Phuket attractions that can be reached by car

29 September 2025

Phuket is famous for its beaches and picturesque sunsets, but the island also has many attractions that are easily accessible by car. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island: you don’t have to rely on taxis, you can plan your own route, and you can visit several places in one day. Let’s take a look at the key attractions in Phuket that are worth including in your itinerary.

Big Buddha Statue

The main symbol of the island is the 45-meter statue of Buddha sitting on top of Nakkerd Hill. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Phuket and the Andaman Sea. The complex is of great religious significance to locals and is a must-see for tourists. The statue is currently closed, but you can see Buddha from behind from the parking lot and grab a bite to eat at the cafe if you wish.
There is a dress code on the statue grounds: shoulders and knees must be covered, but sarongs can be purchased on site if necessary.

How to get there: a paved road leads from Chalong. There are signs along the way. Parking is free right at the entrance.
Tip: you can walk up the forest trail, but it is much more convenient by car.

Wat Chalong Temple

The most revered temple in Phuket. Its main pagoda houses a fragment of a sacred relic — the bones of Buddha. The complex is decorated with frescoes, gold elements, and sculptures. Wat Chalong introduces guests to the culture and traditions of Thailand and creates an atmosphere of spiritual tranquility.

How to get there: The temple is located near the Chalong roundabout. It is easy to get there by car by following the signs. Parking is available nearby.
Tip: It gets crowded here on holidays, so it is better to come in the morning or afternoon on weekdays.

Phuket Old Town

The historic center of Phuket Town preserves unique architecture in the style of Chinese-Portuguese colonialism. Colorful mansions converted into cafes, shops, and galleries make the streets a veritable open-air museum. A walk along Thalang, Dibuk, and Soi Romani streets will provide many atmospheric photos.

Here you can visit the Thavorn Hotel museum, Chinpracha mansion, Jui Tui temple, view street graffiti, and be sure to visit the Sunday night market.

How to get there: you can drive around different areas of the city. It is best to park on side streets, given the one-way traffic.
Tip: come on Sunday evening to visit the market, but be aware of traffic jams.

Promthep Cape

The southernmost point of the island, famous for its observation deck. People come here to watch the sunset, but the views during the day are no less impressive: the endless sea, palm trees, and Yanui Bay below. There is a lighthouse museum and a temple pavilion with hundreds of elephant statues on the territory. After a walk, you can go down to Yanui Beach or stop for lunch in the village of Rawai.

How to get there: The road leads directly to the observation deck. There is a large parking lot.
Tip: Driving there will allow you to arrive not only at sunset but also during the day when there are fewer people.

Karon and Kao Rang observation decks

Karon Viewpoint

The site offers a view of three beaches at once—Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon. It is one of the most popular places for taking photos. On the way, you can visit the little-known Black Rock site. It’s a 10-minute walk from the parking lot, but the view of the south coast is mesmerizing. It’s best to go by four-wheel drive or bike.

How to get there: Karon viewpoint is located on the road between Kata and Nai Harn, with parking nearby.

Khao Rang Hill

Located within Phuket Town, it offers panoramic views of the city and the east coast. There is an observation deck, a gazebo, and a restaurant. It is especially beautiful in the evening when the city lights come on below.

How to get there: the road leads from the city center, follow the signs for “Khao Rang Viewpoint.” Parking is free.

Other attractions

It is easy to drive to other interesting places:

Sirinat National Park — centuries-old casuarina trees near Nai Yang Beach.
Phuket Aquarium at Cape Panwa — especially interesting for a trip with children.
Baan Teelanka “upside-down house” — an unusual photo location.
Orchid farm in the Ko Sire area — a peaceful place for nature lovers.

All these locations have one thing in common: they are easy to reach on your own, without taxis or group tours.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Phuket?

Approximate prices (per day):

Nissan March — from 300 to 500 baht
Toyota Yaris Ativ — from 450 to 800 baht
MG5 Sedan — from 600 to 1200 baht

The cost depends on the season, car class, and rental period. For long-term rentals, the price per day is significantly lower.

Why it is better to rent a car from Holy Cow Phuket

Holy Cow offers transparent terms and convenient service:

Direct contracts without collateral documents.
Car delivery to the airport or hotel.
Choice of models: from compact cars to 7-seater cars for groups.
The entire fleet is serviced and insured.
Free child seats, roadside assistance, support in Russian.

With Holy Cow, you get maximum freedom and confidence. The car will become your reliable companion: you can visit several attractions in one day, not depend on schedules, and travel in comfort.

FAQ

Can you visit all the main attractions in one day?
Yes, if you plan your route well and rent a car. For example: Wat Chalong → Big Buddha → Promthep Cape → evening in the Old Town.
Do you need tickets for visits?
Most places are free: entry to Wat Chalong, the Big Buddha, and viewpoints. Tickets are required for the aquarium or the “Upside-Down House.”
What transport to choose if you don’t want to rent a car?
You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk, but trips will be more expensive and less convenient: it’s not always possible to visit several spots in a row.
Where is the most convenient parking in the Old Town?
On side streets near the main roads. On Sunday evenings, expect heavy traffic because of the market.
Do you need an international driver’s license?
Yes, officially Thailand requires an International Driving Permit. Many rental agencies check this document.