Rif Fort Tours

Rif Fort
Photo by Shannon Willitts
Photo by Shannon Willitts


Rif Fort played an important defensive role over the years. Now a historic site, you can only imagine some of the spectacles its fortified walls have witnessed.

This history-filled fortress is on the to-do lists of many visitors to Willemstad. But Rif Fort isn't the only highlight in the area. Mambo Beach, Curaçao Sea Aquarium, and Jan Thiel Beach are some other recommended attractions nearby.

Plan a trip to see Rif Fort

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Sirena Resort Curaçao
Bayside Boutique Hotel - Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort
The Cape at Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort

Browse tours and tickets to explore Rif Fort

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Reviews of Rif Fort

4.3
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
92
5 - Excellent 42%
4 - Good
109
4 - Good 49%
3 - Okay
19
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Really nice place, you can see almost the whole island

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Definitely hang out on Thursday nights for Punda vibes! Also the restaurant in the fort is delicious and reasonably priced for being right on the ocean :)

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

This historic fort has been turned into a shopping mall for the crusie ships that dock in Curacao. Very unfortunate .

5/5 - Excellent

Terry

Loved Rif Fort and all its options of restaurants and stores. We walked here everyday from our hotel and my husband would take his morning runs here. Anchor restaurant has excellent seafood options.

3/5 - Okay

Maryrose

I do have to say, they have one souvenir shop that offered the best prices on the island.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Rif Fort

Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort

Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort

4.5 out of 5
Baden Powelweg 1, Willemstad
Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort
Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton

Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton

4.5 out of 5
Pater Euwensweg 31, Dutch Caribbean, Willemstad
Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton
Courtyard by Marriott Curacao

Courtyard by Marriott Curacao

4 out of 5
PATER EUWENSWEG 11, Willemstad
Courtyard by Marriott Curacao
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton

The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton

4.5 out of 5
Pater Euwenswegs 31A, Willemstad
The Rif at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive, Curio by Hilton
Art Hotel Curacao - Adults Only

Art Hotel Curacao - Adults Only

4 out of 5
Kaya Wilson (Papa) Godett 88-92, Willemstad
Art Hotel Curacao - Adults Only
Elements Hotel & Shops

Elements Hotel & Shops

4 out of 5
Hendrikplein, Willemstad, Curaçao
Elements Hotel & Shops
The Ritz Village Hotel

The Ritz Village Hotel

3 out of 5
Scharlooweg 25, Scharloo, Willemstad
The Ritz Village Hotel
Curacao Marriott Beach Resort

Curacao Marriott Beach Resort

4.5 out of 5
John F Kennedy Boulevard, Piscadera Bay, Willemstad
Curacao Marriott Beach Resort
Brion City Hotel, BW Signature Collection

Brion City Hotel, BW Signature Collection

3.5 out of 5
Brionplein, Willemstad
Brion City Hotel, BW Signature Collection
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Rif Fort

Rif Fort in Willemstad, Curaçao, offers a variety of activities for visitors, including shopping and scuba diving. A pleasant walk around the fort allows you to soak in the beautiful surroundings and rich history of the area. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the local shops and experience the unique culture of this stunning Caribbean destination.

Shopping

For shopping near Rif Fort, visit Renaissance Shopping Mall, just steps away, or Sambil Curaçao, located 2 miles away, and Zuikertuin Mall, 3 miles away. Each offers a vibrant mix of entertainment, shops, and dining options for a great shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the Curaçao Golf and Squash Club for a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, only 3 miles from Rif Fort. At Blue Bay Golf Course, 4 miles away, enjoy stunning ocean views while playing. The Old Quarry Golf Course, just 7 miles distant, offers a unique golfing experience in a picturesque setting.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant Rif Fort, where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and lively nightlife. Engage in water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding at nearby beaches. Don't miss the chance to soak in the local culture through festivals and events held around the fort throughout the year.

Nightlife

Catch a flick at Caribbean Cinemas Curacao, just 2 miles from Rif Fort, where you can enjoy a romantic atmosphere. Afterward, explore local bars nearby for a vibrant nightlife scene filled with music, dancing, and great drinks to complete your evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Rif Fort

Rif Fort in Willemstad, Curaçao, offers a fascinating blend of history and culture for every traveler. Explore historic sites like Fort Amsterdam and the former fort within the charming esplanade. Whether you're seeking romance or a deeper understanding of local archaeology and anthropology, you’ll find plenty of attractions to enhance your visit. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the rich heritage of this vibrant area during your stay.

  • Queen Emma Bridge: This iconic floating bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts. It's not only a vital transportation link but also a stunning example of 19th-century engineering, offering picturesque views of the harbor and vibrant architecture.
  • Kura Hulanda Museum: Dive into the rich history of the African diaspora through captivating exhibits at this museum. Housed in restored buildings, it showcases artifacts and art that reflect the culture and struggles of enslaved ancestors, providing a profound educational experience.
  • Handelskade: Stroll along this colorful waterfront esplanade, lined with charming cafes and shops. It's a perfect spot for families to enjoy leisurely walks, and couples can soak in the romantic atmosphere while admiring the lively harbor views.

Best time to go to Rif Fort

The best time to visit Rif Fort can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rif Fort falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Rif Fort falls in February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.7°F (26.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
March79.3°F (26.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April80.1°F (26.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May81.1°F (27.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June81.7°F (27.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July81.7°F (27.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August82.8°F (28.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September83.7°F (28.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October83.3°F (28.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November82.4°F (28.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December81.1°F (27.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rif Fort

To save money on your trip to Rif Fort, consider visiting between September and November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Tuesday is the most affordable day to stay, while Friday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to sort by price, and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels for extra savings. Joining the One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cash for future bookings. Walking is a great way to explore the area without spending on transport.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rif Fort are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Rif Fort is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rif Fort is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Rif Fort is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider saving money by combining your Rif Fort hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia