Located on Efate Island, Port Vila is full of attractions and is a great place to explore on foot. Wander around this capital city and admire the French and British colonial architecture. Stroll through Independence Park and see the Supreme Court in the former French residency before visiting the Sacré Coeur Cathedral in the French Quarter.Escape the hot sun in the Michoutouchkine & Pilioko Foundation Art Gallery. This museum of oceanic art is home to some of the region’s most spectacular cultural treasures including native paintings and tribal masks. Vanuatu National Museum also has a wealth of South Pacific such as ceremonial head-dresses and traditional island artefacts.If that’s worked up an appetite, sample some of the local produce in Port Vila Market. Take your pick from the colourful array of fresh fruit, veg and fish as you soak up the wonderful atmosphere. Before leaving, collect some unique souvenirs from the friendly locals running the handmade craft stalls.If you crave a bit of adventure, hit the road for Mele Bay. This exotic playground is famed for its adventure sports and stunning outdoor attractions. Zip across a 200-metre wire 80 metres above a rainforest canopy, or zorb down a hill in a giant inflatable hydro ball. Cool off with a refreshing dip under the waterfall at Mele Cascades before absorbing the delicious sights and smells of the adjacent tropical gardens.Take a tour of a local coffee factory and refresh yourself with an aromatic cup of 100% Arabica coffee. In need of something a little stronger? Pop into Vanuatu’s most famous microbrewery and sample some of the delicious locally brewed beer.Hire a car and make the enjoyable drive to Eton Village on the east side of the Island. Deep blue lagoons and pristine white beaches are the trademarks of this pretty little hideaway. Stop off for a chat with the children in the local school before making the lovely walk down to Eton Beach. Swim, snorkel, scuba dive or simply lie back on the soft golden sands and listen to the sound of the waves as they gently caress the shore.Make sure to leave enough time to visit the idyllic resort of Iririki Island. Visit the former British Residency, top up your tan on the silver beaches, or simply sit back with a cocktail and enjoy the most spectacular ocean views imaginable.
Port Vila Travel Guide
Reviewed on 10 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 22 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 25 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 24 Mar. 2024
Reviewed on 9 Jul. 2023
Reviewed on 8 Mar. 2024
Popular places to visit
Iririki Island
Indulge your senses and get a taste of Melanesian-island culture in this exclusive tropical paradise.
Port Vila Market
Peruse the stalls of this central market to pick up unique handcrafts and souvenirs or indulge in freshly baked French-style pastries and locally grown produce.
Pango Point
Explore the lovely green spaces of Pango Point and enjoy the snorkelling in Port Vila. Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
University of the South Pacific
Walk around the campus at University of the South Pacific as part of your travels around Port Vila. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Nambawan Market & Café
Find out about the history of Port Vila with a stop at Nambawan Market & Café. Wander through the waterfront and beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.
National Museum
You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at National Museum in Port Vila. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Activities
Port Vila Full Day Tour - Experience the Real Vanuatu
4 Hour: Private Tropical Trio Excursion (with Hotel Pickup)
Vanuatu Sunset Cruise
Explore Discover and Indulge Efate Tour
Adventure Quad Combo Excursion with Yumi Tours
Port Vila: Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide
Reviews of Port Vila
4/5 - Good
Easy to get around. Buses are easy to use. lots to look at in easy walking distance. Recommend Nature tours. Guide was very knowledgeable on all areas of the island culture and history, all attractions entry fees on tour were included in the price.
4/5 - Good
Cute markets, the city is like other island nations a bit poor but very bustling and entertaining in different ways. Stick to the resorts if you want a 5 star holiday. If you are happy to experience the island day to day life explore the city a bit.
4/5 - Good
It’s okay. We didn’t spend much time there. Mostly at the pristine beaches
1/5 - Terrible
This is a dirty and and unkept town with poverty and not enough to see nor restaurants. Very disappointing over all. Airport was even worse.
5/5 - Excellent
Fantastic place, will return again
5/5 - Excellent
The locals are so happy and friendly