Oranjestad (or Orangetown) is the magnificent Dutch colonial capital of the stunning Caribbean island of Aruba. Like many of the major cities in the Caribbean, Oranjestad sits on a huge natural deep-water harbor that is protected from all kinds of extreme weather. For Caribbean cruisers, this makes Oranjestad a great port of call, while for its passengers there are plenty of things to see and do in Old Town.

You can’t miss Fort Zoutman, the original Dutch settlement that later grew into the city we see today. Built in 1796, the battlements are now the focal point of the city’s historical and cultural activities, housing the informative Aruba Historical Museum, containing the iconic William III Tower, and hosting the weekly Bon Bini folk festival. The old colonial buildings around the city are particularly notable for their bright orange color, making them highly photogenic. Orange was the color used to commemorate and symbolize William of Orange, one of the most famous figures in Dutch history.

The Old Harbor area is where most people do their shopping in Oranjestad, as the entire area is a duty-free zone. Local specialties include jewelry, arts and crafts, and of course an impressive array of Dutch cheeses! In this area you will also find other museums such as the charming Numismatic Museum of Oranjestad. There are plenty of other attractions in and around the city, including the Aruba Ostrich Farm and Butterfly Farm, while Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are great for swimming and sunbathing. Offshore there are loads of magical dive sites and as always there are plenty of sailing and powerboat options to choose from. Golf, horse riding and kitesurfing are some of the outdoor activities to enjoy.

Oranjestad has dozens of quality restaurants serving a wide variety of local and international cuisine. Dining options range from casual dining to fairly expensive but excellent full-service restaurants. For those who possibly want the best dining experience on the island, try Gasparito Restaurant and Gallery, which not only has the best local cuisine on the island, but also has an excellent art gallery with many of the pieces for sale. After dinner, head to the city center to enjoy its amazing variety of bars, clubs and discos. Themes here range from chilled-out Latin bar terraces to thriving Top 40 dance bars. For a more romantic scene, try one of the hotel’s many laid-back, moody bars near the boardwalk.

As one of the most historic and lively cities in the Caribbean, Oranjestad offers visitors a fun time filled with great attractions, activities, dining, shopping and relaxation. Another great positive aspect of the city is the kindness and friendliness of the local people, who are extremely kind and attentive to tourists, on whom much of their livelihood depends. You will always remember your Oranjestad port of call!