Willemstad: A Colorful Capital City
Discover Willemstad, Curaçao: A vibrant UNESCO city with colorful architecture, rich history, and Caribbean charm. Explore its iconic landmarks and culture.
Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is a vibrant city known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its historic districts, cross the Queen Emma Bridge, and immerse yourself in the island's rich culture and history.
A brief summary to Willemstad
- Willemstad, CW
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as you'll want to explore the city's historic districts on foot.
- Visit the Queen Emma Bridge in the evening to see it illuminated with colorful lights.
- Try local cuisine at Marshe Bieuw (Old Market) for an authentic taste of Curaçao.
- Be prepared for warm weather and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Learn a few basic Papiamento phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Curaçao Cruise Terminal, Willemstad's historic center is easily accessible on foot. Upon exiting the terminal, follow the signs towards the Queen Emma Bridge. Cross the bridge to reach Punda, the main shopping and business hub. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Curaçao Hato International Airport, take the "konvoi" bus 4B to Otrobanda or bus 2A/2C to Punda. Both Otrobanda and Punda are districts in the historic center of Willemstad. The bus trip takes approximately 20-25 minutes. A single ticket costs 1.70 ANG, and it's recommended to have exact change. Buses to Otrobanda leave once an hour Monday to Saturday between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM. Buses to Punda depart once every two hours between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at Curaçao Hato International Airport and the Curaçao Cruise Terminal. A taxi ride from the airport to Willemstad costs approximately $30-$40 USD. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. From the cruise terminal, a taxi to Willemstad's city center will cost around $40 USD. It is advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
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Parking
Parking in Willemstad is generally easy, with the exception of the downtown area. In Punda and Otrobanda, parking costs 1 ANG per hour from Monday to Saturday, between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Payment can be made at parking meters using coins or via the Flowbird app. The Renaissance Resort offers over 500 parking spaces, but overnight parking is limited to resort guests. Be aware of the blue zone in Willemstad, where parking is free for 2 hours with a parking disc, valid from Thursday to Sunday, between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM.
Discover more about Willemstad
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Curazao
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Wilhelminaplein Punda
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of Wilhelminaplein Punda, a cultural gem in Willemstad, Curaçao, surrounded by stunning architecture.
Historic Innercity Willemstad (Listed built heritage)
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Homenaje na Seú mural
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Marichi Pier
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Wilhelminaplein
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Curacao Tourist Board
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Parliament of Curaçao
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Punda Wings
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Old houses of Breedestraat
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Statue Dr. Moises Frumencio da Costa Gomez
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cascada Rooftop Bar + Kitchen
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Punda Beach Curazao "Playa Marichi"
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Kon. Wilhelminapark
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Happy Paintings
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Discover the vibrant colors and joyful spirit of Curaçao through the expressive paintings of local artist Renate Rolofes at Happy Paintings gallery in Willemstad's Punda district.
Dushi Sign
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Capture the spirit of Curaçao at the Dushi Sign in Willemstad's vibrant Punda district. A colorful celebration of local culture and the perfect photo op awaits!
Curaçao Sign
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Discover the vibrant beauty of the Curaçao Sign, a must-visit landmark in Willemstad, capturing the essence of Caribbean culture.
Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
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Waterfort Arches
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Jewish Cultural Historical Museum
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Curaçao Travel Guide
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Plein Air Curacao Art Museum
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Private-tourscuracao.com
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Wind Alley
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Nena Sanchez Gallery
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Queen Wilhelmina Bridge
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Essential places to dine
ZOH RESTAURANT
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Sweet Sin Curacao
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Op=Op Eetbar
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La Bohème Curaçao
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De Buren Curaçao
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Perla Del Mar
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Mandal Indian Restaurant & Bar
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Blauwblauw curacao
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Plein Café Wilhelmina
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Cielo Gelato & Pizza
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Toasted Buns
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Dal Toro Restaurant
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Il Barile da Mario, 12
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Indian Food
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Scampi's Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sendesende boutique
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Souvenir Station
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MAYAS CLOTHING CURAÇAO
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Supreme & Real Souvenir Liquor Shop
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CIAO CURACAO
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Casa Keis ( Great Fabrics + Upholstery)
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SilvanyRoss
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Kokolishi Store
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Asha African Assortment
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Chichi Shop Punda
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Memories Curacao
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Curaçao
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Cafe De Tijd
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The World Best Mojito Bar
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Joe Black
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Delicias de Alnair
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The tiki tok youssef A.k.A Youssef el khabbaz
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GAZE Bar & Lounge Curaçao
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Ibiza Grill Curacao
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The City Curaçao
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
WildHogs MC/ Hogs Nest
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Club Knarp - Bar&Nightlife
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Club Patio - Bar&Nightlife
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Rif fort bar
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Doo-shee cocktail bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Willemstad at Doo-shee Cocktail Bar, where exceptional cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
JJ Discobar
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Blastbar qrasow
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Netto Bar
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