Destinations Caribbean

Our guide to Barbados

The easternmost Caribbean island offers far more than beautiful beaches. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to its warm Bajan hospitality, Barbados boasts an extraordinary variety of cultural and natural attractions. Tour guide Antheia fills us in.

3 min 25 Mar 2025

Sights to see

Stepping onto the sun-soaked streets of Bridgetown, you’re enveloped by the city’s vibrant blend of Caribbean-style hustle and bustle and old-world charm. Centred around its lively port, the capital - a UNESCO World Heritage site - is full of rich history and culture. The streets are lined with stately Colonial-era buildings, including the Parliament Buildings, with their striking neo-Gothic Architecture.

One of my favourite places to visit is St. Nicholas Abbey, which offers a fascinating window into the island’s colonial past. Visitors can explore the impeccably-preserved 17thcentury Jacobean mansion, wander through the estate’s lush grounds or hop aboard a heritage steam train. This winds through the surrounding mahogany forests and cane fields, culminating in breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic from Cherry Tree Hill.

To soak up the sun, many visitors flock to the west coast, drawn by its pristine, palm-fringed beaches and clear, calm waters. The best way to explore this stunning coastline is on a catamaran cruise, one of our most popular Shore Experiences. Among the highlights is Carlisle Bay, located in the heart of another UNESCO World Heritage Site. I love to unwind on the powdery sands or snorkel over ancient shipwrecks, teeming with sea turtles, rays and shoals of tropical fish.

Away from the coast in the central uplands, Harrison’s Cave is one of the island’s most popular natural attractions. This vast crystalline limestone cave contains centuries-old towering stalactites and stalagmites, with streams of crystal-clear water that form deep emerald pools. Visitors can navigate its extensive network of tunnels and caverns onboard a comfortable electric tram.

Experiences to enjoy

For a completely unique adventure, take an Atlantis Submarine Tour to explore the ocean deep. These 40-minute excursions, available both day and night, take you to depths of up to 150 feet – a realm once only reachable by scuba divers. Through large viewports, you’ll enjoy clear views of coral formations, tropical marine life and sunken shipwrecks.

Nestled in the heart of the island, the Tropical Gardens are a must-see oasis. Spanning six lush acres, the gardens are fringed by swaying sugarcane fields and bursting with tropical blooms and orchids. As you stroll through, keep an eye out for the occasional hummingbird, green heron, or even the resident Muscovy ducks. Afterwards, relax with a coffee or a refreshing rum punch.

No visit to Barbados would be complete without a mention of rum. Considered the birthplace of the famous spirit, the island is home to Mount Gay - the world’s oldest commercial rum distillery. For over three centuries, locals and sailors have savoured the rich, golden spirit. As part of your visit, you’ll delve into the distillery’s storied history, hear tales of its seafaring roots, and, of course, enjoy a ‘tot’ in the tasting room or bar. As the local saying goes, time flies when you’re having rum.

Tastes to try

The island’s melting pot culture has given rise to an exciting food scene. On weekends, the Brighton and Holder’s House farmers’ markets are perfect breakfast or lunch spots. You must try traditional pastries, patties and homebrewed Pile Bucks coffee under shady trees.

The family-run Fisherman’s Pub in Speightstown is great for flying fish - the most popular catch on the island that makes up one half of national dish flying fish and Cou-cou (a mixture of okra and cornmeal). The beachside eatery also serves popular Bajan plates, like Pepperpot and sweet potatoes with lamb.

I love to visit the lively fishing village of Oistins for its legendary Fish Fry – a true Bajan experience. Pile your plate high with freshly grilled fish (take your pick from flying fish, tuna, swordfish, barracuda, mahi mahi or lobster) alongside traditional sides like macaroni pie and coleslaw – with a generous splash of hot sauce if you dare. Grab a seat at the communal benches, and enjoy your meal with an ice-cold local beer, set to the rhythm of Calypso beats.

For a more refined experience, enjoy a cream tea or sundowner at the cliff-top boutique Atlantis Hotel with sweeping views of the rugged Atlantic coastline, or an afternoon tea at Sunbury Plantation House, a 300-year-old estate, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and full of timeless charm.

Shops to visit

Shopping on the island ranges from beachside boutiques and street vendors selling handcrafted keepsakes to the island’s renowned duty-free shopping malls. The most famous of which – Bridgetown’s Duty Free Mall and Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in Holetown – are packed with high-end designer brands and luxury boutiques. Remember to bring your passport, and note most shops are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

For a more local flavour, the lively Bridgetown market is a must-visit for me. It’s especially busy on Saturday mornings and is a favourite among locals looking to snag fresh produce and bargains. Many of the island’s tour attractions, like Sunbury Plantation House and St. Nicholas Abbey also stock unique Bajan souvenirs and single-cask rums made on-site.

Experience the beauty of Barbados with Cunard, including voyages on board the newly reimagined Queen Elizabeth for her maiden season from Miami. Sun-kissed deck parties. Extraordinary cuisine inspired by the region. Sail to Barbados with Cunard, and embrace a world of sunshine, style, and ease.

To view our voyages to Barbados, click here.