Location & Transportation
As ships are moored or anchored here, you will be tendered ashore. All passengers disembark at the cruise terminal docks in Belize's Tourism Village—a compact area featuring gift shops, restaurants, and tour operators along the harbor. Although the Tourism Village is not a destination in itself, it offers a pleasant introduction to Belize City.
Robust development plans are underway too. Norwegian Cruise Line and the Government of Belize are moving forward on a major project to bring Norwegian ships to Belize with a dedicated facility. For more details, check out Harvest Cay, located about 105 miles south of Belize City.
Nearby Lodging
Belize City offers several hotels for visitors looking to extend their stay. Consider options like the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza for a comfortable overnight experience.
Nearest Airport
Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport is just a 15–20-minute taxi ride from Belize City. Taxis are readily available, and the fare typically runs around BZD 40–50.
Sightseeing
Belize is blessed with a rich mix of natural and historical attractions:
- The longest barrier reef in the western hemisphere awaits divers and snorkelers, with the famous Great Blue Hole as its crown jewel.
- Discover hundreds of ancient Maya sites—whether well-excavated ruins or jungle-hidden temples, these relics offer a glimpse into a storied past.
- Stroll through lush tropical rainforests, teeming with vibrant bird species and exotic wildlife.
- Visit the historic Government House, established as a House of Culture in 1999 and steeped in colonial history.
- Explore the Belize Zoo, set on 29 acres of tropical savanna and home to over 170 native animals in a natural environment.
Tours & Excursions
Belize City’s downtown is compact and best navigated on foot, but safety is key—stick to the busiest, most tourist-friendly areas. Organized tours and excursions can help you explore the best the region has to offer:
- Hop on a water taxi to Caye Caulker. Once there, set up camp at the Lazy Lizard for refreshing drinks and a relaxed atmosphere while you wander the island. Note that round-trip fares are typically between USD 15–20 per person.
- For adventure, try cave tubing, a unique experience that lets you float through caves in Belize’s lush landscape.
- Local licensed taxis (identifiable by their green number plates) operate with fixed fares of about USD 2.50 for short trips within downtown, while hourly rates are around USD 35 when negotiated in advance.
- Organized excursions are also available to islands like Ambergris Caye and San Pedro, offering a broader glimpse of Belize’s beautiful cayes.
Shopping
The Tourism Village serves as Belize City’s main shopping hub, offering a variety of stores and souvenir shops. Local merchants often adjust their hours to match cruise ship schedules, so there’s plenty of time to find unique handmade crafts, local art, and gifts to remember your visit.
Dining
Belize boasts a delightful culinary scene, with seafood taking center stage:
- Enjoy local specialties like red snapper, grouper, or a hearty barracuda steak.
- Sample conch fritters or a plate of fresh shrimp—most seafood here is served with a distinctly tropical twist.
- In popular beach areas such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia, don’t miss trying lobster dishes, which can appear in innovative preparations from pasta with lobster sauce to lobster curry. Outdoor cafés and casual eateries provide the perfect setting for a relaxed meal during your shore excursion.
Culture & Local Events
Belize City reflects a vibrant cultural mix with plenty to offer visitors:
- Currency & Money: The Belizean dollar (BZD) is the local currency, with roughly 2 BZD equaling 1 US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted, so managing change is easy.
- Language & Communication: English is the official language here, making conversations straightforward for most international visitors.
- Business Hours: Most shops open from 8am to noon and then resume from 1pm to 8pm. A noon-to-1pm lunch break is widely observed, and some establishments operate half-days on Saturdays or wrap up early on Fridays.
- Local Events: Belize hosts lively cultural celebrations throughout the year. It’s a great idea to check local listings at the cruise terminal for any festivals or events during your visit—these events often showcase the country’s colorful traditions and music.
- Safety Reminder: While Belize City is full of charm and activity, it has a reputation for higher crime in less busy areas. Always stick to well-lit, populated streets and use licensed taxis.
Safety & Awareness
Keep your valuables secure, and agree on taxi fares before you ride. In case of an emergency, dial 911 within Belize City.