Charlotte Amalie Travel & Vacation Guide

Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a vibrant harbor town known for its historic Danish architecture, cobblestone streets, and duty-free shopping. Once a pirate haven, it’s now home to Fort Christian, 99 Steps, and bustling local markets. Stroll along the harborfront, shop designer boutiques and local crafts, or take in panoramic views from Skytsborg Tower. Charlotte Amalie offers a unique mix of history, culture, and modern amenities, with easy access to ferries, cruise ships, and nearby attractions. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the island or soaking up local life.

Current Weather

82.31 °F - Rain Min/Max: 82.31 °F / 82.31 °FFeels: 90.39 °F Humidity: 83%5 Day Forecast

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Useful information

Population:

14,477 Virgin Islanders (2020) A 76.2% majority are Afro-Caribbean, descended from Africans who were enslaved and brought to the islands by Europeans to work on plantations.

Currency:

US dollar (US$)

Emergency Info:

Dial 911

Opening Hours:

Do & See

99 Steps to the Blackbeard’s Castle

The many winding steps of Charlotte Amalie were built in the mid 1700s. The bricks for the steps were brought all the way from Denmark as ballast in the empty hulls of the sailing ships. The picturesq... Read More

Drake’s Seat

Drake's Seat was built in 1933, when everyone had to navigate the island by horse or on foot. To this day it remains the most popular vantage point, only rivalled by the Skyline Drive Overlook. Stop h... Read More

Fort Christian

Build in the 1670s as the administrative centre of the island and military grounds, the bright red Fort Christian now hosts the St Thomas museum. Explore the old photos, antique furniture and artifact... Read More

Frederick Evangelical Lutheran Church

Known as the oldest Lutheran Church in the Americas, the Fredrick Lutheran Church was established in 1666 by Danish minister and coloniser, Kjeld Jensen. The yellow Georgian style building with its la... Read More

Mountain Top

Mountain Top is a must do just for the view alone. Their observation deck is the perfect vantage point to see the island and the bay below. A sizeable gift shop will provide you with all the USVI souv... Read More

Villa Nottman on Government Hill in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Old Town

The capital city of St Thomas — Charlotte Amalie — only about 10 minutes away from both It will take you about 10 minutes to reach downtown from the Havensight cruise pier and Crown Bay Marina. Take a... Read More

Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden

Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden is a superb place to hide from the intense heat of the Caribbean sun. Stop here on your way to Crown Mountain and explore the work of Patsy, the garden's owner. She... Read More

Pirates Treasure Museum

Learn about pirates and their long history fun of dangers and adventures at the Pirates Treasure Museum. The interactive environment with videos, hands-on activities and lots of visuals won't leave yo... Read More

Shopping

Back Street

Running parallel to the Main Street and the waterfront, Back Street is a showcase of impressive West Indian architecture. The buildings now house over 100 jewellery stores, fine dining restaurants and... Read More

Main Street

The historic Dronningens Gade, now know as Main Street, is a prime destination for shoppers. It has had this role ever since the city was founded. Take a walk down the cobblstone Stroll the bustling c... Read More

Royal Dane Mall

A small pedestrian alleyway called the Royal Dane Mall is studded with small boutiques. Browse artisanal souvenirs and eclectic trinkets. The famous Gladys’ Cafe is perfect for breakfast or lunch. Bac... Read More

Vendor’s Plaza

Vendor’s Plaza is an open-air market with small stalls selling local merchandise, souvenir and trinkets, clothes and knockoff designer purses, casual jewellery and hats. The plaza gets very busy whene... Read More

Essential Information

Passports & Visas

The U.S. Virgin Islands choose to follow the mainland US entry requirements. As with the mainland, any non-US citizen must follow the Visa Waiver Program. All travellers arriving in the U.S. Virgin Is... Read More

Cyril E. King Airport (STT)

Cyril E. King Airport is a public airport just two miles (3 km) west of the central business district of Charlotte Amalie. The U.S. Virgin Islands greet visitors with open-air terminals — rain or shin... Read More

Crown Bay Dock

Once a naval base, Crown Bay is St. Thomas' newest cruise port. The port has been completely restored after the hurricanes of 2017. The ships dock on either side of a single finger pier. The Crown Bay... Read More

Havensight — The West India Company Dock

Havensight is one of the busiest cruise ship ports in the world. The port is located only 2.5 km (1.5 miles) or about a 5-10 minute taxi ride outside of downtown Charlotte Amalie. Havensight is mostly... Read More

Trips

St Thomas Discovery

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