Lanta Old Town — Attraction in Ko Lanta Yai

Here’s a conversational review capturing the overall vibe of Lanta Old Town:

Lanta Old Town – A Step Back in Time with Relaxed Island Charm

If you’re looking for a place to slow down and soak in the authentic side of Koh Lanta, Lanta Old Town is the perfect spot. Unlike the busy tourist beaches, this little village on the east coast feels like stepping back in time, with its mix of old wooden houses, local shops, and a peaceful waterfront view.

The atmosphere here is calm and laid-back—exactly what you’d hope for in a small fishing town. Many of the buildings are built on stilts over the water, giving you stunning views of the sea and nearby islands. It’s the kind of place where you can take a slow stroll, browse through quirky little shops selling handmade crafts, and stop for coffee or a meal at one of the cozy waterfront cafes.

What I love most is how authentic it feels. You’ll see local fishermen going about their day, old shophouses that have stood the test of time, and a real sense of history in every corner. The town still holds onto its roots, blending Thai, Chinese, and Muslim cultural influences, which adds to its unique charm.

Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood at a restaurant, taking photos of the colorful wooden houses, or simply sitting by the pier to watch the sunset, Lanta Old Town gives you the perfect break from the busier parts of the island.

If you’re visiting Koh Lanta, I’d highly recommend spending a few hours here. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of character—a hidden gem that lets you experience the slower, more soulful side of island life.

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Heading over to Lanta Old Town on Koh Lanta was an adventure in itself – the drive there was absolutely scenic and set the tone for a day of exploration. Nestled in this quaint village, the vibe is unmistakably geared towards welcoming tourists, but it doesn't lose its charm or authenticity in the process.

What really stood out were the shops – an eclectic mix offering everything from unique clothing options to quirky souvenirs that you'd be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. The variety was impressive, and whether you're in the mood for some casual browsing or serious shopping, there's something for everyone.

But it's not just about the shopping. The eateries and cafes dotted around offer a great spot to just sit back, soak in the atmosphere, and watch the world go by. The food is as diverse as the shopping, with options that cater to all tastes and preferences.The real highlight, though, has to be the shopkeepers. They bring the town to life with their vibrant personalities, making each interaction more memorable than the last. And the best part? The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it easy to indulge a little without breaking the bank.

Lanta Old Town is more than just a tourist spot; it's a lively, vibrant village that invites you to be a part of its daily rhythm, even if just for a while. Whether you're here for the shopping, the food, or just to experience the unique vibe, it's a place that welcomes you with open arms and leaves you with...

It was a nice place with a lot of shops and restaurants for affordable prices. The town itself is separated in two by the pier that is located at the city center.

At the pier, you can buy tickets to go to Koh Jum for 100 thb. One side of the city is habitats and there is nothing to see and the other side is the tourist part.

At the center (where the pier is, nearby the round point), there are taxis, BUT they are all to one people which dictate his own price.

For example, he begin to ask us 1000 thb for 3km long journey with him and when we said to him that is too high, it has followed us asking all others drivers to align on his prices. We left to go on the other side of the city to find another drivers that called him when we asked them for the journey. We end up going with him, once he find out that the price of 300 thb is worth, because another people has paid the 1000 thb to go to her hotel, so for him it was pocket money to transport us, and of course we weren’t allowed to speak to the other people on board.

So, if you allow me to give you an advice, you should go there by scooter or ask your tuk-tuk or your taxi to come back later, you will take around 2 to 3 hours to visit the tourist part and eat at...