Is Belize City Worth Visiting?
If you are wondering if Belize City is worth visiting, you’re in the right place. I’ve been to the city a few times during my “corporate life” to visit hotels, so I have some insights to share.
In my personal opinion Belize City isn’t a must see. But if you’re like me you’ll still want to go and see for yourself and form your own opinion.
That is why in this post I’ll tell you why I don’t think it’s worth a dedicated visit but I will also share where to stay and what to do to make the most of your time, in case you will still want to (or have to) go. I’ll also highlight some of Belize’s best destinations as better alternatives to Belize City.
Table of Contents
A Brief Look at Belize City
Belize City is home to the country’s largest airport, Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, making it a natural entry point for many visitors. It has a rich colonial history, visible in its architecture and landmarks, and serves as a hub for exploring nearby attractions like the Altun Ha Mayan ruins or the cayes.
However, the city itself can feel overwhelming for those expecting a more relaxed, tropical vibe.
It’s also not very safe for the most part, and there’s nothing charming about it.
I might be a bit biased because, on my first visit to the city, I arrived at the news of a shooting just steps away from my hotel. I realize it was likely a case of bad timing, but still…
Belize City Interesting Facts
Here are a few interesting facts about Belize that are related to Belize City:
- Belize City, the largest city in Belize, serves as the country’s principal port and commercial hub. As of recent estimates, it has a population of approximately 65,222 residents.
- Surprisingly Belize City is not the Capital of Belize. It used to be until 1970.. After Hurricane Hattie caused significant damage in 1961, the capital was relocated inland to Belmopan which I find much more appealing and interesting to visit, and definitely safer.
- Museum of Belize: Housed in a former prison, this museum showcases the country’s rich history and culture, and it may be worth visiting if you have time to spare.
- Language: Belize is the only Central American country where English is the official language.
- Population Density: Belize has the lowest population density in Central America, with just 15 persons per square kilometer.
Why Belize City is not worth a visit
As I mentioned before I am not a fan of Belize City and in this section I will give you all the reasons why, but I also include a few attractions you may find in case you need to pass by.
Also, keep in mind that Belize City is not a pretty city. It is quite trafficked and chaotic and not the safest. I don’t mean to be negative, just to keep your expectations low. If you are flying internationally, though, you will have to fly into Belize airport, but you can quickly move on to your next destination in Belize, which is actually full of pretty places. More about that later on.
1. Limited Attractions
Belize City has a handful of cultural and historical highlights, but these can easily be explored within a single day. Some key attractions include:
- Museum of Belize: A small but informative museum housed in a former prison. It offers a glimpse into Belize’s colonial past, Maya heritage, and cultural evolution. It’s definitely worth a visit if you have some time to kill. It is situated on Gabourel Lane, close to downtown and within a zone frequented by tourists. The museum is near government offices and other landmarks, which adds a level of security. Daytime Visits: It’s best to visit during the day when the museum is open ( Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- St. John’s Cathedral: The oldest Anglican church in Central America, built in the early 1800s using bricks brought over as ballast on British ships. While historically significant, the cathedral is small and can be fully appreciated in a short visit.
- Swing Bridge: One of the oldest manually operated swing bridges in the world. Although not pretty, it’s a fascinating piece of engineering history, but it’s a quick sight, not an activity.
Insider safety tips: You can walk from the Museum of Belize to the Cathedral, pass through the Swimg Bridge during daylight, and stay on the main roads. However, I recommend avoiding jewelry and fancy accessories that would make you a juicy target for pickpocketers.
2. Safety Concerns
Safety can be a concern in Belize City, which is known for higher crime rates than other parts of the country. While many areas frequented by tourists are relatively safe during the day, make sure you follow these safety tips:
- Avoid walking around at night, in any neighborhood.
- Cautious Atmosphere: Stay on the alert when walking around during the day and stay in the touristy areas.
- Use taxis to move around if you feel uncomfortable
- Don’t wear flashy accessories and avoid wearing luxury brands
3. Urban Environment
Belize City is a bustling urban center that contrasts sharply with the idyllic landscapes that draw most visitors to Belize.
- Crowded Streets: The city can feel chaotic, with busy roads, street vendors, and a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
- Limited Green Spaces: Unlike other parts of Belize, Belize City doesn’t offer much in the way of parks, nature trails, or scenic views.
- No Beaches: Despite being on the coast, the city doesn’t have the white-sand beaches or clear turquoise waters that Belize is famous for.
- It’s not pretty. I didn’t find anything appealing about Belize City that makes it worth a visit.
- Not for outdoorsy – If you’re seeking a tropical escape, Belize City will definitely not meet your expectations.
Having said that, you can join some tours from Belize City that will take you to amazing places within one hour. Keep reading to find out more about them.
4. Lack of Tourist Infrastructure
Although Belize City is the largest city in the country, its tourism infrastructure is limited compared to other parts of Belize:
- Hotels: While there are a few comfortable options, like Villa Boscardi or The Great House Inn, they cater more to transit travelers than those seeking a luxury or resort experience. You won’t find all-inclusive resorts that are instead scattered around the Belize Cayes and other more isolated destinations.
- Restaurants: The dining scene is limited, with only a handful of standout options like Smokeez
Seaside Bar and Grill. The variety and quality pale in comparison to what’s available in Placencia, San Pedro, or Caye Caulker. - Activities: The city lacks the type of activities that typically draw tourists, such as water sports, wildlife tours, or cultural festivals.
For most visitors, there needs to be more exciting options to justify a longer stay.
What to visit instead
Belize City serves as a gateway to some of the country’s most stunning destinations, all of which are just a short trip away. Although it’s not within the scope of this article, I would love to mention some of the most beautiful places in Belize to make up for my negative review of Belize City. Belize as a country is definitely worth your time, especially if you love nature and Mayan History.
You will find many spectacular places to visit, from spectacular archeological sites to natural wonders and underwater treasures like the world-famous Blue Hole.
Here are some of my favorite spots in Belize that you can reach from Belize City.
- Caye Caulker and San Pedro (Ambergris Caye): These islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. They are perfect for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing by the sea. Water taxis and flights from Belize City make them easily accessible.
- San Ignacio: Nestled in the jungle, this town is the starting point for exploring ancient Mayan ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol, as well as activities like cave tubing, zip-lining, and hiking.
- Placencia: A laid-back beach town with stunning coastline, great seafood, and access to the Belize Barrier Reef.
These destinations will make the perfect Belize Itinerary, allowing you to experience Belize’s natural beauty and cultural richness far better than Belize City does.
How to move around and from Belize City: Transportation Guide
Belize City’s primary value lies in its role as a transportation hub. It’s where most international travelers arrive and connect to their next destination using different means of transportation, as follows.
- Airport: Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, located just outside Belize City, is the main entry point for visitors.
- Water Taxis: Regular ferries depart from Belize City to the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, making it a key transit point for island-hopping.
- Buses: The main bus terminal connects Belize City to destinations like San Ignacio, Placencia, and Dangriga.
- Car Rentals: Many visitors choose to rent a car in Belize City, and it’s my favorite way to explore the country. Having your own car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, make spontaneous stops, adjust your plans on the go, and avoid being tied to a set schedule.
While it’s an efficient hub, most travelers find that Belize City itself is not worth other than a brief stopover.
Daily Tours that you can do from Belize City
If, despite my bad review of the city, you wish to use it as a base to explore the country, you are in luck because there are organized tours that you can join to some interesting attractions that make a great day trip from Belize.
Altun Ha Mayan Site tour from Belize City
If you are interested in the Mayan world, the tour to Altun Ha archeological site is a great option, just an hour from Belize City. This private tour includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle and covers entry fees for a hassle-free experience.
You will enjoy a scenic drive through Belize City, passing landmarks like the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and the Museum of Belize, before traveling through rural communities and along the historic Old Belize River.
At Altun Ha, explore the on-site museum and take a guided tour of the impressive ruins, learning about the Maya civilization’s culture and history.
Cave Tubing & Zip Lining Adventure
If you’re up for an adventure, this tour is a blast! You’ll hike through the rainforest (about 20 minutes), then float on a tube through these incredible Mayan caves—it feels like another world. After that, it’s zip-lining time! Flying over the jungle canopy is such a rush, and the views are amazing.
It’s a private tour, so you can take your time, and everything’s covered: equipment, lunch, and even hotel pickup and drop-off. If you’re in Belize City and want an epic day out in nature, this is the way to go!
Lamanai Mayan Ruins and River Cruise
This full-day tour to Lamanai from Belize City is perfect if you’re up for a mix of history, nature, and adventure. You’ll start with a scenic river cruise through the jungle, where you might spot birds, orchids, and even crocodiles. Once you arrive, it’s time to explore one of Belize’s most famous Mayan sites.
Your guide will walk you through the ruins, including highlights like the Jaguar Temple, the Mask Temple, and ancient Mayan palaces. You’ll also hear the howler monkeys in the trees and learn about the incredible history of this ancient city. There’s even a small museum where you can check out Mayan artifacts.
To top it off, you’ll enjoy a traditional Belizean lunch before returning. The tour includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, so it’s hassle-free and packed with unforgettable experiences!
Conclusion
As you may have noticed, I am not a fan of Belize City, and although you can actually explore some nicer parts of Belize by taking tours from Belize City I still don’t recommend staying there. While Belize City has its place as the country’s largest urban center and transportation hub, it lacks the charm, safety, and attractions that you can find in other parts of Belize instead. Spending a day in Belize City can be worthwhile for exploring its limited highlights, but for a more rewarding experience, your time is better spent exploring the islands, jungles, and beaches that make Belize a world-class destination.
Guest Author: Isabella is a full-time traveler, photographer, and content creator with a passion for exploring unique destinations and sharing inspiring travel stories. Based in Cancun when not on the road, she helps solo travelers over 50 craft unforgettable journeys through her multiple blogs, Solo Nomad Journeys and Boundless Roads. With a love for wildlife, road trips, and discovering hidden gems, Isabella blends practical tips with personal experiences to encourage others to embrace the freedom of travel.
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