· VG

Road Town

Road Town, Virgin Islands, British

Road Town, located in the British Virgin Islands, is a picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Situated on the island of Tortola, Road Town serves as the capit…

#tropical#island#Caribbean#beach#capital city

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Road Town.

Top Hotels in Road Town

Top Flights to Road Town

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Road Town.

Tours

Tortola Island Tour

Explore the beautiful island of Tortola with a guided tour highlighting its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and historical landmarks.

Road Town Historical Walking Tour

Walk through Road Town's historical sites with a guide, learning about its rich culture and heritage.

Sage Mountain National Park Visit

Explore the highest peak in the Virgin Islands with lush rainforests and breathtaking views.

Botanic Gardens Visit

Visit the J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens and enjoy the lush flora and serene setting.

BVI Art and Cultural Tour

Explore the rich art and culture of the British Virgin Islands through various galleries and cultural sites.

Local Cuisine Tasting Tour

Taste the flavors of the Virgin Islands with a guided food tour through Road Town's best local eateries.

Shopping

Road Town Shopping Experience

Discover the vibrant shopping scene in Road Town with a variety of local shops and boutiques.

Outdoor

Cane Garden Bay Beach Day

Spend a day relaxing on one of the most famous beaches in the Virgin Islands, with options for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Virgin Islands National Park Hike

Take a guided hike through beautiful trails and enjoy the untouched beauty of the Virgin Islands National Park.

Water Sports Adventure

Enjoy thrilling water sports around Road Town, including jet skiing and snorkeling.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Road Town.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Road Town

Jan

29°23°

Feb

29°23°

Mar

30°23°

Apr

30°24°

May

31°25°

Jun

31°26°

Jul

31°26°

Aug

32°26°

Sep

32°26°

Oct

31°25°

Nov

30°24°

Dec

29°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Road Town.

What people love

Road Town, located in the British Virgin Islands, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a tropical getaway. Here are some pros of traveling to Road Town:

Stunning Beaches: Road Town is surrounded by beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters and white sandy shores. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and various water sports activities.
Sailing and Yachting: The British Virgin Islands are known as a sailing and yachting paradise, and Road Town is no exception. Visitors can rent a sailboat or yacht and explore the nearby islands, coves, and secluded anchorages.
Scenic Views: Road Town offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the lush green hills of the island. Travelers can enjoy picturesque sunsets and panoramic vistas from various viewpoints around the town.
Cultural Attractions: Road Town has a rich history and culture, with attractions such as the 18th-century Fort Burt, the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, and the Callwood Rum Distillery offering insights into the island's heritage.
Shopping and Dining: Road Town has a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Visitors can indulge in shopping for souvenirs, jewelry, and local crafts, as well as savoring delicious Caribbean dishes.

Overall, traveling to Road Town in the British Virgin Islands offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and relaxation opportunities for travelers seeking a tropical paradise.

Enjoy your trip to Road Town!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Road Town in the British Virgin Islands may include:

Limited public transportation options: Road Town may have limited public transportation options, which could make it challenging to get around the area if you don't have your own transportation.
High cost of living: The British Virgin Islands, including Road Town, are known for their high cost of living. This can make accommodations, dining, and activities more expensive than in other destinations.
Crowded during peak tourist seasons: Road Town can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, which may impact your experience if you prefer quieter and more secluded destinations.
Limited nightlife and entertainment options: Road Town may not have as many nightlife and entertainment options as larger cities or tourist destinations, so if you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, you may be disappointed.
Limited shopping opportunities: While Road Town may have some shopping options, it may not offer the range of choices found in larger cities or more commercialized tourist destinations.

It's important to note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel expectations. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to ensure that Road Town aligns with your travel preferences and needs.

Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), located on the island of Tortola. It is a significant hub for the territory's government, commerce, and tourism. Here's a detailed history of Road Town, highlighting significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Colonial Period: The British Virgin Islands were initially settled by the Dutch in the early 17th century, but by the late 17th century, the British took control. Tortola, where Road Town is located, was officially annexed by the British in 1672.
Sugar Plantations: During the 18th century, the economy of the islands, including Road Town, relied heavily on sugar plantations, worked by enslaved Africans. Road Town served as a port for shipping sugar and other goods.

19th Century

Emancipation: In 1834, slavery was abolished in the British Empire, leading to significant changes in the economy and society of the islands. Many former slaves moved to Road Town and other areas seeking new opportunities.
Economic Changes: Following emancipation, there was a decline in the plantation economy, and many of the plantations fell into disrepair. Road Town transitioned more towards a subsistence economy.

20th Century

Administrative Center: Road Town developed as the administrative center of the British Virgin Islands, with government buildings and other institutions established there.
Tourism Development: In the latter half of the 20th century, tourism began to grow as a significant economic driver, with Road Town becoming a primary entry point for visitors.

21st Century

Hurricane Irma: In September 2017, Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 hurricane, caused massive destruction in Road Town and the rest of the British Virgin Islands. The recovery efforts have been ongoing, with rebuilding efforts focusing on infrastructure and tourism facilities.

Significant Figures

William Thornton (1759–1828): Though not a native of the BVI, Thornton, an architect best known for designing the United States Capitol, was born on Jost Van Dyke, one of the BVI's islands. His legacy is recognized throughout the islands, including Road Town.

Important Landmarks

Government House: This is the official residence of the Governor of the British Virgin Islands and a notable historic building in Road Town.
Road Town Fort: Also known as Fort Burt, it is one of several historic forts on Tortola, offering insights into the island's colonial history.
J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens: Located in the heart of Road Town, these gardens feature a wide array of tropical plants and are a tranquil spot for visitors and residents alike.
The Sir Olva Georges Plaza: A central location in Road Town, often used for public gatherings and events.

Road Town remains the bustling heart of the British Virgin Islands, balancing its colonial history with modern tourism and governance.