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Port Vila

Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu, situated on the southern coast of Efate island. Fishing and agriculture have long been its core industries, but tourism has also grown, making it popular with travelers from Australia and New Zealand.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Port Vila
Gateway airport
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI)
Best season
Jun–Sep
Time zone
Pacific/Efate
Sights covered
9 places

Sights worth seeing

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Roman Catholic Diocese of Port-Vila

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Port-Vila

This Catholic diocese is based in Port Vila, Vanuatu, and covers the entire island as its jurisdiction. It is a suffragan see of the Archdiocese of Nouméa.

Vanuatu Cultural Centre

Museums & galleries

Vanuatu Cultural Centre

The Vanuatu Cultural Centre, founded in 1955, is the country's national cultural institution located in the capital, Port Vila. It offers a broad look at Vanuatu's traditions and culture.

Cathédrale du Sacré-Coeur, Port Vila

Temples & religious sites

Cathédrale du Sacré-Coeur, Port Vila

A modern Catholic cathedral in Port Vila, Vanuatu, and the seat of the Diocese of Port Vila. Dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, it's a peaceful place to explore.

National Museum of Vanuatu

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Vanuatu

The National Museum of Vanuatu, housed within the Vanuatu Cultural Centre in Port Vila, presents the history and culture of the South Pacific islands. Rather than following Western-style displays, it showcases its artifacts in a distinctive way rooted in traditional customs.

Iririki

Nature

Iririki

A privately owned resort island in Mele Bay, Port Vila. It's close to downtown yet offers a quiet place to relax.

Ifira Island

Nature

Ifira Island

Ifira Island lies just offshore from Port Vila as part of Efate, offering an up-close feel of the Pacific's natural surroundings. Its calm scenery makes for a leisurely stroll.

Mele Bay

Nature

Mele Bay

Mele Bay serves as the gateway to Port Vila, and ships entering the city by sea pass Iririki Island along the way. Nestled between Pango Point to the south and Erakor Lagoon to the east, it offers beautiful coastal scenery.

Erakor Island

Nature

Erakor Island

Erakor Island is a small island near Port Vila with resorts and a spa, ideal for a relaxing getaway. It's especially popular with Western tourists.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

26° Jan
26° Feb
26° Mar
26° Apr
24° May
24° Jun
23° Jul
23° Aug
24° Sep
24° Oct
25° Nov
26° Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.

Port Vila Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Where to stay

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