Things to Do in Paramaribo, Suriname

Paramaribo, the charming capital of Suriname, is a UNESCO World Heritage city that showcases a remarkable blend of Dutch colonial architecture, Creole culture, and tropical South American atmosphere. The historic inner city features well-preserved 17th and 18th-century wooden buildings alongside colorful markets, diverse religious sites, and tree-lined streets that reflect the country's multicultural heritage. This compact riverside city serves as the perfect gateway to explore Suriname's unique cultural tapestry, where Dutch, Javanese, Indian, Chinese, and indigenous influences create an authentically diverse experience rarely found elsewhere in South America. As one of the smallest capitals in South America, Paramaribo offers an intimate urban experience where colonial mansions house boutique hotels, local warungs serve Indonesian cuisine, and Hindu temples stand alongside historic synagogues. The city's location along the Suriname River provides scenic waterfront views and serves as a launching point for jungle expeditions and cultural excursions into the interior.

Top Things to Do in Paramaribo

Explore Historic Inner City

Wander through Paramaribo's UNESCO World Heritage historic center, featuring remarkably preserved Dutch colonial wooden architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries. The area showcases beautiful examples of tropical colonial buildings, including the Presidential Palace, historic churches, and traditional Surinamese houses with distinctive architectural details.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but consider hiring a local guide for $20-30 per person for deeper historical insights. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat, and many buildings offer better photo opportunities during golden hour.

Visit Central Market and Waterkant

Experience the vibrant Central Market where vendors sell tropical fruits, spices, traditional crafts, and local delicacies representing Suriname's multicultural population. The nearby Waterkant (waterfront) offers scenic river views and is perfect for evening strolls along the Suriname River.

Booking Tip: Market visits are free, but bring small bills for purchases ($1-5 for most items). Visit in the morning for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. The waterfront is particularly beautiful during sunset and is safe for evening walks.

Discover Religious Heritage Sites

Visit the remarkable collection of religious buildings including the historic Neveh Shalom Synagogue and adjacent Surinamese mosque, symbolizing the country's religious tolerance. The wooden Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral, one of the largest wooden structures in the Western Hemisphere, showcases impressive craftsmanship.

Booking Tip: Most religious sites welcome visitors for free, but modest dress is required. Check visiting hours as some sites close during prayer times or services. Consider a guided tour ($15-25) to understand the historical significance and interfaith harmony.

Take Suriname River Boat Trip

Embark on a scenic boat journey along the Suriname River to see the city from a different perspective and visit nearby plantations or dolphin-watching spots. These trips often include stops at historical sites and provide insights into the country's colonial plantation history.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $40-60 per person, full-day excursions $80-120. Book through reputable operators who provide life jackets and sun protection. Best weather conditions are typically in the morning, and trips may be cancelled during heavy rains.

Experience Multicultural Cuisine

Sample Suriname's unique fusion cuisine reflecting Dutch, Javanese, Indian, Chinese, and Creole influences through food tours or cooking classes. Try local specialties like roti, pom (a traditional oven dish), and Indonesian-inspired dishes at local warungs and restaurants.

Booking Tip: Street food costs $2-5 per dish, restaurant meals $8-15. Food tours range from $30-50 per person and often include 5-7 tastings. Look for tours that visit both high-end restaurants and local eateries for a complete culinary experience.

Getting There

Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) is located about 45 kilometers south of Paramaribo and serves as the main gateway to Suriname. The airport receives flights from Amsterdam (KLM), Miami (Surinam Airways), and several Caribbean destinations. From the airport, taxis cost around $25-30 to reach the city center, while shared shuttles are available for about $10 per person. Some hotels offer airport transfer services, and car rental agencies operate at the airport for those planning to explore beyond the capital.

Getting Around

Paramaribo's compact historic center is easily walkable, with most attractions within a few blocks of each other. Local buses are inexpensive ($0.50-1) but can be crowded and have irregular schedules. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable for short trips ($3-8 within the city), though few have meters so agree on prices beforehand. For longer stays or trips outside the city, consider renting a car, though traffic can be congested during peak hours and parking in the historic center is limited.

Where to Stay

Historic Inner City

Waterkant Waterfront Area

Centrum District

Flora/Kwatta Suburbs

Commewijne Road Area

Rainforest Lodge Areas

Food & Dining

Paramaribo's dining scene reflects Suriname's incredible cultural diversity, offering everything from traditional Creole cuisine to authentic Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, and Dutch dishes. Local warungs serve excellent Indonesian-inspired meals, while roti shops offer Indian-influenced flatbreads with various curries. The historic center features upscale restaurants in colonial buildings serving fusion cuisine, and the Central Market area has numerous food stalls offering affordable local specialties. Don't miss trying pom (a traditional baked dish), bakabana (fried plantains), and the local Parbo beer.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Suriname

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Yogh Hospitality

4.7 /5

(262 reviews)

gym health lodging

View on Map Website

When to Visit

The best time to visit Paramaribo is during the dry seasons from February to April and August to November, when rainfall is minimal and humidity is more manageable. The wettest months are May to July and December to January, though rain typically comes in short, heavy bursts rather than all-day downpours. Temperatures remain fairly constant year-round (75-85°F), but the dry season offers more comfortable conditions for walking tours and outdoor activities. Cultural festivals and events are spread throughout the year, with Independence Day celebrations in November being particularly vibrant.

Insider Tips

Exchange money at official exchange offices or banks rather than on the street, and US dollars are widely accepted alongside the Surinamese dollar

Learn a few basic Dutch phrases as it's the official language, though English is understood in tourist areas and Sranan Tongo is commonly spoken locally

Pack mosquito repellent and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for evenings, as mosquitoes can be active near the river and in tropical areas

Things to Do in Paramaribo