Motorbike Tour of Patong and Phuket Old Town: The Top 10 Stops

Exploring Patong and Phuket Old Town by motorbike is a great way to roam freely through narrow streets and scenic roads. Just stay mindful of traffic and local riding habits.

Motorbike rental and riding tips

• Rental: There are plenty of rental shops around Bangla Road in Patong and in Phuket Old Town. Daily rates range from 200-300 THB (about 6-9 USD). A 125cc scooter is enough for city trips.
• Requirements: An international driving permit or motorbike license may be required — check before renting. Helmets are mandatory and traffic police do frequent checks.
• Safety: Traffic in Phuket drives on the left and Patong gets busy. Be careful on narrow streets, especially around Bangla Road at night when pedestrian traffic increases.
• Navigation: Plan your route with Google Maps or Maps.me. Parking is available in most places, but be careful where you park near temples and crowded areas.

Top 10 locations to explore by motorbike

1. Patong Beach

Phuket's most popular beach, famous for its 3km stretch of sand, lively atmosphere and water sports. Great for a relaxing day and a lively night out. 5 minutes by bike from Bangla Road. Visit time: 1-2 hours.

2. Bangla Road

The heart of Patong's nightlife — bars, clubs and live music venues. Closed to traffic after 6pm. 2-3 minutes from Patong Beach. Visit time: 2-3 hours for nightlife.

3. Wat Chalong

Phuket's most important Buddhist temple, known for its elegant architecture and historical significance. About 15-20 minutes from Patong (8km). Follow temple etiquette (cover shoulders and knees). Visit time: 45 minutes-1 hour.

4. Big Buddha

Phuket's 45-metre-tall symbol, offering panoramic views of Chalong Bay and Kata Beach. 6km inland from Wat Chalong. Sunset visits are recommended. Visit time: 1 hour.

5. Phuket Old Town

Colorful streets lined with Sino-Portuguese architecture, historic buildings and cafés — the cultural heart of Phuket. 20-25 minutes from Patong (12km). Visit time: 2-3 hours.

6. Thalang Road

Phuket Old Town's busiest street, known for colonial buildings, boutique shops and a Sunday night market. Visit time: 1-2 hours.

7. Khao Rang Hill

A hill offering panoramic views of Phuket Town, with a restaurant (Tung Ka Cafe) and a small park. 5-10 minutes from Phuket Old Town. Visit time: 45 minutes-1 hour.

8. Jui Tui Temple

One of Phuket's most important Chinese temples, especially lively during the Vegetarian Festival in October. Visit time: 30-45 minutes.

9. Jungceylon Shopping Mall

Patong's modern face — a comprehensive center for shopping, dining and entertainment. 5 minutes by bike from Bangla Road. Visit time: 1-2 hours.

10. Freedom Beach

A quiet, natural beach away from Patong's crowds — a hidden paradise with clear water and white sand. The final stretch to the beach is on foot. Visit time: 2-3 hours.

Suggested day plan

• Morning: Breakfast and a swim at Patong Beach, then a short stop at Jungceylon.
• Midday: Visit Wat Chalong and Big Buddha, lunch at a local restaurant in Chalong.
• Afternoon: Head to Phuket Old Town, explore Thalang Road and Jui Tui Temple, take in the view from Khao Rang Hill.
• Evening: Sunset at Freedom Beach or nightlife on Bangla Road.

Extra notes

• Weather: Hot and humid (30-35°C) — bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
• Cultural respect: Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees at temples, and be quiet.
• Local flavors: Try mango sticky rice in Patong and Hokkien noodles in Phuket Old Town.
• Safety: Don't leave valuables on the bike, always use a lock.