Things To Do
in Belize City
Belize City is the largest city in Belize and serves as the country's political and commercial hub. It is located on the eastern coast of the country along the Caribbean Sea. The city has a mix of modern buildings and colonial architecture, reflecting its diverse history.
Belize City is known for its vibrant culture, with influences from its Caribbean, Mayan, and British heritage.
- "How dih goh?" - How's it going?
- "Wah gwein on?" - What's going on?
- "Mi deh yah" - I am here
- "No wah worry" - Don't worry
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Belize Museum to learn about the rich history of the country. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Belizean fare nearby.
Take a guided tour of the stunning St. John's Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Central America. Afterward, stroll through the local markets and try some street food.
Savor dinner at a waterfront restaurant, experiencing the local seafood cuisine. End your day with a relaxing walk along the Caribbean coastline.
Catch an early water taxi to Caye Caulker for a day of sun and sand. Enjoy breakfast on the island with fresh fruit and a smoothie.
Spend your afternoon snorkeling in the famous Barrier Reef, spotting colorful fish and marine life. Grab lunch at a local eatery featuring fresh ceviche.
Watch the sunset from the dock while sipping on a tropical drink. Have dinner at a beachside restaurant and enjoy live local music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and diverse heritage.
- Beautiful coastal location with access to the Caribbean Sea.
- Vibrant local markets and a variety of culinary options.
- Warm climate and friendly local population.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
- High crime rates in certain areas, requiring caution.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal weather concerns, including hurricanes.
- Traffic congestion and poor road conditions.
- Economic challenges and relatively high cost of living for certain goods.
Best Activities in Belize City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful underwater world and see colorful marine life up close.
Float through ancient underground caves and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
Encounter a variety of Belizean animals in a natural setting, including jaguars, howler monkeys, and toucans.
Tours
Uncover the best of Belize City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Belize City
Visit one of these nice places.
The harbor area provides stunning views of the water and boats, offering great photo opportunities.
Visitors can capture panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of this historic lighthouse.
This attraction offers beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea and glimpses into Belize's history for unique photo opportunities.
Food in Belize City
Belize City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This traditional dish is a staple in Belizean cuisine, featuring savory red beans and rice served with tender stewed chicken. It can be found at many local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Fry jacks are a popular breakfast item, similar to fried dough, often served with cheese, beans, or eggs. Look for them at small local cafes or breakfast spots.
These deep-fried fritters made from conch meat and flavorful seasonings are a beloved Belizean snack, commonly found at street food vendors near the waterfront.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Belize City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Exploring the streets of Belize City, especially near the waterfront, provides a wealth of street food options such as delicious tamales, ceviche, and grilled seafood skewers from local vendors.
Visit this bustling market to discover a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local ingredients. It's a great place to sample Belizean flavors and experience the vibrant local market atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to be mindful of and respect the cultural norms and traditions of the diverse population in Belize City, such as addressing people with courtesy titles and being aware of local customs and etiquette.
Using polite language and gestures, such as saying 'please' and 'thank you', and being mindful of body language, can help to show respect for the local culture and foster positive interactions.
In certain settings, such as visiting religious sites or rural communities, it's advisable to dress modestly out of respect for local customs and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Belize City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Belize City
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belize City, it is customary to tip around 10-15% of the bill at restaurants and for other services such as tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Major credit cards are widely accepted in Belize City, and US dollars are also commonly used. Cash is preferred for small transactions, and it's recommended to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Belize City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Belize City, with sunny weather and low humidity. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Expect occasional rain showers and lush, green landscapes. May experience higher humidity but also fewer tourists and lower prices.
Belize City at Night
Hiking in Belize City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast protected area known for its hiking trails, wildlife, and beautiful scenery, including rivers and waterfalls.
Offers unique hiking and canoeing experiences through an ancient cave system with stunning stalactite formations.
Features several hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including limestone hills and subtropical forests.
A large area that offers hiking options with stunning views, waterfalls, and pine forests.
Belize's second-highest point, accessible via a challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding rainforests.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Belize City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Belize City by plane.
The main international airport serving Belize City and the surrounding area.
A major international airport located in Cancún, Mexico, approximately 350 km from Belize City.
The main international airport serving Guatemala City, Guatemala, roughly 580 km from Belize City.
A small international airport serving the city of La Aurora in El Salvador, around 650 km from Belize City.
An international airport serving Cozumel, Mexico, located about 400 km from Belize City.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizos make up the majority of the population in Belize City, blending European and Indigenous heritage.
Creoles, descendants of Africans and Europeans, represent a significant cultural group in Belize City.
The Garifuna community, with Afro-Indigenous roots, is known for its rich cultural heritage and presence in coastal areas.
The Maya population consists of various groups primarily descended from Indigenous peoples, residing in and around Belize City.
The East Indian community, though smaller in numbers, contributes to the cultural diversity of Belize City.
This includes various immigrant groups and expatriates from different countries contributing to the demographic mix.
The Soul of Belize City
Discover the essence of Belize City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Belize, with many local clubs and a national league. The national team competes in various regional tournaments.
Basketball is widely played in Belize City, with many schools and community leagues. It has a growing fan base and participation rate.
Cricket is another popular sport in Belize, especially among the Caribbean communities. Local clubs participate in tournaments and leagues.
Volleyball is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, with beach volleyball also being popular due to Belize's coastal geography.
Cycling is a favored activity for both transportation and sport, with organized races and events held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Belize City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Belizean cuisine traditionally features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Belize City offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as plantain-based meals, hearty salads, and seasoned vegetable stews.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and corn-based tortillas, which are widely available. Additionally, many restaurants are accommodating and willing to adjust dishes to cater to gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Belize City with these cultural adventures.
