
Onafhankelijkheidsplein Independence Square
The historical and governmental heart of Paramaribo, featuring grand colonial architecture and national landmarks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos

Onafhankelijkheidsplein Independence Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historical and governmental heart of Paramaribo, featuring grand colonial architecture and national landmarks.
"A must-see for understanding Suriname's history and admiring its colonial past."

📍 Find the Right Address
Navigating can be tricky! Try 'Onafhankelijkheidsplein 3, Paramaribo' for GPS accuracy.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The square is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Presidential Palace
North side of the square
The iconic seat of Suriname's government, a grand colonial-era building.

National Assembly Building
East side of the square
The modern legislative hub, a symbol of Suriname's democratic processes.

Historical Monuments
Scattered throughout the square
Discover statues and memorials commemorating Suriname's rich history and heroes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting Around Paramaribo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📍 Find the Right Address
Navigating can be tricky! Try 'Onafhankelijkheidsplein 3, Paramaribo' for GPS accuracy.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The square is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes!
📸 Capture the Architecture
The colonial buildings offer stunning photo opportunities, especially in the morning light.
🏛️ Understand the History
Learn about the significance of the buildings and monuments for a richer experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📍 Find the Right Address
Navigating can be tricky! Try 'Onafhankelijkheidsplein 3, Paramaribo' for GPS accuracy.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The square is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes!
📸 Capture the Architecture
The colonial buildings offer stunning photo opportunities, especially in the morning light.
🏛️ Understand the History
Learn about the significance of the buildings and monuments for a richer experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Onafhankelijkheidsplein is a significant historical and governmental hub in Paramaribo, appreciated for its impressive architecture and central location. Visitors find it a key spot for understanding Suriname's heritage, though some note that direct access to the buildings is limited.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Onafhankelijkheidsplein is centrally located in Paramaribo. You can easily reach it by taxi from most parts of the city. Many visitors find it convenient to walk around the square and surrounding areas once they arrive.
While direct bus routes might be limited, many local buses pass through the city center, and you can often walk a short distance from a bus stop to the square. Taxis are a more direct and common option.
GPS can sometimes be a bit inconsistent. Try using 'Onafhankelijkheidsplein 3, Paramaribo, Suriname' as a precise address.
Street parking can be challenging in the city center. It's often easier to get dropped off by a taxi or to find parking in a nearby paid lot if you are driving.
Yes, Onafhankelijkheidsplein is a short and pleasant walk from the Paramaribo waterfront, allowing you to see more of the city's historic architecture along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Onafhankelijkheidsplein is a public square and is free to enter and explore. You can wander around its grounds at any time.
As an open public space, Onafhankelijkheidsplein does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible 24/7, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
While there aren't official ticketed tours for the square itself, many local tour operators in Paramaribo offer city tours that include stops at Onafhankelijkheidsplein and its surrounding historical buildings.
The Presidential Palace and the National Assembly Building are government institutions. While you can admire them from the outside, public access inside is generally restricted or requires special arrangements.
The monuments and statues located within Onafhankelijkheidsplein are part of the public space and do not require an entrance fee.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Onafhankelijkheidsplein is home to the Presidential Palace and the National Assembly Building, surrounded by historical architecture. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll and to soak in the city's atmosphere.
Absolutely! The colonial architecture, monuments, and the grandeur of the government buildings make it a prime location for photography, especially during the golden hours.
While there may not be extensive signage, understanding the historical significance of the Presidential Palace and the National Assembly Building will greatly enhance your visit. Local guides can provide this context.
The atmosphere is generally calm and stately, reflecting its role as a center of government. It can become more lively during public events or demonstrations.
Onafhankelijkheidsplein is generally considered safe, especially during the day. As with any urban area, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the architecture. Late afternoons provide a warm, golden hour glow.
Focus on the facades of the Presidential Palace and the National Assembly Building. The surrounding historical buildings and any monuments also make for great shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in areas around government buildings and public squares in most cities. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the buildings. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance skies.
You can photograph the general public, but it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up portraits of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger city walk that includes stops at more engaging points for kids. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly within the square might be limited. The visual appeal of the grand architecture can also spark curiosity in younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the smaller details: the intricate carvings on older buildings, the statues commemorating historical figures, and the general street life that adds character to the scene. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the essence of this important Paramaribo landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Paramaribo: Onafhankelijkheidsplein
Visitors often come to Onafhankelijkheidsplein to admire the colonial architecture that characterizes much of Paramaribo's historic center. The grandeur of the government buildings, with their distinct architectural styles, offers a glimpse into the country's past and present. It's a popular spot for locals to gather and for tourists to get a sense of the city's administrative and historical significance.
While the square is a place of official importance, it also offers a tranquil escape. You can often see people enjoying a leisurely walk, taking in the sights, or simply relaxing. The surrounding streets are also worth exploring, offering more of Paramaribo's unique charm and vibrant culture.
Navigating Paramaribo's Streets
Taxis are the most convenient mode of transport for reaching the square, and they are widely available throughout the city. For those who enjoy exploring on foot, Onafhankelijkheidsplein is easily accessible from the Paramaribo waterfront, offering a pleasant walk through historic streets. Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking to fully appreciate the area.
Public transport options exist, but they might require a short walk from the nearest bus stop to the square itself. For a more in-depth understanding of the city's history and landmarks, consider booking a guided tour. These tours often include stops at Onafhankelijkheidsplein and provide valuable context that enhances the visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit