Barbados 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Barbados Itinerary:

This itinerary offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, history, and culture, showcasing the diverse experiences Barbados has to offer. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and budget!

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Bliss

  • Morning: Arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI).
  • Things to Know: Barbados is known for its stunning beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. Remember to pack sunscreen, swimwear, and insect repellent.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach! Settle into your hotel or Airbnb near a popular beach like Dover Beach, Crane Beach, or Bathsheba Beach.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Oistins Fish Fry (Friday night is best for the full experience) and soak in the lively atmosphere with music, dancing, and fresh seafood.

Day 2: Exploring Bridgetown & Beaches

  • Morning: Wander through historic Bridgetown, the capital city, visiting landmarks like the Garrison Savannah, Parliament Buildings, and St. Michael’s Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the boardwalk in Carlisle Bay, a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
  • Evening: Enjoy a rum punch at a beachfront bar while listening to live music and watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

Day 3: Beach Day & Island Nightlife

  • Morning/Afternoon: Beach day! Explore the beaches of Carlisle Bay, known for its calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Evening: Head to the St. Lawrence Gap for a taste of Barbados’ nightlife. Enjoy live music, dancing, and delicious Caribbean cuisine at one of the many restaurants and bars in this lively area.

Day 4: History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit a historical site like Harrison’s Cave, a breathtaking underground cave system with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Barbados Museum and Historical Society to learn about the island’s history, from its early inhabitants to its colonial past.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Bajan meal at a local restaurant. Consider trying flying fish and chips or cou-cou and flying fish for an authentic taste of the island.

Day 5: Beach Adventures & Rum Shops

  • Morning/Afternoon: Spend the day enjoying water sports at Bathsheba Beach, known for its rugged beauty and excellent surfing conditions.
  • Evening: Relax with a refreshing rum punch and local snacks in a vibrant rum shop. These informal bars are a great way to experience Bajan nightlife and culture.

Day 6: Island Exploration

  • Morning: Take a scenic drive along the west coast of Barbados, stopping at charming villages like Speightstown and Holetown for breakfast, shopping, and exploration.

  • Afternoon: Hike through the lush Scotland District, discover hidden beaches and stunning scenery.

  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. For a more relaxed vibe, try The Tides Restaurant in Holetown.

Day 7: Departure & Memories

  • Depart from Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI). Before leaving, remember to pick up some souvenirs from the airport shops or local markets.

  • Think about:

  • Day 7 is your last day in Barbados. Make sure you enjoy a final taste of the island’s charm.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: The Barbadian dollar (BBD) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.

  • Language: English is the official language.

  • Transportation: Consider renting a car for more flexibility in exploring the island. Public transportation is readily available and affordable.

Visa Requirements:

  • For most nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, a visa is not required for tourist stays of up to 6 months.
  • Check with the Barbados Immigration Department for specific requirements based on your nationality.

This itinerary offers just a starting point. You can adjust it to include more of what interests you:

  • Day 2: Enjoy the beach and explore the island’s natural beauty.
  • Day 3: Consider visiting a rum distillery like Mount Gay Rum for a tour and tasting.

For example:

  • Visit the Barbados Rum Distillery: Explore the history of rum production in Barbados, one of the oldest rum producers in the world.
  • Explore the Garrison Savannah: This historic racecourse is a great place to enjoy a relaxed day watching horses train or the locals play cricket.
  • Relax at Carlisle Bay Beach:

Enjoy the calm waters and explore the beautiful beach at Carlisle Bay. Relax with a delicious meal and a cold rum punch at one of the many beachside restaurants or bars.

Enjoy the beauty of Barbados:

  • Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters: Head to Carlisle Bay for snorkeling among shipwrecks, swimming with sea turtles, or exploring the beaches and reefs on a boat tour.
  • Relax and enjoy the nightlife:

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Bridgetown, with options ranging from lively bars along the Bay Street strip to beach parties at The Boatyard.

Experience a local rum shop:

These are small, informal bars where you can taste authentic Barbadian cuisine. Enjoy the atmosphere and try some traditional dishes like flying fish and cou-cou, pepperpot, or flying fish cutters.