Visit Port Vila to experience a rich South Pacific island culture, sample local products such as coffee and beer, or take part in outdoor adventures including zip lining or scuba diving.
Port Vila is Vanuatu’s capital city and is located on the island of Efate. Take a stroll around the center of the town to discover centuries-old buildings. Among these is the former French Residency in Independence Park, the pink building housing the Supreme Court and the Sacré Coeur Cathedral, which you’ll find in the French Quarter.
Learn about South Pacific history at the Vanuatu National Museum, which has a wide range of exhibits including tribal clothing and musical instruments. Find exotic paintings and sculptures at the Michoutouchkine & Pilioko Foundation Art Gallery in nearby Pango village.
Cultural attractions in and around Port Vila are plentiful, but the beautiful beaches and scenery are the biggest draws. The beach at Eton Village is a great place to relax. While you are here, visit the local school, church and children’s choir.
Catch the ferry across Vila Bay to Iririki Island, home to a resort. The ferry operates a 24-hour service and is free to resort guests. On the island, take in the views from the former British Residency. Ride a jet ski to Paradise Cove and spot dolphins.
Just a short drive from the city is Mele Bay. Head there for adventure activities and nature walks. Travel along a zip line suspended 262 feet (80 meters) above a canopy forest, walk through a rain forest to Mele Cascades, and explore the South Pacific’s largest tropical garden. If you have the time, join a scuba diving tour of the offshore shipwrecks and caves.
During your Port Vila stay, be sure to sample some local produce and check out the handmade arts and crafts. Shop for fruit and vegetables, flowers, souvenir shells and jewelry at Port Vila Market. Coffee and beer lovers will appreciate the chance to visit an Arabica coffee factory and Vanuatu’s pioneer microbrewery. Don’t miss out on a Melanesian Feast, which usually includes kava, the national drink.
Port Vila
Travel Guide
Visit Port Vila
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2025
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Popular places to visit
Iririki Island
For almost a century this island was home to the British High Commissioner’s residence. Now, it’s a popular tourist resort famed for its luxury accommodation.
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.
Things to do
Full-Day Efate Round Island Trip with Yumi Tours
Bridges of Eden: 2-Hour Rainforest Walk, Swim, & Zip Line
Port Vila Full Day Tour - Experience the Real Vanuatu
Discover Cascades & Turtle Experience with Yumi Tours
3-Hour Volcanic Signature Spa Package including Massage in Port Vila
Port Vila: Small Group Half-Day River Kayaking Tour
Reviews of Port Vila
4/5 - Good
Worth looking around for a couple of days