The largest city in the country, Belize City was the capital of British Honduras, until it was moved about 48 miles inland after Hurricane Hattie struck in 1965. The former British colony gained its independence in 1981, and was renamed Belize. Belmopan, with a population of about 7,000, is now the smallest national capital in the world.

Belize City remains the gateway to Belize's historical and cultural points. On the north side of Belize City is the world's only manual swing bridge, still in use. Located on the Belize River, next to the swing bridge, is the Maritime Museum, which introduces visitors to a history of Belize's fishing and boat building industries.

The Bliss Institute in Belize City is the cultural center of Belize, and the National Handicraft Center is an outlet for crafts. The oldest Anglican Cathedral Church in Central America, St. John's Cathedral, was built in 1812 from bricks brought as ballast from European sailing ships.

Originally built as a colonial prison in the mid 1800s, the Museum of Belize features displays that include a reflection of Belize's rich Maya history. Tourism Village, located on the Belize River mouth about 15 minutes away from cruise ship anchorage, is specifically designed for cruise lines, with courtyard shops, restaurants, snack bars, and entertainment on cruise ship days.