Port of Spain, the vibrant capital of Trinidad & Tobago, blends colorful Caribbean energy with rich multicultural history. Nestled on the Gulf of Paria, the city is known for its lively Carnival, colonial architecture, steel‑pan music, and a dynamic culinary scene. 

 Top Things to Do & See

• Queen’s Park Savannah: The world’s largest roundabout—a sprawling 260-acre green heart of the city, popular for picnics, fitness, liming, and hosting Carnival events. 

• The Magnificent Seven: A row of over-the-top. early 20th-century mansions along Maraval Road featuring styles from French colonial to Scottish baronial. 

• Royal Botanic Gardens & Emperor Valley Zoo: Established in 1818, the gardens house 700+ tree species, next door to the zoo with exotic and native wildlife. 

• National Museum & Art Gallery: Located opposite Memorial Park, this museum showcases Trinidad’s history, Carnival arts, and national artwork. 

• Independence Square (Brian Lara Promenade): A lively waterfront promenade edged with vendors, street food, local art, and bench-lined paths perfect for watching locals at leisure. 

• Fort George: Perched above the city, offering panoramic views over Port of Spain and the Gulf of Paria—also a piece of colonial military history. 

• Lady Young Lookout: Dramatic viewpoint above the city for sunrise, sunset or nighttime vistas. Drive up the residential winding road and catch sweeping vistas. 

• Caroni Swamp: Just outside the city: sunset boat tours reveal hundreds of Scarlet Ibis returning to roost in a mangrove wetland. 

Food & Drink Highlights

• Doubles: Street‑food staple—curried chickpeas sandwiched in fried flatbreads. Must‑try from vendors around the Savannah and markets.

• Bake and Shark: Fried shark stuffed in “bake” bread, typically served at Maracas Bay stalls just outside the city.

• Callaloo & Creole dishes: A creamy soup made with greens and crab; popular in restaurants along Ariapita Avenue and the Savannah. 

• Ariapita Avenue: Lively dining and nightlife hub full of jerk chicken, pelau, cocktails, craft beer, and local restaurants.

• Local beverages: Cool down with fresh coconut water, mauby (bark drink), or rum cocktails. Even better at food stalls lining the Savannah or promenade. 

Travel Tips & Safety

• Best time to visit: Carnival (Feb/March) is postcard-perfect—but busy and pricier. May–December offers nicer weather and fewer crowds. 

• Safety advice: Avoid neighborhoods like East Port of Spain and Laventille after dark, don’t solo walk at night, and don’t take unmarked taxis. Use licensed transport or rideshare apps.

• Health & currency: Local currency is the Trinidad & Tobago dollar. ATMs common in POS; credit cards can be used widely, except fuel purchases at pumps. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen. 

• Transport: Local route buses (PTSC), taxis, or hired drivers are reliable. Caroni tours should be pre-booked.

 Where to Stay

• Suggested areas: Downtown (near Independence Square / Savannah) or Woodbrook for nightlife on Ariapita Avenue. 

• Recommended stay: A large waterfront hotel—such as the Hyatt Regency or a Marriott Autograph Collection property—offers ocean views, comfort, and central location.

• Other reliable mid-range options and guesthouses are plentiful in the city centre. Booking ahead is advised, especially during Carnival season.