Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue

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.

Get to know Willemstad in a relaxed way. Start the self-guided tour whenever you like and spend a varied and enjoyable time in this exciting and fascinating city. The tour starts at the flagpole between the cruise jetties on the Briónplein in Otrobanda. Stroll through the colourful streets of Otrobanda and admire the impressive street art. Cross the Queen Emma Bridge and take a photo at the Punda Love Heart. Visit the Old Market and the New Market, where you can sample local delicacies. Discover the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest continuously used synagogue in America, and learn more about the Jewish community on Curaçao. Admire the colourful birds, a work of art made from recycled materials, before you visit the Governor's Palace, an impressive building with a long history and the tour ends at the Rif Fort, near the starting point. Let yourself be enchanted by the lively atmosphere and rich culture of Willemstad. At the tour stops, there are entertaining tasks to solve and fun questions to answer. Who knows, for example, what ... but no, we won't tell you yet! Plan a leisurely 2,5 hours for this 3,5 km walk so that you can take your time to look at everything and have time for small breaks here and there. The tour is a great way to get outside and discover new things with family, friends or on your own. It's like being shown Willemstad by a good friend who knows the city like the back of his hand and has many exciting stories and anecdotes to tell. You can start the tour at any time and as often as you like in the browser of a smartphone. On site or even from the comfort of your sofa. Enjoy your time in Willemstad! *** Good to know *** You will receive the link to start the tour in an email directly after booking.

Discover the vibrant neighborhood of Otrobanda on a guided walking tour. Explore the area's colorful streets, visit the Basilica of Santa Ana, and stroll across the famous Queen Emma Bridge. Stop at the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, and taste local sweets at a traditional food hall. Start your tour in front of the Bario Hotel and head to the Colorful Steps, a bright and fun staircase adorned with vibrant colors that reflect Otrobanda’s artistic spirit. Take photos and enjoy the artistic energy of the neighborhood. Next, head to the Kura Hulanda Shopping Area, where you can explore local boutiques, artisan shops, and souvenir stores. The area is located within a beautifully restored part of Otrobanda, offering a blend of history and shopping opportunities. Take your time browsing for unique Curaçaoan crafts, jewelry, and other local products. Continue your walk through the "Adrei" area, known for its narrow streets and colorful homes. This is one of Otrobanda’s most authentic neighborhoods, where you can experience local life up close and appreciate the traditional architecture. Visit the Basilica of Santa Ana, the first Catholic church built in Curaçao, now a basilica. This historic church is known for its simple yet elegant architecture and its significance in the religious history of the island. Walk over to see "Djiosa", a stunning mural by Francis Sling. The artwork is full of color and emotion, showcasing Sling’s unique style and the cultural richness of Curaçao. Take a scenic stroll across the famous Queen Emma Bridge, also called the "Swinging Old Lady." After crossing the bridge, we are in Punda! Walk to Fort Amsterdam, an important historical landmark that houses government offices. Continue your art exploration at Art Alley, where the streets are adorned with murals and graffiti art that reflect the vibrant culture of Curaçao. Walk over to the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere. Next, head to the Floating Market, a few minutes away, where Venezuelan vendors sell fresh produce and fish directly from their boats. Next, visit Landish, a local shop where you can indulge in tasting traditional Curaçaoan sweets, take pictures in local dresses, and hear stories about the island’s history. End the tour with a traditional meal at Plasa Bieu, Curaçao's famous food hall, offering local dishes such as stoba (stews) and fish. You can combine your lunch with 45 minutes of shopping in nearby boutiques and local stores.

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.