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Virgin Voyages' guide to Belize City, Belize

Here you’ll find a litany of natural wonders, a rich Mayan history, breathtaking wildlife, and a surprisingly boundless foodie scene.

BELIZE CITY

The Gateway of Blissful Belize

Along the iridescent shores of Belize’s eastern tip is where you’ll find Belize City. As the former capital of Belize, it remains the country’s most populous city with an eclectic mix of awe-inspiring natural wonders and numerous opportunities for adventure.
When it comes to exploring on foot, the old capital features a variety of historical sites including the Baron Bliss Lighthouse, the House of Culture, and St. John’s Cathedral. Should you happen to have a diving certification, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Belize by sea at the Great Blue Hole — one of the most sought-after diving experiences in the world. However, there are opportunities for swimmers, snorkelers, and spectators to view a world of aquatic beauty from multiple angles while visiting Belize’s barrier reef — a UNESCO world heritage site you have to see with your own eyes to believe.

Whether you spend your time immersing yourself in the local culture (with your taste buds), discovering endangered species first hand in one of the nearby wildlife sanctuaries, or choose a day of serenity in the mystical Lagoons of Crooked Tree — home to friendly manatees who voluntarily entertain visiting spectators — Belize City and its surrounding areas are certain to become a destination you’ll want to visit again and again.
Shore Excursions

Boundless Adventures in Belize

Historical hubs, Mayan magic, and breathtaking barrier reefs.

Belizean Flavors, Rhythms, and History

Embark on an immersive, multisensory journey through Belize's culture and history. Your experience begins at the Museum of Belize, where you can explore exhibits that highlight the local culture and wildlife over time, from the Indigenous Maya to contemporary Belize. Dive into the culture firsthand at your next stop, the Culture Café. Here, you will sample a variety of local dishes, participate in a language lesson, and enjoy vibrant cultural dances and Belizean Bruk Down music.

Xunantunich Mayan Ruins

Take a short hand-cranked ferry ride across the Mopan River to the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich. Travel back in time as you explore the site, and climb Belize's tallest Mayan structure for breathtaking panoramic views of Western Belize's highlands. Afterward, savor a hearty traditional Belizean lunch at Hodes Restaurant in San Ignacio.

Rendezvous Caye Snorkeling & Island Getaway

Travel to Rendezvous Caye and visit Belize's barrier reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you snorkel around the natural coral island, keep an eye out for lush coral structures and diverse marine life, including hundreds of species of colorful fish. Afterward, take some time to sip a rum punch and relax on the island, before taking a boat ride back to the ship.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

We have even more in our curated catalog.

A series of curious cayes

Belize has 400+ tiny islands surrounding it called cayes.
Shore Excursions

Altun Ha Mayan Site and Scenic Belize River

Explore Altun Ha's Mayan ruins, savor a traditional Belizean lunch, and enjoy a riverboat cruise with views of local wildlife.

DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS

Often referred to as a jewel in the basin of the Caribbean, Belize City is bursting with opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you go on an exciting river boat tour to see the stunning local flora and mysterious fauna, satiate your history-buff spirit with a visit to its old capital, find yourself poking in and out of the local shops and cafes, or creating an adventure all of your own, you’re certain to leave with a new fave destination to tell everyone about at home.

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