The historic Pietermaai District enchants visitors with its colourful Dutch colonial architecture and beautiful ocean views. This once-dilapidated area has transformed into Willemstad's trendiest area. Fort Amsterdam anchors the district while restored 18th-century mansions house boutique hotels and creative restaurants. Walk cobblestone streets lined with pastel facades reflecting in harbour waters. The area boasts numerous bars and live music venues for authentic local entertainment. Nearby attractions include the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum and the iconic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge.
Piscadera Bay showcases turquoise waters against white sandy beaches. This resort enclave features waterfront restaurants with panoramic ocean views. Caribbean Cinemas Curacao and Sambil Curaçao shopping centre are nearby attractions. Blue Bay Golf Course is perfect for a day away from the beach. Contemporary resort architecture blends with tropical landscaping throughout the area. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, and paddleboarding in the calm bay waters. The peaceful atmosphere makes Piscadera an ideal spot for travellers seeking seaside relaxation in Willemstad.
Otrobanda blends colonial charm with Caribbean flair along Curaçao's picturesque waterfront. Colourful Dutch buildings line cobblestone streets while the Queen Emma floating bridge connects you to neighbouring Punda. The historic Rif Fort now houses shops and eateries with harbour views. This UNESCO World Heritage district showcases the island's rich cultural fusion through museums and architecture. Kura Hulanda Museum highlights African heritage within walking distance of waterfront promenades. Travellers appreciate Otrobanda's relaxed atmosphere compared to busier parts of Willemstad.
Punda dazzles visitors with its colourful Dutch colonial architecture along St. Anna Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage district showcases 17th-century merchant houses painted in vibrant pastels. The famous Queen Emma pontoon bridge connects this historic area to the rest of Willemstad. Travellers love exploring the Floating Market where Venezuelan vendors sell fresh produce directly from boats. Fort Amsterdam and the Postal Museum offer glimpses into Curaçao's rich history. The waterfront promenade provides perfect spots for watching ships while enjoying the Caribbean breeze.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Willemstad
Mambo Beach
8.8/10 (2,288 reviews)
Mambo Beach pairs pristine white sands with crystal-clear waters perfect for family swimming. After lounging on sunbeds, explore Mambo Beach Boulevard's 50+ shops and restaurants for dining and evening entertainment.
Photo by Ronald Roach
Open Photo by Ronald Roach
Curaçao Sea Aquarium
8.6/10 (1,028 reviews)
The Curaçao Sea Aquarium features an open-water system creating natural habitats for marine residents. Visitors can feed sharks, swim with tropical fish, and watch engaging dolphin presentations.
Queen Emma Bridge
9.4/10 (1,392 reviews)
The Queen Emma Bridge, nicknamed "Swinging Old Lady," floats between Willemstad's colourful districts on pontoons. Watch it swing open for ships while enjoying panoramic views of Dutch colonial architecture along the bay.
Rif Fort
8.8/10 (952 reviews)
This 1828 coral stone fort now houses upscale shops and restaurants along Willemstad's harbour. Climb to the top for spectacular views or enjoy live entertainment on weekend evenings within its historic walls.
Renaissance Shopping Mall
8.6/10 (1,112 reviews)
Housed in the historic 19th-century Rif Fort, Renaissance Mall blends luxury shopping with Curaçao's colonial past. Enjoy boutiques and harbourside dining while catching live entertainment on weekends.
Kura Hulanda Museum
8.4/10 (310 reviews)
This powerful museum chronicles the transatlantic slave trade through authentic artefacts and immersive exhibits. Hire a guide to fully appreciate the profound stories within its historic setting.
Curaçao Museum
8.4/10 (264 reviews)
The Curaçao Museum showcases island heritage through pre-Columbian artefacts and colonial furniture in an 1853 building. Don't miss the Snip Gallery featuring the cockpit of KLM's first transatlantic flight from 1934.
Sambil Curaçao
8.4/10 (470 reviews)
Sambil Curaçao, the island's largest shopping centre, blends international brands with local flavour near Willemstad. Explore over 100 air-conditioned stores, plus enjoy the food court, cinema and entertainment zone.
"This is the worst resort I’ve ever been to! To start with, the staff is rude and unpleasant. On the first day, there was a horrible stain in the pool; we alerted the staff, and one annoyed employee said, "We already know!" On day two, we were in the pool when my oldest child noticed a large yellow stain; when I went to look, it looked like someone had vomited—or something even worse! I told a staff member who was there, and he said he already knew about it. I went to check on the stain from the...
"The property was clean & the people were very nice & attentive. The hotel was within walking distance to plenty of shops, stores & the beach. The only way to contact the front desk was via what’s app!! No telephones in the rooms. They don’t provide washcloths. They have a rooftop restaurant/bar with a pool that plays music until midnight. They have hookah also. The best night to go is Thursday."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Why should I book my Willemstad holiday with Expedia?
Choose Expedia to plan your next big adventure with ease, all in one convenient place. Our insider tip for scoring a fabulous deal on a Willemstad getaway? Bundle your accommodation, airfares and/or hire car into a package holiday. Then add some fun tours and activities. Many bookings also have flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to stress if you have to switch up your itinerary. Round-the-clock assistance with amending and cancelling your trip is on-hand via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Willemstad?
February, March and April are the busiest months in Willemstad, while January, July and December are generally quieter. Plan your escape to Willemstad according to what type of holiday you're looking for. January is the coolest month, when daytime temperatures average 26ºC. In August, the warmest month, you'll experience temperatures of around 28ºC during the day.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Willemstad?
One of the easiest ways to save cash (and time) is to bundle your bookings with Expedia. Flights, hotels, activities and hire cars — we've got it all. Select the combination that best fits you and see your savings stack up. Of course, holidays are never one-size-fits-all. That's why we offer more than 400 partner airlines and 321,000 hotels across the world, which lets you customise your Willemstad holiday your way. Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you book a flight and hotel together with Expedia.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Willemstad?
An escape to Willemstad wouldn't be complete without paying a visit to Mambo Beach. Why not stay close to this popular attraction?
Do I need a visa for my Willemstad holiday?
Check the most up-to-date information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for business, leisure or study will determine if you need a visa for Willemstad. Make yourself familiar with the application process, including any required documentation, fees and turnaround times. Submit your application well in advance to allow enough time for processing. Some visas can take weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my Willemstad holiday?
Do some research into the types of clothing people in Willemstad wear, and maybe even check out social media fashion pages for inspiration. Whatever your look, aim to create a versatile wardrobe full of pieces that suit your destination and showcase your personal style. Pack appropriately by monitoring the forecast in Willemstad. August brings the warmest temperatures, with daily averages of 28ºC, while January days average 26ºC, making it the coolest time of the year.
What does an Expedia Willemstad holiday include?
Expedia has all you need to arrange your Willemstad trip, but how you structure your package is your choice. Pick from any combination of hotels, flights and hire cars. In search of some tours or experiences to keep you on the move? Once you've made your booking, you can add them too. No matter your style or budget, there's a package to match your needs. Expedia features many properties, with the most sought after in Willemstad being apartments and private holiday homes. With Expedia, you'll always have the freedom and flexibility to customise your dream escape your way.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Willemstad holidays?
Expedia has joined forces with online lender Klarna to make booking your next getaway easier on your hip pocket. Paying in instalments means you can spread the costs of your next adventure, leaving you with more money to spend while you're away. Klarna has several payment plans to pick from, so you're sure to find one that works with your budget. Take a look at these flexible payment options:
Pay monthly holidays: If paying across multiple transactions is something that would work for you, Klarna offers just that! Paying in easy monthly instalments will make your holiday dreams possible.
No-deposit holidays: When you spot an amazing deal but your budget doesn't quite go that far, Klarna's no-deposit holiday plan will allow you to Book Now, Pay Later to get what you want.
Can I choose my airline with a Willemstad Expedia holiday?
You can, and with over 400 airlines to choose from around the world, you have loads of choice. Look through the available options and find out which airline suits your needs and budget.
Willemstad offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for scenic vacations. Visitors can enjoy beach tours, indulge in sightseeing, and explore romantic holiday options. Additionally, there are various resorts, golf courses, and shopping centres to enhance your stay. Whether you're interested in guided tours or simply soaking up the sun, Willemstad has something for everyone to enjoy during their holiday.
Shopping
In Willemstad, you'll find Sambil Curaçao and Renaissance Shopping Mall, both offering a mix of entertainment and shopping. For a unique experience, visit the Floating Market, bustling with local produce and crafts. If you're up for a drive, explore further shopping options nearby.
Recreation
At the Curaçao Golf and Squash Club, enjoy a refreshing round of golf amidst lush landscapes and outdoor vibes. Just 6.4km away, Blue Bay Golf Course offers a serene setting for sports enthusiasts to unwind. For a fun family outing, catch a film at Caribbean Cinemas Curacao.
Adventure
Explore the underwater wonders at the Curaçao Sea Aquarium, where you can snorkel with vibrant marine life. For an adrenaline rush, try the zip-lining experience at the Christoffel National Park, soaring above the stunning landscapes and spotting local wildlife along the way.
Nightlife
In Willemstad, the nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy the lively bars and clubs at Pietermaai, where you can find live music and dance the night away. The floating bridge area also offers charming waterfront lounges, perfect for a relaxed evening under the stars.
Find the best attractions in Willemstad
Willemstad, the charming capital of Curaçao, offers a delightful blend of beach, outdoor activities, and historic sights. Explore its beautiful beaches, the iconic floating bridge, and historic forts that reflect the island's rich culture. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the sea or immersion in local history, Willemstad caters to all types of travellers looking for a scenic and culturally enriching experience.
Mambo Beach: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mambo Beach, where you can unwind on golden sands and enjoy crystal-clear waters. This popular beach destination offers a range of water sports and beachside bars, making it perfect for relaxation and fun in the sun.
Handelskade: Stroll along Handelskade, a picturesque esplanade lined with colourful colonial buildings, ideal for romantic walks or family outings. Enjoy the stunning views of the waterfront while indulging in local cuisine at nearby restaurants.
Queen Emma Bridge: Discover the cultural significance of Queen Emma Bridge, a charming floating bridge connecting the city. Its unique design and historical importance make it a must-see, providing a perfect backdrop for breathtaking photos.
Best time to go to Willemstad
The best time to visit Willemstad can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Willemstad falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Willemstad falls in February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Willemstad
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Willemstad.
Consider traveling to Willemstad during the low season (September to November) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.