St. John's , Antigua and Barbuda

City of St John's Sightseeing Tour

Active

(18 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the beauty of city of St John's on this 2½ hour sightseeing tour! Your guide will take you to many popular spots in the capital city including Heritage Quay, the town center, a vegetable market and more on this comprehensive tour.

Available options

City of St John's Sightseeing Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Local taxes

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Fort James, named after King James II of England was built in the 18th Century because the British feared an invasion by the French. This fort was strategically built to guard the entrance of the St. John's Harbor. It was armed with 36 guns and had barracks which accommodated 75 men. A few of the guns can still be seen at the ruins of this fort.

Stop 2

The first cathedral was built in 1681, a simple wooden structure. This was replaced in 1745 after it was severely damaged by earthquake. The present structure as built in 1845.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

NOTE: Not available for Sandals Resort guests

Important notes

This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.

About St. John's

St. John's is the capital and largest city of Antigua and Barbuda, known for its vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and stunning Caribbean scenery. The city offers a mix of historical sites, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches, making it a perfect blend of urban and tropical experiences.

Top Attractions

Shirley Heights

A historic fort with panoramic views of the city and surrounding islands. It's a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

St. John's Cathedral

A beautiful Anglican cathedral with a rich history and stunning architecture.

Historical 30-60 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Redonda

A small, uninhabited island known for its unique wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

Nature Full day trip Varies depending on tour operator

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fungie and Pepperpot

A traditional stew made with cornmeal dumplings (fungie) and a rich, spicy meat stew (pepperpot).

Main Dish Contains meat, can be spicy

Saltfish and Sweet Potato

A popular breakfast dish made with salted fish and sweet potatoes, often served with fried plantains.

Breakfast Contains fish, can be spicy

Rum Punch

A refreshing cocktail made with local rum, citrus juices, and a touch of sugar.

Drink Alcoholic

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Kayaking Beach relaxation Spa treatments Sunset viewing Historical site visits Local festivals

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

230VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

St. John's is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

V.C. Bird International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By bus

St. John's Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded and may not follow a strict schedule.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Dickenson Bay English Harbour

Day trips

English Harbour

5 km (3 miles) • Half day to full day

A historic site with a beautiful marina, Nelson's Dockyard, and Shirley Heights, offering a mix of history and natural beauty.

Devil's Bridge National Park

15 km (9 miles) • Half day

A natural limestone arch formation with stunning coastal views and a rich history.

Barbuda

40 km (25 miles) • Full day to overnight

A neighboring island known for its pristine beaches, pink sand, and unique wildlife.

Festivals

Antigua Carnival • August Sailing Week • April Christmas and New Year's Celebrations • December to January

Pro tips

Visit the local markets for fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Explore the historic sites and learn about the island's rich history.
Take a day trip to English Harbour for stunning views and historic sites.
Try local dishes like fungie and pepperpot, and don't forget to sample the local rum.
Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.