Port-au-Prince sits on the Gulf of Gonâve, its commercial districts down by the water and its residential neighbourhoods climbing the hills above. The city has been badly affected by disaster and, since 2020, by extensive gang violence, with kidnappings and other serious crimes reported even in areas visitors might otherwise consider routine. Any decision about where to base yourself here should start from that reality, not from convenience alone.
For a visitor, the practical geography is simple: the historic centre and the Champ-de-Mars area lie near the waterfront, the residential and commercial district of Delmas stretches inland, Tabarre sits out towards the airport, and Pétion-Ville occupies the hills above the city. This guide covers which of those areas make sense as a base and what kind of accommodation you find in each.
Best areas to stay in Port-au-Prince
1. Pétion-Ville
Pétion-Ville is the neighbouring city in the hills above Port-au-Prince, and it is where the city's higher-end accommodation is concentrated. It suits visitors who want the most comfortable base available and who value views over the city below; the trade-off is that you are above the centre rather than in it.
2. Tabarre
Tabarre is the area around the airport, with accommodation in the Zone Cargo and Route de l'Aéroport corridor. It suits travellers who want to be close to their flight, and some places here arrange airport pick-up and drop-off. It is a practical base rather than a lively one.
3. Delmas
Delmas is a residential neighbourhood inland from the centre, and it is described as being far from the action of Port-au-Prince. It suits visitors who prefer a quieter, more residential setting and do not mind a toilsome journey to reach the interesting parts of the city.
4. Champ-de-Mars and the centre
The Champ-de-Mars area is centrally located near the waterfront commercial districts, which makes it the easiest base if you want to stay out late and return quickly. Accommodation here is the least expensive end of what is available, and the standard is rough, with electricity and running water intermittent.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: There are no cheap places to stay in Port-au-Prince, only less expensive choices. Expect basic rooms, sometimes shared bathrooms, intermittent electricity and cold or intermittent running water, and a central location in the Champ-de-Mars area or a residential setting in Delmas.
- Mid-range: Options in the airport corridor at Tabarre, convenient if your trip is built around flights.
- Splurge: Modern, comfortable accommodation in the hills at Pétion-Ville or near downtown, with the amenities and reliability that go with the higher price.
Best area for a first visit
Pétion-Ville is the most sensible base for a first visit, because it is where the most comfortable accommodation is found and it sits above the city rather than in the middle of it. If your priority is instead being able to walk back to your room late, the central Champ-de-Mars area is the better choice, provided you accept the rougher conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Port-au-Prince safe for visitors?
Since 2020 the city has been paralysed by extensive gang violence, and kidnappings, massacres and gang rapes are reported as common occurrences, often with the complicity of police officers and politicians. Take this into account when deciding whether and where to travel.
Are there cheap places to stay in Port-au-Prince?
There are no cheap places to stay, only less expensive choices. The lowest-priced accommodation is found in the centrally located Champ-de-Mars area, where conditions are rough and utilities are unreliable.
Which area is best if I have an early flight?
Tabarre, around the airport and the Route de l'Aéroport corridor, is the practical choice, and some accommodation there provides airport pick-up and drop-off.
Where do I stay if I want to be close to the city centre?
The Champ-de-Mars area is centrally located and easy to return to if you stay out late, though the accommodation is basic.
Compare live prices for the areas above with the booking tools on this page before you decide.