The main thing that comes to mind when people think Thailand is beaches! Beaches are a huge part of Thailand’s modern culture and the booming tourist industry that surrounds it, but yet Phuket also has a rich, varied and diverse history with its own very specific culture. So, where to go when the sun is too hot, the beach too crowded and you want to get to know the island a bit better? Here are our top 5 cultural sites for you to visit in Phuket on your Holiday Packages to Thailand.

1. Old Phuket Town

This is a pretty obvious one but Old Phuket Town is a must see. The old quarter of the town dates from the end of the 19th Century A mixture of old and new, simple and intricate; Phuket Old Town is rich in character and personality. The town was built on the wealth of the tin mining industry in the last century and as such, there is a fascinating mix of Sino-colonial mansions and traditional Buddhist and Chinese temples, quaint cafes and shophouses. Although it is enough just to wander around the streets you will find an abundance of little alleys, streets, shops and buildings to venture into it as well. Nothing else sums Phuket and its culture up as good as here!

2. Royal Phuket Marina

Epitomizing the modern, affluent culture of Phuket, Royal Phuket Marina found on the east coast of Phuket is perhaps one of the most prestigious and luxurious addresses in the world. Home to some of Phuket’s (and Thailand’s) most exclusive residences the marina is a playground for the rich and famous. There is plenty to see and do on the marina for sightseers. There is a mixture of high-class restaurants and local food bars with entertainment and shopping, although just strolling through the marina to look at the yachts and the architecture will be quite enough for most!

3. Layan Beach

One of the hidden treasures of Phuket, Layan beach is a great example of how the culture of Thailand has changed over the years and how important beach culture now is to the tourist economy. Situated at the northern end of Bangtao Beach, it is popular with locals and expats who live in the area due to the fact it is relatively quiet and tranquil. The beach’s attraction is that looks very similar to how it did 20 years ago. Fringed by palm trees to help keep the heat off you will also find several exceptional local beach bars with Thai food at its best and a local beach beauty parlor. With stunning views out over the ocean, it has everything you could want from a Thai beach!

4. Sea Canoe Tour

When in Phuket one of the essentials is a Sea Canoe tour around the many surrounding lagoons and islands. One of the most beautiful places in the world, Phuket has been used and idealized in many films, books, and tales, including James Bond and The Island, all adding to its cultural heritage. There are many different tour operators offering trips on the canoes, including the famous John Grey Sea Canoes. Be sure to do your research to find which is the best for you, but no one should leave Phuket without taking part in a paradisiacal tour around the coast.

5. Kathu Mining Museum

Phuket was built on the foundations of the tin mining industry that began in the 17th Century. Dutch, French and the British all headed over to try and take advantage of the economic situation. The Kathu Mining Museum tells the story of this and how thousands of Chinese laborers settled on the island, so influencing the cultural history of Phuket. Outside the building, there are examples of tin mining methods, and inside displays range from tin mine models to an opium den recreation. Even the architecture of the building has been considered with it being constructed in the Sino-Portuguese style. A must for any history buff!