15 Best Things to Do in Belize City [Local’s Guide 2025]

Belize City welcomes visitors to the world’s healthiest barrier reef system.  Crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life await adventurous souls here.  The tropical destination maintains year-round temperatures near 80°F (26°C) and naturally combines Mayan heritage with British colonial influences.

The city offers countless attractions that captivate tourists.  Altun Ha, an ancient Mayan ruin complex covering 3 square miles, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.  St. John’s Cathedral adds to the city’s historical charm.  Travelers can use the city as their base to hop between Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker islands.  Nature lovers will find the Community Baboon Sanctuary fascinating, where 1,500 black howler monkeys make their home.

The best time to experience Belize City falls between November and February.  Cool, sunny weather makes these months perfect to enjoy the city’s attractions.  Visitors can dive into pristine waters, admire colonial architecture and taste authentic Belizean dishes at local food stalls.  This piece highlights 15 must-see attractions that promise an exceptional adventure in Belize City.

Explore the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins

The Mayan treasures in Belize include Altun Ha, a remarkable site just 31 miles north of Belize City.  Its name means “Rockstone Pond” in Yucatec Maya.  This ancient city stands as proof of Maya civilization’s ingenuity and cultural wealth.

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins History and Significance

Between 900 BCE and 1000 CE, Altun Ha flourished as a vital trading hub and ceremonial center.  The city reached its golden age during the Classic Period (250-900 CE).  Nearly 10,000 people called this sprawling 5-square-mile city their home.

The site captured worldwide attention in 1968.  Archeologists found an extraordinary carved jade head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau weighing nearly 10 pounds.  This remarkable piece remains the largest jade artifact that ever spread across the Mayan world.  The Temple of the Masonry Altars (Structure B4) housed this treasure, rising 54 feet into the sky.

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins Tour Options

Visitors can pick from these tour experiences:

• Guided Group Tours: These last about 3 hours with 1.5-2 hours spent at the ruins.  Tours come with transportation from Belize City, expert guides, and bottled water.
• Private Tours: Guests who want tailored experiences can explore at their own pace with a dedicated guide.

Tour packages typically cover roundtrip hotel or cruise port transfers, entry fees and guides who bring ancient stories to life.

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins Pricing and Accessibility

Entry costs range from $5-10 USD per person, though guided tours usually include this fee.  Adult tours cost $59-79 USD, while children aged 5-12 pay $55-59 USD.

The site underwent renovations in 2014-2015, adding wheelchair-available restrooms and visitor centers.  Flat plazas and well-maintained grounds make this site perfect for guests of any age or mobility level.  Two main plazas feature 13 excavated temples and homes.  Archeologists have identified more than 500 mounds in the surrounding area.

Driving from Belize City takes about an hour, and the site offers on-site parking.

Visit the Museum of Belize

The Museum of Belize welcomes history enthusiasts who want to learn about Belize’s rich cultural mixture.  This historic brick building tells the nation’s story from its unique perspective as a former British colonial prison, Her Majesty’s Prison.

Museum of Belize Exhibits and Collections

The museum’s four main exhibitions showcase Belize’s complex heritage beautifully. “enSlaved: The Rise and Fall of Slavery in Belize” takes visitors through a powerful timeline from slavery to post-independence.  The exhibition includes authentic artifacts like the Cat O’ Nine Tails punishment whips.

The remarkable “Jades of Belize” collection awaits visitors upstairs with authentic jade pieces displayed in gleaming glass cases.  A highlight of this collection is a replica of the famous jade head from Kinich Ahau’s tomb at Altun Ha Archeological Site – the largest carved jade object in the Mayan world.

Kids love the “Insects of Belize” exhibition with its preserved specimens of butterflies and beetles.  The “Call for Artists” exhibit features contemporary Belizean artwork that art lovers find captivating.

The museum preserves an authentic prison cell that still bears original inmate graffiti, giving visitors a glimpse into its past.

Museum of Belize Location and Hours

The museum stands in downtown Belize City’s Fort George area, sharing space with the Central Bank of Belize on St. Gabourel Lane.  Built between 1854-1857, this distinctive brick structure used “London Stocks” imported from England and sits near Queen and Eve Streets’ intersection.

Visitors can explore the museum Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.  The museum stays closed on Sundays, Mondays and national holidays.

Museum of Belize Entry Fees

Non-residents pay 10 BZD (USD) while residents pay 5 BZD (USD) for admission.  Children get free entry, and students pay 4 BZD.  Local residents enjoy free entry on Saturdays.

A typical visit lasts 1-2 hours.  The museum provides a perfect half-day activity for anyone interested in Belize’s cultural heritage.

Take a Cave Tubing Adventure at Nohoch Che’en

Cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch Archeological Reserve ranks among Belize’s most exciting natural adventures.  The site sits just 45 minutes from Belize City and gives visitors a chance to float through ancient Maya underworld passages.  This remarkable spot blends history, geology and adventure into an unforgettable experience.

Nohoch Che’en Cave Tubing Experience

Crystal-clear waters carry visitors through limestone caverns that were once sacred ceremonial sites of Maya civilization.  The Maya name “Nohoch Che’en” means “Big Tree,” named after the massive ceiba trees at the entrance.

A typical cave tubing route takes 1-2 hours, depending on water levels and your chosen tour package.  Guides help clarify the details of stalactites and stalagmites that took thousands of years to form.  Dark cave sections alternate with sunlit “cenotes” to create a magical atmosphere that will spark your imagination.

Nohoch Che’en Safety and Gear

Professional guides at Nohoch Che’en give complete safety instructions before you enter the water.  Standard gear has:

• Comfortable inner tubes
• Hard helmets with attached headlamps
• Life jackets (required for everyone)

You should wear swimwear under comfortable clothes and bring water shoes or secure sandals – don’t wear flip-flops.  A waterproof bag to protect valuables, towels and sunscreen will help during jungle walks.  Kids need to be at least 40 inches tall to join, making this activity great for families with older children.

Nohoch Che’en Pricing and Tour Packages

Tour packages cost between $65-$85 USD per person, based on what’s included.  Complete tours typically have:

• Round-trip transportation from Belize City
• Professional guides
• All needed equipment
• Light refreshments or lunch
• Park entrance fees ($10 USD if bought separately)

Adventure seekers can choose combination tours that pair cave tubing with zipline experiences or visits to nearby Maya sites.  Booking ahead gets you better rates, especially during peak season (December-April).

Snorkel with Sharks at Shark Ray Alley

Shark Ray Alley, nestled in the protected Hol Chan Marine Reserve, is a chance for visitors to swim with gentle nurse sharks and graceful stingrays in their natural habitat.  Nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers will find this underwater adventure among the most exciting things to do in Belize City.

Shark Ray Alley Marine Life

The area’s story began as a simple fish cleaning spot but grew into a thriving marine sanctuary.  The original fish remains drew nurse sharks and southern stingrays, which created this unique ecosystem.

Today, you’ll likely see:

• Nurse sharks (generally harmless bottom-feeders)
• Southern stingrays with impressive wingspans
• Occasional spotted eagle rays
• Sea turtles
• Jack fish and many more tropical fish species

Crystal-clear Caribbean waters, just nine feet deep, give snorkelers perfect visibility up to 100 feet to watch these magnificent creatures.

Shark Ray Alley Snorkeling Tours

Tours leave from San Pedro or Caye Caulker and day trips from Belize City Tourism Village are easy to find.  A typical tour runs 3-5 hours and usually includes stops at:

• Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Coral Gardens
• Caye Caulker Island

The best conditions come with morning tours (around 9:00 AM) or early afternoon trips (around 2:00 PM) when waters are calmer and skies clearer.  Tour companies provide everything you need – fins in different sizes, clean snorkels, silicone masks and vests.

Shark Ray Alley Safety and Pricing

Swimming with sharks might sound scary, but nurse sharks are gentle creatures that rarely pose any risk to humans.  You should still keep a respectful distance.

Tour prices range from:

• Half-day tours: $45-$60 USD
• Full-day combination tours: $65-$85 USD

Your package includes:

• Round-trip transportation
• Professional guides
• All necessary snorkeling equipment
• Park entrance fees ($10 USD if purchased separately)
• Refreshments or fruit snacks
• Rum punch (non-alcoholic options available)

The best experiences come from operators who follow responsible tourism practices and don’t feed or touch wildlife.  Check weather conditions before getting in the water.

Ride the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi

The San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi is the best way to travel between mainland Belize and its beautiful cayes.  This vital service helps travelers reach island paradises and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Experience

The spacious boats take passengers on a scenic trip through crystal-clear turquoise waters.  A 90-minute ride lets you take in amazing coastal views while enjoying the cool sea breeze.  The boats have hard plastic seats with some cushioned options on the sides.  The seating is basic but comfortable enough for the trip.

The professional crew’s top priority is safety.  They give detailed safety briefings before leaving.  Unlike other countries’ water taxis, these boats don’t sell food or drinks, so you should pack your own refreshments.  The boats usually leave on time, within 10 minutes of their schedule.

San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Schedule and Routes

The water taxi runs daily between:

• Belize City to San Pedro (about 90 minutes)
• Belize City to Caye Caulker (about 45 minutes)
• San Pedro to Caye Caulker (about 30 minutes)

The service to Chetumal, Mexico runs every other day.  Boats leave every hour throughout the day, which makes it easy for tourists to visit Belize City’s attractions.

San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Ticket Pricing

Your ticket price depends on where you’re going and if you’re a resident:

• Belize City to San Pedro: USD 65 for adult tourists, USD 33 for children
• Belize City to Caye Caulker: USD 45 for adult tourists, USD 29 for children
• Belizean residents pay less

You need to check in to get your boarding pass even if you book online.  The experts say you should arrive an hour before your boat leaves.  Private water taxis cost more but offer direct rides to island hotels if you need late-night travel or more flexibility.

See the Belize Sign Monument

The vibrant Belize Sign Monument stands as a must-see stop on any Belize City trip.  This colorful landmark emerged from a community beautification project in 2014.  Belizean attorney Estevan Perera designed this iconic photo spot that has become one of the most popular Belize City attractions among locals and tourists alike.

Belize Sign Monument Photo Opportunities

The monument showcases six large, bold letters spelling “BELIZE” with the beautiful Caribbean Sea as its backdrop.  The best photos come during early morning or late afternoon (“golden hour”) when the light looks most flattering and crowds are smaller.  Visitors get creative with their poses:

• Standing with heads poking through the letter “B”
• Arranging groups of people among all six letters
• Capturing the contrast between the vibrant sign and the blue sea beyond

You’ll get the best shots in the evening according to professional photographers.  Tourist traffic slows down then, letting you capture postcard-worthy photos with golden sunset hues that enhance the sign’s vibrant colors.

Belize Sign Monument Location and Tips

The monument sits on Sea Shore Drive in the Buttonwood Bay area, just a short walk from the historic Baron Bliss Lighthouse.  This ranks as one of the easiest things to do in Belize City since it needs no entrance fee or special arrangements.

Make sure to bring fully charged cameras or phones before your visit.  Take time to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.  Local vendors sell fresh coconut water nearby and you can watch traditional fishermen at work while you sip.

Belize Sign Monument Nearby Attractions

These notable sites surround this picturesque landmark:

• Baron Bliss Lighthouse – a historic maritime beacon
• Famous Swing Bridge – the world’s only manually operated bridge of its kind
• Kiddie Park – a family-friendly space for younger travelers
• Smokeez Seaside Restaurant – rated 4.4/5 by visitors, located merely 30 feet away

The monument takes just 15-20 minutes to enjoy fully.  Its prime location makes it a perfect starting point to explore downtown Belize City attractions or relax by the seaside.

Tour the Historic St. John’s Cathedral

St. John’s Cathedral stands as the oldest Anglican church in Central America and ranks among the most important Belize City attractions for anyone interested in history and architecture.  This historic gem shows visitors a window into the colonial era with remarkable craftsmanship that has lasted almost 200 years in the Caribbean climate.

St. John’s Cathedral Historical Background

The cathedral’s construction took place between 1812 and 1820 using bricks that once served as ballast in European sailing ships.  The first church built in the British colony has seen many royal coronations and consecrations through its rich history.  British settlers and colonial administrators first used the cathedral to meet their spiritual needs.  It later became the mother church for Anglican parishes all over Belize.

The cathedral’s grounds feature a cemetery where many notable historical figures lie at rest, including several of Belize’s early colonial governors.  This sacred place has grown from its colonial roots into a cherished landmark that brings together Belizeans from all backgrounds.

St. John’s Cathedral Architecture and Features

You’ll spot the cathedral right away by its distinctive red brick exterior that sets it apart from other Belize City buildings.  The interior showcases beautiful mahogany pews and altars that local artisans crafted from native hardwoods.  Each element – from the historic pipe organ to the stained glass windows and brass commemorative plaques – tells a story of Belize’s complex colonial heritage.

The building follows traditional Anglican design patterns with clever tropical adaptations.  Antique bells still ring from the bell tower during services, while the interior’s detailed woodwork shows the amazing skill of 19th-century craftsmen who worked with local materials.

St. John’s Cathedral Visitor Information

The cathedral sits on Albert Street in downtown Belize City and opens its doors throughout the week.  Note that this historic site still serves as an active place of worship.  Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and check service times to avoid disrupting religious ceremonies.

You can take photos inside, though not during services.  The cathedral doesn’t charge admission, but they appreciate donations that help with preservation.  If you’re looking for what to do in Belize City, St. John’s Cathedral gives you a cool break from the tropical heat while teaching you about Belizean history.

Is Belize a good place to visit?

Zipline Through the Jungle Canopy

The tropical rainforest canopy of Belize City offers thrilling zipline adventures that rank among the most exciting things to do in Belize City for adventure seekers.  Visitors can glide past treetops and spot wildlife in their natural habitat while taking in stunning views of Belize’s lush jungles.

Belize City Ziplining Locations

Bocawina Park stands as the premier ziplining spot with one of the longest zipline courses in Belize and Central America.  The adventure starts with a scenic 50-minute drive from Belize City to the limestone hills of Belize along the Western Highway.

Nohoch Che’en offers another great option with a full zipline course that runs through the jungle canopy with 6 different lines stretching about a mile.  The zipline platforms reach heights of 85 feet above ground and connect across distances up to 250 feet.

Ziplining Safety and Equipment

Belize’s ziplining operations put safety first.  Expert guides conduct thorough safety briefings and equipment checks before each departure.  Basic equipment consists of:

• Harnesses with rope attachments
• Protective helmets
• Hand gear for braking and control

Operators use backup safety systems and regularly inspect their equipment.  Weight limits range from 120-360 pounds, and tours usually require a maximum waist size of 44 inches.  Kids must be at least 5 years old to join the adventure.

Ziplining Tour Pricing

Basic zipline tours cost $49 USD per person.  Combination packages give better value:

• Zipline with cave tubing: $65-85 USD
• Zipline with Altun Ha Maya Ruins: Price varies
• Zipline with ATV adventures: Takes about 6 hours

Most packages come with air-conditioned rides from Belize City cruise terminals, professional English-speaking guides and safety gear.  Some tours add a traditional Belizean lunch of stewed chicken, rice and beans and coleslaw.  Guests can enjoy free drinks including water, soda and rum punch.

Explore the Old Belize Cultural and Historical Center

The Old Belize Cultural and Historical Center lets visitors experience Belizean heritage and modern recreation in one location.  This multifaceted attraction sits five miles outside Belize City on the George Price Highway and serves as both an educational venue and leisure destination.

Old Belize Exhibits and Attractions

A 15-minute mini-train ride stands as the center’s main attraction, packing Belize’s ecological, archeological, industrial and political history into one detailed experience.  The trip starts in a replica rainforest with reproductions of tropical trees and limestone caves.  Maya exhibits with temple and tomb reproductions follow.  Visitors can see industry exhibits with genuine artifacts that include a sugarcane press and steam-powered saw mill.

Life-size models of a Garifuna home and an early 20th-century Belize Town street show the nation’s cultural progress.  Audio narration comes in English, Spanish, and Mandarin, making this attraction available to international visitors.

Old Belize Beach and Restaurant

The center’s Kukumba Beach stretches 350 feet with soft sand, thatch-roof huts and colorful lounge chairs.  Families love these beach amenities:

• A 50-foot Slippery Conch waterslide
• Giant Tarzan rope swing
• Wibit water trampoline inflatables

The Old Belize Food Market offers dining with coastal-inspired décor featuring sea-glass lanterns and hand-carved wooden dories.  Five fast-casual vendors serve authentic Belizean cuisine in this open-air space overlooking Kukumba Beach.

Old Belize Entry Fees and Hours

The center welcomes visitors Tuesday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday through Sunday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.  Adults pay $15 USD while children aged 6-12 pay $10 USD.  Most visitors spend 1-2 hours at the exhibits.  Beach and restaurant guests often stay longer.

More beaches in Belize.

Take a Day Trip to the Lamanai Ruins via River Safari

A river safari to the ancient Lamanai Ruins blends archeological wonders with stunning natural beauty.  This remarkable adventure ranks among the most rewarding things to do in Belize City.  Visitors venture deep into Belize’s interior where nature and history come together in spectacular ways.

Lamanai Ruins and River Cruise Overview

The trip starts with a one-hour drive north from Belize City to Orange Walk District.  Travelers then hop aboard boats for an exciting one-hour cruise along the New River.  This remarkable site’s name translates to “Submerged Crocodile” in Mayan.  People lived here for more than 3,000 years, from 900 BCE until they first encountered Europeans.

Lamanai stands out from other Mayan sites because of its location by the 30-mile-long New River Lagoon.  The site showcases stunning temples from Classic and Pre-Classic Periods.  The Mask Temple features a beautifully preserved ruler’s face emerging from a crocodile headdress.  Adventurous visitors can climb the massive High Temple that towers 108 feet high and rewards them with sweeping views of the jungle canopy.

Lamanai Ruins Wildlife and Scenery

The boat ride doubles as a wildlife safari through Belize’s rich ecosystem.  Howler monkeys, spider monkeys and birds like snail kites and jacanas make regular appearances.  Lucky visitors might spot Morelet’s crocodiles sunbathing on riverbanks or iguanas lounging on tree branches.

Beautiful trees line the riverbanks, decorated with air plants and vibrant orchids that create a natural wonderland.  Expert guides point out wildlife and share stories about plants that Maya people used as medicine.

Lamanai Ruins Tour Pricing

A full-day tour from Belize City costs between $99-$186 USD per person.  Tour packages typically include:

• Round-trip transportation from Belize City hotels
• River safari guided tour
• Archeological site entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking guides
• Traditional Belizean lunch
• Complimentary water and refreshments

Tours leave around 8:00 AM and hotel pickups begin at 7:15 AM. Everyone returns to Belize City by 4:00 PM.  This adventure ranks among the best things to do in Belize City but needs 7-9 hours of your day.

Relax at Banister Island

Away from the busy streets of Belize City sits Banister Island, a peaceful haven locals call “Starfish Island.” This hidden gem gives travelers a perfect escape to relax on the beach while they discover Belize City attractions.

Banister Island Beach Activities

The island features pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters that create a picture-perfect tropical setting.  Visitors can enjoy several fun activities on the island.  The designated swimming areas welcome everyone, though some spots have shells at the bottom.  A sand court stands ready for beach volleyball games.  Palm trees shade comfortable hammocks that invite lazy afternoon naps.  Kayak rentals let you paddle around the island’s edges.  The shallow “starfish area” lets you get close to these amazing sea creatures.

Beach chairs dot the entire island, so guests can soak up sun or find shade easily.  The beach makes a great spot to take a break after checking out other things to do in Belize City.  Some visitors say the water gets murky during choppy conditions, but most love the scenic views.

Banister Island Food and Drink Options

A well-laid-out restaurant and bar serve authentic Belizean dishes.  The chicken gravy over coconut rice and beans gets rave reviews, with many calling it “amazing”.  The beach bar serves up tropical cocktails and the popular Belikin beer.

Food reviews tell different stories – some guests love their meals while others think they’re just okay. The prices run a bit high for food and drinks. Remember to bring cash since credit card machines might not work.

Banister Island Access and Pricing

Most people reach the island through organized tours, usually by catamaran.  Vacation packages with island transport typically start around $598 USD.  The boat ride from Belize City through Caribbean waters adds to the fun.

Cruise ship passengers find this island more convenient than distant cayes.  You’ll find everything you need here – clean bathrooms, changing rooms and sometimes entertainment like local musicians or even an Elvis impersonator.

Compared to other best things to do in Belize City, this island gives you that tropical paradise feel without going too far from the mainland.

More things to do in Belize.

Visit the Government House (House of Culture)

The Government House, now the House of Culture Museum, stands majestically at the end of Regent Street overlooking the sea.  This magnificent colonial structure ranks among Belize’s finest architectural treasures.  Anyone interested in the nation’s colonial past will find this elegant building a must-see destination when deciding what to do in Belize City.

Government House Historical Significance

Erected in 1814, this remarkable wooden colonial mansion served as British superintendents and governors’ official residence in Belize until 1996.  The building blends Caribbean vernacular with English urban architecture and was supposedly built according to prominent British architect Christopher Wren’s plans.  The structure first served as British colonial power’s seat.  After Hurricane Hattie in 1961, when the government moved to Belmopan, it became a venue for social functions and housed visiting dignitaries.  The building’s most significant moment came when the Union Jack lowered and the Belizean flag rose at midnight on September 21, 1981, marking Belize’s independence.

Government House Exhibits and Tours

The House of Culture now offers visitors a unique experience through its fascinating exhibits of colonial-era glassware, silverware and furniture.  Guests can discover vibrant displays of modern Belizean art alongside historical exhibits that tell the story of the nation’s path from colony to independence.  The museum houses valuable archival records that document Belize’s rich heritage.  Its spacious colonial atmosphere and pristine grounds create an authentic historical setting for those learning about Belize City attractions.

Government House Visitor Tips

The mansion’s lush gardens feature intriguing artifacts, including a small boat that once belonged to Baron Bliss, Belize’s most eccentric benefactor.  Visitors can experience this historic site through guided city tours, which often include stops at other tourist attractions in Belize City.  The building’s 200-year-old structure requires occasional renovation work, so guests should verify current opening hours before their visit.

Enjoy Local Cuisine on a Belizean Food Tour

Belizean cuisine tells a delicious story of cultural fusion that blends Maya, Creole, Garifuna, British, Spanish-American and Caribbean influences.  Without doubt, joining a guided food tour ranks among the best things to do in Belize City to tuck into this culinary melting pot.

Belizean Food Tour Highlights

Belize City’s food excursions let you experience local life through its vibrant flavors.  Most tours include:

• Visits to bustling local markets and family-run establishments
• Walks through street food vendors selling authentic Belizean snacks
• Stops at rum distilleries to taste the country’s renowned spirits
• Walks through fruit markets with tropical produce

Local guides on the “Taste Bud EXPLOSION” tour take visitors through Belize City’s culinary world and share fascinating stories about traditional cooking methods.  The “Bits and Bites” tour mixes food tastings with cultural exploration to give a complete introduction to Belizean heritage.

Popular Dishes to Try in Belize City

Belize’s diverse cuisine shows its multicultural heritage in every bite:

Rice and beans with stew chicken – locals call it the national dish, served with potato salad or coleslaw
Fry jacks – puffy, deep-fried dough triangles that pair well with breakfast jam or honey
Ceviche – fresh raw conch or shrimp cured in lime juice with pico de gallo
Garnaches – fried corn tortillas topped with refried beans, chopped cabbage, tomato mix and cheese
Boil Up – root vegetable and salted pigtail stew in tomato-onion sauce

Many travelers come for Belize’s sun and snorkeling but leave talking about the food.

Belizean Food Tour Pricing

Tour prices vary based on what’s included and how long they last:

Local restaurants charge between $3-7 USD for individual menu items
The “Taste Bud EXPLOSION” tour takes up to 15 people and lets you cancel free up to 24 hours before
Full tours include transportation, guided experiences, and multiple tastings

Pioneer island families’ descendants lead some tours, bringing their childhood experiences of Belizean cooking traditions.

Shop for Souvenirs at Local Artisan Markets

Beautiful beaches and ancient ruins might draw you to Belize City, but finding authentic Belizean handicrafts is one of the best things to do in Belize City.  Local artisan markets showcase cultural treasures that skilled craftspeople create by hand.

Belize City Artisan Market Locations

St. John’s Cathedral Gift Shop lets you shop inside Central America’s oldest Anglican Church.  This charming spot sells handmade wood carvings, jewelry and textiles that local artisans create.

The Belize City Craft Market buzzes with activity near the Belize Tourism Village when cruise ships dock.  Vendors display their handmade goods, textiles, paintings and jewelry.  Buttonwood Bay Craft Market gives you a more relaxed weekend shopping experience where local artisans show their work.

The Michael Finnegan Market (formerly Belize City Market) shows you real Belizean life.  This bustling space combines fresh produce with spices, condiments and artisanal crafts.

Popular Souvenirs and Crafts

Belize’s artisan markets highlight exceptional craftsmanship:

• Wooden treasures: Mahogany carvings, ziricote bowls, utensils and cutting boards showcase woodworking traditions
• Handwoven baskets: Maya and Garifuna baskets reflect generations of weaving skills
• Textiles and jewelry: Colorful handwoven bags, beaded bracelets, and natural necklaces made from jippi-jappa palm and seashells

You should look for Garifuna drums, Marie Sharp’s hot sauce, local chocolate and hammocks as authentic Belizean keepsakes.

Tips for Shopping in Belize City

Markets are less crowded in early morning hours.  Expect busy markets and higher prices when cruise ships dock.

Larger markets take credit cards and cash, but smaller vendors usually want cash.  Your support helps local artisans preserve Belize’s creative traditions and economic sustainability.

Take a Guided Belize City Walking Tour

Guided walking tours give visitors a complete introduction to Belize City’s most important landmarks and a genuine look into the area’s mixture of cultures.  These tours provide historical insights that you simply can’t get from exploring on your own.

Belize City Walking Tour Explains

Local guides take visitors to several remarkable landmarks that showcase the city’s colonial heritage:

• Swing Bridge – The “Grand Belize Bridge” lets you watch sailboats and pelicans
• St. John’s Cathedral – Central America’s oldest Anglican cathedral
• Museum of Belize – Exhibits showcase local culture, Garifuna heritage and Atlantic slave trade history
• Government House/House of Culture – Previous home to colonial governors
• Fort George Memorial Park – The Baron Bliss Lighthouse and Memorial stand here

Local guides share fascinating historical stories from the 1600s when British settlers made this the capital of British Honduras.

Belize City Walking Tour Duration and Routes

These cultural tours usually take 2 hours and make perfect morning or afternoon activities.  Tour routes focus on downtown’s historic center where colonial buildings stand.  The tours need comfortable walking shoes and moderate activity levels since most areas are easy to walk through.

Professional guides take visitors through safe tourist areas, giving both historical background and security assurance.

Belize City Walking Tour Pricing

Prices change based on group size:

• USD 217.44 per adult with different rates for various group sizes
• USD 369 to book private tours up to 4 people

Tour packages include professional local guides but don’t cover entrance fees to places like St. John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Belize.  Tour operators give full refunds with 24-hour advance notice.

Comparison Table

Enjoy the Things to do in Belize City

Belize City stands without doubt as a gateway to remarkable adventures that blend ancient Mayan wonders with vibrant modern culture.  Travelers can explore magnificent sites like Altun Ha and Lamanai ruins from the city’s strategic location.  The destination offers thrilling experiences such as cave tubing at Nohoch Che’en and snorkeling with gentle nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley.

St. John’s Cathedral and the Government House showcase a mixture of rich historical elements through their colonial architecture.  Nature lovers will find diverse wildlife during river safaris and island excursions.  The city’s local markets and food tours highlight authentic Belizean craftsmanship and the community’s culinary traditions passed down through generations.

Natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural authenticity make Belize City a destination for travelers who seek meaningful experiences.  Visitors create lasting memories as they climb ancient temples, sample traditional dishes and photograph marine life in this fascinating Caribbean destination.

FAQs

Q1. What are some must-do activities in Belize City?
Top attractions include exploring the Altun Ha Mayan Ruins, visiting the Museum of Belize, taking a cave tubing adventure at Nohoch Che’en, and snorkeling at Shark Ray Alley.  For a cultural experience, consider a guided walking tour of the city’s historic sites or a local food tour to sample authentic Belizean cuisine.

Q2. How long should I plan to stay in Belize City?
While Belize City itself may only require 1-2 days to explore its main attractions, it’s recommended to allocate at least 7 days for a trip to Belize to fully experience the country’s diverse offerings, including nearby islands and inland adventures.

Q3. Is Belize City safe for tourists?
While certain areas of Belize City require caution, especially after dark, most tourist areas are generally safe.  It’s advisable to stick to well-traveled areas, join guided tours and exercise standard safety precautions.  Many visitors choose to use Belize City as a starting point before heading to other destinations in the country.

Q4. What unique souvenirs can I find in Belize City?
Belize City’s artisan markets offer a variety of unique souvenirs including handcrafted wooden items made from local mahogany, colorful Maya and Garifuna textiles, handwoven baskets and jewelry made from natural materials like jippi-jappa palm and seashells.  Don’t forget to pick up some local chocolate or Marie Sharp’s hot sauce for a taste of Belize.

Q5. What’s the best way to experience Belizean culture in the city?
To immerse yourself in Belizean culture, consider taking a guided food tour to sample local dishes, visiting the Museum of Belize to learn about the country’s history, exploring the Government House (House of Culture) for insights into colonial heritage or joining a walking tour led by knowledgeable local guides who can share fascinating stories about the city’s past and present.