Destination: Belize City

Belize City is the economic, industrial, transportation and business heart of the tiny Caribbean nation of Belize. Although it doesn’t have the best beaches in Belize or the richest culture in Belize, Belize City is an absolutely invaluable component to the country. Even though Belize City is the country’s largest city with a population of approximately 70,000 people, it is not the current capital of the country as many believe. Belize City was formerly the capital of the nation, and then that honor was placed upon the city of Belmopan in 1970. Belize City does however, remain as the current capital of the Belize District. This official designation gives Belize City the honor of being the regional seat of power in its respective area.

Belize City is not thought of as much of a tourist destination in of itself. However, many travelers find themselves going through Belize City en route to another part of the country. Belize City is easily the biggest transportation hub in the country. Situated on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, at the mouth of the Belize River, Belize City is ideally suited to accommodate overwater shipments of goods and people. As the port has grown in size, so has the financial importance and impact of the area. In fact, increasing numbers of cruise ships drop anchor outside the port and have loads of people ferried in to visit the tiny Central American country. Belize City sees not only travelers entering and exiting the country, but also travelers transiting from one part of the country to another. Belize City is a convenient hub with air, land and sea transportation radiating outwards in all directions. The International Airport is just 30 minutes away and domestic flights leave constantly from Belize Municipal Airport. Travelers can use Belize City as a centralized base during a stay, use it to break up a long trip with a night or two on arrival or departure, or even skip it altogether. Belize City certainly has some noteworthy and charming aspects, but if time is limited and you are in a hurry to see the more famous, postcard type parts of Belize, you may want to save Belize City for the next trip.


Belize City is an excellent place to embark upon your Belizean adventure. Looking for exotic wildlife and lush scenery? The Community Baboon Sanctuary, Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, and Cockscomb Basin and Jaguar Preserve are a short jaunt from the relative hustle and bustle of Belize City. For those looking for authentic Mayan archileagocial sites such as Caracol and Xunantunich, they are an easy drive out of Belize City up the Western Highway. Want to visit Ambergris Caye, the country’s most popular island getaway? This, other numerous cayes and the world famous barrier reef are just a short water taxi ride across the spectacular turqoise blue water. How about going South to the beautiful beaches of Placencia? Just a quick domestic flight away. Visitors will be pleasantly surprised at the convenience of traveling from Belize City to the other areas of the country.

More On Belize City

THowever, for those who decide to spend some time in Belize City, you will surely not be be without things to do and see. Belize City is home to the oldest Anglican Cathedral Church in Central America, St. Johns Cathedral. Not only were two Mosquito Coast Kings crowned in it, but It was built in 1812 from bricks brought as a ballast from European sailing ships. Opposing the Cathedral is a beautifully preserved, white-painted colonial building the used as the Government House. This residence of Belize's governor-general dates back to 1814. The Yarborough Cemetery is a block southwest from there. The gravestones there outline the turbulent history of Belize. Belize's greatest benefactor - Baron Bliss, the 5th baron of Portugal donated the money to erect the Lighthouse monument. This towers the harbor entrance at Fort George point and at his request, he was entombed in front of the lighthouse which he designed himself prior to his death. If you are interested in learning more in-depth history of the city, tours are available.

You will find the Marine Terminal, a beautifully restored former Belize City Fire Station on the north side of the Swing Bridge. This bridge holds its own distinction as it is the world's only manual swing bridge, which is still being swung daily. The Marine terminal now houses two of Belize's new coastal and maritime museums. Art enthusiasts love the Image Factory, an art gallery featuring work by Belize's established and up and coming contemporary artists. Sometimes the artists are on hand to discuss the work themselves. The gallery often holds outstanding, and sometimes provocative exhibitions to showcase the interesting art work. The Fort Street Tourism Village was specifically created to showcase Belize to cruise ship passengers wishing to experience a bit of Belize on a day visit. The spacious village has both air-conditioned facilities and fresh tropical breezes throughout the waterfront complex. The Fort Street Tourism Village contains over 50 stores and businesses, comprised of three terminals and three courtyards. Of course, numerous restaurants, snack shops, an internet café, banks and live entertainment are awaiting visitors on cruise ship days.