THE BEST BARBADOS ITINERARY: 10 DAYS IN BARBADOS + INSIDER TIPS [2023]

Barbados, often referred to as the “Gem of the Caribbean,” is a stunning island nation located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. It’s known for its pristine white-sand beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, exploring historical sites, or savoring local cuisine, this 10-day Barbados itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

In this Barbados travel itinerary, you’ll discover insider tips on where to stay, the best activities to enjoy, and how to make the most of your visit to this beautiful island. We’ve also included options for a shorter 5-day Barbados itinerary and an extended 2-week adventure.

From the turquoise waters, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant festivals to the historic sites, local delicacies, and lively nightlife, Barbados offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. Get ready to explore the best of Barbados!

PLANNING YOUR BARBADOS ITINERARY: QUICK TIPS

WHERE TO STAY

Finding the right accommodation in Barbados can significantly impact your experience. Whether you prefer beachfront resorts, cozy guesthouses, or vacation rentals, Barbados offers a wide range of options to suit your preferences. Popular areas to consider include St. Lawrence Gap for nightlife, Holetown for luxury resorts, and Bathsheba for a more laid-back coastal experience.

BEST GUIDED TOURS

• My Top Tip: Explore Barbados at your own pace by renting a car, allowing you to access the island’s hidden gems.
• Don’t forget to pack a waterproof dry bag and a waterproof phone case for your beach and water adventures.
• Reading a travel guide like “Lonely Planet Barbados” can enhance your anticipation for the trip.

10-DAY BARBADOS TRAVEL ITINERARY: AN OVERVIEW

With 10 days in Barbados, you have the perfect opportunity to experience the island’s diverse attractions, both popular and hidden gems. Before diving into the details, here’s a quick overview of how to spend the perfect 10 days in Barbados.

• Day 1-2: Bridgetown and Carlisle Bay
• Day 3: Animal Flower Cave and North Point
• Day 4: Holetown and Folkestone Marine Park
• Day 5: Oistins and Miami Beach
• Day 6: Harrison’s Cave and Welchman Hall Gully
• Day 7: Bathsheba and Andromeda Botanic Gardens
• Day 8: St. Lawrence Gap and Dover Beach
• Day 9: Barbados Wildlife Reserve and Hunte’s Gardens
• Day 10: Explore Local Cuisine and Departure

✈️ HOW TO GET TO BARBADOS

The primary gateway to Barbados is Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), located in the capital city of Bridgetown. The airport is well-connected with numerous international flights, making it easily accessible.

Insider Tip: Consider searching for flights to neighboring Caribbean islands with good flight connections to Barbados. It might be more cost-effective and offer a unique island-hopping experience.

🚗 GETTING AROUND BARBADOS

• Rent a car: Renting a car in Barbados is one of the most convenient ways to explore the island. The road network is well-maintained and driving is on the left side of the road. It gives you the flexibility to visit various attractions and hidden spots at your own pace.

Why rent a car: Public transportation on the island is available, but renting a car provides more freedom and efficiency, especially for reaching less accessible areas.

🚗 HOW TO RENT A CAR IN BARBADOS

• Choose the type of car: Renting a car in Barbados is best arranged in advance online. Opt for a vehicle that suits your needs, from compact cars for city driving to SUVs for off-road adventures.
• Prices and logistics: Car rental rates can start at around $40-50 USD per day for a basic car, while larger vehicles may cost more. Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.

THE ULTIMATE 10-DAY BARBADOS ITINERARY

🌴 DAY 1-2: BRIDGETOWN AND CARLISLE BAY

Begin your Barbados adventure in the vibrant capital, Bridgetown. Explore the city’s historic sites, including the Parliament Buildings, Independence Square, and the historic Garrison. Visit the Barbados Museum to dive deeper into the island’s history.

• Must-Visit: The UNESCO-listed Bridgetown and its Garrison is a significant cultural and historical site.
• Savor local cuisine: Try Barbadian specialties such as cou cou, flying fish, and macaroni pie at a local eatery.

Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful Carlisle Bay beach, perfect for swimming and water sports.

Insider Tip: If you’re interested in diving or snorkeling, there are excellent opportunities to explore shipwrecks and vibrant marine life right off the coast.

🌅 DAY 3: ANIMAL FLOWER CAVE AND NORTH POINT

On Day 3, head to the rugged north of the island. Visit the famous Animal Flower Cave, known for its natural beauty and sea caves. Take in the stunning views from North Point.

Insider Tip: Guided tours of the Animal Flower Cave are available, providing insights into the geological formations and local history.

🏖️ DAY 4: HOLETOWN AND FOLKESTONE MARINE PARK

Explore the charming town of Holetown, known for its luxury resorts and shopping. Don’t miss the chance to visit Folkestone Marine Park, a protected marine reserve offering snorkeling and underwater adventures.

Insider Tip: Rent snorkeling equipment or join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the colorful marine life and coral formations within the marine park.

🍽️ DAY 5: OISTINS AND MIAMI BEACH

Oistins is renowned for its Friday night fish fry, a lively gathering with live music, delicious seafood, and a great atmosphere. During the day, relax at the beautiful Miami Beach.

Insider Tip: Explore the local food stalls at Oistins, where you can sample various seafood dishes.

🌳 DAY 6: HARRISON’S CAVE AND WELCHMAN HALL GULLY

Discover the underground wonder of Harrison’s Cave, where you can take a tram tour through incredible caverns and crystalline formations. Later, visit Welchman Hall Gully, a tropical forest filled with unique plant species.

Insider Tip: It’s a good idea to book your cave tour in advance, as it can get busy during peak hours.

🌊 DAY 7: BATHSHEBA AND ANDROMEDA BOTANIC GARDENS

Head to Bathsheba on the island’s east coast, known for its striking rock formations and world-class surfing. Explore the Andromeda Botanic Gardens, home to a remarkable variety of tropical plants.

Insider Tip: If you’re not a surfer, simply enjoy the mesmerizing views of the powerful Atlantic Ocean at Bathsheba.

🌮 DAY 8: ST. LAWRENCE GAP AND DOVER BEACH

St. Lawrence Gap is Barbados’s nightlife hub, with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Enjoy a night out and explore the lively atmosphere. During the day, soak up the sun at Dover Beach.

Insider Tip: Check out local establishments for live music and cultural performances in the evenings.

🐾 DAY 9: BARBADOS WILDLIFE RESERVE AND HUNTE’S GARDENS

Experience the local wildlife at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, where you can observe Barbadian green monkeys and other animals. Visit Hunte’s Gardens for a serene and picturesque escape amidst lush greenery.

Insider Tip: Arrive at the wildlife reserve during the feeding times to get a closer look at the animals.

🍹 DAY 10: EXPLORE LOCAL CUISINE AND DEPARTURE

On your final day in Barbados, take some time to indulge in local cuisine. Visit a local rum shop for a taste of Barbados’ famous rum punch, and don’t forget to enjoy one last swim in the turquoise waters. Depart from Grantley Adams International Airport with incredible memories of your Barbados adventure.

PROLONG YOUR TRIP — 2 WEEKS BARBADOS ITINERARY

If you have some extra time in Barbados and would prefer a 2-week itinerary, here are some ways you can spend the next 4 days in this country.

• 2-Week Barbados Itinerary

  Option 1: Explore the Heart of Barbados

  • Day 11-14: Bridgetown and South Coast
    • Day 11: Drive from St. Lucy to Bridgetown (about a 1-hour drive). Spend the afternoon exploring Bridgetown’s historic sites, such as Parliament Buildings and the Barbados Museum.
    • Day 12: Relax on the beautiful beaches of the south coast, like Rockley Beach. Enjoy watersports, sunbathing, and local cuisine at the boardwalk restaurants.
    • Day 13: Discover Oistins and its famous Friday night fish fry. Explore the lively atmosphere and enjoy delicious seafood.
    • Day 14: Visit the Barbados Wildlife Reserve to see green monkeys and other local wildlife. Then, spend the afternoon exploring Hunte’s Gardens.

  Option 2: Explore the East Coast and North Barbados

  • Day 11-14: East Coast and North Barbados
    • Day 11: Drive from Bridgetown to Bathsheba on the east coast (about a 1-hour drive). Explore the rugged beauty of Bathsheba’s rock formations and watch the surfers.
    • Day 12: Visit Andromeda Botanic Gardens and hike along the scenic coastline. Take in the breathtaking views.
    • Day 13: Explore the Animal Flower Cave in North Point and enjoy the dramatic cliffs and sea caves.
    • Day 14: Drive back to Bridgetown (about a 1-hour drive) and spend your last day shopping for souvenirs and savoring local cuisine.

  5-Day Barbados Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Bridgetown and explore the capital, including historic sites like the Parliament Buildings and Independence Square.
  • Day 2: Take a day trip to beautiful Carlisle Bay for swimming and watersports.
  • Day 3: Explore the UNESCO-listed Bridgetown and its Garrison, delving into the island’s history. Enjoy local cuisine.
  • Day 4: Head to St. Lawrence Gap for a taste of Barbados’ nightlife and soak up the sun at Dover Beach during the day.
  • Day 5: Visit the Barbados Wildlife Reserve to see green monkeys and Hunte’s Gardens for a tranquil escape before your departure.

  These itineraries should provide a delightful experience of Barbados, whether you have two weeks or just five days to explore the island’s beauty and culture.

USEFUL THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING BARBADOS

GETTING THE BARBADOS EVISA

Barbados offers an eVisa to citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, UK, and most countries in the EU. The eVisa is easy to obtain, and you can [apply for it here](insert link). The cost is approximately 50 USD, and it allows you to stay in the country for up to 30 days.

BARBADOS TRAVEL INSURANCE

Having travel insurance is essential for peace of mind when visiting Barbados. It’s highly recommended because, let’s face it, the last thing you want on any trip is for accidents and mishaps to disrupt your plans.

CURRENCY & ATMS IN BARBADOS

The currency in Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD), and 1 BBD is roughly equivalent to 0.50 USD. The country is modern, with ATMs widely available at the airport, hotels, banks, and throughout the island. Major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted for most transactions.

COSTS OF TRAVELING IN BARBADOS

• Accommodations: Expect to pay around $50 – $70 USD per night for a double room in a 3-star or 4-star hotel.
• Food: Budget around $10 – $15 USD per meal per person.
• Car Rental: A 10-day car rental, including a 4WD, might cost around $550 USD.
• Fuel: A full tank for a 4WD might cost approximately $35 USD.
• SIM Card: You can purchase a SIM card for around $13 USD, which typically includes 2GB of data and unlimited WhatsApp usage, valid for 10 days.

FOOD IN BARBADOS

Barbados offers a variety of delicious traditional dishes and snacks. Some of the must-try items include:

• Cou-cou and flying fish (a national dish)
• Pepperpot (a spicy meat stew)
• Macaroni pie
• Fish cutter (a local sandwich)
• Bajan black cake (a traditional dessert)
• Coconut bread

IS ENGLISH SPOKEN IN BARBADOS?

English is the official language of Barbados, making travel in this country straightforward. You shouldn’t encounter significant language barriers while exploring the island.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BARBADOS

For the best weather and a bit more crowds, consider visiting Barbados from November through March, with temperatures ranging from 62°F to 86°F (17°C to 30°C). If you prefer fewer crowds but hotter temperatures, April and August through October offer temperatures between 77°F and 96°F (25°C to 36°C). It’s advisable to avoid visiting during the hottest months from May to July, when temperatures can reach up to 104°F (40°C).

WHAT TO WEAR IN BARBADOS

While Barbados doesn’t have specific dress code requirements, if you plan to visit religious sites, it’s respectful to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders. Also, don’t forget to wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

IS BARBADOS SAFE TO VISIT?

Barbados is known for its safety. It’s considered one of the safest countries to travel to, even for solo female travelers. The low crime rate can be attributed to the strong adherence to local laws.

INTERNET & SIM CARDS IN BARBADOS

Most hotels in Barbados offer fast and reliable WiFi, which can be used for downloading offline maps. However, if you prefer having a local SIM card, consider using the services of Barbados’ main telecom provider.

BARBADOS ITINERARY 10 DAYS – FINAL THOUGHTS

I hope this guide to Barbados has been helpful and provided you with valuable information for your trip. Barbados is undoubtedly a spectacular destination, and I trust you’ll share the same sentiment after your visit. If you’re interested in exploring other captivating places in the Caribbean, don’t miss the enchanting beauty of Barbados.