If you’re planning a trip to Phuket and love scoring deals on designer brands, Premium Outlet Phuket is a destination you won’t want to miss! As a Thailand tour guide with 10 years of experience exploring the ins and outs of the country’s vibrant markets and malls, I’ve seen my fair share of shopping hotspots, and Premium Outlet Phuket stands out for its unique blend of style, savings, and charm. Located on the scenic bypass road in Ko Kaeo, this open-air mall, designed like a charming French village, offers a delightful shopping experience that’s perfect for travelers and bargain hunters alike. In this review, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about Premium Outlet Phuket, from its top stores and dining options to insider tips for making the most of your visit. Let’s dive into this retail adventure and discover why this outlet is a must-visit in Phuket!
Discovering Premium Outlet Phuket: A Shopper’s Haven
Nestled on the route from Phuket International Airport to Phuket Town, Premium Outlet Phuket is a sprawling shopping complex that combines modern retail with a touch of traditional charm. With over 200 stores featuring international brands like Adidas, Nike, Burberry, and Coach, this outlet mall promises discounts of up to 70% off retail prices, making it a magnet for savvy shoppers. The French village-inspired architecture, complete with colorful buildings and open courtyards, adds a whimsical vibe that sets it apart from typical shopping malls. Whether you’re hunting for sportswear, luxury fashion, or unique Thai souvenirs, this outlet has something for everyone.
What makes Premium Outlet Phuket special is its balance of accessibility and variety. It’s not as chaotic as Phuket’s bustling night markets, yet it offers a more structured shopping experience than traditional markets like Chillva. Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM, the mall is perfect for a full day of retail therapy or a quick stop en route to other Phuket adventures. However, reviews are mixed—some visitors rave about the deals, while others find the discounts underwhelming compared to outlets in Europe or the US. Let’s explore what you can expect and how to make the most of your visit
Why Visit Premium Outlet Phuket?
- Designer Discounts: Score deals on brands like Lacoste, Guess, and Timberland, often 30-70% off retail prices.
- Unique Design: The French village aesthetic creates a picturesque shopping environment.
- Tax-Free Shopping: Foreign visitors can enjoy VAT refunds, boosting your savings.
- Convenient Location: Easily accessible from Phuket Town, Patong, or the airport.
Getting to Premium Outlet Phuket: Easy and Hassle-Free
Located on the bypass road in Ko Kaeo, Premium Outlet Phuket is about 15 km from Phuket International Airport and 7 km from Phuket Town, making it a convenient stop for travelers. Here’s how to get there:
- By Car or Taxi: The easiest way to reach the outlet is by taxi or private car, which takes about 20 minutes from Phuket Town or 30 minutes from Patong. Taxis cost around 300-500 THB ($8-$14 USD), depending on your starting point. Always negotiate fares upfront or ensure the meter is used.
- Car Rental or Private Charter: Renting a car or booking a private driver through services like Chic Chic Travel or Phuket Mahanakorn offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. A private car charter costs around 2,000 THB ($55 USD) for a full day.
- Motorbike: For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike is a fun way to navigate Phuket’s roads. Rentals start at 250 THB ($7 USD) per day, but be cautious of heavy traffic and bring a helmet.
- Airport Proximity: If you’re fresh off a flight, the outlet is a quick 20-minute drive from the airport, making it a great first stop to grab essentials or souvenirs.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, and aim for morning hours when the mall is quieter and the weather is cooler. Parking is ample, but some X posts mention high parking fees, so confirm costs with your driver or at the entrance.
Shopping at Premium Outlet Phuket: Bargains and Brands Galore
Premium Outlet Phuket is a treasure trove for shoppers, with a mix of high-end and casual brands across its 200+ stores. While it may not rival the scale of premium outlets in the US or Europe, it offers solid deals for those who know where to look. Recent reviews highlight great finds, like Delsey bags at 50% off and discounted Lacoste and Levi’s items, though some shoppers note limited size ranges for Western customers. Here’s a breakdown of what to shop for:
Top Stores and What to Buy
- Sport Stadium: A haven for sports enthusiasts, this section features brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma. Expect athletic wear, running shoes, and gym gear at 30-50% off. Perfect for refreshing your workout wardrobe
- Fashion Brands: Stores like Lacoste, Guess, Timberland, and Calvin Klein offer clothing and accessories at discounts of up to 50%. A reviewer in April 2025 found Lacoste items 40-50% cheaper than in other Phuket malls.
- Kids Zone: Families will love the selection of children’s clothing and toys from brands like Adidas Kids, Disney Princess, and Tom & Jerry. It’s a great spot to pick up gifts for little ones.
- Thai Souvenir Shop: For authentic Thai keepsakes, this shop offers handcrafted trinkets, silk scarves, and traditional items that capture Phuket’s cultural essence. Prices start at around 100 THB ($3 USD).
- Luxury and Accessories: Look for deals on Burberry, Coach, and Samsonite for bags and accessories. Some shoppers report excellent discounts, while others suggest checking stock for new arrivals.
Shopping Tips:
- Check the Website: Before visiting, browse the outlet’s official website for a store directory and current promotions to plan your shopping route.
- VAT Refunds: Foreign visitors can claim a VAT refund (7% of purchase value) at the mall’s refund counter. Bring your passport and receipts to process the refund.
- Inspect Quality: Some reviews warn of counterfeit or older stock, so check items carefully for authenticity and condition.
- Bring Cash and Card: Most stores accept credit cards, but smaller shops may prefer cash in Thai Baht for quicker transactions.
- Fun Fact: The outlet is part of a larger chain with locations in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Samui, known for its premium shopping experience and high-end amenities like concierge services and VIP lounges.
Dining at Premium Outlet Phuket: A Limited but Tasty Experience
Unlike night markets bursting with street food, Premium Outlet Phuket’s dining options are more limited, with a small food court and a few nearby restaurants. Recent reviews describe the food court as underwhelming, with only a handful of stalls offering basic Thai and international dishes. However, you can still satisfy your hunger with these options:
- Food Court: Expect affordable Thai staples like Pad Thai (80-120 THB, $2-$3.50 USD), fried rice, and noodle soups. The selection is basic, but the food is fresh and budget-friendly.
- Nearby Restaurants: Just 0.1 km away, Sunset Beach Restaurant offers seafood and international dishes in a relaxed setting, while Mee Sa Pam Khunyai Jian (0.8 km) serves delicious Chinese and Asian cuisine.
- Cafes: For a quick coffee or dessert, The Hidden Pot Bakery & Cafe (1.3 km) and Ilona Cake (1.5 km) are great spots for a sweet treat or light snack.
Dining Tip: If you’re craving variety, consider visiting Phuket Town’s night markets or restaurants after your shopping spree. The outlet’s food court is functional but not a highlight, so plan to eat elsewhere for a more memorable culinary experience.
The Atmosphere: Charming but Mixed Reviews
Premium Outlet Phuket’s French village design creates a picturesque and relaxed shopping environment, with open-air walkways, landscaped gardens, and mountain views. The vibe is less hectic than Phuket’s night markets, making it ideal for leisurely browsing. However, some reviews describe the mall as “deserted” or “neglected,” with empty shops and staff more focused on their phones than assisting customers. Others praise the clean facilities and friendly service, especially when scoring big discounts. The truth lies in the middle—the outlet is a solid choice for targeted shopping but may not live up to expectations of a world-class outlet mall.
Crowd and Vibe: The mall attracts a mix of tourists and locals, with busier periods during weekends and holidays. X posts mention a vibrant yet sometimes overwhelming atmosphere in Phuket’s shopping areas, so expect moderate crowds depending on the time of day.
Nearby Attractions to Extend Your Day
Premium Outlet Phuket’s location makes it easy to pair with other attractions:
- Phuket Elephant Sanctuary (1.5 km): A must-visit for animal lovers, offering ethical elephant encounters.
- The Upside Down House Museum (1 km): A fun, quirky attraction perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
- Andamanda Phuket Waterpark (10 km): A thrilling waterpark for families and adventure seekers.
- Phuket Town Night Market (4.5 km): For a livelier evening experience, head to Chillva Market for street food and local vibes.
Final Thoughts: Is Premium Outlet Phuket Worth It?
Premium Outlet Phuket is a mixed bag, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding stop on your Phuket itinerary. If you’re a fan of brands like Nike, Lacoste, or Coach and love hunting for discounts, this outlet delivers enough deals to make it worth your time. The French village design adds a unique flair, and the VAT refund option is a nice perk for international visitors. However, if you’re expecting a world-class outlet experience like those in the US or Europe, you might find it lacking in variety or vibrancy.
My advice? Go with a clear shopping list, check the store directory online, and pair your visit with nearby attractions like Phuket Town or an elephant sanctuary for a full day of fun. Whether you’re grabbing a new pair of sneakers, a Thai souvenir, or just soaking in the laid-back vibe, Premium Outlet Phuket offers a slice of retail therapy that’s uniquely Phuket. Have you shopped at Premium Outlet Phuket? Share your best finds or tips in the comments below, and let’s keep the Phuket adventure going!
