Welcome to Belize City, Belize

Still virtually undiscovered by most Caribbean visitors, Belize City is a central starting point for diving at the world’s second-largest reef system, exploring Mayan ruins from 2,000 years ago and peering into the darkness of quartz-lined caves. Locals speak English, the ocean views are spectacular and an easygoing energy makes the city feel familiar and welcoming.

Though Belmopan is the capital of Belize, Belize City is still the country’s commercial and cultural hub, with quaint fishing boats lining the marina and colonial architecture near historic Fort George. Belize City Radisson Hotel guests can spend the day browsing the shops on streets like Albert and Queen, or find your inner adventurer with an unforgettable river rafting tour.

Reasons to Visit Belize City

• Old Belize: Quirky, somewhat kitschy and altogether fascinating, Old Belize is part amusement park, part museum and part dive bar. Enjoy the 45-minute guided tour, a drink at the beach and various historical exhibits at this attraction just five miles outside the city.


• Mayan Ruins at Altun Ha: Only 30 miles north of Belize City, the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha feel ancient and significant, reminding visitors of the fully developed civilization that mysteriously disappeared around 1000 AD.


• Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Sitting on the southern tip of Belize’s most popular destination, Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a snorkeler's paradise. Part of the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, this reserve has four distinct zones: the Reef, the Seagrass Beds, the Mangroves and Shark Ray Alley.


• Caving: Spelunkers and hikers flock to Belize for the spectacular Caves Branch, only 50 minutes from the city. Cool, dark and shimmering with quartz, Crystal Cave is the best of the bunch, though an exhilarating tube ride through the caves on Caves Branch River is also worth your time.


• Belize Barrier Reef: Belize is famous for its incredible diving and snorkeling spots, home to more than 500 species of brightly colored marine life. Belize City Radisson Hotel guests should take a charter just off the coast of Belize City to see sharks, rays and other aquatic wonders at spots like Lighthouse Reef, the Great Blue Hole and Turneffe Atoll.


• Sailing: For the romance of high-sea adventure, nothing beats an overnight sail from Belize City to more remote sections of the reef. Most chartered trips include fresh fish cooked from what you catch, deserted islands, snorkeling in crystal clear waters and an abundance of rum punch.

When to Visit Belize City

Expect T-shirt and flip-flop weather year-round in Belize City, where highs stay in the 80s °F and lows dip to the low 70s °F at night.

January through April marks the dry season and lures the highest number of tourists with Carnival festivities in February and a harbor regatta every March to honor British benefactor Baron Bliss.

The off season is quieter throughout the hotter and wetter months but offers water-oriented events like fishing tournaments and sailing races. Though hurricanes are rare, September and October have a reputation for unpredictable weather, but that doesn’t stop visitors and locals from celebrating St. George’s Caye Day and Independence Day with lively block parties.

Belize City Travel Tip

Though it can be somewhat confusing, taking a taxi is a great way to see the city during the heat of the day. Pick up an authorized cab with a green license plate and be sure to agree on a price before setting off.