Things To Do
in Port of Spain
Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, is a vibrant urban center known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. Nestled between the hills and the Gulf of Paria, the city is a melting pot of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. With its colorful festivals, bustling markets, and beautiful parks, Port of Spain offers visitors an engaging experience.
The city's architecture reflects its colonial past alongside modern developments, making it a unique destination to explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Queen's Park Savannah, where you can enjoy a stroll around the largest open space in the city and visit the nearby National Museum and Art Gallery.
Head to the bustling Brian Lara Promenade for lunch, and then take a guided tour of the historic Fort San Andrés, learning about the city’s colonial history.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the Woodbrook area, then experience the nightlife at a calypso bar or live music venue.
Spend the morning at Maracas Beach, where you can relax on the sand and sample the local dish, bake and shark.
Take a scenic drive to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary for a guided boat tour to see the stunning scarlet ibis and other wildlife.
Return to the city for dinner at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy a sunset view over the Gulf of Paria.
Prices
Item | Price |
---|---|
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15-$30 |
🍕Fast food combo meal | $7-$10 |
🚖Taxi ride within the city | $3-$10 |
☕Coffee at a café | $2-$5 |
🥖Local street food snack | $1-$3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant culture and festivals
- Delicious and diverse cuisine
- Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Higher crime rates in certain areas
- Limited public transportation options
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias!" - Thank you!
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Places to Visit in Port of Spain
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque park surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.
This historical fort offers stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Paria and the city, ideal for breathtaking sunset shots.
Famous for its golden sands and azure waters, this beach is a must-visit for stunning coastal photography.
Food in Port of Spain
Port of Spain Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular beach food consisting of fried dough (bake) filled with fried shark and topped with a variety of sauces and vegetables.
Must-Try!
A one-pot rice dish cooked with pigeon peas, coconut milk, and a variety of meats and spices.
A tasty street food made of two baras (fried flatbreads) filled with curried chickpeas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of fresh produce and street food, perfect for tasting local snacks.
A collection of food stalls around the savannah, where you can sample local delights like roti and pholourie.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake and a smile are the common forms of greeting; addressing someone as 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' followed by their last name is polite.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or formal events; casual wear is acceptable in most other settings.
Participate respectfully in local festivals and traditions, and seek permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Port of Spain
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included, and rounding up is common for taxi drivers.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred for small purchases and at markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Prepare for occasional heavy rains and humidity, but this season also features fewer tourists and lush greenery.
This vibrant period is characterized by lively parades, music, and celebrations, attracting visitors from around the world.
While Trinidad is less affected by hurricanes, it's wise to stay informed about weather updates during this time.
Port of Spain at Night
Hiking in Port of Spain
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Trinidad, this challenging hike offers breathtaking views and a chance to experience diverse flora and fauna.
This nature reserve features well-marked trails through lush rainforest, ideal for birdwatching and experiencing Trinidad's biodiversity.
Airports
How to reach Port of Spain by plane.
Located approximately 25 km (15 miles) from Port of Spain, this is the main international gateway serving Trinidad and Tobago.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group is primarily of Indian descent, with a rich cultural heritage that influences local festivals, cuisine, and religious practices.
Comprising a significant portion of the population, this group has a strong influence on the country's music, dance, and cultural expressions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Trinidad and Tobago, with many local leagues and national teams competing at various levels.
Football enjoys a strong following, with local clubs and national teams participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port of Spain.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, and several restaurants offer dedicated vegetarian menus.
While traditional Caribbean food is often gluten-free, it's best to inform restaurants about your dietary needs.