Barbados
Are you planning a trip to the beautiful island of Barbados and looking for some tips? You have come to the right place. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to make your trip unforgettable. I include information of interest, tips, and details of the places to visit for 10 days, along with a map.
When we envision the Caribbean, we’re drawn to the image of long white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Barbados is the epitome of this, a paradise accompanied by warm and welcoming locals and a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding. Prepare to be captivated.
As always, I will start with some general information about the island and then detail the main points of interest in a very relaxed itinerary with a map!
This is the list of everything you will find in this article :
A. Information of Interest
Location
Barbados is an island country located in the Lesser Antilles, between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It is located just east of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and northwest of Venezuela.
Bridgetown, the beating heart of Barbados, is not only the capital but also the largest city, located on the southwest coast.
Area
The island has an area of 167 square miles (431 km²), making it one of the smallest countries in the world.
Barbados stretches for 21 miles from north to south and 14 miles from east to west. It boasts a coastline of about 60 miles (ca. 97 km), making it the fourth-largest island in the Lesser Antilles.
The highest point is Mount Hillaby, which is 1,115 feet high.
Population
In 2024, the total population of the island is estimated at more than 282,000 people, with approximately 30% of the population residing in the capital.
Demonym
Barbadian.
When to go and for how long
*️⃣ Barbados has an excellent climate that is influenced by the northwest trade winds, moderating tropical temperatures. This also results in lower-intensity storms and hurricanes compared to neighbouring islands.
It offers a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it a great destination to visit at any time. However, the period between December and April is particularly enticing, with less precipitation and temperatures at their best.
If you want to pick a different travel destination based on the most suitable time to visit, see my posts Best Time to Go and Where to Travel Each Month. It will help you plan your trip better.
*️⃣ Due to its size and the abundance of attractions on the island, you won’t need a lot of time to explore it. It is more of a destination for relaxing and enjoying its beaches.
Therefore, when planning your visit, I suggest setting aside a couple of days to explore the capital, Bridgetown, and other points of interest. Thereafter, add as many days as you like for beach enjoyment and relaxation, knowing that you can take your time and won’t feel rushed.
In my posts, How Many Days I Need to Visit Each Country and How Many Days I Need to Visit Each City, I explain the number of days needed to visit each country and the most touristic cities.
Language
Barbados was under British control from 1625 to 1966, so its official language is English. Also, it is spoken Bajan, which is a mix between English and African languages.
Remember that you can check the language spoken in each country using the tables that I attach to my articles Countries by Language and Best Time to Go.
Currency
The currency used on the island is the Barbados dollar (BBD), although many places also accept US Dollars.
In my post Currency exchange, cards and cash abroad (Complete Guide), there is a table that allows you to see the currency used by entering the name of the country you are interested in. Additionally, this article provides all the essential information you need to know about money and travelling.
Plugs and Voltage
In Barbados, the plugs are American-style, with types A and B. The voltage is 115 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Remember that you can refer to my article Plug Types by Country to find out about the different types of plugs used in each country and the corresponding voltage. This will help you determine if you need an adapter and the specific type required. You can find this information in the Travel Logistics section, along with everything else you might need to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Origin
The island was initially inhabited by indigenous Caribs (Tainos) until Europeans discovered it. Christopher Columbus led the first Spanish expedition to the island in 1502. However, they abandoned it in the 17th century.
In 1625, the British arrived, claimed the island in the name of King James I, and established settlements all over. They transformed it into a hub of slavery, importing enslaved individuals from Africa.
The enslaved people initiated several rebellions, but unsuccessfully. Slavery was abolished throughout the British Empire in 1834. However, it took a few more years for those residing in Barbados to attain their freedom.
After centuries of colonial rule, Barbados finally broke free and achieved a significant milestone in its history in 1966. It declared complete independence and joined the Commonwealth, marking a new era of self-governance and sovereignty for the island.
Since 2011, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in December 2021, it became a republic.
Flag
The Barbados flag is full of symbolism. It was officially adopted on the country’s Independence Day, November 30, 1966.
The ultramarine blue symbolises the ocean and sky, while the golden yellow panel represents the colour of the sand on its beaches. The broken trident signifies the country’s liberation from its colonial status.
Interesting Facts about Barbados
- Barbados is named after a tree. When the Spanish first discovered the island in 1502, the Bearded Fig Tree (ficus citrifolia) was found all over the island. “Los Barbados” is Spanish for “The Bearded ones.”
- It is the thirteenth smallest country in the world.
- Barbados is considered the birthplace of rum. The enslaved people discovered that the molasses, when preserved for a long time, fermented and could be used as a spirit and called it “Kill Devil”. Mount Gay Rum is the oldest rum brand in the world, dating back to 1703. Today, rum is exported to 110 countries around the world.
- Tap water is some of the cleanest and safest in the world to drink, as it comes from underground aquifers.
- The ‘Chattel Houses’ are typical buildings on the island. These are unique houses built in such a way that it is possible to move the structure from one place to another, with the sides, floor, and roof almost intact.
- The use of any camouflage is illegal in Barbados.
- Bathing topless / naked is illegal on its beaches.
B. How to Get Around Barbados
Public transportation is always the most economical alternative to get around the island. Buses (blue), minibuses (yellow) and shared taxis, called ZR (white), reach all cities and towns. They are easy to use and cost only 1.75 USD or 3.50 BBD per trip. It is recommended to have exact change, as not all buses can offer change.
Riding in one of the shared taxis is quite an experience. Some take it to another level 😂
However, if you plan to explore the interior of Barbados, renting a vehicle would be a good idea.
What I did was get around by public transportation and rent a car for a day to visit the centre and the East of the island.
As a reminder, in Barbados, due to its British past, they drive on the left.
If you are considering renting a car, I recommend reading my post, Car Rentals (Complete Guide), where I provide all the necessary information and tips to avoid any surprises when renting a vehicle.
C. Barbados: 10-Day Itinerary
Below, you will find the map of visiting Barbados in 10 days. Each day is colour-coded and numbered to indicate the order of the sites to visit.
My hotel was located in the south of the island, about 2 miles from Bridgetown, hence the order of the places. However, if your accommodation is located somewhere else, you may want to change that order.
1. Barbados — Day 1
It’s our first day in paradise, so we’ll spend the day relaxing on the beach and taking advantage of the all-inclusive hotel.
It looks like the birds also like piña coladas 🍹😂
2. Barbados — Day 2
Carlisle Bay’s
This beautiful bay is only 1 mile south of Bridgetown, and there are many buses and shared taxis going there.
It is home to six shipwrecks. From the most shallow to the deepest, they are Barge, Cornwallis, Berwyn, Bajan Queen, C-Trek, and Eilon.
These wrecks are home to tropical fish, groupers, seahorses, and frogfish, making it a perfect spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Most boat trips, which you can book on the beach, will also include swimming with turtles. Do it if you can because it’s a fantastic experience 🤩
And, after so much experience, it’s time to relax on the beach 😎🏖️
3. Barbados — Day 3
After two days of relaxation, it’s time to do some sightseeing. Today, we’re taking the bus to go to Bridgetown.
Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, has a central business district that is the primary focus for major offices, parliamentary activities, and shopping on the island.
Things to see here:
The Parliament
Barbados is home to the 3rd oldest legislature in this hemisphere. The building is still in its original use and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Synagogue Historic District
The Synagogue Historic District is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that features the Nidle Israel Synagogue, built in 1654, the original Mikvah and a Museum. A new Social Hall was built in the courtyard for special events, and it includes the largest Quaker burial site in Barbados.
The Nidhe Israel Museum exhibits the compelling history of the Barbados Jewish community and its significant contribution to Barbadian heritage and society. The museum features a timeline chronicling the Jewish settlement and its involvement in the sugar industry. You can see historical artefacts and interactive displays designed to provide a more immersive and detailed experience.
One quick stop for food and drinks at a local bar. The place doesn’t look great, but the curry chicken was delicious!
Rihanna Drive
Another must-see on the island is the childhood home of Barbadian sensation Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty. Located just outside of Bridgetown, the street where Rihanna grew up has been renamed in her honour.
A commemorative plaque now marks the entrance of the one-way street on the outskirts of Bridgetown. The street is lined with colourful houses just across from Spring Garden Highway.
Rum Tasting
Our next stop will be to taste the oldest rum brand in the world: Mount Gay.
The visitor centre is just a 10-minute walk from Rihanna’s former home.
Maybe it’s because I’m not used to drinking neat rum, but, oh boy, those were strong!😖
Shopping
If you’re looking to go shopping in Bridgetown, you’ll discover a variety of souvenirs, from high-end jewellery stores to local street vendors and everything in between.
Bridgetown Duty-Free (10-14, Upper, Broad St) is Barbados’ largest department store in the heart of the capital. The best in Duty-Free shopping with fine jewellery, souvenirs, fragrances, clothing, and accessories.
4. Barbados — Day 4
This morning, we will relax on the beach.
But today is Friday, so in the evening, we’ll go to Oistins for Fly Fish night.
Oistins, located on the southernmost tip of the island, is the smallest town in Barbados. It’s also the most popular place to go for authentic Bajan culture and charm.
This charming fishing village is brimming with character and offers an array of top-notch seafood, refreshing drinks, lively music, and craft souvenirs. A must-visit destination, especially on Friday nights!
5. Barbados — Day 5
Today, the weather wasn’t the best, so we spent the morning by the pool.
In the afternoon, we walked to the Richard Haynes Boardwalk. The South Coast Boardwalk is one of the best locations for a nice outdoor run, beach hopping, or grabbing a local beer or sunset cocktail at one of the restaurants along the way. It stretches 1 mile between Camelot and the famous Barbados Accra beach.
Thereafter, we took one of the shared taxis to St. Lawrence Gap, sometimes just called “The Gap”, located on the south coast.
It is one of the best-known neighbourhoods in Barbados, also known as the entertainment capital.
Found between Worthing and Oistins, it features a 1-mile stretch of bars, hotels, clubs, restaurants, and shops.
If you enjoy Mexican cuisine, Café Sol is the place for you. They offer delicious food and cocktails with a view of the sea. What more could you ask for?
6. Barbados — Day 6
It’s a beautiful day, so we’ll be enjoying the beach again. What a life!
7. Barbados — Day 7
We’ve rented a car for the day to visit the centre of the island and tour around places where public transport is not reliable.
Harrison’s Cave
The first stop will be a beautiful cave. At the heart of Barbados, 8.6 miles (14 km) Northeast of Bridgetown, lies one of its greatest wonders – Harrison’s Cave.
It’s a massive stream cave system that is at least 1.5 miles long. Located in the central uplands of the island, deep pools of crystal clear water and towering columns characterise this crystallised limestone cave.
There are different types of tours that you can check on their website.
Hunte’s Gardens
Only 3 miles (4.83 km) to the East, we’ll find Hunte’s Gardens.
The botanical garden was created in the 1950s by horticulturist Anthony Hunte in an unusual sinkhole-like gully. It contains a notable recreation of the Caribbean Forest and includes a plant collection of international importance.
The garden is known for its delightfully eccentric owner, Anthony Hunte, who plays classical music throughout the garden. Visitors can enjoy the lush tropical gardens with small secret nooks, perfect for relaxing. Climb the upper-level steps to Mr Hunte’s house.
Open every day from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission: USD 20 / BBD 40 per person (cash only).
Bathsheba & East Coast
Driving for 10 min to the Northeast (4 miles), we’ll reach Bathsheba, on the rustic side of Barbados, lapped by the Atlantic Ocean.
The East Coast is where locals go to “get away” from it all. Bathsheba Beach is a paradise for photographers and surfers, offering dramatic rock formations and big waves.
8. Barbados — Day 8
Today, we’re going to visit the Garrison Historic Area, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site with Historic Bridgetown since 2011, which is conveniently just a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
The Historic Garrison is one of eight Cultural Heritage Conservation Areas on the island and is home to one hundred and fifteen listed buildings, representing a distinguished era of military colonial history.
It is the most intact 18th and 19th Century British Colonial garrison in the world and is a World Heritage Site. It served as the headquarters of the Royal Navy and Army and features a unique Caribbean Georgian architectural style.
Main Guard House and Clock Tower
The focal point of the Garrison area is the Main Guard House and Clock Tower, which features a clock tower and an imposing stature. The building has overlooked the historic Garrison Savannah since it was constructed around 1802.
The Main Guard is a part of Saint Ann’s Fort, commonly known as “The Garrison”, with the rest of the fort located across the street.
Garrison Savannah
The Garrison Savannah has been the home of horse racing in Barbados since 1845. It is a grass course that is known internationally for the annual Barbados Gold Cup for Thoroughbreds. The race takes place on the six-furlong track around the perimeter of the green. Additionally, the racetrack hosts the annual Barbados Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing series. It is also used for various recreational activities.
Barbados Museum and Historical Society
The Barbados Museum, in the Garrison Historic Area, is an interactive experience with 500,000 artefacts that preserve the history of Barbados and the Caribbean up to the 21st century.
George Washington House
In 1751, 19-year-old George Washington and his ailing brother Lawrence resided in a historic plantation house in Barbados, the only foreign country Washington ever visited.
Accessible only from George Washington House and Museum, a network of at least nine tunnels in the Savannah area was rediscovered in June 2011. These tunnels were likely built for the Garrison troops in the 1820s in case of an invasion.
Finally, to wrap up the day, it’s time to unwind and relax on the beach (yes, again!).
9. Barbados — Day 9
Today, we are heading out early to watch the racehorses bathing in the sea at Pebbles Beach.
It’s only 1.3 miles (ca. 2 km) from Bridgetown and just a 15-minute walk from my hotel, so it’s very convenient. We need to be there early to catch this remarkable sight, which happens every morning between 6 am and 7 am.
You’ll have the opportunity to stroke them. Don’t miss it!
On the southern end of the beach, there is a well-known food stand called Cuzz Café. It’s famed for its fish cutters, which are considered the best sandwiches around. A cutter is a sandwich served on a roll-type bread known as Bajan Salt Bread. It’s said that trying a Cuzz cutter is a must, but unfortunately, it was closed when I visited.
For the rest of the day, we’ll take advantage of the beach for the last time 😎🥺
10. Barbados — Day 10
Sadly, our fantastic holiday has come to an end, and today is the day to return home. We still have the morning to enjoy the pool until lunchtime. Thereafter, we will head to the airport.
Goodbye, Barbados.
Other things to do
Other things you can do while on the island are the following:
- Arlington House Museum. It is a three-story museum in a restored eighteenth-century building in Speightstown. This quaint town has many bars and restaurants and original 18th-century architecture.
- St. Nicholas Abbey & Heritage Railway (SNAHR). It is a 1-mile-long heritage narrow gauge railway with a 2.6 ft in gauge. The 45-minute ride includes a stop at Cherry Tree Hill, with magnificent views. Visitors can take a guided tour of the great house, boiling house, and rum distillery and explore the surrounding gardens and orchards.
- The Animal Flower Cave. This cave and saltwater lake are located under a cliff on the north of the island, with the mouth of the cave opening to a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean. The Animal Flower Cave is open daily.
- Vujaday Music Festival. Vujaday is a 5-day music festival that takes place in early April. The festival features a line-up of house and techno music by renowned international DJs and local favourites.
- Farmers markets such as Brighton Farmers Market in St. George and Barven Super Outdoor Market in Bridgetown on the Mighty Grynner Highway are great places to visit.
I hope you enjoyed this itinerary.
Additional Information
You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.
📌 If you prefer to see them separated by continents, check them in Portfolios.
Alternatively, in the section Destinations, they are classified based on the type of trip:
Remember to check the Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.
If you need any clarification, you can leave me a comment or fill out the contact form. I will be happy to help you 🙂
