Written by Shannon Osztonits
Co-written by Dawn Pillay
Phuket will always have a special place in my heart since this is where I had my first independent holiday with friends years ago.
We had so much fun renting motorbikes, riding around and exploring Phuket freely, checking out places like Big Buddha, various beaches, firing ranges and more.
Also, Phuket is a great alternative to Bali if you’re looking for a quick and easy friends trip, that’s more affordable! It can be just as beautiful as Bali (arguably) and an easy place to have fun with friends.
Wondering how affordable a 4D3N friends vacation here is, and just what you can do? Here’s a great friends-in-Phuket itinerary you’ll enjoy!
PS: Make travel easy and convenient with Klook services like airport transfers, private car charter, city-to-city transfers – or even enjoy a custom Phuket tour!
Check Phuket’s custom itinerary (+ private driver) discounted rate on Klook
Read more:
9 things about Phuket you never knew to inspire your next trip!
18 things to do that will show you Phuket is more than just a beach destination
18 quirky and cool cafes and restaurants in Phuket to visit
17 Instagrammable restaurants & cafes for your brunch around Phuket
Sponsored by Klook Travel
Adventures Made Simple with Custom Itineraries + Private Car & Driver! – Klook
We’ve personally tried Klook’s private chartered car with driver, and it’s both convenient and value-for-money!
Planning an itinerary from scratch, and researching travel options can be tedious and time-consuming. And if you’ve never been to Phuket, the island is pretty big, so you’ll need to account for travel time.
Thankfully, Klook’s customisable itineraries complete with a private chartered car and driver makes travelling simple – and they’re available for your fun friends trip to Phuket!!
If you’re looking to adventure your way through Phuket, Klook-ing your way there would make your holiday more convenient and even sweeter.
With a car and driver picking us up at the hotel, bringing us from place to place, and finally dropping us off at the hotel at the end of the day – it’s a fun and truly fuss-free way to explore destinations.
(Taxis can be very expensive, charging up to 500 Baht per one-way trip or more, and travellers might encounter dishonest taxi drivers. With Klook’s custom itineraries, you can avoid going to all that trouble!)
Just for our dear readers, get 8% OFF any first-time bookings (capped at S$15). Simply apply the promo code ‘TRIPCANVASTH’ when you check out!
Overview
Here’s a quick overview of this 4-day Phuket itinerary for friends!
Tap sections below to scroll to the relevant section
Getting there and around
Recommended Accommodation
Day 1: Just relax, explore Old Town Phuket and shop at Phuket Walking Street!
Day 2: Let the fun begin at the beach, catch some stunning views and watch a cabaret!
Day 3: Chase waterfalls, explore an upside down house or visit the gibbons and more!
Day 4: Slip into a Mediterranean Beach and visit the Art Village before you go!
Total Cost Breakdown
How to get to Phuket?
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From Singapore, Scoot Tiger Air, AirAsia and SilkAir offers direct flights to Phuket from SGD $56.69 (round-trip). Earliest flight is 7.50am on Scoot Tiger Air, and 9.50am on Air Asia.
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From Malaysia, AirAsia offers direct flights from MYR 183 (round-trip).
How to get around Phuket?
To fully enjoy Phuket, you should definitely look into hiring a car to get around. Whether you would rather have a private chartered car or prefer driving around yourself (only if you’re confident on foreign and mountainous roads) – getting around can be simple!
a. Klook’s custom itinerary with private car with driver (From SGD $71 / approx. 1750 Baht per day)
Klook makes it simple with this competitive service that not only includes a private chartered car service that’s affordable, it also comes with a local driver that’ll help with your itinerary while making getting around extremely convenient and comfortable.
b. Car rental without driver (From SGD $55 / approx. 1360 Baht per day)
If you enjoy driving around personally and are confident on unfamiliar roads, you might want to consider renting a car from Thai Rent A Car or Avis. It’s tried and tested! (Prices vary depending on the car model chosen.)
c. Airport and City Transfers (From SGD $14 / approx. 344 Baht)
If you’re not keen on hiring a car to get around and only require an airport transfer, or city transfer, the simplest way to do it would be via Klook.
d. Motorbike Rental (From SGD $11 / approx 250 Baht)
You’ll be able to find motorbike rentals all around Phuket, just make sure you are licensed to ride and be extremely careful when riding around. We almost got into an accident thanks to a careless tuk-tuk driver, and you’d want to avoid such a thing. Some motorbike rentals will ask for a deposit of 2000-4000 Baht (or your passport) to be refunded/returned when the bike is returned to them.
Recommended Stays
Note: Depending on which location you’d prefer to be based at, feel free to choose from these options!
1. Forget about Netflix, here we Hammock and Chill – At Zea Hotel
With its white reclaimed wood touches and hues of blue, your group of friends could almost imagine you were in Greece’s Santorini – in Phuket.
At Zea Hotel’s rooms open up to great ocean views, and everything comes together nicely for an instagrammable and relaxing beach vacation. It’s also a 9-min walk to Tritrang Beach!
2. Enjoy oceanfront views from your room and the infinity pool – Secret Cliff Villa
White sand beaches, turquoise ocean, sunsets and more, this gorgeous accommodation provides views for days. It’s located between Patong and Karon, so it’s a pretty excellent location to be based at for a few days in Phuket too.
From rooms with spacious balconies providing spectacular views looking out over the Andaman Sea, and an infinity oceanfront pool… Secret Cliff Villa also provides free transport twice a day to both Karon and Patong Beach so guests are able to get their fill of the beach!
Photo Via Readmyliffs
Check Rate on Agoda
Day 1
Just relax, explore Old Town Phuket and shop at Phuket Walking Street!
Note: The earliest flight to Phuket from Singapore/Malaysia is at 10am. The itinerary will begin with lunch. We will also be using At Zea Hotel as the default stay chosen for this itinerary. 🙂
Time for a hearty lunch! – Eleven Two & Co (1 hour)
Charming and with a wide range of tasty options from Thai favourites to Western dishes, this is a great option for your first meal in Phuket! There’s also a quirky gift shop in the front of the café, that’s perfect for picking up cute things like postcards, soaps, purses, and other knick-knacks.
Photo Via Praerama, Ssom_thanwarat
Explore the quirky part of Phuket – Old Town Phuket
With so many hole-in-the-wall type places here, have a relaxing jaunt through this quirky part of Phuket. Instagrammable street art, interesting cafes, and small boutique shops will provide you and your friends with some fun places to check out and take photos at!
Photo Via Oneinalifetimejourney, Praepeeraya
Have a break and take some cute photos – The Tent
You guys will be delighted with the creative Native-American inspired theme here. Perfect for taking a cute break, take a seat at one of the low tables inside turquoise and white teepee tents.
Order up some designer drinks, smoothies, and coffees or dessert – try Salty Caramel Marshmallow Colombian Coffee or Banoffee Drink (blended banana, Oreo, milk, vanilla, um, YUMMM) – and chit-chat before heading to the next spot!
Photo Via Karenokajima0318, Beamsjourney
Website
Do something different and check out the local art! – Wua Art Gallery
Wua Art Gallery is a super cute place to step into. Since day 1 is all about taking it slow and easy, enjoy the art and take some photos here!
Photo Via Jeen_af1, Ampornchai, Pauuuisaac, Xibing
WebsiteEnjoy dinner in a gorgeous garden glasshouse – Glasshouse @ Sino
Bring your friends to dinner at a beautiful garden greenhouse. Dig into the fragrant Thai cuisine with aromatic Thai curries, salads, rice with fried eggs and sides, fresh spring rolls, and more!
Photo Via Lht__________, Sarahjane.hall_
Take a stroll and shop around before ending your day! – Phuket Walking Street
Welcome to Phuket Walking Street, it reminds us of Melaka’s famous Jonker Street. There’s much to buy and eat at this night market!
Once you’re done with the day, check into your hotel!
Day 1 Route
Day 2
Let the fun begin at the beach, catch some stunning views and watch a cabaret!
Note: Today is when adventure kicks up and your group explores more of Phuket! You’ll be spending time at the beach so remember your sunblock and swimwear!
First stop, it’s time for breakfast! – Wilsons Cafe (Rawai)
If you enjoy smoothie bowls and a good breakfast, you’ll love this place. Dig into delicious smoothies bowls and chill out to the lovely laid back beach vibes. There’s also a huuge mural for the perfect photo opportunity with your friends!
Photo Via Jul_julyk, The.robmorgan, Prokoffij, Shannon, Osztonits
Have some fun in the sun – Ao Sane Beach
You’re in Phuket, so you’ll obviously want some time at the beach! Featuring nice clear waters and a clean beachfront, Ao Sane Beach will make a great choice for those who’d like something a little secluded.
There’s also a restaurant here, so once you’re done with your swimming/snorkelling, head over to the beachfront restaurant!
Photo Via TripCanvas
If you’re a group of friends who enjoy a good drink together… – Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Check out this rum distillery and enjoy a couple of cocktails! There’s even a cocktail class if you’d like to get a little more hands-on and learn a new skill for future friends’ gatherings back home.
PS: You can even find cocktail recipes on their website!
Photo Via Nw.lyla, Thebeachbutler.co_
Catch some stunning views at the famous – Big Buddha Phuket
This is one of the must-see sights in Phuket where you and your friends will enjoy the amazing panoramic views from the top of Nakkerd Hill upon which the Big Buddha sits. If you go in the late afternoon, you will be treated to a spectacular view of the sunset over Phuket Town and Chalong Bay!
Photo Via Lydiameaney1
Website
Feast on a sunset dinner with the amazing views! – Mountain Breeze Bar & Restaurant
Order up a storm with some delicious Thai and Western dishes on the menu. Beautifully presented to accompany the views before you, enjoy your dinner together!
End your night with a stunning and hilarious cabaret show – Phuket Simon Cabaret
It’s flashy, it’s colourful, it’s extravagant, and it’s downright entertaining. You and your friends will enjoy a night of fun as you watch this amazing troupe of performers dazzle you with their beauty, talent and comic antics!
Photo Via Gsclair
Check rate on KlookOptional: If you’re up for it, go shopping and have supper at – Chillva Market
If you’re not too tired and it’s still a little too early to head back, feel free to head to Chillva Market! From clothes to footwear (fur slides are sold here too!), pet clothes, collars and more. it’s very casual and laidback here.
When you’re tired of walking around, feel free to sit down at the mini amphitheatre where a live band will serenade you as you rest.
Photo Via TripCanvas
Finally, head back to your hotel!
Day 2 Route
Day 3
Chase waterfalls, explore an upside down house or visit the gibbons and more!
Note: We’ve provided 2 options for your after breakfast activity, depending on your preference, choose one! Also, do remember to bring along insect repellent for when you visit Ton Sai Waterfall.
Enjoy amazing food in this trendy space – Hern Coffee & Bistro
This is a cute bistro that oozes some Cuban/Mexican vibes (at least to us). Have breakfast here and begin your day!
Photo Via Chrltteouttakes
Website
Have a quirky photo-taking moment together! – Baan Teelanka
If your group is the kind that enjoys a cute picture-worthy kind of experience, then you’ll definitely enjoy Baan Teelanka (Upside Down House)!
Photo Via Salwa_bajrai, Faiii.paris, Aims1980, Kirillebedev
Check rate on KlookOptional: Take a trip to the jungle and visit the gibbons – Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre
If you guys would prefer something with a little more heart, consider travelling to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre!
PS: Personally, we highly recommend a visit to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project while you’re here. It’s a fantastic way to learn more about responsible tourism, and how the gibbons are being protected. Ways to contribute include donations, volunteer work, or you could even adopt a gibbon! (We adopted 2 and that totally made our day!)
Have an artistic-ish lunch (Poke bowls available!) – Project Artisan
Creative, colourful, and a bit out there, this is exacttly what you’re going to find here. The interiors are an eclectic mix of furnishings – bookshelves, mismatched tablecloths, prints, random succulents at different tables, and vintage things here and there too.
Vegan, Poke or Super Smoothie bowls are available alongside their delicious brunch menu!
Photo Via Gurskaya, Julia_seoul, Elingtang
Let’s go chasing waterfalls – Ton Sai Waterfall
Walk off your lunch with a group activity, and visit the pretty Ton Sai Waterfall. Ton Sai Waterfalls has great natural cascade, and the experience of chasing it down is quite spectacular too!
Photo Via Anechka_maslova, Vashafurte
Watch one of Nature’s best-selling movies on stilts: the sunset – Baan Chom View
Hungry after chasing that waterfall? Built on stilts and high above the beach of Kata Noi, enjoy dinner at Baan Chom View with the picturesque sights of the beach below and the company of your friends!
Perfect for lovers of Thai food, their menu serves traditional Thai dishes cooked to tasty levels of deliciousness. Throw in a Thai beer like a Leo, Singha or Chang, and you’ve got yourself a feast whilst you sit back and wave goodbye to the sun for your last night in Phuket!
Photo Via Arina__89
Website
Last round of shopping + chill at a night market – Phuket Indy Night Market
Visit your last Phuket night market of the trip! It’s a slightly smaller market, Phuket Indy Night Market is where you’ll find local art and custom souvenirs apart from the usual food/shopping combo. It’s quite local and hidden, and there are local performances here too!
Relax your night away, before leaving tomorrow.
Photo Via Sarahvivifra, Kaojaiii
WebsiteDay 3 Route
Day 4
Slip into a Mediterranean Beach and visit the Art Village before you go!
Note: Before you fly back home from Phuket, enjoy breakfast and a unique visit to the art village!
A really Mediterranean/European Beach kind of feeling – Coast Beach Club & Bistro (Karon)
With beautiful beach cabanas, loungers and beanbags, Coast Beach Club has got that exact Mediterranean vibes going on.
How’s this for your last Phuket breakfast together?!
Photo Via Olliegabriel
Website
Eclectic place you’ll enjoy even if you’re not art lovers! – Phuket Art Village
Created by an ever-growing community of artists as an outlet for their creativity. It has given way to home-like galleries, self-made studios and even has a shadow puppet theatre.
A breath of fresh air and a glimpse into an alternative lifestyle where you can learn more about their crafts. Even if you aren’t particularly talented or creatively inclined, you can pick up custom-made dream catchers for 200 Baht!
Photo Via Hillierart
Website
Day 4 Route
Total Cost Breakdown
For 4 friends
Accommodation (assuming 2 friends share 1 room)
Day 1 to 4 = (USD $35 x 3 nights) x 2
Total = USD $210 ~ USD $52.50 per person
Transport:
Day 1 to 4 = From USD $38.44 per day (for rental car); From USD $43.69 per day (for Klook’s private chartered car with driver)
Total = USD $38.44 x 4 days = USD $153.76 (for rental car) ~ USD $38.44 per person
Hotel, Dining & Activities for 4 people:
(Flights, shopping and personal expenses not included!)
Day 1 = USD $52
Day 2 = USD $137.36
Day 3 = USD $100
Day 4 = USD $40
Total = USD $329.36 ~ USD $82.34 per person
TOTAL = USD $173.28 per person ~ SGD $236.33 per person ~ RM713.06 per person
Now that you have a fully prepared itinerary, share this with your friends and start booking your trip!
Get ready for a super chill, and super fun time – you guys deserve it!
Let us know what’s your favourite thing to do when travelling with your friends in the comments below too – we really want to hear from you!
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PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you!
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Sign up to win fantastic prizes from our partners
Sign up now if you want us to send you an email whenever our partners have something to share with everyone!
FREE air tickets, free stays, free tours or free gifts!
Coming soon! Exclusively on TripCanvas
| PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us |
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