Home › Destinations › Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince, Ayiti - Things to Do in Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince, Ayiti - Complete Travel Guide

Port-au-Prince, the busy capital of Haiti (Ayiti in Haitian Creole), is a city where resilient spirit meets rich cultural heritage. Despite facing significant challenges, the city pulses with an undeniable energy, from the colorful tap-taps navigating bustling streets to the rhythmic sounds of kompa music echoing through neighborhoods. The iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince, though damaged in the 2010 earthquake, remains a powerful symbol of the city's enduring faith and determination to rebuild. The city serves as Haiti's political, economic, and cultural center, offering visitors a complex but rewarding experience. From the historic Iron Market and the artistic enclave of Pétion-Ville to the impressive views from the Boutilliers Mountains, Port-au-Prince showcases the authentic Caribbean experience often missed in more tourist-focused destinations. The warmth and creativity of the Haitian people shine through in every interaction, making this a destination for travelers seeking genuine cultural immersion.

Top Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince

the Historic Iron Market

Visit the reconstructed Marché en Fer, a busy marketplace that has been the commercial heart of Port-au-Prince since 1891. Browse through stalls selling everything from local crafts and artwork to spices and textiles. The market offers an authentic glimpse into daily Haitian life and is an excellent place to purchase unique souvenirs and interact with local vendors.

Booking Tip: No advance booking required, but visit with a local guide for safety and cultural context. Best visited in the morning when it's cooler and less crowded. Budget $20-30 for guide services and bring small bills for purchases.

Haitian Art in Pétion-Ville

Explore the upscale suburb of Pétion-Ville, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Visit galleries showcasing Haiti's renowned artistic tradition, from primitive paintings to contemporary sculptures. The area also offers excellent dining options and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to downtown Port-au-Prince.

Booking Tip: Art galleries are typically open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm. Many galleries offer free browsing, though serious collectors should budget $50-500+ for authentic pieces. Consider hiring a local art expert as a guide for $40-60 per day.

the National Palace Area

Walk through the historic downtown area where the former National Palace once stood before the 2010 earthquake. The area includes several important this destination, monuments, and provides insight into Haiti's political history. Nearby, you can also visit the Cathedral and other significant landmarks.

Booking Tip: Best visited as part of a guided historical tour for context and safety. Tours typically cost $30-50 per person and last 2-3 hours. Avoid visiting during political demonstrations or large gatherings.

Local Music and Dance

spend time in Haiti's rich musical heritage by attending live kompa, rara, or traditional folk performances. Many hotels and cultural centers host evening shows, while local venues offer real feels. Dance lessons are often available for visitors wanting to learn traditional Haitian moves.

Booking Tip: Evening shows at hotels cost $15-25, while authentic local venues may be free but require local guidance. Cultural centers like Centre D'Art charge $10-20 for performances. Book through your hotel for safety and transportation.

Take a Day Trip to Kenscoff Mountains

Escape the heat and crowds with a trip to the cooler mountain town of Haiti, about an hour from Port-au-Prince. Enjoy impressive panoramic views of the city and coastline, visit local farms growing vegetables and flowers, and experience a completely different side of Haiti's landscape and climate.

Booking Tip: Hire a reliable driver/guide for $80-120 for the full day trip including transportation. Bring warm clothes as temperatures can be 15-20°F cooler. Best visited on clear days for optimal views, typically in the dry season.

Getting There

Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) is the main gateway to Port-au-Prince, located about 10 miles north of the city center. The airport receives flights from major US cities including United States, Fort Lauderdale, New United Kingdom, and United States, with American Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit offering regular service. From the airport, pre-arranged transportation through your hotel is recommended for safety and convenience, typically costing $25-40. Avoid unofficial taxis and always confirm transportation arrangements before arrival.

Getting Around

Transportation in Port-au-Prince requires careful planning and local knowledge. Colorful tap-taps (shared pickup trucks) are the most common form of public transport but can be challenging for visitors to navigate. Private taxis or hired drivers are recommended for tourists, with daily rates ranging from $60-100. Many hotels can arrange reliable transportation. Walking is generally not recommended due to traffic, road conditions, and safety concerns. For longer stays, some visitors rent vehicles with drivers rather than attempting to drive themselves.

Where to Stay

Pétion-Ville
Pacot
Delmas
Tabarre
Bourdon
Canapé-Vert

Food & Dining

Port-au-Prince's dining scene reflects Haiti's unique culinary heritage, blending African, French, and Caribbean influences. Local specialties include griot (fried pork), poulet aux noix (chicken in cashew sauce), and fresh seafood prepared with Creole spices. Pétion-Ville offers the most upscale dining options, with restaurants like Quartier Latin and Café 36 serving both international and Haitian cuisine. Street food is abundant but should be approached with caution - stick to busy stalls with high turnover and avoid raw items. Local rum and Prestige beer are popular beverages, and don't miss trying fresh tropical fruit juices.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Port-au-Prince

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Aga's Restaurant & Catering

4.8 /5
(20739 reviews) 2

OLIO E PIÙ

4.7 /5
(9190 reviews) 2

Bombay Darbar Indian Restaurant

4.7 /5
(4733 reviews) 2
Montenegro meal_takeaway night_club

La Pecora Bianca NoMad

4.6 /5
(4786 reviews) 2

Miyako Doral Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar

4.8 /5
(4472 reviews) 2

Nonnas of the World

4.7 /5
(1641 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Port-au-Prince is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable (75-85°F) and rainfall is minimal. This period also coincides with Haiti's cultural high season, including Carnival celebrations in February/March. The wet season (April-October) brings higher humidity, frequent afternoon showers, and potential hurricane activity from June to November. However, the rainy season can offer fewer crowds and lush landscapes. Avoid visiting during political tensions or major holidays when services may be limited.

Insider Tips

Learn basic French or Haitian Creole phrases - while some English is spoken in tourist areas, locals greatly appreciate efforts to communicate in their languages
Always carry cash in small denominations as credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels, and ATMs can be unreliable
Respect photography restrictions around this destination and always ask permission before photographing people - many Haitians are happy to pose but appreciate being asked first

Activities in Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Port-au-Prince