Nassau walking tour & city guide

Downtown, the forts and Paradise Island

Bay Street is downtown Nassau's main street, running along the harbour past shops, the Straw Market and Prince George Wharf, where the cruise ships moor. Just behind it, Parliament Square is lined with pink government buildings and a statue of Queen Victoria. A short walk uphill, the Queen's Staircase, sixty-six steps cut into the limestone in the late eighteenth century, leads to Fort Fincastle and the old water tower.

Two bridges cross the harbour to Paradise Island, with its large resort complex, marina and Cabbage Beach. West of downtown, Arawak Cay is a row of colourful seafood shacks known as the Fish Fry, Fort Charlotte overlooks the harbour entrance, and Cable Beach stretches along the north shore.

A classic walk: Prince George Wharf to the Queen's Staircase

Start at Prince George Wharf and walk along Bay Street, stopping at the Straw Market for crafts. Turn up to Parliament Square, then continue uphill through the old streets to the Queen's Staircase, cool and shaded between its limestone walls.

Climb the steps to Fort Fincastle for views over the harbour and Paradise Island. Walk back down toward the sea and, in the afternoon, head west along the shore to Junkanoo Beach or Arawak Cay for fresh conch.

Good to know

December to April is the driest and most pleasant season; summer is hot and humid, and the hurricane season runs from June to November. The Bahamian dollar is tied to the US dollar, and both are used. Traffic drives on the left, and small jitney buses and taxis cover the island. Junkanoo, a street festival of music, costumes and dancing, takes place on Boxing Day and New Year's Day.