The bustling capital of Trinidad and Tobago and its main natural harbour, Port of Spain welcomes many cruise passengers into this Caribbean jewel. With an exotic mixture of Creole, Spanish, French and British colonial culture, Port of Spain is an exciting and diverse destination, complete with beautiful scenery and vibrant people.

Key sights include the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Queen's Savannah, the Mount St Benedict Monastery, and the views across the city from the Laventille Hills. Maracas Beach is also definitely worth a visit for all sun-worshippers. Ships dock at the Port of Spain, which is located just a few minutes' walk away from the city's financial and shopping district, at the Cruise Ship Complex, where passengers are welcomed by locals dancing to the beat of the steel drum in Carnival costumes and singing calypso. The cruise terminal features a Tourism Information Office and fantastic duty free shopping.

Contact

Tourist Office

10-14 Phillips Street

Tel: +868 675 7034/5/6/7

Transport

Public mini buses are fast, frequent and cheap and cover a multitude of routes around Port of Spain and can be hailed easily from the port. Mini taxis are also available and are identified by the 'H' on their number plates, although they are relatively expensive. It is advisable to negotiate a fare with the taxi driver before agreeing on their services. Many taxis offer island tours. The proximity of the port to downtown Port of Spain and a number of the city's attractions means that walking is an option for more active tourists.

Attractions

The Queen's Savannah, which is coincidentally one of the world's largest traffic roundabouts at 260 acres (105 ha), is a major tourist attraction and a great place to get a feel for the city. Stollmeyer's Castle in St. Clair is a must as well as the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Historic Gothic Rosary Church. The Laventille Hills offer some of the most breathtaking and spectacular views over the Port of Spain - ideal for the postcard picture perfect shot!

Restaurants

New Breakfast Shed - affordable eatery offering an assortment of local cuisine five minutes' walk from the terminal

Veni Mange - one of the best restaurants for local cuisine

Lighthouse Restaurant - romantic setting with fantastic views serving seafood

Best Dish

Callaloo (traditional soup)

Shopping

The main shopping areas in Port of Spain are Frederick Street, Queen Street, Henry Street and Charlotte Street. Visitors will be able to find bargains lurking in just about every corner, especially when it comes to souvenirs such as fabrics, ceramics, carvings and leather. At the cruise terminal there is duty free shopping, clothing boutiques and souvenir shops, and just outside visitors can find a craft market touting all the best local wares.

Best Buy

Batik fabrics, pepper sauces

Excursions

Go bird watching at Asa Wright Nature Centre

Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens

Lounge about on Maracas Beach

See the views from Laventille Hills

Explore the Gasparee Caves