Plan Your Trip

Travel Planning Guide

Everything you need to know to prepare for your Barbados adventure. From getting there to staying safe, we've got you covered.

365

Days of Sunshine

80+

Beautiful Beaches

BBD

Local Currency

UTC-4

Time Zone

Getting Started

Getting to Barbados

Barbados is easily accessible from North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) is the main entry point.

By Air

Most visitors fly into Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), located on the south coast. The airport has direct flights from:

  • • North America: New York, Toronto, Miami, Boston
  • • Europe: London, Manchester, Frankfurt
  • • Caribbean: Trinidad, Jamaica, Antigua

Flight times: 4-5 hours from US East Coast, 7-8 hours from Europe, 1-2 hours from Caribbean islands.

Entry Requirements

Before traveling, ensure you have:

  • ✓ Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • ✓ Return ticket or proof of onward travel
  • ✓ Proof of accommodation
  • ✓ Sufficient funds for your stay
  • ✓ Online entry form completed before arrival

Most visitors receive a 6-month visitor stamp upon entry.

From the Airport

Grantley Adams Airport is about 15km (9 miles) from Bridgetown. Transportation options include:

Taxis

Fixed rates from airport. Approximately BBD $50-80 to most hotels. Agree on price before entering.

Car Rental

Multiple companies at airport. Rates from BBD $100+/day. Drive on the left side of the road.

Hotel Transfers

Many hotels offer airport pickup. Book in advance for convenience and potentially better rates.

On the Island

Getting Around Barbados

The island is compact and easy to navigate. Multiple transportation options are available depending on your budget and preferences.

Public Buses

Affordable and widely used by locals. Buses are colorful and frequent on main routes.

  • Cost: BBD $2-3 per ride
  • Routes: Cover most of the island
  • Schedule: Frequent but not always on time
  • Best for: Budget travelers, experiencing local culture

Taxis

Readily available and convenient, though more expensive than buses.

  • Cost: BBD $10-50+ depending on distance
  • Availability: Abundant, especially in tourist areas
  • Tip: Agree on price before entering
  • Best for: Convenience, specific destinations

Car Rental

Best for flexibility and exploring at your own pace.

  • Cost: BBD $100-300+/day
  • License: Valid international driver's license required
  • Driving: Left side of road, British-style
  • Best for: Exploring multiple beaches and attractions

Rental Scooters

Convenient for short trips and experienced riders.

  • Cost: BBD $50-100/day
  • Helmet: Required by law
  • Insurance: Highly recommended
  • Best for: Adventurous travelers, short distances
Money Matters

Currency & Banking

Barbados uses the Barbados Dollar (BBD). The exchange rate is fixed at 1 USD = 2 BBD.

Currency Information

  • • Official currency: Barbados Dollar (BBD)
  • • Exchange rate: 1 USD = 2 BBD (fixed)
  • • US Dollars: Widely accepted, change given in BBD

Banking & Cards

  • • Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard widely accepted in hotels/restaurants
  • • ATMs: Available island-wide, dispense BBD
  • • Tipping: 10-15% is standard if service charge not included

Visa & Entry Information

Most visitors receive a 6-month visitor stamp upon entry. Before arrival, you'll need to complete an online entry form and have the required documents ready. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Citizens of most countries don't need a visa for tourism purposes.

For specific visa requirements based on your nationality, check with the Barbados immigration website or your nearest Barbados embassy.

At a Glance

Quick Reference

Essential Numbers

  • Emergency: 911
  • Police: 211
  • Ambulance: 511
  • Fire: 311
  • Tourist Info: +1-246-427-2623
  • Country Code: +1-246

Useful Information

  • Capital: Bridgetown
  • Population: ~290,000
  • Language: English
  • Voltage: 110V/220V, 50Hz
  • Driving: Left side of road
  • Plugs: US/UK style

Ready to Plan Your Barbados Adventure?

Explore more resources and start planning your perfect Caribbean getaway today.

Explore Beaches Things to Do