Princes Town, Trinidad and Tobago Travel Guide

Discover the charm and cultural richness of Princes Town, Trinidad and Tobago, where history, nature, and vibrant local life come together in a picturesque setting.

Princes Town, nestled in the lush hills of southern Trinidad, is a charming and vibrant destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This quaint town is named in honor of the visit by Queen Victoria's grandsons in the 19th century and has since evolved into a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors to Princes Town can explore its scenic landscapes, characterized by rolling hills and verdant greenery. The town is also home to a variety of historical sites, including old colonial buildings and the well-preserved Indian Arrival Monument, which commemorates the arrival of Indian indentured laborers to Trinidad. The local markets are bustling with activity, offering a colorful array of fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted goods that reflect the town's diverse cultural heritage. Moreover, Princes Town is an excellent gateway to explore the natural wonders of southern Trinidad. Nearby attractions include the Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, where wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of native species in their natural habitats, and the scenic landscape of Moruga, known for its stunning coastal views and historical significance. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking to experience the warmth and hospitality of Trinidadian culture, Princes Town offers a unique and memorable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique handcrafted items.
Take some time to explore the Indian Arrival Monument and learn about the town’s rich history.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the hilly terrain and scenic trails around Princes Town.
Consider renting a car to visit nearby attractions like the Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and Moruga.

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

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

Best attractions in Princes Town

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Queen's Park Savannah

Explore Queen's Park Savannah, a lush urban park in Port of Spain, offering beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and leisure activities.

4.4

Royal Botanic Gardens

Explore the lush beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Port of Spain, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

4.4

San Fernando Hill

Explore the majestic San Fernando Hill, a national park in Trinidad with breathtaking views and rich cultural history perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

4.4

Harry's Water Park

Dive into adventure and make lasting memories at Harry's Water Park, a premier water attraction in Rio Claro, Trinidad and Tobago.

4.3

Best landmarks in Princes Town

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

San Fernando Hill

Discover the breathtaking views and serene landscapes at San Fernando Hill, Trinidad's must-visit park for nature lovers and families.

4.4

Lopinot Historical Complex

Explore the Lopinot Historical Complex, where Trinidad's rich cocoa heritage meets vibrant cultural experiences amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.3

Devil's Woodyard

Discover the tranquil beauty of Devil's Woodyard, a national park in Trinidad, where nature and adventure await every visitor.

4.2

Princes Town Mall

Explore the vibrant Princes Town Mall in Trinidad - a premier shopping destination with local and international brands, delicious dining, and a lively atmosphere.

3.9

Best restaurants in Princes Town

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

KFC

Experience the iconic taste of KFC in Princes Town with crispy chicken and delicious sides amidst your Trinidad adventures.

3.4

Viaaa

Discover authentic Trinidadian flavors at Viaaa – where every meal tells a story!

4.0

Benji's

Experience the vibrant flavors of Trinidad at Benji's in Princes Town—where local cuisine meets global tastes in a warm atmosphere.

4.1

Charley's Black Pudding

Discover authentic Trinidadian cuisine at Charley's Black Pudding in Princes Town – where every bite tells a story.

4.0

Best bars in Princes Town

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Benji's

Discover the flavors of Trinidad at Benji's, a beloved restaurant in Princes Town offering a delightful menu of local and international dishes.

4.1

Seerie's Bar

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Trinidad at Seerie's Bar, where local flavors and warm hospitality create an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Tara Sports and Recreation Bar

Enjoy local cuisine, sports, and a vibrant atmosphere at Tara Sports and Recreation Bar in Princes Town.

4.0

Troy City

Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Troy City, a must-visit bar in Princes Town, Trinidad, perfect for socializing and relaxation.

3.8

Best nightclubs in Princes Town

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Seerie's Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Seerie's Bar in Princes Town, where local culture and delicious drinks meet in a friendly setting.

4.1

Troy City

Discover Troy City in Princes Town: a vibrant bar with refreshing drinks, local music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

3.8

Scips Bar And Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Scips Bar And Lounge, offering a rich blend of local culture, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment in Princes Town.

3.9

Bar

Discover the lively bar culture of Princes Town, where local flavors and friendly faces await in a vibrant setting.

3.4

Best shops in Princes Town

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

JD's Mall

Explore JD's Mall in Trinidad for a unique shopping experience with local flair, diverse dining, and entertainment options.

3.9

Princes Town Mall

Princes Town Mall: A vibrant shopping haven in Trinidad, offering diverse retail, dining, and entertainment experiences for all visitors.

3.9

Judy's Formal and Bridal

Explore Judy's Formal and Bridal in Princes Town for stylish, affordable formal wear and bridal attire that suits every occasion.

4.3

MOODS

Explore MOODS in Princes Town for a stylish selection of formal wear, perfect for any special occasion or event.

4.4

Explore Princes Town on the Map

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

Princes Town Essentials

Princes Town is located in the southern part of Trinidad, one of the two main islands of Trinidad and Tobago. The nearest major airport is Piarco International Airport (POS), situated approximately 60 kilometers north of Princes Town. From the airport, you can rent a car, book a taxi, or use a private shuttle service to reach Princes Town. The drive usually takes about an hour and a half, depending on traffic. Public buses are also available from Port of Spain, the capital city, which connect to Princes Town.
Getting around Princes Town is relatively straightforward. Local taxis and maxi-taxis (shared minibuses) are popular and affordable options for transportation within the town and to nearby areas. Renting a car can offer more flexibility for exploring at your own pace. While public buses are available, they can be less reliable and might not cover all tourist spots. Walking is also a viable option for short distances within the town.
The official currency in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Princes Town, so you can withdraw money as needed. It is advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Princes Town is generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. While Princes Town itself does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 990 for police assistance, and 811 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Princes Town. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably for the warm climate, but also modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting Hindu temples or churches, dress conservatively and remove your shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and other passengers. Maxi-taxis are shared, so greet fellow passengers politely. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Good evening'. A handshake is common for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and street food, but ensure it's from a reputable vendor. Don't refuse food offerings, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Princes Town like a local, visit the Princes Town Market, which is bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss the annual Divali celebrations if you are visiting in October or November, which include vibrant festivities and local cuisine. For a unique experience, take a walk to the nearby Devil's Woodyard mud volcano, a fascinating natural attraction.

When is the best time to visit Princes Town?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Princes 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 Princes Town. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWaa gwaan
  [wah gwaan]
- GoodbyeLater
  [lay-ter]
- YesYes
  [yes]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Tank yuh
  [pleez/tank yuh]
- Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sar-ee]
- How are you?How yuh doin?
  [hao yuh doin]
- Fine. And you?Ahright. An yuh?
  [ah-rite. an yuh]
- Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yuh speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandAh doh understan
  [ah doh un-der-stand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see de menu, please
  [lem-mi see deh men-yu, pleez]
- I don't eat meatAh doh eat meat
  [ah doh eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseLemme pay, please
  [lem-mi pay, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go way!
  [go way]
- Call the Police!Call de Police!
  [call deh po-lice]
- Call a doctor!Call ah doctor!
  [call ah doc-tor]
- I'm lostAh loss
  [ah loss]
- I'm illAh sick
  [ah sik]
- I'd like to buy...Ah wud like tuh buy...
  [ah wud like tuh buy]
- I'm just lookingAh jes lookin
  [ah jess look-in]
- How much is it?How much dis is?
  [hao much dis is]
- That's too expensiveDat too expensive
  [dat too ex-pen-siv]
- Can you lower the price?Yuh cud drop de price?
  [yuh kud drop deh price]
- What time is it?What time it is?
  [what time it is]
- It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [it one o-clock]
- Half past (10)Half pass ten
  [half pass ten]
- MorningMornin
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin
  [even-in]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wan]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Tree
  [tree]
- 4Fo'
  [faw]
- 5Five
  [fai-v]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nyne]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Whea de...?
  [wea de]
- What's the address?What de address?
  [what de address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh cud show me (on de map)?
  [yuh kud show me (on de map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When de nex (bus)?
  [when deh neks (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

History of Princes Town

Princes Town, originally known as the Mission of Savana Grande, was established in the 1680s by Capuchin monks who were tasked with converting the indigenous Amerindian population to Christianity. The town was part of a network of missions spread throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Over time, the area became a vibrant agricultural center, primarily cultivating cocoa and coffee.
In 1880, the town received its current name, Princes Town, in honor of the visit by Queen Victoria's grandsons, Princes Albert and George. This visit marked an important milestone in the town’s history, symbolizing its connection to the British Crown. The town was renamed from Savana Grande to Princes Town as a gesture of respect and to commemorate this royal visit.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Princes Town expanded significantly due to the flourishing cocoa industry. The construction of the Princes Town Railway in 1897 further spurred growth by providing a reliable means of transporting goods and people. This period saw the establishment of several key institutions, including schools, churches, and commercial enterprises.
Princes Town is a microcosm of Trinidad and Tobago’s diverse cultural heritage. It is home to a vibrant mix of Afro-Trinidadian, Indo-Trinidadian, and European communities. This blend is evident in the town’s festivals, cuisine, and religious practices. Events such as Diwali, Eid, and Carnival are celebrated with equal fervor, showcasing the town's rich cultural diversity.
Today, Princes Town is a bustling town that has retained its historical charm while embracing modernity. The town center is a hive of activity, with markets, shops, and eateries offering a taste of local life. Historical buildings like the Princes Town Presbyterian Church and the old railway station stand as reminders of the town’s storied past. The Princes Town Regional Corporation manages the town’s infrastructure and services, ensuring a balance between development and preservation.