Here’s a detailed guide to things to do in Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital:

Cultural & Historical Attractions

• MUPANAH (Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien) – Haiti’s national museum with exhibits on the revolution, independence, and artifacts like the anchor of Columbus’s Santa Maria.

• Marché en Fer (Iron Market) – A bustling market full of crafts, art, spices, voodoo items, and local goods. It’s chaotic but full of color and energy.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral ruins – Remains of the once-grand cathedral, damaged in the 2010 earthquake, still stand as a symbol of resilience.

• Place du Champ de Mars – Central plaza with statues of revolutionary heroes such as Toussaint Louverture and Jean-Jacques Dessalines.

Art & Creative Spaces

• Galerie Nader – One of the best-known art galleries in Haiti, showcasing contemporary and traditional Haitian works.

• Grand Rue Artists – A neighborhood collective of artists making avant-garde sculptures from recycled materials.

• Pétion-Ville Art Scene – Upscale district with galleries, boutiques, and cultural cafés.

Scenic Views & Landmarks

• Observatoire Boutilliers – A viewpoint in the hills above the city with sweeping views of Port-au-Prince and the bay.

• Fort Jacques – A historic fortress built after independence, offering panoramic views of the mountains and sea.

Food & Nightlife

• Try Haitian Cuisine – Local dishes like griot (fried pork), diri ak djon djon (black mushroom rice), and fried plantains.

• Rum Tasting at Barbancourt Distillery – Haiti’s famous rum producer offers tours and tastings.

• Live Music & Dance – Compas, rara, and troubadour music fill nightclubs and open-air venues in Pétion-Ville.

Local Life & Markets

• Craft Markets – Handcrafted wood carvings, paintings, and textiles are abundant. Great places to support artisans.

• Street Murals – The city has a thriving street art scene, with murals celebrating Haiti’s culture and resistance.

Day Trips Nearby

• Côte des Arcadins – About 1.5 hours from the city, known for beaches, snorkeling, and resorts.

• Furcy – A mountain village south of the capital, popular for hiking and cool weather escapes.

✨ In short, Port-au-Prince offers a mix of history, art, and raw urban energy. It’s a city best explored with local guides to fully appreciate its creative pulse and navigate it safely.

Here’s a guide to things to do in Pétion-Ville, the vibrant hillside suburb of Port-au-Prince that blends culture, nightlife, and scenic views:

Art & Culture

• Art Galleries & Studios – Pétion-Ville is known for its thriving art scene. Visit spaces like Galerie Nader, Marassa Gallery, and small local studios showcasing Haiti’s bold and colorful painting traditions.

• Street Murals – The district is filled with creative street art, reflecting Haiti’s culture, politics, and resilience.

• Handicraft Boutiques – Explore shops selling wood carvings, beadwork, and metal art, perfect for unique souvenirs.

Food & Dining

• Gourmet Haitian Cuisine – Pétion-Ville has some of the country’s best restaurants, ranging from Creole fine dining to casual eateries serving griot (fried pork), diri ak djon djon (mushroom rice), and plantains.

• International Restaurants – You’ll also find French, Italian, and fusion spots catering to expats and travelers.

• Cafés & Bakeries – Enjoy French-style pastries, coffee, and local sweets in relaxed cafés.

Nightlife & Entertainment

• Live Music – Clubs and lounges regularly feature compas and rara bands, Haiti’s signature rhythms.

• Nightclubs & Bars – Pétion-Ville is the nightlife capital of Haiti, with venues that stay lively late into the night.

• Cultural Performances – Occasional dance and theater events highlight Haitian creativity.

Shopping & Markets

• Craft Markets – Browse stalls with local art, textiles, and jewelry.

• Modern Boutiques – Upscale clothing, jewelry, and home décor shops cater to the city’s elite and expat community.

Scenic Views & Relaxation

• Observatoire Boutilliers – A short drive uphill offers panoramic views of Port-au-Prince, the bay, and surrounding mountains.

• Hotel Terraces – Many boutique hotels have beautiful rooftop bars and pools where you can relax with a drink while overlooking the city.

Day Excursions Nearby

• Furcy – A mountain village about an hour away, popular for hiking trails and cool, fresh air.

• Côte des Arcadins – A coastal strip within driving distance, known for beaches and watersports.

✨ Pétion-Ville is Haiti’s cosmopolitan hub—artsy, energetic, and stylish—where you’ll find the best of the country’s cultural life, nightlife, and dining, all set against stunning hillside views.

Here’s a detailed guide to things to do in Jacmel, Haiti’s artistic and coastal gem:

Historic & Cultural Attractions

• Jacmel Historic District – Stroll through French colonial-era streets lined with pastel-colored buildings and wrought-iron balconies. Many houses date back to the late 19th century.

• Jacmel Cathedral (St. Jacques & St. Philippe) – A landmark at the heart of the city.

• Jacmel Art Center & Craft Markets – The town is Haiti’s art capital, home to papier-mâché artisans who create the famous Carnival masks, as well as painters, sculptors, and metalworkers.

• Carnival (Kanaval) – If visiting in February, Jacmel’s Carnival is a highlight, with vibrant parades, elaborate masks, drumming, and street dancing.

Natural Attractions

• Bassin Bleu – A series of turquoise pools and waterfalls just outside Jacmel. Accessible by a short hike, it’s perfect for swimming and relaxing in a tropical setting.

• Raymond-les-Bains Beach – A beautiful stretch of sand east of Jacmel, great for swimming, sunbathing, and trying local seafood.

• Ti Mouillage Beach – Another coastal escape near the city, popular with locals.

Local Life & Experiences

• Street Murals & Artsy Vibe – Jacmel is covered with colorful murals and street art, giving it a bohemian feel.

• Handicrafts Shopping – Papier-mâché masks, wood carvings, and hand-painted works make perfect souvenirs.

• Café Culture – Relax in seaside cafés and enjoy Haitian coffee while soaking in the ocean breeze.

Day Trips Nearby

• Marigot – A fishing village close to Jacmel with a peaceful harbor and authentic Haitian coastal life.

• Seguin Plateau – A mountainous region nearby, ideal for hiking and exploring nature reserves with pine forests and cooler air.

✨ In short, Jacmel offers a blend of culture, art, and nature—from historic streets and lively Carnival traditions to waterfalls and pristine beaches. It’s one of the most charming and accessible destinations in southern Haiti.

Here’s a guide to things to do on Île-à-Vache, Haiti’s serene island getaway off the southern coast:

Beaches & Relaxation

• Port Morgan Beach & Abaka Bay – White-sand beaches with calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and lounging. Abaka Bay is particularly famous and often considered one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems.

• Cayes Cayemite & Petit Trou Beaches – More remote stretches of sand, great for those seeking tranquility away from crowds.

• Sunset Watching – The island’s west-facing beaches are ideal for dramatic sunset views over the Caribbean Sea.

Water Activities

• Snorkeling & Swimming – Explore coral reefs and shallow waters full of tropical fish.

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Calm lagoons and mangrove areas are perfect for paddling.

• Sailing & Fishing Excursions – Join local fishermen or arrange a boat trip to smaller offshore islets.

Nature & Hiking

• Scenic Walks – The island is largely undeveloped, with trails through palm groves, mangroves, and coastal paths.

• Birdwatching – Mangrove areas attract a variety of seabirds and migratory species.

• Horseback Riding – Some resorts arrange horseback rides along the beach and through villages.

Cultural Encounters

• Village Visits – Meet locals in small fishing villages like Kayanou or Madame Bernard, where you’ll see traditional wooden fishing boats and island life.

• Madame Bernard Market – A lively open-air market where locals trade goods, crafts, and fresh produce.

• Local Cuisine – Enjoy freshly caught seafood (lobster, conch, fish) served with Haitian flavors, alongside tropical fruits.

Wellness & Retreats

• Eco-Lodges & Resorts – Many accommodations focus on relaxation, offering hammocks, yoga sessions, and spa treatments.

• Disconnect & Unwind – With limited cars and no big cities, Île-à-Vache is a place to slow down, recharge, and enjoy nature.

✨ In short, Île-à-Vache is all about unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful island life. It’s the ideal spot in Haiti for travelers seeking quiet, natural beauty, and authentic Caribbean charm.

Here are several things to do around Cap-Haïtien (in and near the city) — a mix of history, nature, beach time, and local culture:

✅ Top Attractions & Activities

1. Citadelle Laferrière & Sans-Souci Palace

• The Citadelle Laferrière is a massive mountaintop fortress built in the early 19ᵗʰ century by King Henri Christophe. It offers panoramic views and a powerful sense of Haiti’s history and resistance. 

• Nearby is the Palais Sans-Souci, Christophe’s royal palace that was once his court and residence. Though partly in ruins (especially after the 1842 earthquake), it remains a fascinating historical site. 

Tip: You can hike or travel (partly by vehicle) from Milot, the nearest town. Some of the trail up to the Citadelle is steep, and many visitors hire a local guide or use a horse/mule for part of the ascent. 

2. Explore the City & Historic Architecture

• Cathédrale Notre-Dame in Cap-Haïtien is an elegant colonial-era cathedral and an architectural landmark. 

• Boulevard du Cap (Boulva Okap) — the waterfront boulevard is lively with cafés, restaurants, and local life. It’s a great place for an evening stroll. 

• Marché Artisanal / Local Markets — browse crafts, local art, textiles, and souvenirs. 

• Colonial-era architecture & pastel facades — the city has many preserved buildings from its French colonial heyday.

3. Beaches, Resorts & Coastal Escapes

• Labadee / Labadie — a private resort area leased by a cruise line, with beaches, water sports, zip lines, and other amenities. 

• Cormier Plage — on the road to Labadie, this is another beach option outside the bustle of the city. 

• Paradis Beach & Belli Beach — small sandy coves accessible via boat or local routes. 

4. Cultural & Spiritual Sites

• Bois Caïman — located a few kilometers south of Route Nationale 1, this site is historically significant as one of the legendary locations tied to the Vodou ceremonies that preceded the Haitian Revolution. 

• Fort Rivière — a ruined mountain fort south of Cap-Haïtien, noted in Haitian history. 

⚠️ Tips & Considerations

• Timing & daylight: Many roads to the Citadelle and Sans-Souci are rugged and unsafe at night. Try to do these trips during daylight hours.

• Guides: Hiring a knowledgeable local guide can make a big difference—navigating trails, arranging horses, and offering historical context.

• Entry & fees: Bring small cash for entrance fees or local arrangements.

• Weather & hiking: The route up to the fort is steep; wear proper shoes and bring water, especially on hot days.

• Security: As in other parts of Haiti, conditions can change. Stay updated on local advisories and travel safely.

Here’s what you can see and do at the Citadelle Laferrière:

What Is the Citadelle Laferrière?

• A massive mountaintop fortress built in the early 19ᵗʰ century under King Henri Christophe, intended as a defensive stronghold against possible French re-colonization. 

• It is part of the National History Park (Citadel, Sans-Souci, Ramiers), a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

• The fortress sits about 8 km uphill from Milot, some 27 km south of Cap-Haïtien, on a mountaintop called Bonnet à l’Évêque. 

Things You Can Do There

Here’s a list of the top experiences when visiting the Citadelle:

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Time & Duration: Visits often take 4-6 hours (or more) including trail travel, exploration, and rest stops. 

• Entrance Fee: There is a small admission fee. 

• Guides / Horses: Hiring a guide or using a horse can ease the ascent and enrich the visit. 

• Safety: Some areas may lack guardrails, so be careful on high walls. Also, trail conditions can change. |

• Weather: The elevation can be cooler, but sun exposure is strong. Carry water, sunscreen, and wear appropriate clothing.

• Respect the Site: It’s a historical monument and UNESCO site; avoid leaning or climbing unsafe, crumbling parts, and respect any sign or barrier.