Staying in Willemstad Without a Car: Is It Possible?
If you’re planning a trip to Curaçao, you’ll often hear one piece of advice: “You need to rent a car.” While that’s true for exploring remote beaches, it’s not always necessary—especially if your focus is Willemstad.
So, can you stay in Willemstad without a car?
Yes—if you choose the right neighborhood.
This guide explains when a car-free stay works, which areas are truly walkable, and why Otrobanda—home to Curaçao Gardens—is one of the best options.
Do you really need a car in Curaçao?
Curaçao is larger than many visitors expect, and public transport outside the city is limited. For full island exploration, a rental car is helpful.
However, many travelers:
Spend most of their time in Willemstad
Enjoy walking, culture, and dining
Prefer short stays or city-focused trips
Travel from Europe and are used to walkable cities
For these travelers, staying in Willemstad without a car is absolutely possible.
When staying without a car makes sense
A car-free stay works best if:
You’re staying in the historic center
Your accommodation is close to restaurants and sights
You plan to explore the city on foot
You’re okay renting a car for just a few days (or not at all)
The key is location—not every area of Curaçao is walkable.
The most walkable areas in Willemstad
Willemstad has several distinct districts, but only a few work well without a car:
Punda – central, lively, busy during the day
Pietermaai – nightlife-focused, compact
Otrobanda – historic, cultural, residential, walkable
Among these, Otrobanda offers the best balance of space, calm, and access.
Why Otrobanda is ideal without a car
Otrobanda is part of Willemstad and officially known as Ser’i Otrobanda.
Why it works so well on foot:
Flat, compact streets
Direct walking access to Punda
Connected by the Queen Emma Bridge
Restaurants, cafés, and culture nearby
Quieter evenings compared to busier areas
You can easily explore the city, return to your accommodation to rest, and head out again—all without transport planning.
Curaçao Gardens: the perfect base without a car
Curaçao Gardens offers boutique apartments in Otrobanda, making it ideal for travelers who want to stay car-free.
Why Curaçao Gardens works so well without a car:
Central location in the UNESCO district
Walking distance to city highlights
Nearby restaurants, including Maira’s Kitchen
Private terraces or balconies for downtime
Access to a plunge pool for midday breaks
Formerly known as Kas di Laman, Curaçao Gardens now includes two locations:
Kas di Laman – with a tropical courtyard and plunge pool
Hulanda Village – set within a historic village atmosphere
What you can (and can’t) do without a car
Easy without a car:
Exploring Otrobanda and Punda
Museums, murals, and historic streets
Dining out in Willemstad
Evening walks and sunset views
Harder without a car:
Visiting west coast beaches
Snorkeling spots like remote bays
National parks and countryside
Many guests choose a hybrid approach: stay car-free in Willemstad, then rent a car for a few days.
FAQ
Can you stay in Willemstad without a rental car?
Yes, if you stay in a walkable district like Otrobanda.
Is Otrobanda safe to walk around?
Yes. It’s a central, lived-in area; normal city awareness applies.
Can I walk from Otrobanda to Punda?
Yes. The Queen Emma Bridge connects both districts.
Are restaurants within walking distance?
Yes. Several restaurants and cafés are nearby.
Is Curaçao Gardens suitable for car-free travelers?
Yes. Its location makes city exploring easy without a car.
Should I rent a car at all?
Only if you want to explore beaches and remote areas.
Practical tips for a car-free stay
Choose your accommodation carefully:
Location matters more than amenities.
Plan beach days selectively:
Rent a car for specific days if needed.
Walk early or late:
Midday heat can be intense; mornings and evenings are ideal.
Wear good shoes:
Historic streets can be uneven.
Stay where the city works without a car
Staying in Willemstad without a car is not only possible—it can be incredibly enjoyable when you choose the right base. Curaçao Gardens places you in the heart of Otrobanda, where culture, comfort, and walkability meet.
Book direct via our website for the best experience and personal service.