Willemstad

Curacao, The Caribbean

Willemstad, the vibrant capital of Curaçao, is famed for its colorful colonial architecture and rich Dutch heritage. The UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning landmarks like the floating market and the iconic Handelskade waterfront. Visitors can explore hidden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and visit local museums, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With year-round sunny weather, Willemstad is an inviting destination for those seeking culture, history, and stunning Caribbean views.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Hato

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Willemstad

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the colorful buildings of Punda

Wander through vibrant streets lined with historic architecture.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Curacao Sea Aquarium

Engage with marine life and watch exciting shows.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Cas Abao Beach

Unwind on stunning white sand and crystal clear waters.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a tour of the Hato Caves

Discover fascinating limestone caves with rich history.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Floating Market

Experience a unique market with goods from Venezuela.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the historic district of Otrobanda

Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site neighborhood.

No booking required
7

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at Klein Curacao

Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience a sunset at Mambo Beach

Enjoy breathtaking sunsets with lively beach vibes.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Kura Hulanda Museum

Learn about Curacao's history and African heritage.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a guided tour of the distillery

Sample Curacao's famous liqueur and learn the process.

Booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Christoffel National Park

Hike and discover diverse flora and fauna.

No booking required
12

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Queen Emma Bridge

Walk across a floating bridge with stunning views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Netherlands Antillean Guilder

Majority religion

No data

Language

Papiamento

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Keshi Yena

Stuffed cheese dish with meat. (National dish)

Stobá

Hearty meat stew with spices.

Pastechi

Savory pastry filled with meat or cheese.

Funchi

VE

Cornmeal dish, similar to polenta.

Sopi di Pisca

Fish soup with vegetables and spices.

Phrases to learn

English

Papiamento

Hello

Bon dia

(Bon dee-ah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Danki

(Dahn-kee)

Excuse me

Perdona mi

(Per-doh-nah mee)

How much?

Kuantu?

(Kwan-too)