Where to Stay in Belize City, Belize (2026 Guide)
Where to Stay in Belize City, Belize (2026 Guide)
Most travelers don’t plan to spend much time in Belize City—and that’s smart. But if you’re catching a flight, waiting for a water taxi to the cayes, or need a convenient base for day trips, choosing the right place to stay in Belize matters more than you think.
Belize City is the largest urban center in the country and serves as the main gateway to Central America’s natural wonders. The city has a reputation for crime, and it’s not entirely undeserved. But most issues happen in areas tourists never visit. Stay in the right neighborhood, and you’ll find Belize City manageable, safe enough for a short stay, and surprisingly convenient for exploring parts of Belize like the Belize Barrier Reef, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye.
What to Expect in This Post
This guide to where to stay is built for quick scanning and real-world decisions. Here’s what you’ll get:
- A quick overview of Belize City’s main neighborhoods and what makes each unique
- Detailed breakdowns of 5 areas where tourists actually stay, from luxury resorts to budget inns
- Safety and walkability notes for each neighborhood
- Practical advice on hotels vs. apartments vs. villas
- Clear guidance on which areas to avoid in Belize City
- FAQs covering common traveler concerns about your trip to Belize
Where to Stay in Belize City: Quick Overview
- Fort George – The safest, most tourist-friendly area with upscale hotels, boutique properties, and waterfront views
- Northern Suburbs – Residential neighborhoods near the Belize International Airport, quiet and secure
- Buttonwood Bay/Princess Area – Mid-range hotels, resorts, casinos, and a business traveler base
- Downtown/Commercial District – Budget hotels and inns near the water taxi terminal, walkable but requires caution
- Barracks Road – Seaside strip with lodge and hotel options and local Caribbean restaurants
Fort George: Best Hotels in Belize City
Fort George is where most first-time visitors should stay in Belize City.
This neighborhood sits on a peninsula jutting into the Caribbean Sea. It’s the most upscale part of Belize City, with stately colonial buildings, the cruise ship terminal, and the city’s best hotels.
Who it’s best for: First-timers, cruise passengers, couples, and anyone prioritizing safety and comfort during their Belize vacation.
The area feels noticeably different from the rest of the city. You’ll find tourism police, better lighting, and a more polished atmosphere. Fort George is home to the city’s top accommodations, including the Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina and Fort George Hotel and Spa, the city’s only true luxury property with a full-service spa and features a pool.
Fort George Hotel and Spa is widely considered the best hotel in Belize City. It offers upscale rooms, spa services, and The Treehouse restaurant. The nearby Harbour View Boutique Hotel provides another excellent option for travelers who want to stay near the waterfront area.
Fort George is walkable during the day. You can stroll the Marine Promenade, visit the nearby Museum of Belize, or walk to the Baron Bliss Lighthouse in about 15 minutes. The water taxi terminal for ferries to Caye Caulker and San Pedro is within walking distance.
After dark, stick to your hotel or take a taxi. The main downside is limited dining options outside hotel restaurants.
Northern Suburbs: Near the Airport
The Northern Suburbs stretch between Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport and the city center.
These are residential neighborhoods—middle-class homes, gated communities, and a mix of small hotels and lodges. You won’t find much charm here, but you’ll find convenience and safety.
Who it’s best for: Early flights, late arrivals, families, and travelers who want a quiet base near the airport.
Accommodations here include the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza, guesthouses, and private villas. The Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza is a reliable mid-range option popular with business travelers and offers modern amenities just minutes away from Goldson Airport.
The area is safe, especially in gated communities. You’re 10–15 minutes from downtown by taxi and even closer to the international airport.
The Northern Suburbs aren’t walkable in a tourist sense. There’s no real city center here, and you’ll need transportation to reach attractions, restaurants, or the water taxi terminal for trips to Ambergris Caye.
If you’re just passing through or need a functional overnight near the airport, this is a great place to stay. If you want to experience what the city has to offer, even briefly, stay somewhere else.
Buttonwood Bay/Princess Area: Resort Experience in Belize City
This area, located north of downtown along Barracks Road, is home to the Ramada Princess Hotel and Casino and a few other mid-range properties.
Who it’s best for: Business travelers, casino visitors, and mid-budget travelers looking for resort-style amenities.
The Princess Hotel is Belize City’s largest hotel and includes a casino, marina, and conference facilities. It’s popular with business travelers and tour groups who want to stay in Belize City without venturing into grittier neighborhoods.
The surrounding area is safe and quiet, though it feels isolated. You’re not within walking distance of much except the hotel’s own facilities, beach bars, and marina. Taxis into downtown take 10 minutes.
This neighborhood is a practical choice if you’re attending an event at the hotel or want a predictable, chain-style experience. Many hotels in this area offer all-inclusive packages. It’s not the most interesting place to visit, but it’s reliable.
Downtown/Commercial District: Budget Place to Stay in Belize
Downtown Belize City runs along Albert and Regent streets, just south of the Swing Bridge.
This is the commercial heart of the city—banks, shops, budget hotels, inns, and the main water taxi terminal for Caye Caulker, San Pedro, and other cayes along the Belize Barrier Reef.
Who it’s best for: Budget travelers, backpackers, and anyone catching an early ferry or looking to stay somewhere affordable.
Downtown is gritty. It’s loud, crowded, and requires constant awareness. Petty crime is common here—pickpocketing, bag snatching, and opportunistic theft.
That said, many travelers stay here without incident. The area is walkable during the day, especially the section between the Swing Bridge and the water taxi terminal. Stick to busy streets, don’t flash valuables, and take taxis after dark.
Budget hotels and inns here are basic but functional. You’ll find the cheapest rooms in entire Belize, but they come with trade-offs in comfort and security.
If you’re on a tight budget or need to be near the ferry terminal, downtown works. But if you can afford it, Fort George or the Best Western Biltmore area is worth the extra money per night.
Barracks Road: Waterfront Without the Premium Price
Barracks Road runs along the coast north of downtown, connecting Fort George to the Princess Hotel area.
Who it’s best for: Travelers who want Caribbean views without the Fort George price tag and a more local experience.
This area has a few small hotels, lodges, and guesthouses with sea views. It’s quieter than downtown but less polished than Fort George.
The main appeal is the location—close enough to downtown for easy access but far enough to feel removed. You’ll find local restaurants serving Garifuna cuisine, Mayan dishes, and Caribbean seafood, plus a public park with views of the Caribbean Sea.
Barracks Road is safe during the day but less so at night. Taxis are your best option for evening travel.
Accommodations here are mid-range—not luxury, not budget. If you want a local vibe with some waterfront atmosphere, this area is worth considering as a place to stay in Belize.
Best Neighborhoods for First-Time Visitors
If it’s your first time in Belize City, we recommend staying in these areas:
- Fort George – The safest and most tourist-friendly option with the best hotels in Belize City, including Fort George Hotel and Spa
- Northern Suburbs – Quiet, secure, and convenient for airport proximity; the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza is a solid choice
- Buttonwood Bay/Princess Area – Reliable mid-range option with casino, marina, and beach resort atmosphere
Avoid downtown unless you’re comfortable navigating grittier urban environments or need to be near the water taxi terminal for your Belize vacation.
Best Area for Beach, Nightlife, and Families
Belize City isn’t a beach or nightlife destination. The city sits on the coast, but there are no beautiful beaches within city limits. For beach resorts, snorkeling, and diving and snorkeling, you’ll want to stay on Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, or one of Belize’s private island resorts.
Most travelers eat at their hotel or take taxis to specific restaurants. The Princess Hotel has the city’s only casino. Fort George has the best hotel restaurants, including options at Fort George Hotel and Spa and the Radisson Fort George.
For families, Fort George and the Northern Suburbs are your best bets. Both areas are quieter and safer, with fewer concerns about walking around during the day. Many hotels in these areas offer spacious rooms and family-friendly amenities.
Beyond Belize City: Day Trip Options
While Belize City isn’t the most exciting place to visit, it’s an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions.
The Belize Zoo, one of Belize’s most popular attractions, is about 30 miles west of the city—a perfect day trip. The zoo focuses on native Central American wildlife and conservation.
San Ignacio in the Cayo District makes a popular day trip for exploring Mayan ruins, caves, and jungle lodges. It’s about 2 hours from Belize City by car.
Hopkins, a coastal Garifuna village in southern Belize, offers beach experiences, cultural immersion, and access to the Belize Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving.
Many travelers also take day trips to Altun Ha, a Mayan archaeological site just 30 miles north of Belize City, or cross the border to Chetumal, Mexico, or Guatemala.
Hotel vs Villa vs Lodge: What's Better in Belize City?
For short stays in Belize City, hotels make more sense.
Most travelers only spend one night before heading to the cayes, mainland jungle lodges, or other parts of Belize. Hotels offer convenience—airport transfers, security, on-site dining, and tourism support.
The best belize city hotels include Fort George Hotel and Spa, Radisson Fort George, and Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza. These properties offer reliable service, modern amenities, and good locations.
Villas and private cottages are more common in the Northern Suburbs and resort areas outside the city. They’re fine if you’re staying longer or traveling with family, but they don’t offer the same level of security or service as hotels in Fort George or the Biltmore area.
Lodges are typically found outside Belize City—in San Ignacio, Hopkins, or near jungle and reef areas. Properties like Black Orchid Resort in the Belize River Valley or various jungle lodges in the Cayo District offer immersive nature experiences but aren’t convenient for city-based logistics.
If you’re just passing through, book a hotel in Belize City. If you’re staying a week or have specific needs, consider a villa in a gated community or a lodge in a more scenic part of the country.
Where NOT to Stay in Belize City
Avoid the Southside of Belize City entirely.
This area, south of Haulover Creek Canal, has the highest crime rates in the country. Gang violence is common here, and tourists rarely overlap with these neighborhoods.
Specific streets to avoid include Jane Usher Boulevard, George Street, Kraal Road, and the Lake I area. These districts experience higher crime rates, including gang activity and violent incidents.
The U.S. State Department maintains a Level 2 travel advisory for Belize, with specific warnings about Southside Belize City.
Even in safer neighborhoods, don’t walk around after dark. Take taxis, even for short distances. Never display expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash.
Best Western, Radisson, and Other Hotel Chains
International hotel chains provide predictable quality for travelers who want to stay somewhere familiar.
The Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza near the airport is the city’s most established chain hotel. It offers spacious rooms, a pool, restaurant, and business facilities. Rates typically range from $100-150 per night.
The Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina occupies a prime waterfront location in the Fort George area. It features marina access, multiple dining options, and proximity to the Museum of Belize and other attractions.
While chains offer reliability, some travelers prefer boutique options like Harbour View Boutique Hotel or unique properties that showcase local Caribbean and Mayan influences.
Exploring Beyond the City: Luxury Resorts and Private Islands
Most of the best Belize resorts are outside Belize City.
For beach resorts, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. For jungle lodges, explore San Ignacio or the Cayo District. For private island experiences, consider resorts on small cayes near the Belize Barrier Reef.
Properties like Black Orchid Resort near the Belize River, various Hopkins beach resorts, and luxury private island resorts offer experiences you won’t find in Belize City itself.
If your goal is a full Belize vacation with snorkeling, beach time, and nature exploration, many travelers recommend staying just one night in Belize City, then moving to resorts in Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, or San Ignacio.
The best belize experiences happen outside the city—Belize City is simply the gateway.
Key Takeaways
- Fort George is the best area for first-time visitors—safe, walkable during the day, and home to the best hotels in Belize City including Fort George Hotel and Spa
- The Northern Suburbs near the international airport are ideal if you need to stay near the airport or want a quiet residential base; the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza is a reliable choice
- Downtown is gritty but manageable for budget travelers who stay alert and stick to busy streets near the water taxi terminal
- Avoid Southside Belize City entirely—this area has high crime rates and no tourist infrastructure
- Most travelers only stay one night in Belize City before heading to the cayes, beach resorts, or jungle lodges
- Hotels are more practical than villas or cottages for short stays; the best belize city hotels include Fort George Hotel, Radisson Fort George, and Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza
- Always take taxis after dark, regardless of which neighborhood you’re in
FAQ
What is the best hotel in Belize City?
Fort George Hotel and Spa is widely considered the best hotel in the city. It’s the only luxury property with a full-service spa, upscale restaurant, and modern rooms in the safest neighborhood. The Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina and Harbour View Boutique Hotel are also excellent options in the Fort George area. For mid-range travelers, the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza near the airport offers reliable quality at around $100-150 per night.
Is Belize City safe for tourists?
Fort George and the Northern Suburbs are generally safe for tourists who take standard precautions. Downtown requires more awareness. According to Nour Villas Belize, over 98% of visitors experience no safety issues when they stay in recommended areas. Avoid Southside entirely, and don’t walk anywhere after dark.
Where should I stay if I'm catching a ferry to Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye?
Stay in Fort George or downtown near the Swing Bridge. Both areas put you within a 10–15 minute walk or short taxi ride from the water taxi terminal. Fort George is safer and more comfortable with better hotels; downtown is cheaper and closer. The water taxi runs regularly to both Caye Caulker and San Pedro on Ambergris Caye for snorkeling and beach access.
Do I need to stay in Belize City at all?
Most travelers don’t spend much time here. If you’re flying into Belize and heading straight to the cayes, beach resorts in Hopkins, or jungle lodges in San Ignacio, you can often skip Belize City entirely. But if you have an early ferry or late flight, staying one night makes logistics easier. Many recommend staying just one night in the city, then moving to better resort areas.
Can I walk around downtown Belize City?
Yes, during the day, but stay alert. Stick to busy streets like Albert Street and Regent Street between the Swing Bridge and the water taxi terminal. Don’t carry valuables, avoid side streets, and take a taxi back to your hotel before sunset. Petty crime is common, but violent incidents targeting tourists are rare in the main commercial areas.
How far is the airport from Fort George and the best hotels?
Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (also called Goldson Airport) is about 11 miles from Fort George—roughly a 20-minute drive. The Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza is closer, just minutes away from the airport. Most hotels offer airport transfers. Taxis cost around BZ$50–$70 (US$25–$35). There’s also a municipal airport in the city for domestic flights to the cayes and other destinations.
What's better—staying in Belize City or going straight to the cayes?
For most travelers, the cayes offer better beach experiences, snorkeling, diving, and resort amenities. Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker provide access to the Belize Barrier Reef, beautiful beaches, and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. Belize City is mainly a transit hub. If you can take an early morning water taxi or arrange same-day connections, you might skip the city entirely. But if timing doesn’t work, one night at Fort George Hotel or the Radisson makes logistics easier before continuing your Belize vacation.
