Money: currency, ATMs and cards
Curaçao's currency is the Caribbean guilder (XCG). It replaced the Netherlands Antillean guilder in 2025 and is pegged to the US dollar at 1.79 guilders per dollar. US dollars are accepted almost everywhere, and cards work in most restaurants, supermarkets and shops.
- There is an MCB ATM by the check-in hall, a short walk from arrivals. Withdraw one larger amount instead of several small ones, since each withdrawal can carry a fee.
- Keep some small bills for tips, beach vendors and the occasional gas station on the west side that prefers cash.
- Euros are not a practical way to pay on the island. Bring dollars or a card.
Getting from the airport to your hotel
A public bus runs from the airport to Willemstad roughly every 60 to 90 minutes, but it does not reach most hotel areas or beaches. Almost every visitor uses one of three options.
Rental car
The most flexible choice and usually the cheapest for stays of three days or more. Pick up at the airport and drive straight to your hotel. Compare options on the Curaçao Airport car rental page.
Taxi
Taxis wait outside arrivals and charge fares set by the government per car, with a surcharge at night. See the fares in taxi vs rental car from Curaçao Airport.
Hotel transfer
Some resorts, mainly the all-inclusive ones, include or sell an airport transfer. Ask your hotel before you fly.
Tips for your first hour on Curaçao
- Traffic drives on the right, as in the US and most of Europe.
- Download offline maps of the island before you leave the airport. Signal drops in parts of the west.
- Avoid the commute if you can: roads near Willemstad are busiest around 7:00 to 8:30 and 16:30 to 18:00.
- Check the fuel level when you collect your car. Most rentals run full to full.
Have your car ready when you land
Compare 30+ local rental companies at Curaçao Airport, with insurance included and free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup.
Compare cars at CURQuick answers
Is there an ATM at Curaçao Airport?
Yes. An MCB ATM stands by the check-in hall, a short walk from arrivals. Withdraw one larger amount, since each withdrawal can carry a fee.
Can I pay with US dollars in Curaçao?
Yes. US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. The official currency is the Caribbean guilder (XCG), pegged at 1.79 guilders per US dollar.
Who can use the e-gates at Curaçao Airport?
Adults with a chip passport from the EU and EEA, the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and Switzerland can use the e-gates. Travelers with children go to a staffed booth.
Sources: Official DI Card portal; Curaçao Airport e-gate countries; Curaçao Airport FAQ; Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten: Caribbean guilder.
