Jump To:
About this guide
Willemstad, Curaçao, is known for its brightly colored Dutch colonial buildings, gorgeous turquoise waters, and a cultural blend of Caribbean heritage and European influences. This UNESCO World Heritage city has a vibrant street art scene and charming floating markets for amazing handmade mementos. From the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, visitors can see crystal-clear waters teeming with local marine life before indulging in the island’s unique Dutch fusion cuisine. With its warm hospitality, year-round sunshine, and endless adventures, this beach town promises an unforgettable vacation.
- Best time to travel: December to April (peak season), September to November (off-season), May to August (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), No Daylight Savings
- Currency: Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), the US dollar (USD, $)
- Language(s): Papiamento, Dutch, and English
- Noteworthy: Curaçao Carnival (January), King’s Day (April), Curaçao Dive Festival (April), Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival (August), Pietermaai Pagara Party (December)
- Best for: Beach Getaway, Dutch-Caribbean Cuisine, Outdoor Adventures, Luxury Relaxation
Get Away: Getting To And Around Willemstad, Curaçao
By Air
Travelers can fly into Willemstad via Curaçao International Airport (also Hato International Airport), which serves direct flights from the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. The small airport is about 10 miles from downtown Willemstad and offers car rental services.
By Car
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Willemstad and the rest of Curaçao, especially the beaches and attractions outside the city. Road conditions are generally good and driving is on the right-hand side. Keep in mind that road signage may be in Dutch or Papiamento. Parking in Willemstad can be tricky in busy areas as well but many hotels and attractions have free or affordable parking.
By Public Transit
Curaçao has a limited public bus system with large Konvoi buses and smaller vans called minibuses. These minibuses run fixed routes between Willemstad and other parts of the island. They are affordable but infrequent and not always reliable, so travelers on a tight schedule may prefer taxis or rental cars. Taxis are available but do not use meters, so fares should be negotiated before the ride.
Explore Willemstad, Curaçao On Foot
Willemstad’s historic districts, Punda and Otrobanda, are very walkable, making it easy to explore colorful streets, waterfront areas, and key landmarks. The Queen Emma Bridge connects both districts with scenic pedestrian access across St. Anna Bay. While walking is great for sightseeing in central Willemstad, getting to beaches and attractions outside the city requires other transportation.
Quick facts
Atlantic Standard Time (AST), No Daylight Savings
Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) and the US dollar (USD, $)
Papiamento, Dutch, and English
Good For
Beach Getaway
Dutch-Caribbean Cuisine
Outdoor Adventures
Luxury Relaxation
Keep in mind
- Curaçao Carnival (January)
- King’s Day (April)
- Curaçao Dive Festival (April)
- Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival (August)
- Pietermaai Pagara Party (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Willemstad, Curaçao
Ceviche 91 Curaçao, a surf and turf tapas gastrobar in the historic Rif Fort village, serves modern ceviche. With artistic murals, bay harbor views, and a choice of air-conditioned comfort or a sea-view terrace, it’s the perfect spot to indulge and relax.
The urban dining experience at Kaya 91 includes a delicious mix of burgers, tacos, seafood, grilled meats, and vegan options. Pair them with crafted beers and cocktails before dancing to live music for a night of great food and entertainment.
Experience a unique blend of South American flavors at La Bohème Curaçao, a cozy bistro run by a Chilean family in the heart of Punda. From the multicultural staff and welcoming atmosphere to a menu that celebrates the Caribbean, this eatery serves amazing bohemian food.
For a delicious breakfast or a light lunch in Pietermaai, the cozy La Reina cafe doubles as a lifestyle boutique. Guests can also enjoy sweet treats and specialty drinks while browsing unique clothing, gifts, and home decor.
Cielo Gelato and Pizza serves authentic Italian gelato, coffee, and pizza with a wide variety of options. It’s an ideal dessert spot to unwind and savor delicious local fruity and decadent flavors with a tropical vibe.
Savor expertly grilled Argentinian steak and freshly caught seafood at Bocas Restaurant, with succulent pairings like traditional chimichurri. There’s also a curated wine selection that celebrates Argentinian flavors and the Caribbean’s rich bounty.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Willemstad, Curaçao
Book the Curacao Guided Underwater Walking Tour to see marine life like coral reefs and playful fish up-close. A small group embarks on an expertly guided ocean floor exploration with specialized dome helmets for an immersive experience.
Take the Island Treasures Beach Break to see the best of Curaçao with a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With a small group and expert guides, guests explore the stunning Hato Caves, snorkel alongside sea turtles, and relax on the serene shores of Playa Kalki.
The Snorkel Shore Trip with Scubaçao "East Point" dives into an educational experience learning about moray eels, squid, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Led by local experts who know and love the island, this tour offers a unique perspective on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure.
The Half Day ATV East Adventure Tour takes guests on a ride off the beaten path to hidden areas like Playa Kanoa Beach, the Ostrich Farm, and the Aloe Vera Plantation. With expert guidance and flexible tour times, even beginners can enjoy an exhilarating ATV adventure beyond the usual tourist routes in Curaçao’s rugged landscapes.
Spend a day at Curaçao Sea Aquarium, one of the world’s most unique aquariums, powered by an Open Water System. Enjoy up-close encounters with sea creatures and capture a glimpse into an exceptional underwater ecosystem.
Unwind and rejuvenate at Natural Blends Esthetics, a certified spa right on the beach at the historic Rif Fort in Otrobanda. With a range of relaxing treatments from massages to manicures and a serene atmosphere and expert services, be sure to book online in advance.
The raw beauty of dramatic waves crashing against the rugged coastline at Shete Boka National Park makes for incredible views. Perfect for a day of exploration and breathtaking moments, so be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Indulge in some island fun and lots of flavor on the four-hour Curacao Private Food Tour with tastes of local specialties like pastechi, lumpia, and Batido. Guests explore the island with a knowledgeable local guide for sightseeing, visits to neighborhood venues, and a stop at the Curaçao Distillery to learn about the iconic Blue Curacao liquor.
