Car rental Phuket: COMPARE all the prices!

Practical information

Where to rent a car in Phuket?

The largest island in Thailand, Phuket is home to beautiful beaches, mountains, and a bustling nightlife. It is a popular tourist destination in Thailand, and is located in the Andaman Sea. The island's capital is Phuket City, while the town of Patong is known for is resorts and nightlife. There are a number of ways to reach Phuket. The island is home to an international airport, Phuket International Airport; visitors can also reach the island by boat from mainland Thailand. The Thao Thepkasattri Bridge connects Phuket to the mainland, giving travelers the option of accessing the island by bus or car.

Getting around on Phuket can be a challenge, with a limited public transport network and more expensive taxis and tuk-tuks being the alternative. Renting a car on Phuket gives travelers the option to see as much of the island as they wish, without being restricted by timetables or taxi fares. Car rental companies such as Avis, Thai Rent a Car, Sixt and Hertz can be found on Phuket, largely at Phuket International Airport.

What are the driving rules in Phuket?

Driving on Phuket can be an adventure, but for those looking to explore the island to its fullest, it is a great way to travel. As well as paying attention to local road rules, be aware at all times while driving on Phuket; in particular, watch out for motorcyclists on the roads. The speed limit in Thailand is usually 50km/h on urban roads; 90km/h on rural roads; and 120km/h on the motorway. Although the blood alcohol limit when driving in Thailand is 50mg/100ml, it is best to avoid drinking at all before driving as punishments are strict and it is best to remain fully alert when driving. Drive on the left, and – while only compulsory those traveling in the front seat – wear a seatbelt at all times.

When parking in Phuket, look out for signs indicating whether you can park or not. An alternative to parking on the street is parking in parking lots – these can be found in larger towns and cities such as Phuket and Patong.

Road trips in Phuket

With a lively nightlife and beautiful beaches, Phuket is a popular tourist destination in Thailand. Explore the island by rental car and discover all it has to offer at your own pace.

Phuket City

Located on the southeast coast of the Thai island of Phuket, Phuket City is the island's capital. In the city itself, visit the Old Town with its bustling Thalang Road; and museums such as the Phuket Trickeye Museum and the Thai Hua Museum. From Phuket city, drive to Kata Beach via Chalong Bay, stopping off at the Big Buddha statue; the Wat Chalong temple; and the popular Phromthep Cape in the south of Phuket. Then, it's on to Kata Beach itself, with its beautiful stretches of sand and clear waters.

Patong

Known for its lively nightlife, Patong can be found in the west of Phuket. Bangla Road is the center of the town's party scene, while Patong Beach is the place to relax and sunbathe during the day. A very popular tourist destination, enjoy all Patong has to offer before heading out to explore Phuket by rental car. Kata Beach, Karon Beach and the Big Buddha Phuket statue are all within easy driving distance from Patong, as is the small yet beautiful Katu Waterfall, located in the jungle.

A road trip around the beaches of Phuket

It may be the largest island in Thailand, but Phuket is still small enough to be explored by rental car in less than a week. Start by renting a car at Phuket International Airport in the north of the island, before heading out to explore its beautiful beaches. Naithon Beach and Banana Beach can be found not far from the airport, on the western coast of Phuket, and are both more peaceful and remote than those in the south. From here, it's on to Patong and beaches such as Paradise Beach and Freedom Beach, before heading to the southern tip of Phuket via Kata Beach. Head back up the east coast, passing through Phuket City along the way, before retuning your rental car to the airport.