Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market

Locals refer to the Phuket Sunday Walking Street Market as "Lard Yai Market," and it is the most popular attraction in Phuket Town. This 360-meter-long street market was an instant hit, bringing a much-needed event to the town's historical district. Every Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (and often later), Thalang Road transforms into a bustling thoroughfare. Phuket is no stranger to night markets.

For decades, the original Naka Market (Talad Tai Rod), located on the outskirts of town near Central Festival, has been a popular weekend destination. However, the Naka weekend market primarily sells counterfeit t-shirts, knockoff brand shoes, and low-cost jeans. The Phuket Walking Street is a lot more fun and creative; the street itself is a great photo opportunity, and there is an endless variety of things to browse and snacks to try.

In downtown Phuket town, there is also the "Indy Market," which is adjacent to a modest shopping mall. Indy Market paved the way for this much larger street market located in the heart of Phuket Town's historical district. Teens gather for street performances, and Thais sell their creations and designs, personal items, and a variety of traditional Thai sweets and cakes. On Thalang Road, the Phuket Street Market takes the Indy Market concept to a new level. This lovely old street is proud to be the first on the island to be free of unsightly electric cables, which are usually dangling like a giant, inextricable mess.

Google rating: 4.5/5

Highlights: Portuguese style, Phuket flavor
Recommended for: first-timers

Address: V9MQ+WJ7, Thalang Rd., Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand

Open: Sunday 4 pm – 9 pm