Oranjestad: Aruba's Vibrant Capital
Discover Oranjestad, Aruba: A colorful capital with Dutch charm, historical sites, upscale shopping, and vibrant Caribbean culture.
Oranjestad, Aruba's capital, is a colorful blend of Dutch colonial architecture and Caribbean charm. Explore its historical sites, luxury retailers, and lively waterfront, offering a unique island experience.
A brief summary to Oranjestad
- Oranjestad, AW
Local tips
- Explore the city center using the free trolley service for a scenic overview of the shopping districts.
- Visit Fort Zoutman and Willem III Tower to delve into Aruba's history and enjoy panoramic views.
- Attend the Bon Bini Festival on Tuesday evenings for a taste of Aruban culture, music, and cuisine.
- Take a stroll along L.G. Smith Boulevard to enjoy the waterfront views, shops, and restaurants.
- Explore the National Archaeological Museum to learn about Aruba's pre-colonial history and Amerindian heritage.
Getting There
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Walking
Most of Oranjestad's main attractions are within walking distance of each other. From the cruise terminal or central bus station, head towards L.G. Smith Boulevard and follow the signs to landmarks like Fort Zoutman, the Parliament Building, and Wilhelmina Park. Allow ample time to stroll and enjoy the colorful architecture. Remember that the Aruban sun can be intense, so wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
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Public Transport
Arubus, the local bus service, offers a convenient and affordable way to reach Oranjestad from other parts of Aruba. From the hotel areas, take a bus to the central bus station located next to the cruise terminal. A round-trip ticket costs approximately $4.00 USD. Buses run frequently between 5:45 AM and 11:30 PM. Check the Arubus website for the most up-to-date schedules.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Aruba and offer a quick way to reach Oranjestad. Taxi stands can be found outside the airport, cruise terminal, and major hotels. A taxi from the airport to Oranjestad costs approximately $21 USD. Fares are fixed and based on destination, not metered distance. Note that there is a $3.00 surcharge on Sundays, official holidays, and between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
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Parking
If driving to Oranjestad, paid parking is available in designated areas, particularly around Caya Betico Croes (Main Street) and L.G. Smith Boulevard. Look for white-lined parking spaces with registration numbers. Parking is enforced Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Rates are approximately 2 Aruban Florin (AWG) per hour. Payment can be made with local or U.S. coins, or by credit card at certain machines. Free parking spaces are also available. Be aware of yellow-lined spaces, which are for permit holders only.
Discover more about Oranjestad
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Country of Aruba
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Juan E. Irausquin Plein
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Water Tower Oranjestad
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Do More Tattoo Studio Aruba
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Aruba Wireless
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Aruba Downtown Walking & Food Tours
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Nos Isla Private Tours
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Renaissance Mall
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Royal Plaza Mall
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Masonic Monument
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Driftwood Fishing Charters Aruba
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Aruba Streetcar
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Universal Restaurant Aruba
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Anne Frank Monument
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Anne Frank Statue
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Unmissable attractions to see
Oranjestad
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San Francisco di Asis Pro-Cathedral
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Rose Alley
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Saturnina Blue Horse
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National Archaeological Museum Aruba
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Protestantse Gemeente van Aruba
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Old Protestant Church
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Cosecha Aruban Craft Design & Heritage
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Bridge - Best Place for Cruise Photos
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Museo Historico Aruba
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Aruba Airport Landing Lookout
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Atlantis Submarines Aruba
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Carla Fishing Charters Aruba
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Renaissance Marina
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Seaport Casino
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Essential places to dine
Silla Bar Restaurant
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Alfie's In Aruba
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Nusa Aruba
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La Esquina
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The Pastechi House
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Driftwood Restaurant Aruba
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KOAL Restaurant
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Paris Restaurant
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Delimar Peruvian Restaurant
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill
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Restaurant anno 1877
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Que Pasa Restaurant & Winebar
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La Granja Oranjestad
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Coco Plum Restaurant
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Aquarius
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Bazaar
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Pop-Up Store Aruba
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Kairos Outlet Aruba
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OUTLET TR
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Holland Aruba Mall
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V.I.P. Gift Souvenir
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Eva Boutique
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Best of Aruba
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Sun & Sand
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Classic Aruba
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Pier Market
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Colombian Emeralds
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Super Shopping
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Artistic Boutique Aruba
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Breitling Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Manuelito's
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Lisboa Bar & Restaurant
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U-Wanna-Beer
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La Ronda Café
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Apotek Speakeasy
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Watergate
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Hoya
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Liquid chef Gastro Bar
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The Green Room Aruba
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Blue Martini Bar
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Solé Bar
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Café Chaos
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Sende Aruba
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5 O clock somewhere bar
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Sividivi
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