Willemstad: A Colorful Capital with a Rich History
Explore Willemstad, Curaçao: A UNESCO-listed city with colorful Dutch architecture, rich history, and vibrant Caribbean culture. Discover its unique charm!
Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is a vibrant city known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site that blends European and Caribbean influences. Explore its historic districts, cross the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, and immerse yourself in its unique cultural heritage.
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 at night to see it illuminated with colorful lights.
- Try local cuisine at Marshe Bieuw (the Old Market) for an authentic taste of Curaçao.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's history and cultural heritage.
- Be prepared for warm weather and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Curaçao Cruise Terminal, exit the terminal and walk towards the Queen Emma Bridge. Cross the bridge into Punda. Once in Punda, you are within walking distance of most major attractions, including the Handelskade, Fort Amsterdam, and the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes to walk from the cruise terminal to the heart of Willemstad.
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Public Transport
From Curaçao Hato International Airport, take bus 2A or 2C to Punda or bus 4B to Otrobanda. These buses depart approximately every two hours on weekdays and less frequently on weekends. From either terminal, you can easily walk to most attractions. A single ticket costs 1.70 ANG, and exact change is required. Alternatively, from the airport, take the Konvoi bus 4B to the Otrobanda terminal, or bus 2A/2C to the Punda terminal. The bus trip takes approximately 20-25 minutes. From the main bus terminals, most city buses operate once every hour, but less frequently on Sundays. Most fares are between 1.50 - 2.50 ANG.
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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. From the cruise terminal, a short taxi ride to anywhere in Willemstad will likely cost around $15-$20 USD. Ensure the driver uses the fixed rates. Tipping is customary (10-15%). There is also an administration fee of $10.
Discover more about Willemstad
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Curazao
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Wilhelminaplein Punda
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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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Unmissable attractions to see
Cascada Rooftop Bar + Kitchen
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Temple Emanu-El
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Punda Beach Curazao "Playa Marichi"
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Koningin Wilhelmina standbeeld
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Kon. Wilhelminapark
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Historic Innercity Willemstad (Listed built heritage)
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Happy Paintings
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Dushi Sign
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Curaçao Sign
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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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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
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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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