Dive into the rich history and colorful culture of St. Lucia on this guided tour to the historic gems in the capital city of Castries. With a local guide leading the way, trace its turbulent beginnings, scope out spectacular architecture, and soak in the splendor of all its natural beauty.

After a quick drive to see the 100-year-old lighthouse that watches over the harbor, you're led back into the heart of Castries, a city destroyed twice by fire in 1927 and again in 1948. Pay a visit to the 125-year-old Castries Central Market—miraculously still in its original building—a site named one of the Best Food Markets in the World by National Geographic. Meander through the bustling space to learn about the important ingredients in St. Lucia's Caribbean-creole cuisine, such as breadfruit, bananas, and star anise.

Just down the street is the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the largest church in the Caribbean. The cathedral stands along Derek Walcott Square, first established in 1786 and named after the island’s Nobel Laureate for Literature. Continue on past the Parliament Building, the statue dedicated to the Father of the Nation, and then to Morne Fortuné, a site that served as a frequent battleground between the French and the English as they fought for control of the island.

Your tour concludes with a visit to Pigeon Island National Park.