Old town Krabi, Thailand is an absolute pearler of a Thai traditional market town, set within a tranquil river setting. Sure, today it’s still the capital of the Krabi provincial area, and it’s where all the government business is carried out. But Krabi is way more than that you see, this town used to be the central mainstay of the area. Built beside the river, leading to the sea that enabled Krabi to thrive in the fishing industry. Krabi town was here long before the influx of international tourists. Although the fishing boats are still active today. Commerce and services are the main industries now, alongside a growing tourism sector. In this post I’ll show you how I had the best time.
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Most tourists typically fly into Krabi, get on a bus or boat, and keep moving. That’s because they have their beachside goggles on and are not remotely tuned in or aware of what this traditional Thai town has to offer. On the other hand, to be fair, Krabi’s not striving to bring in the tourists; it doesn’t have to. Because it’s the main transit and commercial center for the province, with the international airport only 13 km away.
Now, having said all that Krabi town is growing popular among backpackers, solo travelers, and tourists who are tired of the beach and looking for something different! It’s an inexpensive stopover for a one- or two-night stay.
OK, so what’s Krabi Town got to offer?
Things To Do In Krabi Town
Walk The Krabi Town River Path
Let’s assume you’ve just arrived, get out and walk the river path beside Utarakit Rd. Soak in the views and spot the big black crab, a popular tourist feature of Krabi Town. Just set back further up the river you’ll spot two karst limestone rocks (Khao Kanab Nam) situated next to each other. Now if you jump into a longtail boat at the pier and head up to Khao Kanab Nam, you’ll be able to walk up some stairs to the top and take in the views down the river. You’ll find the Khao Kanab Nam stalactite caves there as well. If you keen take a look.
By simply doing one or all of the above Krabi River suggestions you will have immersed yourself in the slow pace of the Krabi Town lifestyle.
Visit The Krabi Town Urban Forest Walkway
Thailand has many mangrove forests and walkways. But finding one at the northern tip of the Krabi town is quite unique. It’s located exactly 200m north of the River Front hotel, on the bend of Utarakit Rd, the main riverside road. Crossing over the road and walking down in past a government office, and car park, you’ll see the sign along the river. You’ll also now have a much better view of the two karst limestone rocks (Khao Kanab Nam).
Mangrove walks provide a great insight into the river ecosystem. They’re also super scenic spots for relaxing!
Krabi Town Night Market & Walking Street
For me, the Krabi Town Night Markets and Walking Street was the highlight. Live music, great food, and the ambiance. It’s hard to describe, I’m not a market kind of guy, but honestly, this place just got me!
Strolling along, soaking up the atmosphere, I kid you not everybody was just chilling, and I could tell they were kind of gobsmacked just like me. The live music busking acts were phenomenal. I just got myself an Irish cream liqueur from the cocktail and spirits bar sat down and watched this guy perform on saxophone. I just didn’t want to move!
Here you have typical market stalls selling everything you can imagine, plus food, music games and more.
The best time to be in Krabi for the markets is Friday, Saturday, or Sunday!
Day Trip To Railay Peninsula
Ok, you’re in Krabi Town, and for some reason, you missed out on a trip to the Railay Peninsula when you were in Ao Nang or you’re simply passing through and have a day to spare. Either way, you’re covered!
You see the Krabi river and the long-tail boats can get you to just about anywhere. I suggest heading straight out for a day trip to the Railay Peninsula which incorporates the Railay beaches east and west, the Tonsai Beach, and the Phra Nang Cave Beach. Pick a beach and off you go!
The Railay beaches are world-famous for their stunning beauty, karst limestone landscapes, island islets, and rock-climbing adventures! Moreover, the Peninsula is an isolated land feature located at the extreme south of the Krabi province. It’s also cut off from the mainland by jutting limestone cliffs; accessible usually by boat!
You can catch a boat from the Krabi Town Pier in the west of the town for ~200 baht. Besides the Railay Peninsula, ferries leave here for Ao Nang, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi. So, it’s usually pretty busy.
Find A Good Restaurant
You’re in town for a few nights, and you’re going to get hungry. So, find a good restaurant.
My recommendation is Poo Dam Restaurant and Bar located on the main river ‘Utarakit Rd’, not far from the River Front Hotel.
The ambiance, customer service was second to none, and the food was incredible! But, I’d suggest going here early, beat the crowds, and that’ll set you up for the walking street markets, just around the corner. This also makes for one very special night in Krabi Town!
Best Tours From Krabi Town
If you’re in town for more than a night and for some reason you missed out on taking one of the spectacular tours. No worries again Krabi Town has you covered.
Popular tours from Krabi Town are:
- The 4-Island Tour
- Hong Island Tour
- Emerald Pool
- Elephant Trekking
- Hot Spring Waterfall
I now believe it’s pointless going anywhere, without booking some sort of tour! Thailand’s also got its fair share of tropical islands, with a staggering number of around 300 in total. And Krabi is a perfect spot to visit a few of them. I recommend the 4-island tour.
You can easily book a day trip with an agency on the spot in town. Your hotel will help you out as well. However, I highly recommend online bookings in advance through GetYourGuide.
Where To Stay In Krabi Town
River Front Krabi Hotel is a fairly new boutique riverfront hotel, located in central Krabi Town. Rooms are comfortable, modern, and fitted with all you’d expect for one of the city’s most popular hotels. You’ve also got a restaurant, free parking, an outdoor pool, a bar, airport transfers, room service, and free wifi.
For me, the proximity to the Krabi Town Center and the riverfront was a big plus! Of course you have many options for accommodation. But this was my choice!
How To Get To Krabi Town
Krabi International airport is 13km from Krabi Town, and If flying in from overseas, you’ll land there. The same goes for any domestic Thailand flights. After that, get yourself a taxi straight to Krabi for ~650 baht, it won’t be any more than ~800 baht. But if you’d rather use the local bus you can for ~150 baht.
I recommend booking your travel in advance through 12GO Asia – an online travel agent that makes traveling around Asia very easy.
There are other ways to get to Krabi. For example, driving by car, or arriving at the ‘Krabi Town Pier’ from one of the islands. But for the most part, you’ll likely be arriving on a jet to Krabi, followed by a taxi.
How To Get Around Krabi Town
Walking is by far the best method for getting around Krabi Town center. If you intend to go out of the town exploring, for example, you can easily get a scooter. If traveling further, say back to Ao Nang, you can get a Songthaew for ~50 baht.
Of course, you can also hire a car if you need to. However, you must have your international driving license before you leave your home country for that!
I’ll bet your time in Krabi though, will be spent on foot, local Songthaew (to get you home at night), and possibly long-tail boats, enjoy!
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