Overview
Port of Spain, the lively capital of Trinidad and Tobago, sits on the Gulf of Paria beneath the forested Northern Range. It is the cultural heart of the twin-island republic — the birthplace of steelpan and calypso, and home to the biggest Carnival in the Caribbean. For UK travellers it makes a rewarding winter-sun trip, combining city life with beaches, rainforest and remarkable birdlife all within an easy drive.
Best time to fly to Port of Spain
Trinidad is warm all year, with temperatures usually around 30°C. The dry season, roughly January to May, brings the most reliable sunshine and is the most popular time to visit. The wetter months of June to December see afternoon downpours but thinner crowds and softer fares, and Trinidad sits south of the main hurricane belt, though tropical weather can still pass through. Carnival, in February or March, is the peak for both demand and price, so book well ahead. The When to book chart above shows how fares shift across the year.
Airlines and routes
British Airways is the main carrier from the UK, flying from London Gatwick to Piarco International Airport in around nine to ten hours; some services stop at another Caribbean island on the way, so check the routing. Virgin Atlantic has run seasonal flights to nearby Tobago. There are no direct flights from Manchester or other regional airports — you would connect via London, or through a European or US hub, with US connections needing an ESTA or visa even in transit. With a connection, expect roughly 13 to 16 hours from Manchester. Use the price charts on this page to compare carriers and routings.
Things to do in Port of Spain
The city is compact and a natural base for exploring northern Trinidad.
- Queen's Park Savannah: a huge open green ringed by joggers, coconut vendors and the ornate colonial mansions known as the Magnificent Seven.
- Caroni Bird Sanctuary: take a late-afternoon boat trip through the mangroves to watch thousands of scarlet ibis flock in to roost.
- Maracas Bay: the island's best-loved beach, reached by a scenic drive over the Northern Range — try the famous bake and shark.
- Fort George: a hilltop signal station with sweeping views over the city, harbour and hills.
- National Museum and Art Gallery: a good primer on Trinidad's history, from indigenous roots to oil, Carnival and independence.
At Piarco International Airport (POS)
Piarco International Airport lies about 25 km (16 miles) south-east of central Port of Spain, typically a 30 to 45 minute drive. Official airport taxis wait outside the terminal and charge set fares by zone, so confirm the price before you set off. Car hire desks are available if you plan to tour the island, and cheaper shared 'maxi taxis' run towards the city, though they are awkward with luggage. Many hotels can arrange a private transfer in advance.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Port of Spain
- Book early for Carnival and the December holidays; for other dates, roughly two to five months ahead tends to give the best value.
- Travel in the June-to-November low season and fly midweek where you can, as Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper than weekends.
- Use a flexible-date search to compare a few days either side — shifting your trip by 48 hours can noticeably cut the fare.
- Weigh a direct British Airways flight against connecting options, and check the When to book chart above before you commit.
Travel essentials
UK passport holders do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days; carry a passport valid for the length of your trip and be ready to show a return or onward ticket. The currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD); US dollars are often accepted and cards are widely used in hotels and larger shops. No vaccinations are required for travellers arriving from the UK, but check NHS Fit for Travel for current advice, pack insect repellent, and travel with insurance that includes medical cover.
