Phuket isn’t just about beaches and temples — it’s also a vibrant hub for shopping and market tours. Whether you’re hunting for handmade souvenirs, sampling local delicacies, or learning new cooking skills, Phuket offers experiences that get you off the tourist trail and into authentic Thai life. One standout is the Half day Thai cooking class + market tour+garden tour, which combines a local market visit with a hands-on cooking experience that’s both fun and educational. And if shopping is more your style, the Phuket Local Shopping Factory provides a guided look into unique Thai products. These tours showcase Phuket’s colorful markets and skilled artisans, making sure you bring home more than just photos.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits you best, this guide offers a detailed breakdown of the top 15 shopping and market tours in Phuket. From intimate cooking classes to extensive shopping factory visits, we’ll help you find the experience that fits your budget, interests, and schedule.
Quick Overview of the Best Shopping & Market Tours in Phuket
Phuket’s shopping scene is as diverse as its scenery. You’ll find options ranging from half-day Thai cooking classes with market visits (see more here) to full-day market and factory explorations. Many tours include hotel pickup, market visits, and hands-on cooking or shopping, making them perfect for those who want an interactive experience. Whether you want a small-group class, a luxury culinary experience, or an all-day shopping adventure, the list below covers the best options.
Now, let’s explore each one in detail, starting with the highest-rated experiences.
1. Half day Thai cooking Class + Market tour+Garden tour
This 5-star rated experience offers a perfect blend of local market sightseeing and hands-on Thai cooking. You’ll start with hotel pickup and visit Mae Somchit Kata Fresh Market, where your instructor selects fresh ingredients with you. Then, you’ll head to Woody’s Kitchen, a peaceful spot in Kata, to learn how to cook famous Thai dishes. What makes this tour special is the garden visit, where you see tropical fruits and vegetables before cooking and eating your creations. Reviewers love Woody’s sense of humor and the authentic recipes they take home, making it a top choice for food lovers.
This tour’s value lies in its combination of market insight, cooking instruction, and the relaxed atmosphere of Kata. It’s best suited for travelers who want to learn Thai cuisine in a friendly environment and enjoy local market shopping. The class is available in both morning and afternoon sessions, so you can pick what works best.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, fun-filled introduction to Thai cooking with a local touch.
2. Phuket Easy Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour
For about $67, this 5-star rated small-group experience delivers a personalized 4-hour culinary adventure. The class limits groups to just 12 people, ensuring you get plenty of attention. It starts with a visit to a local market to pick fresh ingredients, then moves into an open-air kitchen where you’ll learn to cook five authentic Thai dishes. The instructor, Tik, is praised for making the class fun and engaging, and many guests say they’ve already recreated the recipes at home with great success.
This tour shines because of its intimate setting and the chance to master multiple dishes in just a few hours. It’s ideal for foodies who want a personalized experience. The only drawback might be the slightly limited menu compared to full-day options, but the quality and depth of instruction compensate.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re after a small, engaging cooking class and authentic market experience.
3. Phuket Local Shopping Factory
If shopping’s your main goal, this 5-star rated factory tour is perfect. It’s a guided shopping day where a local expert takes you to top spots like Gems Gallery and Herb & Health Gallery. The tours are flexible, ranging from 1 to 8 hours, with a focus on locally made souvenirs, jewelry, herbs, and artisanal products. The guide handles traffic and logistics, making shopping hassle-free. Reviewers note that it’s a great way to find unique gifts and support local artisans.
This experience is best suited for shopaholics wanting to explore Phuket’s hidden shops and factory outlets without the stress of navigating alone. It’s wheelchair accessible, and you get to enjoy air-conditioned comfort in between stops.
Bottom Line: A smart choice for those who want curated shopping with a knowledgeable guide.
4. Blue Elephant Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour in Phuket
This luxury experience takes place in a colonial mansion, combining a market visit and cooking four Thai dishes, plus a take-home apron and recipes. The $160 price reflects its high-quality setting and detailed instruction. Guests praise the informative market tour where you discover lesser-known ingredients, and the professional chefs help you perfect your dishes. The class ends with you enjoying your own cooked meal, making it a culinary highlight.
Ideal for foodies willing to spend a bit more for a more refined atmosphere, this tour offers comprehensive insights into Thai cuisine. Some guests mention the weather can affect the experience, but overall, the reviews are glowing.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a more upscale, immersive cooking experience in a charming setting.
5. Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour in Phuket by VJ
This small-group class focuses on learning to cook four Thai dishes and making your own curry paste. It lasts about 3 hours and includes market visits, recipe books, and light refreshments. The class is praised for its personalized attention and interactive approach, perfect for beginners or those with limited time.
Reviewers appreciate the quality of ingredients and the comprehensive nature of the class. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a shorter, well-rounded culinary experience. The price makes it a great value considering the hands-on instruction and market tour.
Bottom Line: An efficient, engaging way to learn authentic Thai cooking in a manageable timeframe.
6. Phuket City Tour Sightseeing and Night Market Everyday
Unlike the strictly culinary-focused tours, this 5-star rated 5-hour excursion offers a cultural and shopping mix. It includes visits to Big Buddha, Wat Chalong, and Phuket Old Town, plus a trip to the Chillva Night Market. The tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to Phuket’s highlights, with hotel pickup included.
Guests love the variety and the chance to see both cultural sites and the night market. It’s perfect for families or first-timers who want a comprehensive day out.
Bottom Line: Great for a well-rounded day exploring Phuket’s culture and markets.
7. Phuket Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour Option
With over 2,200 reviews, this top-rated class is a favorite among travelers. It offers 3-hour cooking lessons with the option to visit a local market. The menu is customizable based on your preferences, and the class includes ingredients, refreshments, and recipes. Reviewers call it “the most organized cooking class,” crediting the expert instruction and hands-on approach.
This tour fits everyone from beginners to experienced cooks who want a practical, fun experience. Its popularity means booking early is recommended.
Bottom Line: The best choice for easy, flexible, and highly rated Thai cooking classes.
8. Phuketian Cooking Class With Market Tour
This cozy, friendly class is perfect for small groups wanting a personalized experience. It includes a visit to Kaset Market, where you learn about exotic fruits and vegetables, and then participate in cooking traditional dishes. The 4-hour class emphasizes participation and learning.
Guests rave about the informative market visit and the participatory atmosphere. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to learn Thai cooking in a laid-back setting.
9. Cooking Class and Market Tour in Patong, Phuket
This small-group class focuses on classic Thai dishes like chicken satay and pad thai. It includes a market visit and recipe booklet for cooking at home. The $89 price point offers a personalized experience with limited spots.
Perfect for food lovers who want a fun, interactive class with a local market experience. Reviews highlight the friendly instructor and delicious food.
Bottom Line: Great for culinary beginners or families seeking a hands-on introduction to Thai cuisine.
$89.89 per person
10. Full Day Phuket Easy Thai Cooking Class and Market Tour
This 8-hour, comprehensive tour is ideal for serious foodies. With a focus on eight or nine dishes, you’ll learn everything from curry pastes to desserts. The full-day format includes a market visit and savoring your own creations. The price reflects its depth, but many say it’s worth every baht.
Guests appreciate the extensive menu and personalized attention. It’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into Thai cuisine.
Bottom Line: Best for culinary explorers wanting an immersive experience.
11. Small Group Phuket City and Shopping Tour
This 5-hour tour combines cultural sights like Wat Chalong and Old Phuket Town with shopping at wineries, gem factories, and local markets. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a balanced day with sightseeing and shopping. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, making it easier to find unique souvenirs.
Reviewers commend the smooth logistics and the variety of stops. It’s suited for families or couples looking for a diverse day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a mixed cultural and shopping experience.
$62.55 per person
12. Phuket Cooking Course Half Day Class and Market Tour
A popular and well-reviewed option, this 4-hour class teaches you 3-4 dishes, plus a local market tour. It’s praised for easy-to-follow instructions and fresh ingredients. The included market visit allows you to buy ingredients and learn about local produce.
Ideal if you want a concise but thorough introduction to Thai cooking, perfect for short stays or first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for quick, hands-on Thai cooking lessons.
$82.69 per person
13. Phuket Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour and Hotel Pickup
This 4.5-hour experience emphasizes personalized instruction in a relaxed open-air kitchen. It includes a market tour to pick ingredients and a dinner of your own cooking. Guests say the small group size and local guide create a friendly environment. The vegetarian options make it flexible for dietary needs.
It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, convenient experience with hotel pickup included. The reviews highlight its informative and fun nature.
Bottom Line: Great for those who value personalized guidance and all-in-one convenience.
$71.91 per person
14. Phuket Amazing Sunset: Phromthep Cape, Chillva Market, Monkey Hills
For sunset lovers, this 4-hour private tour combines spectacular views at Phromthep Cape with visits to Old Phuket Town and Monkey Hill. It also includes a stop at Chillva Night Market for snacks. The air-conditioned vehicle and expert guide make the trip comfortable and informative.
Guests love the stunning sunset views and the personalized touch of the private guide. It’s perfect for romantic couples or photographers wanting a relaxed, scenic evening.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset fans wanting a comfortably paced, scenic experience.
15. Thai Cookery Class and Market Tour in Phuket
This affordable, 3.5-star rated class offers a 4-hour hands-on experience, with guests choosing 4 dishes from a menu. It includes a market visit and home-cooked meal. Reviewers mention the friendly teacher and great location.
It’s suited for budget-conscious travelers wanting a basic but authentic cooking experience. Booking early is advisable, as space fills quickly.
Bottom Line: Good value for travelers seeking a practical introduction to Thai cooking.
$89.24 per person
How to Choose the Best Shopping & Market Tour in Phuket
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If you want immersive cooking, options like the Half day Thai cooking class + market tour+garden tour or the Blue Elephant experience are excellent. For shopping enthusiasts, the Phuket Local Shopping Factory offers curated shopping without the stress.
If culture and scenic views appeal to you, the Sunset tour at Phromthep Cape combines breathtaking scenery with market visits. For a shorter but rich experience, the Thai Cooking Class with market tour, which is highly rated, fits well into a tight schedule.
Booking early is advised, especially for tours with high reviews and limited availability. Consider your fitness level and interest in shopping or cooking when choosing.