Archeological Sites Day Tours Diving Great Blue Hole Marine Wildlife Belize Barrier Reef UNESCO Site
Things To Do In Belize City
Belize City serves as an excellent starting point for a Belizean adventure. The city itself and its surrounding areas offer a variety of cultural, historical, and adventurous activities. As the financial and industrial center of Belize, it is a convenient gateway for exploring all the country has to offer, with its main harbor and international airport.
Belize City provides a glimpse into the nation's rich history and culture. Visitors can explore colonial architecture, such as St. John's Cathedral, the oldest Anglican church in Central America, and the historic Government House, now known as the House of Culture. The Museum of Belize, located in a former colonial prison in the mid 1800's, preserves and exhibits Belize's rich cultural heritage, with displays on the Maya civilization, the country's history of slavery and colonial rule, and the culture of the Creole, Maya, and Garifuna people. For a taste of local life, the vibrant Swing Bridge, a historic hand-cranked bridge, is a must-see.
From Belize City you can plan a day trip to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world, for world-class snorkeling and diving at sites like the Great Blue Hole or Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Inland, you can explore archaeological sites like Altun Ha which is easily accessible from the city, offering a chance to walk among ancient pyramids and learn about the Mayan civilization.
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Travel Guide for Belize City Attractions & Activities
Museum of Belize
Located in a former colonial prison, the museum provides a deep dive into the nation's history, showcasing Mayan artifacts, colonial relics, and exhibits on the city's past.
St. John's Cathedral
Step back in time at the oldest Anglican church in Central America. This historic landmark, built in the early 1800s, is a striking example of colonial architecture.
The Belize City Swing Bridge
This manually operated swing bridge is a fascinating piece of living history. It's one of the last of its kind in the world and still swings open to allow boat traffic to pass. This iconic bridge spans Haulover Creek and connects the north and south sides of the city.
Baron Bliss Lighthouse
A prominent landmark on the waterfront, this lighthouse is a tribute to Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, a British benefactor who left a significant fortune to Belize.
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Best Belize City Full Day Tours
Altun Ha Mayan Temple
This is one of the most accessible Mayan sites from Belize City. You can climb ancient temples and explore the ceremonial plazas. The site is famous for the discovery of the "Jade Head," a national treasure.
Lamanai Mayan Temple
This trip includes a scenic riverboat ride along the New River, where you can spot crocodiles, exotic birds, and howler monkeys on the way to the jungle-shrouded ruins. At Lamanai, you will see impressive temples like the Jaguar Temple and the Mask Temple.
Caye Caulker
Just a quick boat ride away, you can visit Caye Caulker famous for its laid-back atmosphere, vibrant marine life, and opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach
Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley
This marine park is 2 hours and 30 minutes away and a must-do for snorkelers and divers. You can swim with an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles, and docile nurse sharks and stingrays.
Goff's Caye
This small, pristine sand island is an excellent spot for a beach break, offering great snorkeling and a chance to relax in a secluded paradise.
Tour to the Altun Ha Mayan Temple
From Belize City travel to Altun Ha, once a vital trading link that connected coastal and inland Maya communities. Within the reservoir you'll spot birds, armadillos, bats, white-tailed deer and even crocodiles.
Where is Belize City Located? + Map
Belize City is located on the east coast of Belize, at the mouth of the Belize River and on the Caribbean Sea. It is situated on a small peninsula, within the Belize District, and is the country's largest city and principal port. Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is located in the city.
Belize City
East Coast Belize
Population: 64,000
FAQs About Visiting Belize City
What is Belize's official language?
English is the official language, making communication easy for English-speaking visitors, though other languages like Spanish and Creole are also spoken.
What is Belize's currency?
The Belizean Dollar (BZD) is the official currency, but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, with a fixed exchange rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD.
Do you need a Visa to go to Belize?
A visa isn't generally required for stays up to 30 days for US, Canadian, and EU citizens, but check specific requirements for your nationality.
Best Tours from Belize City?
From Belize City you can visit ancient Maya ruins Altun Ha or Xunantunich, go cave tubing and zip-lining, and do marine excursions to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, among other adventures.
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