What it's like
Downtown Nassau is the old colonial heart of the city, packed into about 20 square blocks. Its monuments, murals and museums show the island's history, from the Bahamian past to the pirate years that still shape the town's image.
A visit is a slow walk with a map. The Straw Market, the Pirates of Nassau Museum and the National Art Gallery are all downtown, and the short distances make it easy to move between them on foot. Stay on the main downtown streets and use licensed taxis if you need one.
Good to know
- Keep to the main downtown streets. Old Town and Over-the-Hill, south of downtown, are wary areas.
- Ride only in licensed yellow-plated taxis. Some drivers claim to be taxis, and visitors have been robbed.
- Jitney fare is paid to the driver in exact fare, with no change given.
Downtown Nassau
Downtown Nassau is the historic core of the capital, a compact grid of colonial buildings, monuments, murals and museums. Most of it is best seen on foot, one street at a time.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Fort Fincastle
Fort Fincastle is a small fort on a hill south of downtown Nassau, with cannons on display and views over the city.
Queen's Staircase
The Queen's Staircase, known as the 66 Steps, is a flight of 66 steps cut into solid limestone in Nassau.
Junkanoo Beach
Junkanoo Beach is the Nassau beach nearest the cruise port, with harbor views and often something going on. It is a beach stop in Nassau, not a day trip.
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest church in Downtown Nassau and the first church built in The Bahamas. Its history goes back to 1670, and the Gothic building standing today dates to 1841.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Old town and historic sights
