Things To Do
in Hamilton
Hamilton, Bermuda sits on the central-northern coast of the island and blends colonial charm with modern amenities. The city is known for its pink-hued sandstone buildings, tree-lined streets, and a bustling harbor front with yachts and ferries. Visitors can wander Front Street to explore shops, dine at waterfront restaurants, and take day trips to pink-sand beaches and coral reefs.
With a compact, walkable core and easy access to outdoor adventures, Hamilton serves as a convenient base for Bermuda's island experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bermuda National Gallery, where you can admire local and international art. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Hamilton, enjoying the charming colonial architecture and boutique shops. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Bermuda breakfast of codfish and potatoes.
In the afternoon, visit the Bermuda Maritime Museum for a deeper understanding of the island's rich maritime history. Take a relaxing walk along Front Street, lined with restaurants and shops, and enjoy lunch at a waterfront eatery overlooking the harbor. As the afternoon sun sets, find a perfect spot to watch the boats sail in and out of the port.
As night falls, indulge in Bermuda's vibrant dining scene at one of the many seafood restaurants in Hamilton. After dinner, explore the nightlife at local bars or enjoy live music at a nearby venue. To unwind, take a peaceful stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the serene atmosphere of the harbor.
Begin your morning at the Royal Naval Dockyard, immersing yourself in the island's naval history and visiting the National Museum of Bermuda. Explore the various exhibits showcasing Bermuda's maritime heritage, then climb to the top of the Clock Tower for panoramic views. Grab a light snack at one of the local cafes before continuing your adventure.
In the afternoon, take a scenic bus ride to St. George's, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to discover the island's colonial past. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops and historical landmarks, including the St. Peter's Church and the Town Hall. Have lunch at a local eatery, enjoying the flavors of Bermuda with dishes like fish chowder.
As dusk approaches, enjoy a waterfront dinner at a restaurant in St. George's, where you can savor fresh local seafood. After your meal, explore the charming streets of St. George's, stopping by for unique souvenirs or local crafts. Cap off the evening by attending a historic reenactment, bringing the rich heritage of the island to life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $180-350 |
| 🚕Taxi from airport to Hamilton | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable city center
- Easy access to beaches and nature
- High-quality dining and hospitality
- Safe, English-speaking environment
- High cost of living and dining
- Limited public transport beyond buses and ferries
- Hurricanes pose seasonal risk
- Smaller island with limited nightlife options
- "Hello" - Hello (friendly greeting)
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Hamilton
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial façades along the harbor with yachts and clear turquoise water.
Architectural landmarks with classic Bermudian stone and spires.
Lush green space with statues and city backdrops.
Golden hour light over the marina and pastel buildings.
Food in Hamilton
Hamilton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming clear fish chowder with potatoes and local onions, often served with sherry pepper sauce.
Must-Try!
Salt cod with potatoes, onions, and eggs, a weekend Bermudian staple.
Crispy fried cakes made from salt cod and potatoes, great as a snack or light meal.
Fragrant coconut-infused rice paired with grilled fish or seafood.
A rich sponge cake soaked with dark Bermudian rum.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Casual waterfront stalls and eateries along Hamilton’s main thoroughfare offering seafood bites and Bermudian snacks.
A market with island crafts and snacks on select days; a short day trip from Hamilton.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bermudians are friendly and polite; greet with a smile and a hello, dress modestly in churches, and respect local rules and quiet hours.
Safety
Tipping in Hamilton
Ensure a smooth experience
A standard 15-18% service charge is common in restaurants; taxis may expect a small tip (5-10%) for good service.
Credit cards are widely accepted; US dollars are commonly accepted; carry some local cash (Bermudian or US dollars) for small stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and humid with regular sea breezes; frequent afternoon showers and vibrant marine life; great for beaches and water sports.
Mild days with cooler evenings; comfortable sightseeing and occasional storms; fewer crowds.
Mild temperatures and flowering landscapes; ideal for Railway Trail walks and harbor strolls.
Pleasant conditions with diminishing humidity; good for sailing and snorkeling.
Hamilton at Night
Hiking in Hamilton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A long-distance trail running along the old Bermuda railway with sea views and shade.
Coastal reserve with bays, birds, and scenic coastal walks.
Coastal paths with views of the water and limestone rock formations.
Airports
How to reach Hamilton by plane.
The main international airport, located about 10-15 miles from Hamilton; transfers by taxi or bus take around 25-50 minutes depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The native population, a mix of Afro-Bermudian and Euro-Bermudian communities along with mixed heritage individuals.
A diverse mix from the UK, the Caribbean, North America, and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Bermudian sport with local leagues and matches; players and fans fill parks and clubs.
The island is renowned for sailing, snorkeling, diving, and other water-based activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hamilton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Bermuda restaurants can accommodate vegetarian diets; look for plant-based mains, fresh vegetables, legumes, and fruit; ask about stock or sauces containing meat.