A colonial capital on Bermuda's east end, surrounded by Hamilton Harbour. This limestone-built city is a global financial hub and the world's sixth-largest port.
Hamilton, Bermuda's capital, is a compact city with colorful buildings along its harbor. On Front Street, you can shop at local boutiques, dine at waterfront restaurants, and watch cruise ships dock. Relax in Victoria Park or admire art at the Bermuda National Gallery. From Hamilton, you can easily reach the island's pink sand beaches for swimming and sunbathing. The city also hosts outdoor concerts and cultural events throughout the year.
Exploring Front Street and the Harbor
Front Street runs along Hamilton's waterfront, with pastel-colored buildings housing shops, restaurants, and bars. You can walk along the waterfront promenade or take a boat tour of Hamilton Harbor for a different view of the city.
Parks and Green Spaces
Hamilton has several parks for outdoor relaxation. Victoria Park, which takes up an entire city block, has a bandstand where you can enjoy concerts during summer months. Par La Ville Park, behind the Bermuda National Library, contains tropical plants and a small fish pond. These green areas provide a calm environment away from the active city streets.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
The Bermuda National Gallery, located in City Hall, displays both local and international art, including works by Winslow Homer and Georgia O'Keeffe. At the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, you can examine shipwreck artifacts, learn about marine conservation, and interact with ocean science exhibits. These museums cover topics from Bermuda's artistic traditions to its maritime exploration history.
Architectural Points of Interest
You can observe various architectural styles throughout Hamilton. The Sessions House, built in 1819, is home to Bermuda's parliament and supreme court. Its Georgian-style architecture is visible from the outside, and you can attend public parliament sessions. The Anglican Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, constructed in 1894, showcases neo-Gothic design with impressive stained glass windows.
Beaches and Water Activities
While Hamilton doesn't have its own beaches, it's a starting point for exploring Bermuda's coastline. You can take a short bus or taxi ride to nearby beaches like Elbow Beach or Horseshoe Bay. From Hamilton Harbor, you can join boat tours for snorkeling, fishing, or cruising around the island. You can also rent equipment for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Shopping and Dining
Hamilton has a mix of international brands and local boutiques. On Reid Street and Front Street, you'll find jewelry stores, clothing shops, and souvenir outlets. Visit the Bermuda Craft Market in the Clocktower Mall for local products. For dining, try traditional Bermudian dishes like fish chowder or codfish and potatoes at local restaurants. Many eateries have outdoor seating with harbor views.
Getting Around Hamilton and Beyond
You can easily walk around the compact city, but other transportation options are available. Rent a scooter to explore both Hamilton and the rest of Bermuda. The central bus terminal in Hamilton connects to various parts of the island. Ferries also depart from Hamilton, taking you to destinations like the Royal Naval Dockyard.
Annual Events in Hamilton
Hamilton hosts several annual events. The Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts, in January and February, brings international artists to the city. In late April, the Bermuda Day Parade fills the streets with colorful floats and traditional Gombey dancers. These events highlight Bermuda's culture and provide entertainment throughout the year.
