Where to Stay in Port of Spain
Trinidad and Tobago
|Pop. 49K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Port of Spain at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Port of Spain
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
For an authentic local experience, visit a 'Doctor Bird' (a small, informal bar/rum shop) in Woodbrook or St. James, but go with a local if possible.
Getting Around
Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey, especially for longer trips or airport transfers.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unofficial taxis.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise increased vigilance, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone late at night. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Hidden Gems in Port of Spain
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Maracas Waterfall
FREEA stunning, easily accessible waterfall just a short hike from the roadside. Pack a snack and enjoy the refreshing spray and natural beauty of the rainforest.
Cleaver Woods
FREEThis expansive park offers a network of walking trails through lush tropical vegetation, perfect for a peaceful escape. It's a favorite spot for locals to picnic and enjoy nature.
Queen's Park Savannah
FREEWhile large, the Savannah itself is a vast green space offering a slice of local life. On weekends, it buzzes with families, joggers, and impromptu cricket games, and you can find delicious street food vendors.
Mohammed Ali's Roti Shop
Experience authentic Trini roti at this no-frills local favorite. Their curried chicken or goat roti is a must-try for a true taste of the island.
Royal Botanic Gardens
FREEEscape the city bustle in these beautifully maintained gardens, featuring an impressive collection of tropical plants and ancient trees. It's a tranquil oasis ideal for a leisurely stroll.
San Fernando Hill
FREEOffering panoramic views of the Gulf of Paria and the surrounding landscape, this hill is a popular spot for locals to catch the sunset. It's a rewarding climb with a beautiful vista.
What It Costs in Port of Spain
Daily budget per person in TTD
💡Similar cost to major European cities
TTD 350/day
TTD 700/day
TTD 1500/day
Where to Stay in Port of Spain
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Royal Botanic Gardens15 min
- National Museum and Art Gallery5 min
- Savannah10 min
Pros
- +Central location
- +Access to historical sites
- +Good public transport links
Cons
- -Can be very quiet and feel deserted after dark
- -Limited dining and nightlife options within the immediate vicinity
Top stays in Woodford Square
Bally's Guesthouse
$A no-frills option offering basic accommodation close to the square.
The Chancellor Hotel
$$A reliable mid-range hotel offering standard amenities in a convenient location.
Kapok Hotel
$$Located near the Savannah, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
Best for
Walk to
- Queen's Park Oval20 min
- Ariapita Avenue5 min
- St. James25 min
Pros
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Energetic atmosphere
- +Good mix of residential and commercial spaces
Cons
- -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- -Parking can be challenging
Top stays in Woodbrook
Carlton Savannah
$$$A stylish boutique hotel with a focus on art and design.
The Residence Trinidad
$$$An upscale hotel offering luxurious rooms and excellent service.
Boutique Hotel Trinidad
$$Charming boutique accommodation with personalized service.
Best for
Walk to
- The Falls at Westmall10 min
- MovieTowne15 min
- Queen's Park Savannah30 min
Pros
- +Modern facilities and shopping
- +Quieter and more residential feel
- +Good infrastructure
Cons
- -Less character and historical charm
- -Can feel disconnected from the city center without a vehicle
Top stays in Maraval
Hyatt Regency Trinidad
$$$A modern waterfront hotel with excellent amenities and bay views.
Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre
$$$A large hotel with extensive facilities, including a pool and event spaces.
Courtyard by Marriott Port of Spain
$$A reliable chain hotel offering comfortable rooms and business amenities.
Areas to be cautious
- Certain parts of East Port of Spain (e.g., Laventille): These areas have high crime rates and are not recommended for tourists due to safety concerns.
Insider tip: For an authentic local experience, visit a 'Doctor Bird' (a small, informal bar/rum shop) in Woodbrook or St. James, but go with a local if possible.
Safety in Port of Spain
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise increased vigilance, especially after dark. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone late at night. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
At Night
Some areas, particularly around Woodford Square and parts of the city center, become very quiet and can feel unsafe after dark. Woodbrook's Ariapita Avenue is an exception due to its nightlife, but caution is still advised.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unofficial taxis.
- 2Distraction theft (pickpocketing) in crowded areas.
Getting Around Port of Spain
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: ~45-60 minutes, 150-200 TTD. Pre-booked transfers are recommended for reliability.
🎫
Day Pass
Not available for buses. Maxi-taxis are usually a flat fare per journey.
Single: Bus fares are very cheap, typically under 5 TTD. Maxi-taxi fares vary by distance, around 5-15 TTD.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber
📶
WiFi
Good20-50 Mbps
Public Transport
Public buses operate extensively but can be crowded and schedules are not always reliable. Taxis (red license plates are public, others are private) are common. Maxi-taxis (minibuses) are a budget option for longer routes.
Ride-share
Uber operates in Port of Spain. Typical cost for short rides within the city is around 20-40 TTD.
Transport Tip
Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey, especially for longer trips or airport transfers.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many hotels, shopping malls (e.g., The Falls at Westmall), and some cafes offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; digital nomads often use hotel business centers or cafes. Some serviced offices may offer day passes.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Mar
Hotels & Accommodation in Port of Spain
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Who Is Port of Spain Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors wanting Culture
This area is the historical and cultural heart, providing easy access to museums and important landmarks.
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Woodbrook, especially Ariapita Avenue, is the epicenter of Port of Spain's vibrant bar and restaurant scene.
Luxury Travelers seeking Comfort
Maraval offers modern amenities, upscale shopping, and a more serene environment with higher-end hotel options.
Budget Backpackers
The cheapest accommodation and food options are generally found in this central, well-connected area.
Foodies exploring local cuisine
This neighborhood boasts a high concentration of diverse restaurants, street food stalls, and cafes catering to various tastes.
About Port of Spain
Port of Spain (Trinidadian English: Port ah Spain [ˈpʊo̯t a ˈspɪe̯n] ) is the capital and chief port of Trinidad and Tobago. With a municipal population of 49,867 (2017), an urban population of 81,142 and a transient daily population of 250,000, it is Trinidad and Tobago's third largest municipality, after Chaguanas and San Fernando. Port of Spain is located on the Gulf of Paria, on the northwest coast of the island of Trinidad and is part of a larger conurbation stretching from Chaguaramas in the west to Arima in the east with an estimated population of 600,000.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port of Spain
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Port of Spain Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel