Port Of Spain Map
Introduction
Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and entertainment. This bustling city is home to a myriad of attractions, from historical landmarks to natural wonders, making it the perfect destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best of Port of Spain, including its top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and more.
Top Attractions
Queen’s Park Savannah
One of the most iconic landmarks in Port of Spain is the Queen’s Park Savannah. This 200-acre park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or a jog. The Savannah also hosts several events throughout the year, including the annual carnival parade.
Fort George
For history buffs, a visit to Fort George is a must. This 19th-century fort offers stunning views of the city and the Gulf of Paria and is home to a museum that showcases the history of Trinidad and Tobago’s military.
The National Museum and Art Gallery
This museum is a treasure trove of Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and history. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from the island’s indigenous people, as well as exhibits on colonialism, slavery, and independence. The art gallery also features works from local and international artists.
Hidden Gems
The Caroni Bird Sanctuary
The Caroni Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem for birdwatchers and nature lovers. This 12,000-acre wetland is home to over 200 species of birds, including the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago, the Scarlet Ibis. Visitors can take a boat tour through the mangroves and watch the birds take flight at sunset.
The San Fernando Hill
The San Fernando Hill is a natural wonder that offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills. This hill is also an important historical site, as it was used as a lookout during World War II.
The Temple in the Sea
The Temple in the Sea is a unique and fascinating attraction that tells the story of Trinidad and Tobago’s Indian heritage. This temple was built by a man named Sewdass Sadhu in the 1940s, who was denied permission to build a temple on land. He then decided to build the temple in the sea on a small island that he created himself.
Food Scene
Street Food
Port of Spain is famous for its street food, which is a must-try for any foodie. Some of the most popular street food items include doubles (fried dough filled with chickpeas), bake and shark (fried shark in a bread roll), and corn soup.
Local Restaurants
For a more formal dining experience, there are plenty of local restaurants that offer a taste of Trinidad and Tobago’s cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include roti (a flatbread filled with curry), callaloo (a dish made from leafy vegetables), and pelau (a rice and chicken dish).
Budget-Friendly Tips
Public Transportation
Using public transportation is a great way to save money while exploring Port of Spain. The city has a reliable bus system, and taxis are also available at affordable rates.
Free Attractions
There are plenty of free attractions in Port of Spain, including the Queen’s Park Savannah, the San Fernando Hill, and the Temple in the Sea. Visitors can also take a walk through the city’s colorful neighborhoods and soak up the local culture.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Port of Spain is surrounded by lush forests, hills, and mountains, making it a great destination for hiking enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking trails include the Yerette Bird Sanctuary Trail and the Avocat Waterfall Trail.
Beaches
Trinidad and Tobago is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and Port of Spain is no exception. Some of the best beaches near the city include Maracas Bay, Las Cuevas Beach, and Tyrico Bay.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Emperor Valley Zoo
The Emperor Valley Zoo is a great place to take the kids for a fun and educational day out. The zoo is home to over 200 species of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.
The National Aquarium
The National Aquarium is another family-friendly attraction that offers a glimpse into Trinidad and Tobago’s marine life. Visitors can see a variety of fish, turtles, and sharks, and even have the opportunity to swim with stingrays.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Pitch Lake
The Pitch Lake is a unique natural wonder that is located in the town of La Brea, about two hours from Port of Spain. This lake is the largest natural deposit of asphalt in the world and is an important source of income for the local community.
The Tamana Bat Caves
The Tamana Bat Caves are another off-the-beaten-path attraction that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the caves and see thousands of bats in their natural habitat.
Natural Wonders
The Asa Wright Nature Centre
The Asa Wright Nature Centre is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. This 1,500-acre nature reserve is home to over 400 species of birds, as well as a variety of mammals, reptiles, and insects.
The Gasparee Caves
The Gasparee Caves are a series of limestone caves that are located on the island of Gaspar Grande, just off the coast of Trinidad. Visitors can explore these caves and see stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Avenue
The Avenue is Port of Spain’s main nightlife district and is home to a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visitors can dance the night away to the sounds of soca and calypso music.
The Queen’s Park Savannah
The Queen’s Park Savannah also comes alive at night, with food vendors and street performers entertaining visitors until the early hours of the morning.
Local Markets
The Queen’s Park Savannah Market
The Queen’s Park Savannah Market is a great place to shop for local souvenirs and handicrafts. Visitors can find everything from handmade jewelry to traditional Trinidadian clothing.
The Chaguanas Market
The Chaguanas Market is one of the largest markets in Trinidad and Tobago and offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, spices, and textiles.
Beaches and Mountains
Las Cuevas Beach
Las Cuevas Beach is a stunning white sand beach that is surrounded by lush green mountains. This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
The Northern Range
The Northern Range is a mountain range that runs through Trinidad and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike through the mountains and explore the hidden waterfalls and streams.
Cultural Immersion
The Laventille Community
The Laventille Community is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood in Port of Spain that offers a glimpse into Trinidad and Tobago’s culture and history. Visitors can take a walking tour of the neighborhood and meet the locals.
The Tobago Heritage Festival
The Tobago Heritage Festival is a celebration of Tobago’s culture and heritage and takes place every year in July and August. Visitors can see traditional dance performances, taste local cuisine, and learn about Tobago’s history.
Art and Music Scene
The National Academy for the Performing Arts
The National Academy for the Performing Arts is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts a variety of music, dance, and theater performances throughout the year.
The Kaiso House
The Kaiso House is a popular venue for calypso music and is the perfect place to experience Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant music scene.
Walking Tours
The Downtown Walking Tour
The Downtown Walking Tour is a great way to explore Port of Spain’s historical landmarks and architecture. Visitors can see the Red House, the Magnificent Seven, and the Brian Lara Promenade.
The Belmont Walking Tour
The Belmont Walking Tour is another great option for those looking to explore the city’s history and culture. Visitors can see the Belmont Estate, the St. Francois Girls’ College, and the St. Margaret’s Anglican Church.
Architectural Marvels