Kingston is at the heart of Jamaican life, and is a wonderful place to really get under the skin of the country and its people, away from the exclusive beach resorts. Sitting at the foot of the Blue Mountains, the city is home to both wealth and extreme poverty, giving a sense of what life is really like for the people who live here.
The Bob Marley Museum offers a wonderful insight into the music and life of a man who gave a voice to the powerless of the city, and of the world. Growing up in impoverished Trench Town, Marley’s lyrics concentrated on issues of oppression and poor people’s politics, and went on to make him the most famous reggae musician the world has ever seen.
Bob Marley was a Rastafarian, and you can visit one of the most significant Rastafarian communities here at Bull Bay.
On the other side of the coin, you can visit the decadent 19th-century mansion of millionaire George Stiebel, or the Royal Botanical Gardens. The latter are found in Hope Gardens, one of the many green public spaces in Kingston – other favourites include Emancipation Park and Mandela Park, and you can also take in the public botanical gardens found in Castleton. Halfway Tree, the shopping and commercial hub of the city, is well worth a visit too.
Heading for the harbour, you can visit the Palisadoes, a 17th-century safe port for the pirates of the Caribbean. Admire the ruins of Port Royal, fatally damaged by a 1692 earthquake, but where you can still see cannons and the remains of Saint Peter’s Church.
To travel to Kingston, you can take a flight to Norman Manley International Airport or the Tinson Pen aerodrome or, alternatively, you can book a cruise. There are minibuses, taxis and a bus system to help you get around. Common sense and caution while walking in more deprived areas are recommended.
Kingston Travel Guide
Where to stay in Kingston
New Kingston
New Kingston is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Devon House and Emancipation Park while in the area.
Liguanea
The restaurants and shopping are just a few features travellers like about Liguanea. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Bob Marley Museum and National Stadium are a few top places to visit.
Port Royal
Unique features of Port Royal include the restaurants and waterfront views. Make a stop by Fort Charles or St Peter’s Church while you're exploring the area.
Half Way Tree
If you're spending some time in Half Way Tree, Tropical Plaza and Mandela Park are top sights worth seeing.
Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills might not have many top sights, but National Stadium and Independence Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Constant Spring
If you're spending some time in Constant Spring, Manor Park Plaza and Constant Spring Golf Club are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 27 Apr 2024
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Reviewed on 5 Mar 2024
Popular places to visit
Bob Marley Museum
This legend of reggae music made Jamaica famous all over the world, and you can learn all about his fascinating history right here.
Devon House
Explore the opulent home of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, go shopping and sample the famous ice cream in the mansion’s courtyard.
National Gallery of Jamaica
Discover the most famous Jamaican artists of the last 100 years in the oldest museum in the Anglophone Caribbean.
Jamaica House
You can learn about the history of Kingston with a visit to Jamaica House. Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this relaxing area.
United States of America Embassy
United States of America Embassy is just one of the places to see in Kingston, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.
National Stadium
Catch an event at National Stadium during your trip to Kingston. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.
Reviews of Kingston
1/5 - Terrible
The man at the gate would blow kisses at me which made me uncomfortable. If you get free breakfast included it is just ready made pancakes and scrambled egg With mint tea and coffee EVERY DAY.
5/5 - Excellent
We went down town Kingston to buy local produce and to reflect on the changes that have been made since my last visit there. I also went to Port royal to eat fish at the famous Gloria's. We also travel to the the mineral bath.
5/5 - Excellent
I love Kingston, lots to see and do. My mum (88) wanted to visit her home town and she was not disappointed. It has changed for the better especially the infrastructure. We walked to the supermarket, to the bank - no problem. Everyone is friendly.
3/5 - Okay
Didn't like Terra Nova trying to charge for all services in US dollars and that the meal/drink costs were approaching twice what the locals were paying for exactly the same. Avoid these by walking to local bars less to eat brilliant food.
4/5 - Good
The young staff were very professional and welcoming.
5/5 - Excellent
If you stay at Spanish Court you cannot leave without getting a massage - it's the best!!!