Island, Curacao
Curaçao
Colorful Willemstad, warm dry weather, excellent shore diving and a Dutch-Caribbean mix at moderate prices. Public transport is thin and car rental is common; some visitors need a car for beaches.
At a glance
- Safety4/5Safe with normal careDetails
- Monthly budget$2,510–3,910Comfortable, one person · ANG4,500–7,000Details
- Best time to goJan–May, SepWarmest: Sep, 29°CDetails
- Tap waterYes, drinkableTap water is desalinated and safe to drink.Details
- LGBTQ+4/5WelcomingDetails
- Solo travel4/5English: widely spokenDetails
- Doctor's visit$50–89Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundPublic bus (konvoi)Walkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardCards almost everywhereCards and contactless are widely accepted; US dollars also taken.Details
Where to stay in Curaçao
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Pietermaai (Willemstad) | Trendy old-town district: bars, restaurants, boutique stays |
| Punda–Otrobanda | Historic UNESCO center, markets, local food and walking |
| Jan Thiel | Beach clubs, resorts and apartments, car needed |
| Westpunt | Quiet diving coast and snorkel coves, far from the city |
Apps that work in Curaçao
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- Curaçao Tourist Board: Visitor info and events
- Taxis: No Uber or Lyft; local taxis are fixed-fare and cannot be hailed easily. Ask your hotel or restaurant to call one, or rent a car.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Curacao.
- Cards almost everywhere Cards and contactless are widely accepted; US dollars also taken. Keep some cash for buses, markets, small snackbars and beach stalls.
- Currency: Guilder (XCG). US$1 ≈ ANG1.79 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ATMs in Willemstad and shopping centres; withdrawals in ANG, sometimes US$. Fees depend on your bank.
- Tipping: A service charge is often included; add 5–10% if not. Tip tour guides and taxi drivers.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and contactless cards work in most larger shops and hotels.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Complete the free Digital Immigration Card online within 48 hours before arrival.
- Visitors can stay up to 90 days per calendar year; extensions need proof of valid travel insurance.
- Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested.
Emergency numbers
Police 911 · Ambulance 912 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911
Plugs
Type A, B · 127 V, 50 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Digicel or Flow prepaid SIMs from the airport or shops with passport; monthly data bundles are around US$20–40. eSIMs work for visitors.
Going to Curaçao solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Curaçao meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.