As Vanuatu’s capital city located on the island of Efate, Port Vila offers visitors plenty to see and do. The city centre is filled with centuries-old colonial-style buildings, including the former French Residency in Independence Park. Other notable architecture includes the pink building that is home to the Supreme Court and the French Quarter’s lovely Coeur Cathedral.
Go back to Vanuatu’s cultural beginnings and learn all about South Pacific history at the Vanuatu National Museum. With tribal clothing and musical instruments on display, you can learn more about the people of the South Pacific. The Michoutouchkine Pilioko Foundation Art Gallery in nearby Pango village is the place to go to see beautiful and exotic artwork and sculptures.
Besides the plentiful artistic and cultural activities on offer in Port Vila, the paradise beaches and beautiful scenery are the biggest attractions for visitors. Eton Village is home to a wonderful beach, and its church, choir and local school are also worth a visit.
You can hop on the ferry to the resort on nearby Iririki Island. Once there, you can take in the great views from the former British Residency – the ferry operates a 24 hour service across Vila Bay and is free to guests of the resort. Adrenaline junkies can ride a jet-ski to Paradise Cove – don’t forget to keep your eyes out for dolphins on the way!
If you’re looking for adventure then drive the short distance to Mele Bay, where you can take your pick from different nature walks and adventure activities. Explore the largest tropical garden in the South Pacific take a jungle trek to Mele Cascades and take a zip-line ride 80 metres above a canopy forest.
Port Vila is a great place for shopping, whether it be for fruit and vegetables, handmade arts and crafts, or souvenirs and jewellery at Port Vila Market. If you’re a coffee lover then you really should pay a visit to an Arabica coffee factory, while a pioneer microbrewery is a great chance to sample some local beers. If you can, try and attend a Melanesian Feast, and try some kava, the national drink.
Port Vila Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Port Vila
Reviewed on 11 Mar. 2025
Reviewed on 22 Feb. 2025
Reviewed on 14 Mar. 2025
Reviewed on 28 Feb. 2025
Reviewed on 1 Sep. 2024
Reviewed on 16 Jul. 2023
Popular places to visit
Iririki Island
Famous for being home to the former British High Commissioner’s residence, Iririki Island is now a popular and luxurious tourist resort.
Port Vila Market
Peruse the stalls of this central market to pick up unique handcrafts and souvenirs or indulge in freshly baked French-style pastries and locally grown produce.
Pango Point
Explore the lovely green spaces of Pango Point and enjoy the snorkelling in Port Vila. Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Tana Russet Plaza
You can search for that perfect souvenir at Tana Russet Plaza during your visit to Port Vila. Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront or seek out the snorkelling spots.
University of the South Pacific
Walk around the campus at University of the South Pacific as part of your travels around Port Vila. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Parliament House
Parliament House is just one of the places to see in Port Vila, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Activities
Full-Day Efate Round Island Trip with Yumi Tours
Bridges of Eden: 2-Hour Rainforest Walk, Swim, & Zip Line
Discover Cascades & Turtle Experience with Yumi Tours
3-Hour Volcanic Signature Spa Package including Massage in Port Vila
Reviews of Port Vila
4/5 - Good
Easy to get around. Buses are easy to use. lots to look at in easy walking distance. Recommend Nature tours. Guide was very knowledgeable on all areas of the island culture and history, all attractions entry fees on tour were included in the price.
4/5 - Good
Cute markets, the city is like other island nations a bit poor but very bustling and entertaining in different ways. Stick to the resorts if you want a 5 star holiday. If you are happy to experience the island day to day life explore the city a bit.
4/5 - Good
It’s okay. We didn’t spend much time there. Mostly at the pristine beaches
1/5 - Terrible
This is a dirty and and unkept town with poverty and not enough to see nor restaurants. Very disappointing over all. Airport was even worse.
5/5 - Excellent
Fantastic place, will return again
5/5 - Excellent
The locals are so happy and friendly
