Castries
St Lucia's vibrant capital — bustling markets, historic cathedrals, the famous Castries Market and the cultural heart of the island
Explore Castries
Click any marker to find out more about each spot.
Things To Do in Castries
The best markets, history and culture in St Lucia's vibrant capital city.
Castries Market
Castries Market is the most vibrant and colourful market in St Lucia — a lively shopping hub in the island's capital, with stalls selling fresh produce, exotic fruits, spices, crafts and local food. The market is the best place to experience everyday St Lucian life and to buy local souvenirs. The nearby Vendor's Arcade has a great selection of local crafts and gifts.
Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most beautiful churches in the Caribbean — a stunning 19th-century cathedral in the heart of Castries, with a magnificent painted interior. The cathedral is the largest church in St Lucia and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the island's history and culture. The interior murals are particularly impressive.
Derek Walcott Square
Derek Walcott Square is a peaceful garden square in the heart of Castries, named after St Lucia's Nobel Prize-winning poet. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and shaded by a magnificent 400-year-old samaan tree. The square is a popular meeting place for locals and a pleasant spot to sit and watch the world go by. The nearby streets have a good selection of shops and restaurants.
Vigie Beach
Vigie Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand close to the city centre of Castries — one of the most accessible beaches on St Lucia. The beach is popular with locals and visitors alike and has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. The nearby Vigie Marina is home to the legendary Coalpot Restaurant, which has been serving authentic St Lucian cuisine for over 50 years.
Food, Culture & History
Castries is the cultural heart of St Lucia — a vibrant, colourful city with a fascinating history. The city was largely rebuilt after a series of devastating fires in the 19th and early 20th centuries, giving it a distinctive mix of architectural styles. The city has a good selection of restaurants serving local cuisine, including the famous Coalpot Restaurant by Vigie Marina and the Pink Plantation in the hills above the city.
Castries Travel Guide
Castries is the vibrant capital of St Lucia — a bustling, colourful city with a fascinating history, vibrant markets, historic cathedrals and the cultural heart of the island.
Castries Market is the most vibrant market in St Lucia — a lively shopping hub with stalls selling fresh produce, exotic fruits, spices, crafts and local food. The market is the best place to experience everyday St Lucian life.
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most beautiful churches in the Caribbean — a stunning 19th-century cathedral with a magnificent painted interior.
Derek Walcott Square is a peaceful garden square in the heart of Castries, named after St Lucia's Nobel Prize-winning poet and shaded by a magnificent 400-year-old samaan tree.
Vigie Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand close to the city centre, popular with locals and visitors alike. The nearby Vigie Marina is home to the legendary Coalpot Restaurant.
Castries is about 20 minutes from George F L Charles Airport and about 1.5 hours from Hewanorra International Airport.
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