Things To Do
in Port of Spain
Nestled on the northwestern coast of the island of Trinidad, this bustling capital city is a blend of cultures, cuisines, and architectures, reflecting its diverse history infused with Spanish, French, African, and Indian influences. It serves as a political, economic, and cultural hub, housing numerous embassies, multinational businesses, and vibrant festivals like Carnival, which draws visitors from all over the globe.
The city's landscape is marked by lush hills, scenic waterfronts, and landmarks such as the iconic Queen's Park Savannah, surrounded by magnificent colonial-era buildings.
- "Wah dat?" - What is that?
- "Mek we go" - Let's go
- "How yuh going?" - How are you doing?
- "I good" - I am good
- "No problem" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Queen's Park Savannah, one of the largest open spaces in Port of Spain. Enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the views of the city and surrounding greenery.
Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery to learn about Trinidad and Tobago's rich history and culture. Admire the local art and historical artifacts on display.
Dine at a local restaurant to experience authentic Trinidadian cuisine. Try dishes like doubles or pelau to immerse yourself in the local flavors.
Explore the vibrant Woodbrook area, known for its colorful architecture and local shops. Take your time wandering through the streets to soak up the culture.
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and take a peaceful stroll among exotic plants and trees. It's a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Catch a live performance at the Trinidad and Tobago Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy local music and dance, which are integral to the region's culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, including Carnival.
- Strategic location as a gateway to the Caribbean and South America.
- Diverse culinary scene with a variety of local and international cuisines.
- Pleasant tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
- Access to beautiful beaches and natural attractions nearby.
- High crime rates in certain areas can be a concern for safety.
- Traffic congestion and poor road infrastructure can lead to delays.
- Limited public transportation options may hinder mobility.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates in some sectors.
- Environmental issues such as pollution and urban sprawl.
Best Activities in Port of Spain
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely walk or jog around this iconic park, known for its beautiful scenery, coconut vendors, and various recreational activities.
Enjoy a day at the beach, swim in the clear blue waters, and indulge in some delicious bake and shark, a local delicacy.
Explore the lush rainforest and scenic trails of the Northern Range, providing opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.
Embark on a boat tour to observe the breathtaking sight of Scarlet Ibis birds returning to their roosting grounds at dusk, a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Port of Spain with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Port of Spain
Visit one of these nice places.
The largest roundabout in the world, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas, with several iconic landmarks and historic sites nearby.
A historic fort offering stunning views of the city, the Gulf of Paria, and the Northern Range, ideal for capturing scenic landscapes and cityscapes.
A scenic drive with several lookout points providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the coastline, and the Northern Range.
Food in Port of Spain
Port of Spain Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food made with two fried flatbreads filled with curried chickpeas, various chutneys, and pepper sauce. Must-try at Ravi's Doubles on Charlotte Street.
Must-Try!
An Indian-influenced dish consisting of a thin flatbread filled with curried vegetables, chicken, beef, or goat. Visit Patraj Roti Shop for an authentic experience.
A traditional soup or side dish made with dasheen or taro leaves, okra, coconut milk, and often cooked with crab or salted meats. Check out Jenny's on Ariapita Avenue for a delicious version.
A beloved beach snack featuring fried shark stuffed in a fried dough called 'bake' and topped with an assortment of condiments. Get the best Bake and Shark at Richard's on Maracas Bay.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Port of Spain better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Sunday, the savannah turns into a bustling food fair where vendors offer an array of local delicacies, street food, and refreshing drinks.
A foodie's paradise, where you can sample an assortment of local and international street foods, enjoy live music, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city's nightlife.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago to show respect for elders, including using respectful titles when addressing them and offering assistance when needed.
Maintaining a polite and friendly demeanor is key in social interactions. Greetings are important, and it is customary to use 'good morning', 'good afternoon', and 'good evening' as appropriate.
Trinidad and Tobago is a diverse society, and it is important to show appreciation for different cultures, ethnicities, and traditions while avoiding sensitive topics such as politics and religion in casual conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Port of Spain with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Port of Spain
Ensure a smooth experience
In Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 10-15% gratuity may be added to the bill, but it is always advisable to check the receipt to see if a service charge has already been included. Tipping for other services, such as taxi rides and hotel staff, is discretionary and often depends on the level of service provided.
Payment in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago is predominantly made in cash, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry small denominations of cash for convenience. Foreign currency is generally not accepted, so it's important to exchange money into the local Trinidad and Tobago dollar for day-to-day transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Port of Spain.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Port of Spain is during the dry season when you can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This is a great time for outdoor activities and cultural events, such as the famous Trinidad Carnival.
The rainy season in Port of Spain brings more precipitation and higher humidity. While you may experience some heavy showers, this period also offers lush green landscapes and is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying local fruits in season.
Port of Spain at Night
Hiking in Port of Spain
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
El Tucuche is one of the highest peaks in Trinidad and offers hiking trails through lush forests. The trek provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is popular among experienced hikers.
Located a short distance from Port of Spain, Maracas Falls is a scenic hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is relatively easy and ideal for family outings.
This trail offers a panoramic view of the city and is accessible from Port of Spain. It features a mix of asphalt and dirt paths, perfect for jogging or leisurely hikes.
A picturesque trail that leads to several waterfalls, the Santa Cruz Waterfall Trail is a moderately challenging hike with opportunities for swimming in the refreshing waters.
This trail meanders through the natural landscape along the coast, showcasing local flora and fauna. It is an easy hike and ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Port of Spain through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Port of Spain by plane.
The main international airport serving Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
Located in Bridgetown, Barbados, this is one of the larger airports in the region, approximately 165 miles away.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, about 1,200 miles away, serving as a primary hub for international flights.
Located in Charlotte Amalie, Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, roughly 1,300 miles from Port of Spain.
Situated in Cairns, Australia, known for international flights and connections, approximately 4,000 miles from Port of Spain.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population in Port of Spain is of mixed ethnicity, reflecting the diverse heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.
Individuals of African descent form a substantial demographic group, contributing to the cultural landscape of the city.
The East Indian community is another major demographic group, influencing the social and cultural dynamics of Port of Spain.
People of European descent, including those with British, Spanish, or French heritage, make up a smaller but notable demographic.
A smaller demographic group consisting of Chinese and other Asian immigrants who have settled in the area.
The indigenous populations, though small, contribute to the cultural diversity of Port of Spain.
The Soul of Port of Spain
Discover the essence of Port of Spain through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Port of Spain and across Trinidad and Tobago, with a strong local and national following, and significant historical success in regional competitions.
Football is widely played and followed in Port of Spain, with numerous local clubs and a competitive league structure. The national team has represented Trinidad and Tobago on international stages.
Track and field events are a significant part of the sporting culture in Port of Spain, with many schools and clubs nurturing young athletes, especially in sprinting and relays.
Basketball enjoys popularity in urban areas, including Port of Spain, featuring community leagues and school competitions that engage youth in the sport.
Rugby has gained traction in Trinidad and Tobago, with a growing number of clubs and participation at both amateur and semi-professional levels in Port of Spain.
Netball is particularly popular among women and girls, with organized leagues and competitions that highlight local talent in Port of Spain.
Boxing has a rich history in Trinidad and Tobago, with gyms and training facilities found in Port of Spain, producing several professional boxers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port of Spain.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Trinidad and Tobago's culinary scene is increasingly catering to vegetarians and vegans. Many restaurants and cafes offer plant-based dishes, and popular local options like roti can often be prepared with vegetarian fillings.
While gluten-free options are not as widespread, several establishments in Port of Spain accommodate gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly, and some restaurants may offer modified versions of traditional dishes to accommodate gluten sensitivity.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Port of Spain with these cultural adventures.