St. George's: The Spice Isle's Picturesque Capital
Discover St. George's, Grenada: a vibrant capital steeped in history, culture, and the fragrant allure of the Spice Isle.
St. George's, the capital of Grenada, is often lauded as one of the Caribbean's most beautiful capital cities. Its strategic location on a natural harbor made it a prime target for European powers, with the French first establishing a settlement in 1650. Originally named Fort Royal by the French, the city was later renamed St. George's by the British in honor of King George III. Today, St. George's is a bustling hub of activity, serving as the island's chief port and commercial center. The Carenage, the city's inner harbor, is a hive of activity with colorful fishing boats, waterfront restaurants, and shops. The city's architecture reflects its colonial past, with Georgian-style buildings and historic forts dotting the landscape. Fort George, built by the French in the early 18th century, offers panoramic views of the city and harbor. Grenada's nickname, the "Spice Isle," is well-earned, with nutmeg, cocoa, mace, cinnamon, and ginger playing a central role in the island's economy and culture. Visitors can explore local markets overflowing with spices, visit spice mills, and tour rum distilleries to learn about the island's agricultural heritage. St. George's offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for any visitor to Grenada.
Local tips
- Explore the Carenage, St. George's picturesque harbor, for colorful boats, shops, and restaurants.
- Visit the local market for fresh produce, spices, and a taste of Grenadian culture.
- Take a walk through Sendall Tunnel, a historic passage connecting the Carenage with the Church Street district.
- Sample local Grenadian cuisine, including fresh seafood and the national dish, Oildown.
- Consider a day trip to nearby attractions like Grand Anse Beach or Annandale Falls.
A brief summary to St George's
- St George's, GD
Getting There
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Walking
St. George's is a compact town best explored on foot. From the cruise terminal or bus terminal, walk along the Esplanade into the heart of the city. Be prepared for some steep streets as you explore the historic district. Key landmarks like Fort George, the Grenada National Museum, and the Carenage are all within walking distance.
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Public Transport
Local buses, which are privately owned vans, operate from the Melville Street Bus Terminal to various parts of the island. Destinations are marked on the buses. A one-way fare within St. George's is around EC$2.50. Buses are frequent during the day but less so in the evenings and on Sundays.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in St. George's, especially at the cruise terminal and airport. Fares are fixed but it's always wise to confirm the rate before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within St. George's will cost approximately EC$50 or $20. Tipping the driver 10% is customary.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that many streets in St. George's are one-way. Parking can be limited, especially near the Carenage. There are public car parks available. A temporary Grenadian driver's license is required, costing EC$60, obtainable at the police station with a valid license from your home country.
