Road Town, British Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Discover Road Town, the vibrant capital of the British Virgin Islands, where Caribbean culture meets natural beauty. From historical sites to outdoor adventures, it's a paradise waiting to be explored.

Road Town, the bustling capital of the British Virgin Islands, is a charming blend of Caribbean culture and natural beauty. Nestled on the island of Tortola, it offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The town’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its historical landmarks, colorful architecture, and lush green hillsides. Stroll through the streets and discover the rich history of Road Town, from the quaint cottages to the grand Government House. The town’s markets are a sensory delight, filled with local crafts, fresh produce, and the inviting aroma of Caribbean cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the botanical gardens or visiting the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, there’s a sense of discovery around every corner. For those seeking adventure, Road Town serves as a gateway to the British Virgin Islands' many outdoor activities. From sailing and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to hiking the verdant trails of Sage Mountain National Park, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the natural splendor. After a day of exploration, relax at one of the local beachfront bars or dine in a restaurant overlooking the serene harbor, where you can watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of pink and orange.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Road Town.

Visit the local markets early in the morning to get the freshest produce and handmade crafts.
Take a ferry to nearby islands for a day trip and explore the surrounding beauties of the British Virgin Islands.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the town is best explored on foot.
Check the local calendar for festivals and events, such as the annual BVI Spring Regatta, to experience the local culture.
Don't miss the chance to try the local cuisine, especially fresh seafood dishes and roti.

Explore Road Town: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Road Town

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Tortola Pier Park

Experience vibrant Caribbean culture, shopping, and dining at Tortola Pier Park in Road Town, British Virgin Islands.

4.5

J.R. O'Neal Botanical Gardens

Discover a serene escape in Road Town's lush J.R. O'Neal Botanical Gardens, showcasing the British Virgin Islands' diverse plant life and conservation efforts.

4.3

Folk Museum

Discover the vibrant history and culture of the British Virgin Islands at the Folk Museum in Road Town, Tortola.

3.8

Best landmarks in Road Town

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Sailing Virgins

Adventure sailing courses in the BVI for young adults: Learn to sail, explore the Caribbean, and connect with fellow adventurers.

5.0

Bamboushay Restaurant & Lounge

Experience Caribbean flavors with waterfront views at Bamboushay Restaurant & Lounge in Road Town, Tortola. Great food, music, and local art!

4.6

French Deli & Gourmet Shop

Authentic French deli and gourmet shop in Road Town, British Virgin Islands, offering a wide selection of European products and culinary delights.

4.5

The Moorings: BVI (Tortola)

Explore the breathtaking British Virgin Islands with The Moorings, your top choice for boat hire and sailing adventures.

4.4

Best restaurants in Road Town

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Island Roots On Main Street

Discover the vibrant flavors of Island Roots On Main Street - where healthy meets delicious in the heart of Road Town.

4.9

Bamboushay Restaurant & Lounge

Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning waterfront views at Bamboushay Restaurant & Lounge in Road Town.

4.6

Main Street Restaurant BVI

Discover exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Main Street Restaurant BVI in Road Town - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

4.9

French Deli & Gourmet Shop

Experience authentic French cuisine and exquisite wines at the French Deli & Gourmet Shop in Road Town, British Virgin Islands.

4.5

Best bars in Road Town

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Pusser's

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Pusser's, your go-to restaurant and pub in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.

4.4

The Watering Hole

Experience the vibrant flavors and friendly ambiance at The Watering Hole, the premier grill in Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

4.4

Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar, BVI

Experience the ultimate blend of luxury and relaxation at Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar in Road Town, BVI – the perfect spot for cocktails and cigars.

4.4

Tropix Cocktail Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tropix Cocktail Bar, where refreshing cocktails and stunning tropical views await you in Road Town.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Road Town

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar, BVI

Discover the elegance of Aromas Cigar & Martini Bar in the British Virgin Islands – where premium cigars and crafted martinis meet sophistication.

4.4

Tropix Cocktail Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing cocktails at Tropix Cocktail Bar in Road Town, British Virgin Islands, your paradise getaway.

4.6

Lounge45 Sports Bar & Restaurant

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lounge45 Sports Bar & Restaurant, where Caribbean flavors meet sports entertainment in Road Town.

4.5

Sandbox45

Experience the best of Caribbean nightlife at Sandbox45, a lively bar in Road Town offering delicious cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Road Town

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

GOODFELLAS

Explore Goodfellas in Road Town for a unique shopping experience filled with island-inspired fashion and friendly service.

5.0

Varieties & Electronics

Explore Varieties & Electronics in Road Town for a unique shopping experience blending clothing and home appliances in the British Virgin Islands.

4.9

Crafts Alive Village

Explore Crafts Alive Village for unique souvenirs and custom creations with breathtaking ocean views in the British Virgin Islands.

4.4

That’s the Spirit

Explore the vibrant spirit of the British Virgin Islands at 'That’s the Spirit', your go-to destination for unique local crafts and souvenirs.

5.0

Explore Road Town on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Road Town, mapped for you.

Road Town Essentials

Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and is located on the island of Tortola. The closest international airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, which is connected to Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Road Town, a journey that takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can arrive by ferry from other islands in the Caribbean, such as St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Road Town is relatively small, so many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. Car rentals are also an option, with several agencies available in the town. Public buses operate on a limited schedule and are less reliable for tourists. Scooter and bicycle rentals are less common but can be found for those who prefer a more active mode of transportation.
The official currency in the British Virgin Islands is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Road Town, but transaction fees may apply depending on your home bank.
Road Town is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings. While the crime rate is relatively low, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Stick to well-populated and well-lit areas, and always use reputable transportation services.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 911 for immediate assistance. Road Town has a police station, and there are medical facilities available, including Peebles Hospital for more serious health issues. Pharmacies are also available for over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather. Avoid overly revealing attire, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate to other passengers. Don't expect public transport to run on a strict schedule. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' Handshakes are also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and seafood. Don't be overly critical of local dishes, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Road Town like a local, visit the Crafts Alive Village, where you can buy handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss the Saturday morning market at the Road Town Market Square for fresh produce and local delicacies. For a unique experience, take a ferry to nearby islands like Jost Van Dyke or Virgin Gorda.

When is the best time to visit Road Town?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Road Town

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Road Town. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGood day
  [gud dey]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [gud-bai]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pliiz]
- Thank youThank you
  [tenk yu]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
  [ek-kyus mi]
- How are you?How you doin?
  [hau yu doin]
- Fine. And you?I dey aight. An yu?
  [ai dey ait. an yu]
- Do you speak English?Yu speek Inglish?
  [yu spik inglish]
- I don't understandMi no sabi
  [mi no sa-bi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wan si di menu, pliiz
  [mi wan si di men-yu, pliiz]
- I don't eat meatMi no et meat
  [mi no et meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi wud laik fi pay, pliiz
  [mi wud laik fi pay, pliiz]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go weh!
  [go weh]
- Call the Police!Kol di Polis!
  [kol di po-lis]
- Call a doctor!Kol a dokta!
  [kol a dok-ta]
- I'm lostMi loss
  [mi los]
- I'm illMi siik
  [mi sik]
- I'd like to buy...Mi wan fi buy...
  [mi wan fi buy...]
- I'm just lookingMi jus a luk
  [mi jus a luk]
- How much is it?How much dis dey?
  [hau mach dis dey]
- That's too expensiveDat tuu praisi
  [dat tuu prei-si]
- Can you lower the price?Yu kyan lowa di prais?
  [yu kyan lo-wa di preis]
- What time is it?Weh tym it dey?
  [weh ta-im it dey]
- It's one o'clockIt a wan a klok
  [it a wan a klok]
- Half past (10)Aaf past (10)
  [aaf past (10)]
- MorningMawnin
  [mawnin]
- AfternoonAftanun
  [af-ta-nun]
- EveningIvinin
  [iv-in-in]
- YesterdayYistade
  [yi-sta-de]
- TodayTudeh
  [tu-deh]
- TomorrowTomara
  [to-ma-ra]
- 1Wan
  [wan]
- 2Tu
  [tu]
- 3Chrii
  [krai]
- 4Fo
  [fo]
- 5Fav
  [fav]
- 6Siks
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [se-ven]
- 8Eit
  [eit]
- 9Nain
  [nain]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Weh di...?
  [weh di]
- What's the address?Weh di adres?
  [weh di ad-res]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu kyan show mi (pan di map)?
  [yu kyan sho mi (pan di map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When di neks (bus)?
  [when di neks (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A tiket (to ....)
  [a ti-ket (to ....)]

History of Road Town

The area now known as Road Town was originally inhabited by the Taino and Arawak peoples, who were the earliest settlers of the British Virgin Islands. These indigenous communities lived off the land and sea, fishing and farming to sustain their way of life. The name 'Road Town' is derived from the nautical term 'the roads,' which means a place less sheltered than a harbor where ships can anchor.
In the late 17th century, the British established their presence in the British Virgin Islands, including Road Town, to capitalize on the lucrative sugar industry. Sugarcane plantations flourished, and enslaved Africans were brought to the islands to work on these plantations. The remnants of this era can still be seen in the form of old plantation estates and ruins.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the waters around Road Town were frequented by pirates and privateers. The British Virgin Islands' strategic location made it a hotspot for maritime activities, both legal and illicit. Famous pirates such as Blackbeard and Captain Kidd are said to have sailed these waters, adding a layer of intrigue to the area's history.
The abolition of slavery in 1834 marked a significant turning point for Road Town and the British Virgin Islands. The local economy, which had been heavily reliant on slave labor, had to adapt and diversify. Many former slaves turned to subsistence farming and fishing, while others moved to different Caribbean islands or emigrated to places like the United States and the United Kingdom.
In the mid-20th century, Road Town began to transform into the bustling capital of the British Virgin Islands that it is today. The development of tourism, spurred by the area's natural beauty and favorable climate, became a significant economic driver. The construction of hotels, marinas, and other infrastructure helped to modernize the town and attract visitors from around the world.
Road Town is rich in cultural heritage, which is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year. The BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival is one of the most anticipated events, attracting sailors and enthusiasts from around the globe. Additionally, the Emancipation Festival, held annually in August, commemorates the abolition of slavery with vibrant parades, music, and cultural displays.
In September 2017, Road Town was severely impacted by Hurricane Irma, one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the Atlantic. The hurricane caused widespread devastation, but the resilience and spirit of the local community shone through in the aftermath. Extensive rebuilding efforts have since taken place, and Road Town has made significant strides in its recovery.