Things To Do
in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is a vibrant twin-island nation in the southern Caribbean, famed for its biodiversity, carnival culture, and warm hospitality. Trinidad buzzes with music, street food, and lively markets, while Tobago offers tranquil beaches, coral reefs, and unhurried island charm. The country blends Afro-Trinidadian, Indo-Trinidadian, Chinese, and Creole influences in its cuisine, festivals, and daily life.

Visitors can explore rainforests, lagoons, historic towns, and some of the friendliest people in the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Port of Spain
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Queen’s Park Savannah, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning walk around the park while soaking in the views of the majestic surrounding buildings. Afterward, head to the Royal Botanical Gardens to explore the lush tropical flora and fauna. Don't forget to grab a local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional dishes like bake and shark.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the National Museum and Art Gallery to get a deeper understanding of Trinidad's rich culture and history. After your museum trip, wander through the bustling streets of Port of Spain and enjoy some shopping at local artisan markets. Take a break at one of the many street vendors to taste local snacks like doubles or aloo pie.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, with options ranging from Creole to international cuisine. After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife of Port of Spain by heading to a local bar for live music or a steel pan performance. Finally, unwind with a stroll along the Promenade and soak in the lively atmosphere.

day 2
A Day at Maracas Beach
morning
:

Head to Maracas Bay early to catch the sunrise over the sea and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the waves lapping against the shore. Indulge in a breakfast of the famous 'bake and shark', available from local vendors on the beach. Spend some time sunbathing or swimming in the clear waters before the afternoon crowd arrives.

afternoon
:

In the early afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the scenic views and capturing photos of the vibrant scenery. Explore the nearby hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints or partake in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Make sure to bring your beach essentials for a fun, sun-soaked experience.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere with a drink from one of the beach bars while watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Consider heading back to Port of Spain for dinner, where you can savor more local culinary delights. After dinner, take a moment to reflect on the beauty of the day as you listen to the soothing sound of the waves.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$30-60
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$70-150
🚕One-way local transport$1-3
Coffee or small drink$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural tapestry and world-class Carnival
  • Diverse cuisine and welcoming people
  • Stunning beaches and vibrant biodiversity
  • Easy island hopping between Trinidad and Tobago
  • Some areas can be crowded and noisy in peak times
  • Public transport can be limited outside major cities
  • Prices for certain tourist hotspots can be higher
  • Seasonal tropical weather can bring unpredictable rain
  • "Wah gwan" - What's up / Hello
  • "Mawnin" - Good morning
  • "Tank yuh" - Thank you
  • "Please" - Please
  • "Weh is d bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Trinidad and Tobago

Visit one of these nice places.

Pitch Lake

A surreal, otherworldly landscape with a vast tar lake; dramatic textures and reflections make for striking wide-angle shots.

La Brea Pitch Lake overlook

Nearby viewpoints offer sweeping panoramas of the irregular tar surface and dynamic colors at different times of day.

Caroni Swamp

Mangrove waterways and reed beds provide excellent wildlife photography, especially during boating tours at dawn or dusk.

Fort George (Scarborough, Tobago)

Historic fortifications with panoramic views over the town and harbor—great for sunset shots.

Pigeon Point Heritage Park (Tobago)

Iconic turquoise waters, palm-lined beaches, and iconic jetty perspectives for postcard-worthy photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago’s cuisine mirrors its multicultural heritage: bold flavors from African, Indian, Chinese, and indigenous influences, with abundant seafood, spices, and coconut. Expect vibrant street food, hearty stews, and sweet pastries, often enjoyed with a refreshing sorrel drink or a cold coconut.

Trinidad and Tobago Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pelau

One-pot caramelized rice with pigeon peas and meat (chicken or beef) cooked with coconut milk and spices.

Must-Try!

Doubles

Chickpea curry between two lightly fried bara breads; a beloved street snack.

Callaloo

A creamy spinach-like soup/stew often with crab, flavored with coconut and spices.

Bake and Shark

Fried shark sandwich in a soft fried dough bun, typically served with sauces and toppings at beach stalls.

Roti (Dhal Puri or Paratha) with Curry

Indian-influenced flatbread filled or served with curried vegetables, chickpeas, or meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Port-of-Spain Central Market (Market Square)

A bustling market offering fresh produce, spices, and prepared street foods; great for a quick bite and vibrant atmosphere.

San Fernando Market

A south Trinidad hub for fruits, vegetables, and cooked dishes; ideal for sampling everyday Trinidadian snacks.

Queen Street/City Market area

Concentrated street food stalls and casual eateries with quick bites and local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season is generally sunnier and less humid, while the wet season brings afternoon showers and lush landscapes. Sea temperatures remain comfortable for swimming most of the year, with occasional tropical storms during the wet season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; with friends, a hug or kiss on the cheek may occur among closer acquaintances.

Dress and Respect

Dress modestly in religious or sacred sites; comfortable casual wear is fine in most urban areas; remove shoes or cover shoulders when entering certain temples or mosques.

Conversation

Polite, warm conversation is appreciated. People may be curious about visits; respond with courtesy and interest in local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty crime can occur in crowded markets and tourist areas, so stay aware of belongings and use reputable transport. Avoid isolated areas at night, especially after dark in less crowded zones. Keep copies of important documents, use hotel safes, and rely on licensed taxis or ride-sharing services for transportation.

Tipping in Trinidad and Tobago

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In sit-down restaurants, ~10-15% is common if service is good. Street food vendors typically do not expect tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist areas. Mobile payments and contactless methods are increasingly available in urban centers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December–May)

Bright sunny days with low rainfall; ideal for beach time, coastal drives, and outdoor hikes. Humidity is present but temperatures stay warm.

Wet Season (June–November)

Afternoons can bring tropical showers; mornings are often clear. Lush landscapes come alive, and heat plus humidity rise. The Atlantic coast can be windy and storms may occur—plan flexible outdoor time.

Nightlife Guide

Trinidad and Tobago at Night

Port of Spain and Woodbrook offer a lively nightlife with bars, clubs, live music, and steelpan performances. Calypso and soca rhythms fill many venues, particularly during festival periods. Tobago features beach bars and more relaxed evening spots with waterfront dining and occasional live bands. Expect friendly crowds, late-night eats, and a rhythm of island life that goes on well past sunset.

Hiking in Trinidad and Tobago

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Northern Range Forest Trails

A series of rainforest trails near Port of Spain with scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and rich birdlife.

Argyle Falls Area (Tobago region)

Lush trails leading to scenic waterfall stops suitable for a half-day hike in Tobago.

Airports

How to reach Trinidad and Tobago by plane.

Piarco International Airport (POS)

Main international gateway to Trinidad, located near Port of Spain; major connections to the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and beyond.

Crown Point International Airport (TAB)

Tobago’s primary international gateway; convenient access for visitors to Tobago’s beaches and resorts.

Getting Around

Walkability

Port of Spain is moderately walkable in the city center with pedestrian-friendly zones; many attractions, markets, and eateries are within short drives or rides. Tobago towns like Scarborough and Crown Point are more spread out, so a car or scooter is helpful for exploring beaches and viewpoints.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Afro-Trinidadian

A major cultural group contributing to music, cuisine, and festivals.

Indo-Trinidadian

Another significant community shaping culinary traditions and cultural events.

Mixed/Other

A diverse blend of backgrounds reflecting the nation’s multicultural society.

Chinese-Trinidadian

Influence visible in cuisine and local markets; part of the multicultural tapestry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

A deeply rooted sport with historic matches and local enthusiasm.

Football (Soccer)

Widely followed; local leagues and national team events draw crowds.

Basketball

Active community leagues and youth programs in urban areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested in Port of Spain during peak hours; roads are generally well-maintained in cities but can be busy on major routes. Public transport includes buses and taxis; driving is on the left side of the road. For Tobago, roads are less congested and easier to navigate, though some rural routes can be narrow.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian options; look for dal, chana, callaloo, plantains, roti, and fresh fruit. Communicate clearly if vegan or dairy-free is required; many street vendors offer chickpea curries and vegetable sides as alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in major cities through public and private facilities. In Port of Spain and Tobago, there are hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff; travelers should carry health insurance and bring essential medications. For complex needs or specialized care, seek treatment at larger facilities and verify coverage with your provider.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Trinidad and Tobago.