Because the Bahamas archipelago really does have it all, its paradisiacal beaches come with cities with an undeniable temperament, filled with historical sites and fun activities. Here are our top 3 must-visit cities during a stay in the Bahamas.
And what if, between two excursions to the Bahamas’ breathtaking beaches, you take the time to discover the archipelago’s cities filled with history, to better understand this country with a turbulent past? These urban escapades, with their rich cultural offerings and fun breaks, will also contribute to your successful stay in the Bahamas.
Planning a trip to the Caribbean? Read more on the topic to better plan your trip:
- 8 overlooked Caribbean islands worth exploring
- The most beautiful cities in the Caribbean for a delightful holiday in the sun
- The 6 most luxurious destinations in the Caribbean
The 3 most beautiful cities in the Bahamas, to visit once in a lifetime
Nassau on the island of New Providence
The capital, the largest city of the Bahamas, is of course a must-see during your stay in the archipelago. You will enjoy its lively streets, colourful shops and handicraft markets like the Straw Market, as well as its historical heritage with monuments such as Fort Charlotte, offering a nice panoramic view of the harbour, and guided tours on colonial history.
the Queen’s Staircase, a series of 66 steps hand-carved by slaves in the 18th century, the Parliament Square and its pink-and-white colonial buildings built in the British Georgian style, the interactive Pirates Museum of Nassau to learn more about the fascinating history of the pirates who made Nassau their hideout in the 18th century, and Bay Street for shopping.
Freeport on Grand Bahama Island
Enjoy a nature break in Freeport, the second largest city in the Bahamas, where you can explore exceptional natural sites such as Lucayan National Park with its impressive underwater caves, hiking trails and secrete beaches. You can also spend some time shopping at Port Lucaya Marketplace, the largest open-air shopping mall in the Bahamas.
the Garden of the Groves, a verdant botanical garden with waterfalls and hiking trails filled with wildlife, Rand Nature Centre, a 40-hectare nature reserve with numerous bird species and exhibits on the local ecosystem, and last but not least Taino Beach, a magnificent family-friendly beach with water sports and plenty of restaurants.
Dunmore Town in Harbour Island
With its unique blend of casualness, history and breathtaking nature, this small town embodies the very essence of the Bahamas. As the oldest settlement in the archipelago, Dunmore Town will captive you with its streets lined with pastel-coloured colonial homes, such as the Loyalist Cottage — one of the oldest houses on the island —, its art galleries and craft stores.
just a few minutes’ walk from town, and The Lone Tree, a solitary tree washed ashore after a hurricane and a natural curiosity photographed by all travellers.
