
Old Street Philipsburg St. Maarten
A charming cobblestone alley in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, lined with colorful boutiques, cafes, and duty-free shops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bustling atmosphere & open shops

Old Street Philipsburg St. Maarten
Best Time
Bustling atmosphere & open shops

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming cobblestone alley in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, lined with colorful boutiques, cafes, and duty-free shops.
"Such a nice street, very colorful!"

🛍️ Duty-Free Deals
Look for duty-free prices on jewelry and souvenirs. Haggle respectfully for the best deals!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
The cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colorful Boutiques
Along the cobblestone alley
Wander through vibrant shops offering unique clothing, accessories, and local crafts.

Larimar Jewelry Stores
Various shops on Old Street
Discover beautiful jewelry featuring Larimar, a rare blue gemstone found only in the Dominican Republic.

Charming Cafes
Along the cobblestone alley
Relax at a quaint cafe with outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching and enjoying a local treat.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Vibe
Shopping & Souvenirs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Duty-Free Deals
Look for duty-free prices on jewelry and souvenirs. Haggle respectfully for the best deals!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
The cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
🎨 Support Local Artisans
Keep an eye out for local artists selling handmade crafts and unique art pieces.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Duty-Free Deals
Look for duty-free prices on jewelry and souvenirs. Haggle respectfully for the best deals!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
The cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
🎨 Support Local Artisans
Keep an eye out for local artists selling handmade crafts and unique art pieces.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere make for fantastic photo opportunities.
☕ Relax at a Cafe
Take a break at one of the charming cafes with outdoor seating to enjoy the island ambiance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Old Street Philipsburg is praised for its vibrant, colorful architecture and its appeal as a duty-free shopping destination, particularly for jewelry. Visitors enjoy the charming cafes and the lively atmosphere when cruise ships are in port. However, some find it to be a bit overrated and tourist-trappy, with limited open stores on non-cruise days and concerns about the quality of goods in some establishments.
"Beautiful Street, and the place that sells the Larimar jewelry is fantastic!"
Marcella Obdrzalek
"Overrated. The street is small and Lind with beautiful small buildings that seem like old houses. Mostly expensive stores visited by cruise tourists. Without them, the street looks dead."
Carmen Lebron
"Such a nice street, very colorful !"
Michèle Caillaud (mccald_)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Street is conveniently located within walking distance of the cruise port in Philipsburg. Simply follow the signs or ask for directions; it's a short and pleasant stroll.
Yes, taxis are readily available at the cruise port and can take you directly to Old Street. It's a very short ride.
Walking is the best way to explore Old Street and the nearby Great Bay Beach. This allows you to fully appreciate the colorful architecture and discover hidden gems.
While walking is most common from the port, local buses (vans) operate along the main roads in Philipsburg and can drop you off near Old Street if you're coming from further afield.
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of Old Street due to its pedestrian-friendly nature. It's best to utilize the public parking areas near the cruise port or along the waterfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Street is a public thoroughfare and does not require an entrance ticket. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
Shop hours in Old Street generally align with cruise ship schedules. Most shops are open from morning until late afternoon, especially on days when ships are in port.
There are no admission fees for Old Street itself. Individual shops or cafes may have their own pricing for goods and services.
Yes, you can visit Old Street on any day. However, it will be significantly quieter and some shops may have reduced hours or be closed on non-cruise ship days.
For the most vibrant shopping experience, visit during the day when most shops are open. Weekday mornings can offer a less crowded experience.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Old Street is famous for duty-free jewelry, including Larimar pieces, as well as local crafts, art, clothing, and Caribbean-themed items.
While not always advertised, some vendors, especially for jewelry and higher-priced items, may be open to negotiation. It's worth politely asking.
Look for smaller boutiques and stalls that feature handmade items. Artists often sell their work directly, offering a more authentic experience.
Many shops specialize in jewelry, particularly those featuring the blue Larimar stone. Reviews suggest looking for stores with a good selection and quality.
Yes, Old Street is renowned for its duty-free shopping, offering competitive prices on a range of goods, especially jewelry and luxury items.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Old Street features charming cafes with outdoor seating, perfect for a coffee, light snack, or refreshing drink. For more substantial meals, explore nearby areas.
While Old Street primarily focuses on cafes and quick bites, you can find some local flavors. For a wider range of St. Maarten cuisine, explore restaurants just off Old Street.
Yes, several cafes along Old Street offer sandwiches, salads, and pastries. You can also find more diverse lunch options a short walk away towards the boardwalk.
Expect a variety of coffees, teas, fresh juices, and alcoholic beverages like local beers and cocktails at the cafes.
Prices can be on the higher side, especially in cafes catering to cruise ship passengers. It's advisable to check menus before ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is a photographer's dream with its colorful buildings, cobblestone paths, and charming architecture. Capture the vibrant facades and unique shop fronts.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the warm Caribbean glow.
Generally, there are no restrictions on photographing the street itself. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or inside private shops.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can also be useful for the colorful architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted in populated areas and near ports. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers & Bargain Hunters
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Old Street: A Shopper's Paradise
Beyond the shops, Old Street offers a relaxed ambiance with its numerous cafes boasting outdoor seating. These spots are perfect for a mid-shopping break, offering a chance to people-watch and enjoy a refreshing drink or a light snack. While some reviews mention that the street can feel a bit tourist-centric, especially when cruise ships are in port, its charm and the unique finds available make it a worthwhile stop for many visitors looking for souvenirs and a taste of local island life.
Navigating Old Street: Tips from Travelers
For those interested in unique finds, keep an eye out for local artisans selling handmade crafts and art. While Old Street is known for its duty-free jewelry, don't hesitate to explore the smaller boutiques for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Some visitors suggest that while prices can be high, there's potential for respectful negotiation, especially for higher-value items. Remember to stay hydrated and take advantage of the cafes for a refreshing break during your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit