
Old Street, Philipsburg (must see)
Old Street is one of the town’s most distinctive lanes, offering visitors a blend of colonial charm and vibrant island culture. This narrow passage, paved with cobblestones and framed by pastel-colored buildings, transports travelers to another era while still feeling very much alive. Decorative lampposts, wrought-iron balconies, and small courtyards reflect the island’s Dutch colonial heritage, making the street a favorite for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Beyond its architectural appeal, Old Street is known for its boutique shopping and relaxed atmosphere. The street is lined with galleries, jewelry stores, and specialty shops where visitors can find everything from Caribbean crafts to fine watches and luxury goods. Unlike the busier stretches of Front Street, Old Street maintains a quieter pace, giving travelers the chance to browse leisurely without the hustle of larger crowds. It is also a place where shop owners are often present, offering personal service and sharing stories about the island’s traditions.
Dining adds another layer of experience along Old Street. Cozy cafés and small restaurants provide shaded outdoor seating where guests can pause with a coffee or enjoy local flavors such as fresh seafood and island-inspired pastries. The slower rhythm of the street encourages people to linger, making it an ideal stop for those looking to absorb Philipsburg’s atmosphere beyond the main commercial avenues.
For many, Old Street represents the heart of Philipsburg’s character-where history, shopping, and daily life meet in a single, inviting space. Its combination of heritage charm and modern comforts ensures that a stroll here is both memorable and distinctly Caribbean.
Beyond its architectural appeal, Old Street is known for its boutique shopping and relaxed atmosphere. The street is lined with galleries, jewelry stores, and specialty shops where visitors can find everything from Caribbean crafts to fine watches and luxury goods. Unlike the busier stretches of Front Street, Old Street maintains a quieter pace, giving travelers the chance to browse leisurely without the hustle of larger crowds. It is also a place where shop owners are often present, offering personal service and sharing stories about the island’s traditions.
Dining adds another layer of experience along Old Street. Cozy cafés and small restaurants provide shaded outdoor seating where guests can pause with a coffee or enjoy local flavors such as fresh seafood and island-inspired pastries. The slower rhythm of the street encourages people to linger, making it an ideal stop for those looking to absorb Philipsburg’s atmosphere beyond the main commercial avenues.
For many, Old Street represents the heart of Philipsburg’s character-where history, shopping, and daily life meet in a single, inviting space. Its combination of heritage charm and modern comforts ensures that a stroll here is both memorable and distinctly Caribbean.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Philipsburg. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Old Street on Map
Sight Name: Old Street
Sight Location: Philipsburg, St. Maarten (See walking tours in Philipsburg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Philipsburg, St. Maarten (See walking tours in Philipsburg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Philipsburg, St. Maarten
Create Your Own Walk in Philipsburg
Creating your own self-guided walk in Philipsburg is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Philipsburg Introduction Walking Tour
Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St. Maarten, is a lively port town best known for its duty-free shopping, colorful boardwalk, and stunning beachfront views. One of its main highlights is Front Street, a bustling shopping hub where visitors can browse jewelry stores, fashion boutiques, and souvenir shops, all at tax-free prices. Just steps away lies the famous Boardwalk along Great Bay Beach,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.0 Km or 1.9 Miles