Every major metropolis has that distinctive feature that makes it iconic in the eyes of the world. London has the Big Beg, Sydney’s skyline is defined by the Opera House, and Washington D.C.’s monuments would be incomplete without the Obelisk.
This affirmation is also true for smaller destinations, such as Oranjestad. In addition to its Dutch-style buildings, the capital city of Aruba boasts another distinguished feature. We are talking about its shiny trolleys, which capture the attention of passers-by with the tinkling of their bells.
Do you want to learn more about the Oranjestad trolley? Keep reading! At Ocean Z Boutique Hotel we are happy to share everything you need to know about this famous transportation system.
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A blend of San Francisco allure and island style
People have used the Oranjestad trolley for quite some time. One traveler who described his experience on TripAdvisor says that the vehicles were built in San Francisco, California. This explains why they resemble the cable cars found in the Golden City. However, Aruba’s trolleys boast a unique island appeal. The government refurbished both their interior and exterior and now they feature bright colors such as red, navy blue, and turquoise green, along with lustrous gold finishes.
Additionally, the system offers both single and double-deck trolleys. The former is ideal for those who prefer sitting back and relaxing while enjoying the scenery. The latter provides better views and more opportunities for great photos. Which one would you prefer?
A unique way to see and explore
Since Oranjestad is small, visitors will find it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Those who have walked through its streets will notice that the trolley tracks extend beyond the current route. The ride can last between 15 to 20 minutes and goes from the Cruise Terminal to the city center. However, it remains a good option for experiencing the charm of the island in a different way.
Also known as trams, these vehicles operate on a hop-on, hop-off system, meaning anyone can board and exit at their preferred stops. There are six key stops, including iconic landmarks in Oranjestad such as the House of Parliament, which is easily recognisable thanks to the sign above the main entrance, and the Archaeological Museum, which has an interesting collection of ancient artefacts.
Fort Zoutman, a site of numerous local festivals, and Main Street, lined with numerous cafes, shops, restaurants, and boutiques, and are also among the places where the Oranjestad trolley passes through, are also among the key stops along the Oranjestad trolley route.
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Practical tips for riding the Oranjestad trolley
The Oranjestad tram passes by some of the city’s most iconic tourist spots. Credits: Юрий Д.К./Thank You (23 Millions+) views on Flickr via Wikimedia Commons
Another thing to note is that, although the service is completely free, some travelers report that drivers occasionally ask for tips. While no one should not feel obligated to give a monetary contribution, those who enjoy supporting locals might want to have some cash on hand. Just keep in mind that, in touristy areas like this, the U.S. dollar is widely accepted, but the official currency of the country is the florin.
The last piece of information everybody should know if they want to ride the Oranjestad trolley is its schedule. According to Aruba’s tourism office, the system “starts operating at 10 a.m., with a frequency of 25 to 15 minutes” depending on the day of the week. Drivers take a lunch break from 12 to 1 p.m. Additionally, check for cruise ships in the port terminal, as the tram either stops running or operates single-deck trolleys when no ships are docked.
With all the necessary information at hand, you can now add the Oranjestad trolley to your travel itinerary and explore the island’s beautiful capital with ease.
Not sure where to stay in Aruba? Check out the suites we have at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel.
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