaurants, shops and cafes. Tourists come to marvel at the pretty pastel colours of the architecture, which date back to the early 1900s. There are also some beautiful murals to be found here and there along the streets of the Old Town.

Other notable streets to take a walk on are Thalang Road and Phangnga Road. No worries, Phuket Old Town is quite small, so you CAN be done walking around it in about an hour – it would be hard to miss all those beautiful buildings, trust me.

FUN FACT: The word “Romanee” means “adorable” or “beautiful” in Thai, which perfectly describes this street! But there’s another explanation for this – in the old times, this street used to be the city’s red-light district, so the word used to describe the pretty ladies found here.

I mentioned before that Phuket Old Town has a rich history and heritage – and this can be seen everywhere you look. But here are some great places to explore if you want to properly learn about the island’s history:

Chinapracha House – a beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese house from 1903. The ceramic floor is simply superb! Entrance fee is 150 Baht (5 US$);
Thai Hua Museum – a nice Colonial-style museum where you can find out more about the Thai-Chinese mix of heritages to be found in Phuket. Entrance fee is 200 Baht (6.60 US$);
Ruamsahary Printing House – it is said to be the oldest printing house in Phuket and the best place to find all about this craftsmanship;
Thavorn Museum – located in the same place as Thavorn Hotel, this one has a rather odd (you’ve been warned!) showcase of local objects such as super old typewriters, ironing stations, decorations and more. Entrance fee is 30 Baht (1 US$);

3 – Admire some temples and shrines

Phuket Old Town has some wonderful shrines and temples as well, as religion has immense importance here as well as in the rest of Thailand. Here are some notable religious sites to explore while you’re around:

Shrine of The Serene Light – beautiful, colourful shrine and probably one of the most popular ones in the city. No entrance fee;
Wat Mongkol Nimit – a superb gold-roofed temple. Make sure you visit its garden as well. Entrance is free;
Jui Tui Shrine – another beautiful, small shrine, located only 10 minutes away by foot from the centre;

4 – Go shopping in one of the numerous markets

Jewellery stall with hundreds of products

Shopping for trinkets and indulging in street food is probably one of the best things to do in Old Phuket Town, that’s for sure. Phuket Old Town is an amazing place to buy locally crafted jewellery, ceramics and even books – especially on the main road, but not only. There are many options to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for:

Phuket Town Central Market – you can find everything here, from colourful clothes to fresh street food;
Phuket Town Night Market / Sunday Walking Street Market – every Sunday, Thalang Road in the centre of Phuket Old Town becomes completely pedestrianised as the Phuket Old Town Night Market is set up from 4 to 10 PM. Here you will find amazing street food options, local produce, live music entertainment and small souvenir stalls. My advice is to come here for the food! We tried a couple of dishes across a few different stalls and loved each and every one of them.
Amulet Market – located on Ratsada Road, this one is a small stretch of stalls selling blessed trinkets, Buddhist figures and amulets. The amulets are blessed by monks and are said to bring the owner certain attributes that they may be searching for – whether it be protection, good fortune, love or health. Even if this isn’t something you believe in, it’s such an interesting cultural experience! The stall owners that I met happily shared their knowledge and beliefs, always asking questions to help the customer find the amulet that best fit their needs;
Indy Market – a colourful, nice market open on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. There are even live performances here from time to time!
The Oasis Thalang (formerly Vanich Walking Street) – an indoor passageway where you can buy food, clothes and more. The walls are all covered in street art, so it’s a pretty sight regardless if you want to buy something or not!
China Inn – this place is also a restaurant (with amazing pork, actually, so I’m recommending it down below in the “restaurants” section!) but also a shop that sells vintage furniture;
Southwind Books – if you’re looking for some second-hand books.

5 – Relax in one of the cool cafes

Wondering what to do in Phuket Old Town on a rainy day? I got you! Phuket Old Town has a growing coffee culture – and I’m all for it! Believe it or not, you’ll find some of the cutest cafes and brunch spots in this part of the island. Sipping a coffee in a cafe is a great way to start your day, or you can even get some work done or catch up on your social media, as all cafes here have 5G Wi-Fi connection!

The tricky part? Choosing which ones to visit!

RELATED READ: No worries, you can read about my 3 favourites cafes in the city here: Phuket: 3 Best Cafés in Phuket Old Town.

6 – See the city from above from Khao Rang Hill

If you’ll only visit one viewpoint during your Thailand trip, let it be this one! Khao Rang Hill offers an amazing view over the entire Phuket Town from the viewing platform. I recommend going there at sunset for the most incredible pictures! And, as a bonus, you can also have dinner with a view here in one of the 3 on-site restaurants. If you decide to walk, it will take you less than one hour to reach the viewing platform on top from the centre of the city. You can also get there by car.

Best Old Phuket Town tours

In case you want to visit (almost) everything in my guide with a guide, I definitely recommend joining an Old Town Phuket tour. There are quite some options available out there, but here I collected some hand-picked recommendations:

Find more Phuket tours

Best tours to the islands

Koh Phi Phi island during a beautiful sunset

If you’re in the mood to visit some islands as well while you’re here (and you should!), here are my recommended tours:

Where to stay in Phuket Old Town

WOO Gallery & Boutique hotel Phuket Old Town

In case you’re wondering where to stay in the heart of this wonderful little town, I got you! I have selected some excellent accommodation options for you and grouped them by budget for your convenience:

LUXURY HOTEL: WOO Gallery & Boutique Hotel

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel

MID-RANGE: The Besavana Phuket

BUDGET: Memory at On On Hotel – let me tell you some things about this rather famous Phuket Old Town hotel, may I? This accommodation became popular ever since it appeared in the opening of The Beach movie (Leonardo DiCaprio fans will know about this!). It’s not bursting with luxury; in fact, it’s a very good place to stay if you’re looking for an affordable hotel. Plus, it’s the oldest hotel in town, dating from 1929!

HOSTEL: Shunli Hotel

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Snoozy

FInd a place in Phuket Old Town

Best Phuket Old Town restaurants

Of course, no visit to Phuket Old Town is complete without indulging in some authentic Thai food and desserts, am I right? And, luckily for us travellers, this place in the world is not short on amazing eateries. Here are some of the best ones I can recommend:

Blue Elephant – This amazing restaurant is located at Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion and it’s a great place to try some (quite Royal!) Thai cuisine. I recommend the set menu for lunch. If you have some time on your hands and a desire to learn how to make traditional Thai dishes, I recommend booking a cooking class there as well. You can secure your spot online here.
Boonrat Dim Sum – some dim sum for breakfast? I’m in!
Tu Kab Khao Restaurant – go there for the deep-fried fish with turmeric!
Tunk-Ka Cafe – if you want to enjoy some Thai food with a view over the city;
China Inn – braised pork and some vintage furniture, anyone?
One Chun – Michelin-awarded place – excellent for crab dishes and traditional Thai dishes in general that will make you fall in love;
Keng-Tin – an 80-years-old sweet shop with lots of Thai delicacies such as pastries and cookies;
Torry’s Ice Cream – in case you want to end the day with some avocado ice cream;

This was my complete guide on Phuket Old Town and all its cultural and historical gems! In this article, I have told you everything you need to know about this often-times overlooked gem of Thailand – such as the 6 best things to do, which markets to visit, which tours to take, where to stay, where to eat and everything in-between!

In case you’re planning to visit more of Thailand, I recommend clicking here to read all about my adventures in this amazing Asian country!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket?

Check out all my Phuket Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Phuket so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

Pin image for Phuket Old Town Ultimate Guide

A Complete Guide to Visiting Phuket Old Town Thailand

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Where to Stay in Phuket – 7 Best Areas & Hotels

Are you travelling to Phuket soon? If the answer is yes, then get ready for some world-class relaxation and unforgettable days of laying on the beach! In case you’re wondering where to stay in Phuket, Thailand, this complete guide is here to help you. I have selected the 7 best areas to stay in Phuket, together with my hand-picked hotel recommendations for each. Scroll down to find everything you need to know!

Phuket is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Asia, with over 9 million visitors flying in each year, and it’s easy to see why! This tropical Thai island offers a tranquil reprieve from the hustle and bustle of busy Bangkok and it’s famous for its clear blue waters, paradisiac settings and luxury accommodations.

I mean, who doesn’t want relaxing island vibes, great restaurants and stunning weather that any beach lover would dream of? Find my list of the best places to stay in Phuket Town (spoiler alert: expect MANY beaches!), along with my top picks for hotels in each location!

Best of Phuket – Where to stay for first timers

Map of Phuket in Thailand with the best areas to stay marked

Before jumping right into it, here’s a short round-up of my selection of areas in Phuket, so you can easily choose the best one for you:

Karon Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for the first time
Patong Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for nightlife
Mai Khao Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for relaxation
Phuket Town – Where to stay in Phuket for culture and sightseeing
Bangtao Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for luxury
Kamala Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for families
Kata Beach – Where to stay in Phuket for water sports

OTHER GOOD BEACHES IN PHUKET, NOT COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE:

Okay, now let’s dive (hehe!) right into it and find more details about the 7 best areas to stay in Phuket, as well as the best accommodation options for each (expect lots of beach resort options!), broken down by budget:

Karon Beach

With one of the longest beaches on the island, you just can’t go wrong with 5 kilometres of pristine white sand! Karon is perfect if you’re looking for a beach holiday, as the area offers lots of water activities like kayaking, water skiing, banana boat rides, wakeboarding, windsurfing, jet skiing and parasailing.

Karon is much quieter than its crazy, party town neighbour, Patong – but you’ll still find that there is a lot to do in the Karon area, with many restaurants and bars. I personally prefer Karon to Patong (below in this list), as I like to get away from all the madness and stay somewhere a bit more chill, with plenty of beach resort options. Plus, it’s only a short ride to Patong’s party scene – so why not enjoy the best of both worlds?

Where to stay in Karon Beach

MY TOP PICK: Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort – If you want to be right on the beachfront of Karon, with a private secluded, quiet beach at your disposal, this is your choice!

Beachside Pool surrounded by palm trees at Le Meridien in Phuket

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Karon Beach

Patong Beach

When speaking of Phuket, Patong is undeniably THE most popular spot for tourists around! It’s the best place to find hundreds of shops, restaurants, bars and the craziest nightlife on the island. So, if you like to be in the centre of the party, this is the perfect place for you to stay in Phuket!

Listen to me when I say that Patong is NOT the location you are looking for if you’re hoping for a relaxing holiday. Patong is known for its wild side. Think neon lights, blaring music, clubs advertising some weird, kinky ping-pong ball show (don’t even ask), street stalls selling spiders and scorpions to eat, ladyboy cabaret shows, beach clubs and Muay Thai boxing competitions. What I am trying to say is, there is a lot going on in Patong! It’s loud and lively and a complete shock to the senses – but if you’re ready to be immersed into the madness, Patong is the rabbit hole you’ve been looking for!

Where to stay in Patong Beach

MY TOP PICK: Amari Phuket – This 5-star resort in Patong is a superb place to stay if you want to relax and enjoy not one, but two outdoor swimming pools, a private beach, a wonderful spa and free shuttle to Kata Beach. Why choose when you can relax all over Phuket, am I right?

Hangout area with a view to the ocean at a room in Amari Phuket

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Patong

Mai Khao Beach

If you want some peace and quiet during your trip, the resort heaven of Mai Khao beach is THE place to be! This beach is considered to be the longest beach in Phuket and it’s home to a lot of the island’s nature parks and luxury accommodations.

Tourists don’t tend to bother visiting Mai Khao unless they are staying at one of the resorts in the area, as it is so much further north than the other tourist places on the island. This spot is also popular for plane watching because it sits at the tip of Phuket Airport’s runway. You’ll catch people standing at the edge of the runway, waiting for planes to land to feel a rush and get a close-up snap with the belly of a plane.

Where to stay in Mai Khao Beach

MY TOP PICK: SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort – This superb 5-star resort boasts a lush garden, a beach club, two beachfront pools (how awesome is that?!), gorgeous rooms and a resort spa as well. Just picture a vacation during which you sip on cocktails on the beach and then you relax in one of the beachfront massage terraces.

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Mai Khao Beach

Phuket Old Town

Melissa crossing the street with an old peranakan house in Phuket Thailand

If you want to explore a town filled with colonial heritage and culture, then Phuket Town is an excellent area to stay for you! This part of Phuket may not be directly on the beach, but it’s filled with many great spots and you’ll find that its location is a great base if you are hoping to explore the smaller islands off the east coast. Old Phuket Town itself is very pretty to visit! It feels like a colonial Portuguese village, with small, colourful shops, cute coffee spots and traditional Thai restaurants hidden within its colourful streets.

TIP: Koh Phi Phi, Maya Bay and Phang Nga Bay are the most popular island day trips that you can take from Phuket Town. Personally, I would recommend checking out the smaller boat trips to some of the more secluded islands and enjoy them all for yourself. Either way, Phuket Old Town is the perfect base for daily island trips as it is situated close to the harbour!

Where to stay in Old Town Phuket

MY TOP PICK: Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel – This is one of the best places in Phuket Town for travellers who want to do some sightseeing rather than just lay on the beach all day! This colonial accommodation has beautiful rooms, free Wi-Fi and it also offers an airport shuttle. Plus, Patong Beach is only 20 minutes away by shuttle!

Hotel Room at Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

Book a place in Old Phuket Town

Bangtao Beach

Sure, Phuket by itself is a luxurious destination full of 5-star resorts and hotels, but Bangtao Beach (also spelt Bang Tao Beach) is the ultimate area for complete splurging! Because Bangtao Beach is a lesser-known part of Phuket, compared to Patong, for example, you’ll find a lot more peace and quiet here and a laid-back atmosphere. You can also prepare your heart for a long strip of white sand beach, high-end villas with swimming pool and sea views, and crystal clear waters.

This is one of those great places to stay if you’re not planning on exploring too much, but you’d rather spend your days lazing at a luxurious resort, in complete relaxation.

Where to stay in Bangtao Beach

MY TOP PICK: Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort – This gorgeous beach resort in Phuket is one of your best options if you want to stay in Bang Tao Beach. The accommodation has an outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness centre and plenty of dining options. The best part is that you’ll only be 20 minutes away from Patong and 25 from Phuket Town!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Bang Tao Beach

Kamala Beach

Kamala Beach on the West Coast is the place to go for lots of family-friendly hotels and resorts (and some peace and quiet). In case you want to party as well, no worries, as you’ll only be 20 minutes away by car (or tuk-tuk) from Patong Beach, the clubbing heart of Phuket.

There are also plenty of places to eat and grab a cocktail around the area, within walking distance from the beach, so you can rest assured that you won’t get bored while in Kamala!

Where to stay in Kamala Beach

MY TOP PICK: Keemala – Now this is one of the best places to stay if you’re looking for a special experience! Unlike other beach resorts in Phuket, this accommodation offers clay cottages surrounded by nature in the forest, each of them with its own private pool. In short, this 5-star hotel is stunning, with gorgeous views, free Wi-Fi and more. Recommended for an unforgettable vacation in Phuket!

Jungle villas with private pool at Keemala Hotel

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Kamala Beach

Kata Beach

Speaking of beautiful beaches in Phuket… here’s another good option for you! Karon and Kata are equally awesome parts of Phuket, so it may be hard to choose! I feel like if you want to visit Phuket for water sports and adventure, either one will be a good option and you’ll be fully satisfied! Kata Beach, divided into Kata Noi and Kata Yai) is located right next to Karon. It’s a bit smaller, a bit quieter, but still offers a lot of things to do!

The night scene here isn’t very lively, so you can expect some serenity and lots of relaxation during your stay.

Where to stay in Kata Beach

MY TOP PICK: The Shore At Katathan i – If you’re looking for some good mood, good food and complete relaxation, here’s your place in Phuket! This 5-star adults-only resort is right on the beachfront and you can choose from villas with private pools, sea views and more. They also teach yoga lessons and aqua aerobics on-site!

Private pool in a villa at The Shore At Katathani

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS:

LUXURY HOTELS:

MID-RANGE:

BUDGET HOTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Kata Beach

Okay, that’s me done! Here’s my complete guide on Phuket accommodations! In this post, I have discussed the best areas for all types of travellers and I have also given you my hand-picked recommendations for splurgin’ resorts, mid-range hotels and budget ones as well.

Regardless if you’re going to choose the vibrant Patong Beach, fun Karon, family-friendly Kamala or culture-rich Phuket Town, I’m sure you’ll have a great time on your travels!

If you want to read more about the best things to do in Thailand and my adventures in this wonderful country, I recommend heading over to this section here.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Phuket?

Check out all my Phuket Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in Phuket? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Phuket so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

Want to stay in the loop? Join my exclusive mailing list, plus you’ll gain access to my ever-growing free resource library!

Where to Stay in Bangkok – 6 Best Areas and Hotels

In case you’re planning a trip to this part of the world soon, you might be wondering where to stay in Bangkok, correct? Correct! And in order to offer you a complete answer, I have put together this complete guide for the best neighbourhoods and hand-picked hotels in the city. Scroll down to find the best place to stay in Bangkok according to your budget and preferences!

I’m just going to say it… it is easy to get overwhelmed — and lost — in Bangkok! The capital city of Thailand is huge, spread out and with a lot to offer. From beautiful temples to huge shopping centres, 5-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels, street markets to local restaurants, Bangkok is the best kind of busy as it makes you want to come back for more!

Map of Bangkok showing where to stay in bangkok with the best areas marked

When it comes to the best places to stay while you’re in Bangkok, here is my selection of the 6 best neighborhoods, with recommended hotels for each:

Khao San Road

If you’re visiting for the first time, fancy a bit of fun and you’re only staying in Bangkok for a few days before moving on to other cities in Thailand, you might want to book a hotel in Khao San Road. This is one of the best places to stay in Bangkok for nightlife! Offering a bit of everything, from cheap street food to tourist attractions, this district is lively, fun and very touristy.
Khao San is dubbed as the famous backpacking area, which means you’ll find many budget hostel options and a whole lot of nightlife here! While you’re here, you can get a massage from one of the numerous parlours, go and experience some pumping bars, find stall vendors selling spiders and scorpions to eat… All in all, let’s just say that Khao San Road is a TRUE experience! For those that fancy a bit of luxury, Khao San Road is also home to a lot of 5-star accommodations.

TIP: Keep in mind that this area is not situated near the BTS Skytrain or Metro (the most common public transportation options in the city) – so if you want to explore other areas of the city, you will be reliant on taxis and tuk-tuks.

Where to stay in Khao San Road

MY TOP PICK: Praya Palazzo – I consider this to be one of the best hotels in all of Bangkok! It’s world-class facilities and excellent location is what makes me recommend this 5-star hotel, as it’s walking distance to the Grand Palace, by the Chao Phraya River. While you’re there, you can enjoy the outdoor pool and free 24-hour shuttle boat service!

hotel room at praya palazzo hotel in bangkok

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Other than Praya Palazzo, here are some other excellent hotels in Bangkok, Khao San Road area, sorted by budget:

LUXURY HOTELS

BOUTIQUE HOTELS

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

HOSTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Thanabhumi

Book a hotel in Khaosan Road

WHAT TO DO IN KHAO SAN ROAD

Visit the world-famous temples: Wat Pho, Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew. Plus the Grand Palace, too!
Discover Khao San Road itself, a place full of restaurants, bars, cafes, street food vendors and more;
Visit Bangkok National Museum;
Take a boat and see the city from a different perspective.

Siam

Peekaboo shot of Wat Benchamabopit seen through an archway

Wondering where to stay in Bangkok for shopping? I got you! If you’re looking to be in the heart of Bangkok or you just want to be near the city’s top shopping destination, Siam is the best area to stay for you! This area of the city, located around Siam Square, is built up with skyscrapers, filled with mega-malls, hotels, restaurants and offices.

A downside is that traffic can be pretty horrific in this part of town, but as the most central location in Bangkok, Siam is well-connected with both BTS Skytrain and the Metro stations nearby. This makes Siam my top choice for travellers who want to explore a lot of the city by public transport (recommended!). And if I sit and think about it, I can easily recommend Siam as an excellent place to stay for your first time in the city!

Where to stay in Siam

MY TOP PICK: Hotel Indigo – If you’re dreaming of staying at a luxurious 5-star hotel in one of the best neighborhoods in the city, want to enjoy an outdoor infinity pool while being located close to Siam Paragon shopping mall and Siam Square, this is the place for you. This hotel in Bangkok offers excellent service and an amazing location to top it off!

Girl Around the World sitting on the balcony facing the park at Hotel Indigo Bangkok

Melissa sitting in front of the infinity pool at Hotel Indigo Wireless Road Bangkok

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Here’s my complete selection of the best hotels in Siam for a superb stay in Bangkok:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Siam

WHAT TO DO IN SIAM AREA

Go to one of the many shopping malls around Siam Square and find everything you wish for and more: MBK Shopping Mall, Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery and Central World Mall. Among all of these, Siam Paragon might be my favourite!
Visit Jim Thompson’s House and learn about Thai silk;
Indulge in some authentic food at the street food stalls in the shopping centers;
Jump on the skytrain and check out Chatuchak Weekend Market.

Sukhumvit

In case you’re wondering where to stay in Bangkok for a luxury, high end experience, this is a great place! Sukhumvit Road is one of Bangkok’s fancier districts, scattered with 10 Michelin-starred restaurants in the neighbourhood, world-class rooftop bars, elite nightlife spots and luxury hotel options. If you’re looking to live it up and splurge, then Sukhumvit area in Bangkok is surely one of the best places to stay in Bangkok for you!

This modern neighborhood in Bangkok is well-connected to the rest of the capital, with the BTS Skytrain running down the length of it, easily connecting with the main intersections in Siam.

Where to stay in Sukhumvit

MY TOP PICK FOR SUKHUMVIT: Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit – If you’re looking for a luxurious, world-class stay in the city in one of the best areas, I whole-heartedly recommend Hyatt Regency. This hotel boasts a superb outdoor pool, as well as a fitness centre for those of you who, like me, cannot start their day without a proper workout! And the rooms? Simply superb!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Other than this excellent hotel, here are my other top picks for a wonderful stay in the city:

LUXURY HOTELS:

BOUTIQUE:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book your hotel in Sukhumvit

WHAT TO DO IN SUKHUMVIT

Explore the vivid nightlife of Sukhumvit in one of the many bars and clubs in the area, especially along Tong Lo Road or Soi 11;
Shop ‘til you drop at Terminal 21 Shopping Mall;
If you’re interested in the Red Light District concept, go to Nana Plaza or Soi Cowboy.

Riverside Area

If you’re looking for a Bangkok neighborhood that’s more laid-back and offers scenic views of Chao Phraya River, then the Riverside area is your answer! You’ll find many temples worth visiting around this area, together with the famous Royal Palace. And if you’re looking for some luxury, it is well-known that this area hosts TONS of luxurious hotels in Bangkok!

Another advantage is that this neighborhood in Bangkok has a very convenient location, so it will be very easy to get around the rest of the city and its top attractions.

Where to stay in the Riverside Area

MY TOP PICK: Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort – This is a superb 5-star hotel located in the Riverside Area (one of the BEST areas of Bangkok for first time visitors, if you ask me!) that boasts a gorgeous outdoor pool and wonderfully decorated rooms. Ah, by the way, if you choose to book a room here, you’ll be able to choose from 10 (ten!) different on-site restaurants. Wow!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Here is my hand-picked selection for this area:

LUXURY HOTELS

BOUTIQUE

MID-RANGE HOTELS

BUDGET HOTELS

HOSTELS

ENTIRE APARTMENTS

Book your place on the Riverside

WHAT TO DO AROUND THE RIVERSIDE

Visit the famous temples of Wat Arun and Wat Pho, as well as the Royal Grand Palace, as they’re all located in walking distance to this area;
Buy some flowers and fresh produce from the Flower Market;
Take a ferry cruise;
Treat yourself in one of the luxurious Thai restaurants around.

Silom and Sathorn

Silom and Sathorn are two smaller areas located right next to each other, which we can consider to be one bigger neighbourhood. This is one of Bangkok’s financial districts (Silom is even considered to be Bangkok’s Wall Street!), situated further out from the city centre. This makes it appealing for travellers who are looking to get away from the busy bustle that takes over so much of the city’s central areas.

With a thriving dining scene, shopping and nightlife, you’ll find that even though Silom and Sathorn especially are a bit further out, this area of town has no shortage of great things to do. Even though the metro and BTS Skytrain are accessible here, you may need to rely on taxis to get around this part of the city.

Where to stay in Silom and Sathorn

MY TOP PICK: W Bangkok Hotel – It’s well-known that the W chain of hotels offers superior quality all over the world and their hotel in Bangkok is surely no exception! They have an outdoor swimming pool, an excellent on-site restaurant and the accommodation is located close to Silom Road. Ah, and make sure to check out the views from the top floors – simply breathtaking!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

Take a look on the list below:

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

BOUTIQUE:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENTS:

Book a place in Silom

WHAT TO DO IN SILOM AND SATHORN

Visit Patpong Night Market for food and other small shopping;
Relax and unwind in Lumpini Park (also called Lumphini Park);
Go to Patpong Night Market and explore the numerous stalls;

Chinatown

In case you’re wondering where to stay in Bangkok in order to explore the city’s best cuisine, you’ll find your answer in the Chinatown area! Offering more than just amazing street food, Chinatown has become one of Bangkok’s most popular areas to stay. This is THE largest Chinatown in the world and a fun neighbourhood all in all!

There is a lot on offer here; sample dishes from the endless street food stalls selling a selection of Asian foods, wander the narrow street of Sampeng Market which seems to sell everything yet nothing really at all or visit the world’s largest golden statue at the Buddhist temple of Wat Traimit.

Where to stay in Chinatown

MY TOP PICK: Shanghai Mansion Bangkok – If you’re looking for a high quality stay in one of the most interesting areas in the city! This hotel is located in the heart of Chinatown! It has nicely decorated and clean rooms that actually recreate the traditional 1930s’ style in this area. A true gem!

OTHER NOTABLE HOTELS

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS:

Hotel Royal Bangkok at Chinatown – Unfortunately, Chinatown has no 5-star hotels, but this 4-star hotel is the next best thing!
The Quarter Hualamphong by UHG

BOUTIQUE HOTEL:

MID-RANGE HOTELS:

BUDGET HOTELS:

HOSTELS:

ENTIRE APARTMENT:

The Spades Private Residence

Book your room in Chinatown

WHAT TO DO IN CHINATOWN

Visit Wat Traimit Temple to see the Golden Buddha;
Shop at Sampeng Market for food, spices, Chinese tea and more;
Explore the streets and discover Chinatown’s street art.

Aaand we have reached the end of my complete guide about where to stay in Bangkok! In this article I have told you everything you need to know about the 6 best neighbourhoods in the capital for tourists visiting for the first time or not! I have also selected some carefully hand-picked hotels for all budgets and preferences out there: resorts, upscale hotels, mid-range accommodations, as well as hostels and apartments. In short, you have everything you need here!

I’m sure your trip to Bangkok will be unforgettable! If you want to read more about other amazing destinations in Thailand, I recommend checking out this section here.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book your tour in the city? Head over here.
Did you not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin it for later!

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Ultimate Guide to Visiting Wat Pho in Bangkok – The Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho Temple (Wat Phra Chetuphon) is one of the many famous historical spots in Bangkok and I’m pretty sure it’s on your itinerary for the city as well. At least it should be! Thousands of people from all over the world come to visit this stunning temple in Bangkok each year, mostly to see its impressive Reclining Buddha statue and, if you’ll be one of them in the near future, this article is here to tell you everything you need to know!

Below you’ll find lots of precious info about visiting Wat Pho Temple – when and how to visit, the cost of entrance, which tours to take, how to dress and more. Plus my best tips to keep in mind before going to Wat Pho temple, which will help you save precious time and energy!

All right, let’s go:

First of all, why should you visit Wat Pho?

Melissa in front of the spires at Wat Pho Temple

Portrait of Melissa petting a cat with a Wat Pho spire in the background

99% of people visit Wat Pho to see the Reclining Buddha, which is 100% a legit reason to visit because this IS the highlight of the temple! Aside from the impressive statue of the Reclining Buddha, the entire temple complex of Wat Pho is really pretty and it’s full of intricate decorations and golden Buddha images in the shapes of statues and paintings. If I think about it, this may just be my favourite temple in Bangkok, so a visit here is definitely worth it!

RELATED READ: Wat Pho, Wat Arun and the Grand Palace are said to be the three must-visit tourist sights in Bangkok, located very close to each other. If you want to read more about each of the other two, I recommend checking out my dedicated articles:

Everything you need to know about visiting Wat Pho, Bangkok

Quick info about Wat Pho

Wat Pho was once Thailand’s first public university with a focus on science, literature and, of course, religion. There are more than 1.300 inscriptions on marble talking about medical sciences around the temple complex (which is why visiting with a guide makes everything much easier to understand!). It is believed that Wat Pho was established in the 16th century and it was later used as a Royal Temple for King Rama I of the Chakri Dynasty.

Nowadays, Wat Pho is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Bangkok and a famous traditional Thai massage and medicine centre. Moreover, Wat Pho has been a UNESCO Memory of the World (MOW) since 2008.

RELATED READ: For my complete list of unmissable highlights and cool activities in this city, I recommend checking my dedicated article: 5 Unmissable Tourist Places to See in Bangkok – A Complete City Guide

What to see at Wat Pho Temple complex

The Reclining Buddha

As I mentioned before, the most iconic site in the temple complex is the Reclining Buddha – a Buddha figure in the ‘Nirvana’ or enlightenment pose. Why is this so interesting, after all? That’s a legit question. First of all, the statue is massive – it’s 15 metres tall and 46 metres long.

The Buddha’s feet are 5 metres long and they’re decorated with painted images and ‘laksanas’ (characteristics) of Buddha. Second of all, the statue is covered in gold leaf, so you can imagine how impressive it looks in person, right? It’s kind of interesting to see how big the Reclining Buddha is, really, it looks like someone squeezed it into the place!

NOTE: Before entering the Reclining Buddha room, you’ll have to take your shoes off.

108 coins

person placing a coin inside one of the 108 vases

For 20 baht (0.65 US$), you can purchase a small bowl that contains 108 coins. As a meditative practice, you walk along the wall on the backside of the reclining Buddha and drop a coin in each of the 108 buckets. Why 108? 108 is a holy number in Buddhism and the coins you provide as this meditation is used for the upkeep of the temple. And you can also make a wish!

The rest of the temple complex

statues lined up against a wall at wat pho

Except for the famous Reclining Buddha, there are some other cool things to admire on the site. For example, there are 4 chapels with beautiful Buddha images, gold Buddha statues lined up, complex murals and some pretty cool and colourful stupas and Chinese statues in the courtyards. Visitors have access to all these with their entrance ticket and you can even book a guide on-site for 200 or 400 baht (6.40 or 12.80 US$).

Wat Pho massage – Traditional Thai Massage School

person giving a thai massage to a lied down person

Wat Pho is considered the first public university for teaching Thai Massage. They also teach Thai medicine in this temple and you can get a variety of traditional Thai massages here. Although you can search and find a better rate out and about, the historical significance of this school seems to draw in the tourists.

Thai massage 30 min: 260 Baht (8.30 US$)
Thai massage 1hr: 420 Baht (13.40 US$)
Foot massage 30min: 280 Baht (9 US$)
Foot massage 1 hr: 420 Baht (13.40 US$)

How to get to Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok

Map of Bangkok with the three main attractions marked on the map

Wat Pho Temple is located on the river banks, next to the riverboat pier, very close to the Grand Palace, across the river from Wat Arun and right behind Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Wat Pho address: Maharat Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Find it on Google Maps here.

The closest MRT station to Wat Pho is Sanam Chai on the blue line. The temple is only a 7-minute walk away from the station. You can also get there by boat if you get on at Tha Tien pier. There are different ways to get to Wat Pho, depending on where you’re staying in the city. I’ll talk about the most popular options below:

GETTING TO WAT PHO FROM SIAM:

Grab / Taxi: 20-minute ride (depending on traffic)
BTS Skytrain and boat: 41min duration, BTS to Saphan Taksin station, Boat shuttle to Tha Chang
Bus: 50min duration, 47 or 508 Bus from Siam Centre

GETTING TO WAT PHO FROM SUKHUMVIT:

Grab / Taxi: 30-minute ride (depending on traffic)
MRT: 47min duration, MRT blue line to Sanam Chai

GETTING TO WAT PHO FROM KHAO SAN ROAD:

Grab / Taxi: 10min duration (depending on traffic)
Public Transport: 25min duration, 404 or 59 Bus from Ratchadamnoen Klang Road

Grab is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, where you can order on-demand taxis for cheaper and less hassle than regular taxis. When using Grab, the price of the fare will show before you order a taxi, you can pay in cash or card through the app, and the taxi picks you up and drops you off at a location of your choice.

TOP TIP #1: Use the Grab App to price check how much a trip should cost when you are getting a regular taxi. This way you’ll have a reference when haggling with Taxi drivers and will protect you from getting ripped off.

TOP TIP #2: If you’re visiting the Grand Palace first, it’s best to take a tuk-tuk ride to Wat Pho next. The entire ride is very short and also pretty fun! Another very good option is walking.

Wat Pho opening hours

portrait of girl around the world in between two spires at wat pho

Melissa walking between the colourful spires of Wat Pho temple

Wat Pho temple is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The massage service is available until 6:00 PM.

Best time to visit Wat Pho Temple

AIM FOR: Getting to Wat Pho first thing in the morning when it opens. This way you will miss both the harsh midday heat and the overwhelming crowds that come hand in hand with so many of the popular temples in Bangkok (usually from 10:00 AM on).

Personally, we arrived at Wat Pho at 7:30 AM and they let us into the temple complex early. It was so nice to get the site completely to ourselves. We stayed for 1h30’ before heading to Wat Arun (15min away), so we got to see both these sites while they were still uncrowded. An excellent tip if you want to avoid the long lines and it’s definitely worth it to wake up so early in the morning!

AVOID: Visiting on weekends or public holidays. It also gets pretty busy in the afternoons.

RELATED READ: To read more about visiting Wat Arun, read my dedicated blog post: A Complete Guide to Visiting Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok, Thailand

Wat Pho entrance fee

Entrance fee: 200 Baht (6.40 US$).

The fee includes a small water bottle as well. Your ticket allows you to visit everything in the temple complex without any extra fees. The massage is paid for separately (I mentioned the prices above). If you want to book a guide at the gates, the prices are 200 to 400 baht and they speak very good English.

You can purchase tickets on arrival at the gates or pre-book them online here with hotel pick-up included!

Best Wat Pho tours

monks walking through wat pho towards the main temple

In case you don’t want to waste precious vacation time trying to organise your itinerary around Bangkok, I wholeheartedly recommend booking an organised tour. This way you’ll have the entrance covered and a knowledgeable local guide will tell you all kinds of interesting information about the sights you’re visiting. If you ask me, the best idea would be to book a multi-temple tour (Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which will save you a lot of time. Here are the best ones I selected for you:

Find more Wat Pho tours

Wat Pho Temple dress code

Melissa going through a doorway with a huge spire in the background

Like most places of worship, the temples in Bangkok have a strict dress code for those wishing to visit. The most important thing to remember is to cover your knees and shoulders and to take off your shoes before entering the Reclining Buddha room. If you would like to check out the complete list of guidelines for visitors, you can find a breakdown on Wat Pho’s official website here.

The most important things to bring with you to Wat Pho

Of course, I couldn’t NOT share with you a useful packing list for Wat Pho (or any other temple or attraction in Bangkok, really):

800 baht in cash – the cost of the entrance ticket, massage for 1 hour and a little extra just in case;
Water – hydration is key, especially in the midday heat!
A hat – to protect you from the midday sun;
Sunscreen – same;

BONUS #1: What to visit near Wat Pho in Bangkok

Melissa walking through a doorway while visiting the grand palace

When planning your itinerary for the city, you’ll quickly realise that there are many other beautiful landmarks located within walking distance of the Grand Palace. Here are the best nearby attractions:

Grand Palace – probably the most famous attraction around Bangkok. The Palace is only a short walk or tuk-tuk ride away from Wat Pho. You can read all my most precious tips for this attraction here.
Wat Arun / The Temple of Dawn – another gorgeous Buddhist temple located across the river from Wat Pho and a must-see during your stay in Bangkok. You can take a water taxi to it.
Wat Mahathat – a great place for Vipassana Meditation and buying cute souvenirs. It’s also among the oldest temples in Bangkok;
Bangkok National Museum – one of the biggest museums in Southeast Asia and the best place to see some beautiful local art;
Kao San Road – 20 minutes walk from Wat Pho.

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for visiting Bangkok

Here’s our camera gear that we take all around with us, perfect for Bangkok too. It has everything you’ll ever need!

CAMERA: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

EVERYDAY LENS: Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens

WIDE ANGLE LENS: Sigma 10-20mm f3.5 EX DC

PORTRAIT LENS: Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG

GOPRO: GoPro HERO8 Black

TRIPOD: Benro Mach3 Tripod Ser 2 Alum 4 Sect

NV FILTER: Hoya 82mm Variable Density Screw-in Filter

CAMERA BAG: Manfrotto MB MA-BP-BFR Advanced Befree Camera Backpack

HARD DRIVE: LaCie 4 TB

RELATED READ: If you want to read more about our photography gear, I recommend checking out my dedicated article: What’s in my Camera Bag – All My Travel Blogging Gear

This was my complete guide for everyone visiting the Reclining Buddha Temple in Bangkok! I have told you everything you need to know above, from ticket prices to the different ways of getting there – and much more!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Bangkok?

Check out all my Bangkok Travel Guides here.
Need to book your flights? Head over to Skyscanner!
Time to book a tour in the city? Head over here.
Not get travel insurance??? Get it – it’s not a hassle you want to risk!
Don’t forget to download my nifty Google Maps Guide for your trip to Bangkok so you don’t miss a thing!

Pin me for later!

A Complete Guide to Visiting Wat Pho Temple

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Quick info and a bit of Cu Chi Tunnels history

Where are the Cu Chi Tunnels located?

Cu Chi Tunnels entrance fee

Which site should I visit: Ben Dinh vs Ben Duoc

Best time to visit Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels opening hours:

How to visit Cu Chi Tunnels

a) Organised tours

GROUP TOURS:

PRIVATE TOURS:

b) How to get to Cu Chi Tunnels by yourself

BY BUS

BY BOAT

BY TAXI

BONUS: My top tips for Cu Chi Tunnels

BONUS #2: Recommended camera gear for Ho Chi Minh

Want to know more about travelling to Vietnam?

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12 Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam

1 – Nguyen Hue Walking Street

2 – Coffee Apartments

3 – Bitexco Financial Tower & Saigon Skydeck

4 – Central Post Office

5 – Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

6 – Cu Chi Tunnels

7 – War Remnants Museum

8 – Tân Đinh Church

9 – Independence Palace

10 – Ben Thanh Market

11 – Binh Quoi Village

12 – Mekong Delta

BONUS: Extra things to do in Ho Chi Minh city if you have more time

Best tours of Ho Chi Minh city by type of traveller

BONUS: Organised day trips from Ho Chi Minh

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

What to eat in Ho Chi Minh City & Best restaurants in the city

PHO

BANH MI

BANH XEO

OC

CA KHO TO

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

WALKING

TAXI

MOTORCYCLE TAXI / XE ÔM

BUS

HOW TO GET TO THE CITY FROM THE AIRPORT

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9 Best things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

1 – Hoi An Old Town

2 – Hoi An Central Market

3 – Japanese Covered Bridge

4 – Fujian Assembly Hall / Phuc Kien

5 – My Son Sanctuary

6 – Get tailor-made clothes just for you

7 – Beaches near Hoi An

8 – Hoi An’s countryside and the rice paddies

9 – Hoi An Lantern Festival

BONUS: Extra things to do in Hoi An

Best tours of Hoi An by type of traveller

Where to stay in Hoi An, Vietnam

Best restaurants in Hoi An & what to eat

BANH MI

CAO LAU

WHITE ROSE DUMPLINGS

Getting around Hoi An, Vietnam

HOW TO GET TO HOI AN:

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Best beaches in Phuket Thailand by interest and type of traveller

A couple of things to know before

Which side of Phuket has the best beaches?

Where can you swim in Phuket?

13 Best Beaches in Phuket, Thailand

1 – Kata Beach (Kata Noi & Kata Yai)

2 – Freedom Beach