Phuket isn’t just about sunbathing on its golden beaches; it’s also a place where history and local culture shine through in its temples, viewpoints, and old town. If you’re curious about the island’s past, exploring its landmarks gives you a richer understanding of Thailand’s largest island. For example, the Landmark City Tours with Viewpoints & Monkey Hill offers a well-rounded introduction, combining scenic vistas with cultural sites such as Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha. We especially appreciate tours that include insights from local guides and hassle-free logistics, so you can focus on soaking in the sights instead of planning every detail.
While some visitors prefer guided group experiences, others seek personalized adventures. Luckily, Phuket has a variety of options—from small-group tours to exclusive private excursions—that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you want to explore historic Old Town or get panoramic views from hilltop temples, the tours listed below cover a broad range of interests and activity levels.
Quick Overview
Our list covers eight of the best historical tours in Phuket, each offering something unique. From half-day sightseeing trips featuring viewpoints and temples to full-day private explorations that explore local culture and countryside life, there’s a tour to match your curiosity. For a comprehensive sample, check out the Phuket Landmark Tour, Old Town, Big Buddha which combines major landmarks with cultural insights. Want something more immersive? The Phuket Countryside and Heritage Tour takes you beyond the tourist spots into local farms and artisan workshops. For practical advice, stay tuned for tips on choosing the right tour at the end of this guide.
1. Landmark City Tours with Viewpoints & Monkey Hill “Must” to See
Priced at just over $25 per person and rated 4.5/5 based on 117 reviews, this small-group tour provides an accessible way to discover Phuket’s highlights. It lasts about five hours and includes hotel transfers, so you won’t need to worry about transport logistics. The tour covers Karon Viewpoint, Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and the charming Old Phuket Town—a good mix of panoramic vistas and cultural landmarks.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of scenic stops and cultural insights, all delivered by a passionate guide. The itinerary begins with the famous Karon Viewpoint, where you can snap photos of Kata Noi, Karon, and Kata Yai beaches, then moves on to the impressive Big Buddha, a 45-meter marble monument offering sweeping views of the island. The visit to Wat Chalong introduces you to Phuket’s most revered temple, while a walk through Old Town Phuket lets you see colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture and bustling markets. The reviews praise the cheerful guide Daisy for her knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience feel personal.
Bottom Line: An affordable, well-rounded tour ideal for first-timers keen to see Phuket’s main highlights with minimal hassle.
2. Private Guided Tour in Phuket Landmark
At around $120 per person, this private tour is perfect if you prefer a more personalized experience. Lasting about seven hours, it offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary. Highlights include Karon Viewpoint, Windmill Viewpoint, Promthep Cape, Big Buddha, and Wat Chalong—each selected for their scenic or cultural significance.
Booking a private guide means you can spend more time at the sites that interest you most and enjoy tailored commentary. The tour emphasizes enjoyable, unhurried visits, with a focus on capturing photos and learning about local history. The inclusion of a local restaurant for lunch ensures you experience authentic Thai cuisine in a setting that suits your preferences. Guests have remarked on the guide’s friendliness and their ability to explore at their own pace, making it ideal for families or small groups seeking a flexible day out.
Key highlights include the Windmill Viewpoint, where paragliders often take off, and the southern tip at Promthep Cape, known for its stunning vistas. The tour offers excellent value for those who appreciate privacy and customized itineraries.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a tailored, relaxed adventure with a local touch, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.
3. Phuket Landmark Tour , Old Town, Big Buddha
For around $47, this small-group tour combines three of Phuket’s most iconic attractions: Big Buddha, Old Phuket Town, and Wat Chalong. With approximately four hours, it provides a rundown of Phuket’s cultural landmarks with the benefit of insider commentary. The tour begins with a visit to Big Buddha, a 45-meter marble statue visible from afar, offering excellent photo opportunities and insight into Buddhist traditions.
Next, the tour takes you through Old Phuket Town, where quaint streets and Sino-Portuguese architecture tell stories of the city’s past trading history. The guide often includes a visit to a cashew nut factory, giving a taste of local craftsmanship. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the manageable pace, making this a great snapshot of the city’s heritage without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a concise yet enriching introduction to Phuket’s important cultural sites in just a few hours.
4. Phuket Countryside and Heritage Tour
At over $150 per person, this full-day private experience offers an immersive journey into Phuket’s rural life and traditional culture. It combines farm activities such as rice planting and coconut harvesting with a Thai cooking demo and organic meal. The tour incorporates visits to herbal remedy workshops, a gem gallery, and Old Phuket Town, blending history with local craftsmanship.
What makes this stand out is its hands-on approach—getting your hands dirty planting rice or picking coconuts. It’s suited for travelers who want more than sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the island’s lifestyle firsthand. Guests commend the knowledgeable guides and the chance to try authentic organic Thai dishes made from scratch. The tour’s inclusion of a cashew nut factory and herbal medicine demonstration adds local flavor.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious travelers who want an active, cultural, and culinary deep dive into Phuket’s countryside life.
$150.84 per person
5. Phuket City Tour: Wat Chalong, Big Buddha and Landmark
For about $28, this five-hour tour offers a solid introduction to the main sights of Phuket. It hits popular landmarks like Karon Viewpoint, Big Buddha, and Wat Chalong, with visits arranged to give you a good sense of the island’s spiritual and scenic highlights. The tour features cultural insights, with the guide explaining the significance of each site.
The itinerary includes a stop at Phuket Old Town for a quick exploration of Sino-Portuguese architecture, plus a visit to a gem gallery for a bit of shopping. Guests praise the guide’s friendliness and the well-paced schedule. It’s an excellent option for travelers short on time but still wanting a meaningful overview.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, straightforward tour perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see the key landmarks efficiently.
6. Old Town Cultural Heritage Tour of Phuket
Priced at about $61 and lasting six hours, this small-group tour explores Phuket’s Old Town with a focus on its history, architecture, and local markets. It includes visits to Wat Ban Ko Si Rea, perched on Siray Island, offering views of Sapam Bay and Tukkae Cape. The tour also walks through Thalang Road’s Sunday Market, where you can sample local snacks and browse arts and crafts.
This tour emphasizes culture, with a walking component and door-to-door transport. The reviews mention the engaging guides and the chance to see less-touristy areas like mangroves inhabited by monkeys. It’s suitable for those interested in authentic local life and history beyond the usual tourist spots.
Bottom line: A good choice for travelers wanting to combine history, architecture, and local markets in a relaxed, intimate setting.
7. Small Group Phuket City and Landmark Tour
At roughly $79, this small-group experience runs about five hours, taking you from Phuket Town’s markets and streets to major landmarks like Karon Viewpoint, Wat Chalong, and Big Buddha. It highlights the diverse architecture of Phuket, including the Sino-Portuguese buildings of the old town. The guide provides detailed commentary, making the tour educational and engaging.
Guests appreciated the balanced itinerary and the personalized service, with some noting the opportunity to visit a Gems Gallery for jewelry shopping. The tour is suitable for those wanting a deeper understanding of Phuket’s history, culture, and urban landscape in a manageable half-day.
Bottom line: An enriching tour for travelers who appreciate architecture, culture, and scenic viewpoints in one package.
$79.08 per person
8. Phuket City Tour with Famous Landmark and Insta Hunt Challenge
At just over $32, this half-day tour combines sightseeing with a fun Instagram Bingo challenge. It includes the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, Karon Viewpoint, and Old Phuket Town. The tour’s unique feature is the interactive Insta Hunt, which adds a playful element to capturing the best photos at each site.
The tour is ideal for social media-savvy travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a lighthearted game. Reviewers mention the excellent photo opportunities and the friendly guide, although some note the tour’s shorter duration doesn’t leave much time at each site.
Bottom line: A lively, photo-focused tour suited for younger travelers or those who enjoy social media and fun challenges.
$32.49 per person
How to Choose the Right Historical Tour in Phuket
When choosing a tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a guided group or a private experience. For a budget-friendly introduction, the Landmark City Tours or the Phuket City Tour with Landmark deliver great value. If you want a deeper culture, the Heritage & Countryside Tour offers hands-on activities and local experiences.
For travelers seeking flexibility and privacy, the Private Guided Tour provides customization. And for those who enjoy interactive, photo-friendly outings, the Insta Hunt Challenge combines sightseeing with a playful game.
Final Thoughts
Phuket’s historical tours offer a wide range of experiences—from scenic viewpoints and ancient temples to lively old town walks and countryside adventures. If you want a quick overview, the Landmark City Tours are hard to beat for affordability and variety. For a more personalized experience, the Private Guided Tour suits those with specific interests or limited time.
Travelers who appreciate in-depth culture should consider the Heritage & Countryside Tour, while those on a budget or short on time might prefer the Phuket City Tour with Landmark. Whichever you choose, booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to ensure you secure your preferred date and time.