Sample local specialities and experience the warm hospitality of the locals when you visit authentic restaurants. San Nicolas in the south-east of the island is a paradise for lovers of local Creole cuisine. O' Niel Caribbean Kitchen, known for its authentic dishes and warm atmosphere, awaits you in the town centre. On the south-eastern edge of the city, on the way to Baby Beach, is Kamini's Kitchen - another great address for delicious local food.

If you prefer a cosy atmosphere, you should visit the Kulture Cafe in the centre of San Nicolas. And for fans of Johnny Cakes, there is a real insider tip destination: the rustic Grote Berg. This hidden gem is hard to find without Google Maps, but it's worth the trip - it serves some of the best Johnny cakes on the island, a favourite snack for locals and tourists alike.

Another cultural highlight of San Nicolas is the street art. So let yourself drift through the streets of the centre and discover why this town in the far south of the island has rightly become the Aruban centre for mural painting

A small but magical place of tranquillity near the large hotels that delights young and old - stroll among tropical plants, flowers and fruits and observe colorful butterflies of all shapes and sizes up close. With a bit of luck, you might be able to watch a butterfly hatch and if you take the time to linger on one of the many benches, a swallowtail, an atlas moth or one of the many, many other butterfly species might even land on your knee.

The special thing: Once you have bought a ticket, you can return to this beautiful spot again and again for the rest of your vacation.

Visit the island's large and most famous aloe vera plantation and learn more about Aruba's “green gold” in the small museum. Here, as well as in many other places on the island, you will find the many products that make aloe a real insider tip for healthy skin and hair.

Aloe vera was introduced to Aruba in 1840 and quickly developed into a success story. Within a short space of time, the miracle plant covered two thirds of the island and made Aruba the world's largest exporter of aloe vera.

By the way: if you look closely, you will find aloe plants in many places on the island (including Bird's Nest). The cooling, gel-like interior of the leaves is also beneficial for sunburned skin.

Dive into the colorful, vibrant carnival culture of the island, with lively parades, music, and dance. Aruba celebrates carnival for an entire month with dazzling parades, infectious music, and exuberant parties. Highlights include the magnificent costumes, spectacular floats, and the crowning of the Carnival Queen.

The tradition began in 1954 with small street festivals and quickly grew into a major event. Since 1966, the season officially kicks off on November 11th at 11:11 a.m. The grand finale is the Grand Carnival Parade, followed by the symbolic burning of King Momo on Carnival Tuesday.

Experience Aruba’s unforgettable carnival!

Experience the capital of Aruba on a guided tour of Oranjestad. Discover fascinating monuments, museums and stores, accompanied by a local guide who will introduce you to the island's history and culture.

Highlights include visits to Fort Zoutman and the National Archeological Museum, which offer exciting insights into Aruba's past. During the tour you will also get to know numerous sights - from inviting restaurants to first-class shopping opportunities, which you can explore further during your stay in Aruba.