Explore the colourful Caribbean Island of Curaçao and discover Willemstad, Curaçao, UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you wander through the vibrant streets of Willemstad, you’ll be captivated by the pastel-colored colonial architecture that lines the waterfront. Curaçao, part of the Dutch Caribbean, is a cultural gem within the Lesser Antilles, which are the largest group of islands in this tropical region. Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history, clear blue waters, and lively local markets for an unforgettable experience.

Caribbean Island of Curaçao

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad, Curaçao

Historic Willemstad, the harbour and its Inner City became a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. It features colourful distinct Dutch Colonial architecture.

Colourful people at the waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful people at the waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao.  Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The floating market at the colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The floating market at the colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The floating market at the colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The floating market at the colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful buildings and Queen Emma Pontoon swing bridge at UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful buildings and Queen Emma Pontoon swing bridge, Willemstad, Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful streets of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful streets of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao.  Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The floating market at the colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

The floating market at the colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao.  Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful streets of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Colourful streets of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao.  Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Fort Amsterdam UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. The waterfront market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Fort Amsterdam, UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr

Learn more about Curaçao and its history.

Explore the Hato Caves on the Caribbean Island of Curaçao.

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About the Author:

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Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.

Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.

She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.