Handelskade

Discover the heart of Willemstad on a guided walking tour. Learn about the city's history, art, and culture as you explore the vibrant streets of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start at Brionplein, a historic gathering place in Otrabanda. Learn how Curacao was discovered, its strategic importance as the headquarters for the Dutch West India Company (WIC), and its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Get a sense of how this vibrant island evolved into the Curacao we know today. Delve deeper into history as you explore the cobblestone streets of Kura Hulanda. Discover stories about the island’s heritage and the fight for freedom while also learning about conservation efforts, including the fascinating story of the invasive lionfish and its impact on local ecosystems. Wander through the colorful streets of Otrabanda, a neighborhood transformed into an open-air art gallery. Marvel at the vibrant murals and creative street art that bring the local culture and community spirit to life. Take a wonderful break at a local ladies house and enjoy a local dessert! Cross the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, affectionately called the “Swinging Old Lady,” connecting Otrabanda and Punda. Enjoy stunning views of the Handelskade’s colorful waterfront and take in the lively atmosphere of the harbor. Step into Punda, the oldest district of Willemstad, and immerse yourself in its rich history. Visit landmarks like the Governor’s Palace, the bustling floating market, and the oldest synagogue in the Americas. Walk through charming streets filled with colonial architecture and vibrant Caribbean vibes. The tour concludes at Wilhelmina Plein, a peaceful park with historical significance. Snap the perfect photo at the iconic Curacao sign and reflect on the journey you’ve just experienced.

Explore the history and culture of Curacao on our famous walking tour of the Punda and Otrobanda districts. Our local guides will lead you through picturesque streets, past colourful Dutch architecture, and vibrant art murals. Begin the tour at the meeting point at Riffort entrance, where you will learn about the forts and walls that once protected the St. Anna Bay from pirates. Then, explore the painted murals and vibrant streets of Otrabanda, crossing in front Kura Hulanda museum Cross the famous floating bridge and visit the Emma floating bridge, Amsterdam fort, and Handelskade buildings. Learn how to use the ferry service. In Punda, see the Gómez plein Square and its musical wall clock, the Dushi and Curacao sign at the Wilhelminaplein Square, and the Mikvé Israel Emanuel Synagogue. Explore the local fruits, souvenir, spices, and fish markets, and learn about the history and architecture of the old town, including Unesco monuments. End the tour at the AnnaBay Club Rum Distillery, where you can sample and purchase the island's famous rum. Our tour guides will also provide information on taxi or public bus options for beach time, shopping, or dining at local restaurants.

Willemstad has always been an energetic, regional hub where trade interests, cultures and religions met. This tour takes you to one of the most impressive historic neighborhoods in the Caribbean, the western part of old Willemstad: Otrobanda. The Otrobanda bario has been of historical importance since the first mansions were built in 1707. The tour was developed by our own architect Anko van der Woude and is packed with interesting information. During the tour you will learn about the typical Curaçao architectural styles, the building materials and the customs of life in this old quarter and the history of the island, with the restored buildings in the narrow alleys or the spacious kuras. With the audio tour of Otrobanda you can enjoy the enormous amount of architecture, art, culture and religious influences that have laid the foundation for the charming old town of Otrobanda. You will get to know the city in a completely different way and visit the special sights the city has to offer, accompanied by an informative audio tour. You will pass the following sights, among others: Take a photo at 168 meters long Queen Emma Bridge (Pontoon bridge) Learn more about the historic event 30 may 1969 (trinta di mei) Stroll along the Belvedere Mansion Visit and view Seri Otrabanda/Bariohotel/ Visit the famous Kura Hulanda While walking trough this neigborhood, enjoy the impressive murals by locals and international artists. The neighborhood has been transformed into a real art gallerie.

Discover the vibrant culture of Curaçao on a guided walking tour of Punda. See the iconic ChiChi sculptures, stroll along the Queen Emma Bridge, and enjoy a dazzling view of Handelskade. Visit a local market, see a traditional dance, and shop for souvenirs. Begin your experience with an introduction to the iconic ChiChi sculptures, representing the vibrant culture of Curaçao. Dive into the meaning of "Dushi" and its significance in Curaçao’s language and culture. Stroll along the famous floating pontoon bridge, a must-see in Punda. Enjoy the dazzling view of Handelskade, with its colorful colonial-style buildings lit up beautifully. Visit the lively Gomes Plein Local Market, a great place to connect with the local flavors and crafts of Curaçao. Witness traditional Curaçaoan dance performed next to the historic Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. Take a break to explore the charming shops of Punda and pick up some unique souvenirs. Regroup at 7:30PM at the iconic Dushi sign to prepare for the evening highlight. Head to a rooftop location for breathtaking views of fireworks and enjoy cocktails (at your own cost). Conclude the evening with a final meet-up at 9PM before drop-off.