The Ultimate Barbados Itinerary | How to spend one week in Barbados
Are you looking for an unforgettable Barbados itinerary? This is the best guide you can find about the Caribbean island. All you need to know about how to spend a week in Barbados, from sunbathing on the most beautiful beaches and sipping the local rum punch to exciting excursions around the island. Discover more through our guide to Barbados in one week.
Organising a trip to Barbados is never too easy. It can be for a honeymoon, a lifetime trip, or a relaxing week after a year of hard work. This guide will showcase all the best things to do in Barbados. Tour the island with us on a day-by-day itinerary of Barbados.
This was, for us, a lifetime opportunity to visit one of the most wonderful places in the world. Barbados is popular for the unspoiled beaches, the surf retreats, the crystal clear water and all year-round warm weather. Barbados has it all and can fill an exciting week without equals.

What can you do in one week in Barbados?
Barbados Itinerary Overview
It was our first time in the Caribbean, and Barbados didn’t disappoint. After spending more than one week in Barbados and discovering every island corner, we can assure you it is a dreamy holiday. Barbados is a one-of-a-kind place full of fantastic beaches, exciting activities, friendly locals, tasty food and a lot of fun.
We are very active travellers and couldn’t just stay on the beach or by the pool sipping a drink all day (even though we have done it for a few days). So if you are like us, continue reading our guide to Barbados and note down some of our tips.
Be ready to experience Barbados as much as possible, going everywhere just renting a car or getting on board a crazy reggae taxi. Don’t forget to visit Oistins on Friday night for the best fish-fried market and enjoy a speechless sunset.
This guide will also find some exciting information about St. Lawrence Gap, secret beaches and the perfect surfer’s spots. Everything can be done following our one week Barbados itinerary.
Things to know before travelling to Barbados
Is Barbados worth visiting?
Yes. Barbados can be your lifetime holiday and the unique destination everyone aims for. The island offers incredible landscapes and beautiful beaches.
Even though it might be expensive, as it’s one of the most luxurious destinations, it can still be done with a discrete budget without leaving the pleasant feeling of local activities.
Read the full article on why Barbados is worth visiting!

Essential guide to Barbados
What is the Currency in Barbados?
Barbados has a currency that is correlated to US Dollar. Because of that, you can expect a change in US dollars and even pay somewhere with this currency. The local currency is the Barbadian Dollars. Check the current exchange rate in Barbados. The best bank we found without fees was the Republic Bank.
Entry visa requirements for Barbados
A visa is not needed to enter Barbados for citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom and Europe. But a long list of nationalities requires a visa in order to enter.
You may get this information and further instructions on the official Barbados tourism website. If you are willing to stay longer than 7 days in Barbados and settle for a few months working remotely, the island’s government recently created a digital nomad visa.
The authorization allows you to stay in Barbados for up to 12 months and work remotely. Check the news on the official website.
Barbados Travel Insurance
Nowadays, booking travel insurance is becoming part of the travelling plan. However, it’s just a precaution, and you should consider it even if you are an experienced traveller. Barbados is a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, and you don’t want surprises.
his includes activities like diving, surfing and snorkelling, and it’s essential to have travel insurance. However, this is not just indicated because medical problems might occur, but also because of the connection between train and flight if your luggage gets lost.
In addition, many Rental car agencies will lower the cost of car insurance if you have your Travel insurance, or this might cover the costs of car accidents or damage to the car entirely. For us, having Travel Insurance is the way to enjoy our vacation with peace of mind.
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Best time to visit Barbados?
You can’t plan the perfect Barbados Itinerary without looking deeply at the weather forecast. Before travelling to Barbados, you should know that the best time to enjoy the island is from December to April. This period is known as the dry season, with less chance of rain. We stayed one week in Barbados in May, and the weather was still pleasant, with just a few hours of rain a day and sunshine for the rest.
However, Barbados is well known to have a pleasant temperature all year round, with temperatures between 23 – 30 Celsius. So even visiting Barbados in June and the hottest month, you can still enjoy the beaches and a few days out.
If you plan to visit Barbados at Christmas, you should know that this is the busiest time of the year. Prices are higher, and you will find more people around. Even though hurricanes are not likely to hit Barbados, as the island is just out of the belt of these, the season for this kind of event is from June to September. You will experience tropical storms and high humidity when visiting the island in this period.
How long do you need in Barbados?
It’s never enough time to spend in paradise. Barbados in a week is the perfect time to explore the island, enjoy local traditions and have the best time on the beach.
The ideal plan is to visit Barbados between 5 and 7 days.
If you can stretch the time, explore the island a bit more, or spend time relaxing on the beach working remotely, why don’t you plan a better 10 days in Barbados?
When is Rainy Season in Barbados?
The official rainy season in Barbados is from June to November. However, these come as storms. We experienced Barbados in May, and even though there were sporadic storms, these lasted no more than an hour, and sunshine was coming again afterwards.
So rest assured that if your holidays are in these months, you can still enjoy the best of Barbados.
What is the Best Month to Visit Barbados?
Many people refer to the best months from March to the end of April, which is the high season and when the island becomes most lively. The temperature is pleasant, but talking with locals, they suggested we visit Barbados in May, as we did.
It may come with cheaper flights and lower fees for accommodations. We stayed at the Hilton Hotel Resort, and it was perfect.

Climate in Barbados
The weather has a significant impact on when is the ideal time to visit Barbados. The hurricane season and later the rainy season begin in the fall, but the weather is less consistent and more unpredictable even during a set season.
Even during the rainy season, you might experience a few hours of tropical rain, followed by the sun’s appearance and a 30-minute drying period.
From Christmas through Easter is the ideal time to travel to Barbados. At this time, both the weather and prices are at their best. Even if it may be gloomy, summer is still warm.
Is Barbados safe?
Yes! We felt super safe; there was no time that we felt unsafe, and the locals were so friendly. We often left unattended items in the pool or beach, and nothing was happening.
Furthermore, we felt safe after visiting the Oistins fish fry market on Friday, surrounded by many people.
How to get around Barbados
Hiring a car in Barbados
Tips about driving in Barbados
Roads in Barbados are often tight and on the edge of cliffs (yes, these offer incredible scenery). However, you will usually drive on dirt roads, and the pavement is not perfect. Driving in Barbados takes a lot out of your skills, but it’s incredible, and we felt free.
Between the main cities, there are highways, which will also take you to the airport. Between Bridgetown and Oistins, the road is not perfectly illuminated, so have extra caution when driving at night.
Do I need an international driving licence?
Yes, you require a driving licence and also pay for a local international acceptance. The rental car company will do everything for you when you book your car. After that, everything goes smoothly, and you have to enjoy the drive through the Barbados hills.

Essential activities for a week in Barbados
Checking the activities by Get Your Guide or Viator is a fantastic way to get a sense of things to do in Barbados. You won’t need to search the internet or wander the streets looking for the most excellent offer because they work directly with regional tour providers.
Some of the activities we suggest:
Best tours in Barbados
Overview of our seven day Barbados itinerary
While one week in Barbados is what you expect from a long year working toward putting aside money for this trip, it is important to have a clear plan before boarding. Following our Barbados Itinerary, you will be sure to leave the little island with a bounce of memories that will just let you fly away with the mind every time you need.
A journey through Barbados in a week will take you to explore every corner of the island. It is easy to get North from South in just about 2 hours of driving through lush greenery, Banana trees and unspoiled hills.
Through this itinerary of Barbados, you will get to discover the popular Animal Flower Cave and some others along the coast. Drive West to enjoy some of the best beaches in the Caribbean and unwind snorkelling.
Barbados Itinerary Map | Best places to visit in Barbados
One week in Barbados Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrive and Chill by the pool
Arrive at Bridgetown Airport
The main airport in Barbados is the Grantley Adams International airport, a small but modern complex, mostly outdoor (at the time of our visit), which welcomes tourists from everywhere in the world.
There are direct flights from Europe from London, Athens, and the US from Miami, New York, and Toronto. The airport also has short-haul flights to nearby islands, Dominica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Sint Maarten, and more. The airport is served by British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Qatar and internally by Caribbean Airlines, interCarribean and SVG air.
Check into your accommodation
We stayed in the Hilton hotel Resort in Barbados. The beautiful luxurious hotel is in a strategic point of the Bridgetown area, close to the best beaches in the southwest and to the island’s main city, but far away enough to relax and take advantage of the crystal clear water and incredible facilities.
On your very first day in Barbados, check in and take time to absorb the jet lag. The best way to get on board with local time is to relax by the pool and sleep early.
Remember that the sun in the Caribbean rises very early in the morning and sets early, too. When we visited Barbados, it was early May, and the sunrise was before 5 am and the sunset around 5 pm, leaving about 12 hours of light a day.

Grab some food if you arrive on Saturday
If your day of arrival is on Saturday, it is worth knowing that many shops are closed on Sunday all over the island.
Many activities observe a day off on Sunday, dedicated to families, go to the beach and stay with friends. We suggest finding the first convenient store and stocking up on some drinks and a few snacks. However, the hotel facilities are always available if you are staying in a hotel.

Relax by the pool or on the nearest beach
As said, your first day should be dedicated to chilling and start enjoying the local vibes. If you choose accommodation near the beaches, like ours, this will be easier. Our first thing was to wear swimwear and get a first dive in the beautiful Caribbean ocean.
The alternative is to stay in the pool area and break down the jet-lag while sipping the famous rum punch.
Day 2 | Explore Bridgetown and enjoy Carlisle bay

Walk through Bridgetown, the Capital of Barbados
On your first day in Barbados or day two of your trip, you should explore the island’s main city. Bridgetown is the Capital of Barbados and is located on the island’s southwest coast.
You will be amused by the colonial architecture and the fine details of the buildings, walking through Broad Street or passing Chamberlain Bridge. Bridgetown is on the Unesco world heritage list, protecting the old town’s properties and Garrison.
The bustling city has a lively market in the backstreet, and you can enjoy some food sampling at the local stands reaching Swan Street, James St or Spry Street.
On day two of your Barbados Itinerary, get to know the local’s traditions, food, and drinks and spend some time touring the city’s alleys. You can also pop in the local duty-free shop to find bargains and souvenirs. We got some for our friends, and it was worth it. On the top floor of the Duty-Free shops, there is always a food court with local dishes; if it is lunchtime, we suggest you get a bite here.
Relax sipping your first Rum Punch
Rum Punch in hand and Seaview were our favourite activities while on Barbados holiday. No Barbados itinerary is worth it without sipping a rum punch. The Caribbean Islands are well known for this refreshing drink, but Barbados has something extraordinary more than others, Mount Gay Rum. The unique Rum is produced on the island and by other brands, but is well known to be the best on the market. Try and let us know in the comments.
Enjoy Carlisle Bay
After your first rum punch, it is time to hit the sandy beaches; we suggest you head to Carlisle Bay, one of the most famous stretches of the coastline of Barbados. The beach is close to Bridgetown and is within walking distance from the Barbados Hotel (We told you that this is the best choice for travellers visiting Barbados for the first time).
Every beach in Barbados is free, and you can take your towel and stay everywhere, even in front of a hotel. Carlisle Bay is not only one of the longest beaches on the island, but is also where there is the highest concentration of water activities, from diving to snorkelling with turtles.

Eat a fish cut at Cuzz’s Fish Stand
It was Sunday indeed, and we wanted to try something local, but everything was a shout. However, just outside the entrance of the Hilton Hotel, there is Cuzz’s Fish Stand. The lovely owner has been there for generations, preparing the best fish cut on the island. Little did we know that we would start to have fish-cut burgers every other day. The fish cut comes at a reasonable price, just 11 Barbados dollars (£4.5/€5.40/$5.45) and is worth every penny.
Cuzz’s Fish stand is open daily and offers drinks for a bargain price; you can have a rum punch and an affordable lunch/dinner in Barbados.
Rent paddle boards
Luckily, we located everything that could make our holidays in Barbados a lifetime memory. Walking out from the main entrance of the Hilton Hotel Resort, we had the Barbados Blue WaterSports.
The Aquatic centre offers anything from a kayak to a paddle board and first-timer surf lessons. Did you know that people come to Barbados for some of the best waves in the Caribbean?

The best sunset on a Catamaran
Barbados Itinerary is all about relaxing, enjoying life and having some of the best memories back home. Staying in Barbados, you have to book your Catamaran experience.
Beautiful boats go up and down Carlisle Bay and nearby hidden beaches to discover the perfect places to dive. Book your tour on a Catamaran Cruise for half a day, or experience a lifetime opportunity by checking this tour with champagne and fruit served on board.
Day 3 | Rent a car and explore the island
The third day on our Barbados itinerary is all about exploring the incredible island. Roam freely around the many beaches, exploring the wild north of the island, which is less developed compared to the south. Again, having a car helped us reach places lacking public transport.
Also, remember that the island is not that large, and you need just about 1-hour drive to go up north. Plan the excursions to the most exciting experiences on the island, such as Harrison Cave, Wildflower Animal cave, the steam railway or even the Mount Gay Distillery (remember that you have to drive).

Enjoy breakfast with an Ocean view
One of the best days in Barbados has to start with an incredible breakfast with an ocean view. We were lucky enough to stay at the Hilton Barbados Hotel Resort, strategically positioned at Needham Point. The hotel features a fantastic terrazza with a view of the lighthouse and is perfect for admiring the sunrise lights. The area becomes a restaurant in the evening, so you can also experience the sunset from here.
The local fresh sourced products are the perfect boost for your day exploring the island, and the scenery is gorgeous. You will relax in paradise with the sound of the waves crashing on the cliffs.
Rent a car and start the adventure
Renting a car in Barbados was one of the most exciting adventures of our holidays. Even if we were initially reluctant and hadn’t’ planned before landing on the island, it went smoothly. The best opportunity was to see more of the surrounding area, feeling the perfect Caribbean vibes.
Renting a car directly to your hotel is hassle-free, but you can also pre-book it in advance. The prices might vary, and you can get everything between $60 to $100 per day, depending on the season. To drive into Barbados, you need an international licence permit and, of course, carry your local licence.
Overall, driving through the narrow roads of Barbados is easy, and you will experience gorgeous scenery. We drove all around the island, discovering hidden beaches and places impossible to reach through public transport.
Explore the North and West side of the island
Explore Harrison’s Cave
The first stop on your tour around Barbados must be Harrison’s Cave. This is the central hillside of the island and might seem totally different compared to the rest of the territory. The landscape is surreal but characteristic of Barbados, with palm trees, sugar canes and greenery. Harrison’s cave itself is a wonderful natural beauty, with towering columns of stalactites and stalagmites.
You will roam around the “rooms” of this insanely beautiful cave, exploring the tunnels beneath the surface formed by natural erosion. We highly suggest including Harrison’s Cave in your Barbados guide.

Step back in time to St. Nicholas Abbey
Another perfect location to visit while on a road trip in Barbados is St. Nicholas Abbey. The beautiful property is one of the oldest on the island, dating back to 1658. The fantastic facade reminds you of the colonial era. Nestled on the beautiful cherry tree hills, the building is perfect to rest after the drive; surrounded by forest, you can sip a refreshing local produced rum punch.
St. Nicholas Abbey is also a fully functioning 350-year distillery, producing exceptional quality rum. The distillery has been on a life mission of preserving history and the perfect recipe for producing fine Rum since the 17th century. You can tour the entire estate on a retro steam railway wagon, reaching the mansion. It’s a fantastic and unique experience in Barbados.
Check out some of the best tours of St. Nicholas Abbey Rum distillery. They run a Rum experience tour every Friday at 1 pm.
Animal Flower Cave
At the extreme north point of the island, there is the Animal flower Cave. The natural caves and pools originated from years and years of erosion and are perfectly carved by the sea waves, giving you the shape of a heart reflecting into the water. You must pay $20 for Barbados to get into the cave, accompanied by a local guide.
The natural cave is slippery; even though we did it with flip-flops, we advise you to take shoes. Nevertheless, you can dive into the natural pool and reach the edge to admire the scenery. Animal flower cave is one of the few natural caves accessible and was used once by smugglers as shelter and hide.

Discover the most beautiful beach in Barbados | Heywoods Beach
While on a road trip in Barbados, we were on a mission to discover the best beaches on the island. Heywoods Beach on the western coast is one of the most secluded and less popular. However, the stretch of sand is one of the cleanest and most gorgeous.
The beach features a private marina at the back that takes wealthy owners directly to a bank entrance to their mansion. Every house has its own direct access to the fine white sand beach.
We were lucky enough to explore the beach with a few people around. Other great things to spot on the beach are the shells and stone gems, with various colours, that we hardly have seen anywhere else on the island.
If you are looking for the perfect Caribbean-looking beach, Heywoods beach is the place to go.
LOCATION | Heywoods Beach

Spend some time or have lunch at Speightstown
Speightstown is the second-largest city of Barbados, located on the island’s northwest coast and is just about 20 kilometres away from Bridgetown, the capital.
For us, and most foreigners, Speightstown looks like just a town/village; with fewer than 4,000 people and one main road passing by everything, there is not much to do in town.
We stayed for a couple of hours, having one of the best meals in Barbados at the fisherman’s Pub, an institution in this part of the island. On our road trip break in Speightstown, we also walked down the Speightstown Pier and strolled around the arcade of Queen’s Street.
Hunte’s Gardens and feel like you’re in a Dickens novel
We got there because of the road signs at Hunte’s Garden along the trip. The green oasis is a stylish garden with 17th-century charm. Walking through the vegetation, you will step back in time or stop for a rum shot.

Mount Gay Rum Tour
We have left as last the tour of Mount Gay Rum distillery, as we want to highlight this part of the trip. It is fantastic to know the history of the famous liquor, but better if you go where the finest from Barbados.
At the end of the trip we got on the plane with about 5 bottles of Mount Gay, some were presents for friends, others just for ourselves.
The guide will take you from the initial step of the production line until the final product. You will also be invited for a tasting, which might be your favourite part of the tour. Book your tour in advance as it sells fast.
Where to eat on day 3 | Barbados Itinerary
After a full day of exploring, you must check out a place before heading to your accommodation. This was a pleasant discovery for us, as we haven’t spotted that on any guide. So let’s say that we are the first!
Just 5 minute’s drive before St. Lawrence Gap; there is the Worthing Square Food Court. This place buzzes every night with food trucks, walking spaces and a show for free. We have been staying in Barbados twice and haven’t spotted many tourists around.
It’s not easy to park your car, but just in front of the food court, there is a convenience store parking space, and there is always something available. You can find the rhythm of the Caribbean in this place, with a track for rum drinks and other cocktails and food from everywhere in the world.
Day 4 | Crave local food, go surfing and explore the west coast
The best part of the trip seems to be on day three, but the Barbados itinerary gets interesting just on day four. Of course, the best way to get into the soul of a new country is to learn its cuisine and traditions. Believe us, Barbados has some of the best food we have tried around the world.
Day four of your one week in Barbados will see you go for some water activities, explore other hidden beaches on the island’s eastern side and walk watching the ocean.
Barbados Itinerary
Explore the East Side of the Island

Bathsheba beach
When we prepared for this trip to Barbados, we sought advice from friends and locals. Naturally, Bathsheba beach was on top of everyone’s suggestions.
However, we visited Barbados in May, and the beach was hit by the tide, depositing corals and algae on the beach. So we can’t assure you it is worth it for the beach, but the landscape was incredible even on a grey day.
Even if it is not the right time to hit the beaches in Bathsheba, you can still enjoy the fresh air and spot some wildlife. Book a tour to explore the island for half a day.
Admire the Ocean at Kitridge Point
As always, we get lost as the map showed us that there was a perfect viewpoint, but it was easy to reach by car. Instead, to reach Kitridge point, you stop the car about 5 minutes walking from the edge.
The view of the Ocean from Kitridge Point is insane and worth the walk.
LOCATION | Kitridge Point
Bottom Bay
Bottom bay is everything you want in a picture about the Caribbean. The insta-worthy beach is gorgeous and located just five minutes drive from Kitridge Point on the Southeast coast of Barbados, a few steps away from the famous Crane Beach.
The fine sandy beach contrasts with the vivid green vegetation and the high cliffs. The surrounding area also makes the sea clearer than other Barbados beaches. Highly recommend including Bottom Bay on your Barbados Itinerary.
Explore hidden beaches at Shark Hole
A little narrow beach nestled between two rocks. The sea waves push hard on the surface, clearing the water and creating some natural pools. Shark hole is not for everyone, but is one of the smallest sandy corners and most secluded. There are many houses around, and the area is famous among vacationers who love Barbados and decided to buy a property.
It’s hardly impossible to find crowds, but as the beach is so small, we suggest getting there early in the morning. There are no shades, and you might treat it as a quick stop on your Barbados itinerary. Best to spare some time on your Itinerary of Barbados to admire this hidden gem.

Explore the surfer’s beach at Surfers Point
We got lost again, searching some beaches on Barbados’s east coast and finding the well-known surfers’ point. Well, it is known by surfers everywhere in the world, coming to reclaim some of the most incredible waves, but not from us. We want to learn how to surf so bad!
LOCATION | Surfer’s Point

Eat at Oistins
On the way back to our hotel in Bridgetown, we passed by Oistins to understand the deal with this little fisherman village that became the island’s centre every Friday.
We stopped our car at the parking lot close to the fish market and walked to the restaurant areas. They are open every day and welcome you with a big smile. The prices are fair, and you can’t go wrong sitting anywhere. We ate at two different places, and both were amazing. Check out Chillin and Grillin , and Uncle George the best in town.
They display dolphins on the menu, but that is not what you think. Instead, it’s the Maui-Maui, a local fish very tasty but neither similar to dolphins.
TIPS | Do you want to experience Oistins Fish Fry hassle free? Check this private transport and tour.
Spend the afternoon at the Chill Cafe Bar
We were so full after Oistins that we had to chill out on the beach with a drink. We were there a few days before and really loved the vibes of the Chill café Bar. This rustic bar with direct access to the beach hosts artists and music at night, creating a lively atmosphere for locals and tourists. The Chill café bar is not far from the Hilton Hotel where we stayed.
You can sip your drink and watch the sea, or run for a refreshing dive and return for another sip. It’s Caribbean vibes; enjoy your time in Barbados.

Walk on the Richard Haynes Boardwalk
The Richard Haynes Boardwalk is perfect for a stroll around and the relaxing sound of the waves crashing on the beach and the rocks. It is a long walk along the shoreline. There are many people running, sipping a drink, walking and chatting. It’s pretty dark at night, so we suggest doing it before sunset.
If it’s Wednesday, go for a party at Harbour lights
Unlimited drinks, fun all night and only on Wednesday. The extravaganza dinner show at Harbour Lights Beach is the place to go on Wednesday. Tourists from everywhere arrive at the beach club to enjoy a fun night with local dishes and a lot of drinks. The night will fire up with performances and music under the stars.
Following this link you will also get your transport sorted, with a round-trip from your hotel, having a perfect night out. The open bar, barbecue dinner and vibrant Caribbean culture will let you enjoy the night in Barbados.
Day 5 | Go snorkelling and Catamaran Cruise
Start with the best breakfast
From the last few days, you understand that breakfast for us is a crucial part of our day. However, starting on the right foot is the best way to have a fantastic time in Barbados.
We challenge you to eat local besides intercontinental breakfast. As Europeans, we are not used to peanut butter, and I did try it for the first time in Barbados. However, passing from Nutella to this was something different.
However, that is not the local food we are talking about; we mainly refer to freshly picked fruit. So stick with it and get some energy boost for your day five in Barbados.
snorkel with turtles or go on a half-day catamaran cruise
Check this snorkelling activity with turtles first, as it often comes cheaper, and you will book your spot in advance.
The best alternative, which costs a bit more but is worth it, is to go a half-day on a catamaran cruise, discover the beaches and cliffs, and snorkel with turtles. Check the best catamaran cruise suggested by us.
This was the day to experience one of the best activities on Carlisle bay. Walking on the long stretch of beach, you will be approached by many locals offering you activities and snorkelling sessions with turtles. The bay off the coast of Bridgetown is famous for the turtles and the shipwreck on the seabed attracting marine life.
Enjoy a Rum Punch
Once our water activity ended, we went to a local beach club to relax (again!) and sip a rum punch. There are three places we feel suggest you: the Copacabana Beach Club (which offers a package entrance, sunbed, umbrella and snorkelling for a reasonable price), the Harbour Lights Barbados and the Neptune’s Grill by the Radisson resort.
Remember to take suncream with you; Alessia got sunburned without sunbathing for long or just walking.

Local flavour for lunch by the pool at the Hilton Hotel
Our resort was fantastic for discovering the local flavour. As for a previous event in London, we already knew some dishes but were tempted to try them on the spot to understand the flavour.
Every Sunday, the Hilton hotel organizes a barbecue by the pool and bar area, preparing local food. The mix of flavours is incredible, and you can relax by the pool, eating the best food ever and sipping a rum punch (I think we had way too many).

Fine dining at the Smokehouse by Hilton
After a short nap, we were all for a romantic dinner in Barbados. After all, the heaven of the Caribbean is made to enjoy a honeymoon, celebrations or just a romantic escape from ordinary life.
For us, Barbados was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the dinner at the Smokehouse was perfect. Our waiter, Simon, was discreet and funny simultaneously; he helped us with our choice and left us with the memories of one of the best nights ever.
The Smokehouse by Hilton is a fine restaurant on the side of the complex’s main entrance. The location is open to residents of the hotel and external with reservations. The prices are affordable compared to other locations, and the meal is tasty and full-fill. Special mention to the chicken cooked perfectly.
Day 6 | Oistins Fish Fry Market
Relax in the Spa of the Hilton Hotel
We are almost to the end of our incredible Barbados Itinerary, but it’s not yet time to be sad. Early wake-up, big breakfast and the plan want us to relax.
The Hilton Hotel Resort has a Spa which welcomes residents and foreigners and offers every kind of massage. So we enjoyed our little time in paradise, perfectly starting the day.

Spend time on the beach
Your day should continue exploring other beaches nearby your location; for us, the ideal was Rockley beach. The sand stretch is not far from The Richard Haynes Boardwalk and is surrounded by hotels, resorts and food shops.
An alternative to Rockley beach is a Carib beach bar in St. Lawrence Gap. This part of the island, a mid-way between Oistins and Bridgetown, is vivacious at night. If we return to Barbados one day, we will stay in St. Lawrence’s Gap.
We explored the area at night, packed with the highest concentration of clubs and bars open until late. You can easily reach the St. Lawrence’s Gap by taking a bus or getting on the famous reggae bus for $3,5.
Prepare for the best night in Barbados
If at this point of your itinerary, its’ Friday, you have no alternative than to visit Oistins. On Friday, the little fisherman village attracts thousands of people from everywhere on the island, mixing locals with tourists.
Dress casually and with shorts, as the temperature is hot. Remember to take cash with you, as not many food stalls take cards.
Be ready to enjoy one of the best nights in Barbados.

Oistins Fish Fry on Friday
We strongly advise visiting the Oistins Fish Fry Market if you’re staying one week in Barbados.
Every Friday, tourists and locals on the island gather in Oistins for the popular Fish Fry, a massive grill celebration right by the shore, bringing the area to life. This memorable experience shows you the rhythm of Barbados; we were completely immersed in the market atmosphere, surrounded by tourists, of course, but mostly locals.
The central stage saw performances by dancers, street artists, musicians and at the time of our visit, an incredible fire dancer. Seat at one of the many local restaurants and try the fried fish with coleslaw, fries or local sides.
The restaurant offers cheap food; with $25 Bajan, you will get a perfectly cooked swordfish. Accompany your food with a local beer or a strong rum punch.
7 Days in Barbados | Barbados Travel Guide
Day 7 | Explore other beaches before flying home
The last day is all to relax before flying back home. Our flight back to London from Barbados was in the afternoon, so we had enough time for our last breakfast in paradise and enjoyed the poolside.
If staying in the Bridgetown area, it is worth knowing that the airport is just about 30 minutes away, and you have to allow just a few hours early.
Flying in the afternoon leaves you time to explore other nearby beaches, and having a car, you can get a bit far, having more freedom to reach the airport at your own pace.
More time for our Barbados itinerary?
We ended up staying longer in Barbados. So our original 7 day Barbados itinerary was extended for another three more days in paradise.
Staying longer in Barbados allows you for more excursions; why don’t you plan a Barbados island safari or go scuba diving? Your Barbados trip will be perfect, allowing a few days more, getting into the soul of locals or just relaxing after a whole year of hard work.
This guide will also work if you are planning a Barbados honeymoon itinerary. The location is perfect for hosting a wedding, and at our hotel, many conferences took place during our stay. The sea breeze, Caribbean vibes, fine Rum, and vibrant music is inspiring, taking your honeymoon to the next level.
However, you can opt for 2 weeks in Barbados, staying in multiple locations to enjoy the rhythm of both sides of the island. A West Coast Barbados holiday is often the solution for travellers from the US, perfect in every season, and you can then change scenery going south for the second week.
Is it possible to go backpacking in Barbados?
Yes. It is possible to travel to Barbados on a budget. The luxurious island in the Caribbean is well known for its high prices and wonderful resorts. However, as it is true that everything comes at a price, it is also true that you can still afford to explore Barbados in seven days of backpacking.
We might introduce you to a guide to Backpacking in Barbados, but now we will give you just a few budget traveller’s tips to Barbados. The food is affordable, and the beaches are free, so there is little cost. The accommodations instead are costly, but out of the high season, you might find a bargain.
Stick on the east coast, which is still beautiful but costs less than the west coast and south. Check for local accommodations and Airbnb to stay on a budget, with an average of $60 per night. Find accommodations with a kitchen to keep the costs low. Public transport is cheap, with local buses at little as $1 and Reggae buses for $3.50 taking you everywhere. We will drop other tips in another blog post soon.
Where to stay in Barbados

Hilton Barbados Hotel and Resort
This is the perfect place to enjoy a week in paradise. The Hilton hotel in Barbados is strategically located at a walkable distance from Bridgetown and nestled between two marvellous shorelines.
If you are lucky, you can get a room with a perfect ocean view, ideal for sunrise and spectacular at sunset. The staff at the Hilton Hotel Resort was so supportive and made our stay in the Caribbean memorable.
Hilton Hotel Barbados
The hotel facilities are incredible, boasting two pools, a Jacuzzi facing the central area, a Spa, a Breakfast/lunch Terrazza and an excellent two-sided beach with all comfort. The rooms face the ocean, taking advantage of being in a corner.
Affordable stay in Barbados
£100 PER NIGHT
If you’re looking for an affordable but still fancy place, Coconut Court Beach Hotel is the right option for you. Not far from the important UNESCO site of Bridgtown, Coconut Beach Hotel offer a cosy one-bedroom apartment with easy access to the beach!

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Q&A 7 days in Barbados
What are the most exciting places to see in Barbados as a tourist?
What are some must see sights or activities in Barbados?
Is it worth it to visit Barbados?
Yes. We were astonished by Barbados. The buzzy nightlife of Oistins or St. Lawrence Gap will take you away for the best holidays in the Caribbean. Barbados features one of the Caribbean’s most iconic coasts, with endless beaches and blue turquoise water. The rich culture, food diversity and smiley locals will make your holiday in Barbados unforgettable.
WHERE TO GO NEXT?
Every time is good to travel and have new experiences. As London-based travel bloggers, it’s easy to find cheap flights and explore new places even just at the weekend.
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