A vibrant weekly night market on historic Thalang Road featuring authentic Thai street food, local crafts, and cultural performances in Phuket's charming Sino-Portuguese quarter.
The Sunday Old Town Walking Street Market, locally known as Lard Yai (meaning "big market" in Thai), is the most popular attraction in Phuket Town. Located along the historic Thalang Road in Old Phuket Town, this 360-metre long street market transforms the heart of the city's Sino-Portuguese district into a bustling cultural hub every Sunday evening.
Launched towards the end of 2013 by the Phuket old town community, the market has become an essential weekly gathering place that perfectly showcases the architectural beauty and cultural heritage of Old Phuket Town. Roads are closed to traffic by mid-afternoon and stall owners set up shop, creating pedestrian-friendly pathways for visitors to explore.
When to Visit
The market operates every Sunday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with Thalang Road being closed to traffic around 4:00 PM as vendors begin setting up their stalls. The best time to visit is around sunset when the sky gets a nice color and the street is not yet packed with visitors.
What to Experience
Street Food & Local Cuisine
The market is renowned for authentic Thai street food, offering visitors street food at its best. Local vendors serve traditional southern Thai specialties alongside popular dishes, providing an authentic taste of Phuket's culinary heritage.
Local Crafts & Shopping
30+ stalls sell local fare and handicraft products, including traditional crafts, clothing, souvenirs, and artisanal goods that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship of the region.
Cultural Performances
The market functions as a kind of mini festival with street performers, adding entertainment and cultural atmosphere to the shopping and dining experience.
Location & Setting
The market takes place in Old Phuket Town's historic Sino-Portuguese district, where beautifully preserved colonial architecture provides a stunning backdrop. This vibrant weekly market takes place on the beautifully renovated Thalang Road, allowing visitors to appreciate both the market atmosphere and the architectural heritage of the area.
The walking street spans the entirety of Thalang Road, including the section past the Phuket Road intersection, providing ample space for exploration while maintaining the intimate feel of a community gathering.
Cultural Significance
The Sunday Walking Street Market serves as more than just a shopping destination. It's a place to hang out on Sunday evening for locals and a good way of showcasing the old town. This market was an instant success, adding a much-needed event to the historical part of town, helping to revitalize and preserve Phuket's cultural center.
The market represents the perfect blend of Thailand's market tradition with the unique architectural heritage of Phuket's Old Town, creating an authentic cultural experience that connects visitors with local community life.
Getting There
Address: Thalang Road, Talad Yai, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
The market is located in the center of Phuket Town, easily accessible by car, tuk-tuk, or local transport. Parking may be limited due to road closures, so arriving early or using alternative transportation is recommended.