City: Barbados
Top Things to do in Barbados
Countries
Things to do in Barbados, Barbados: The Best Historical & Heritage Tours
Romance and adventure are in the air on this lush West Indian island in the Caribbean, depending on your coast. To the west, you'll find calm waters and good swimming. To the east, there are massive, competition-caliber waves. Wherever you stay, expect turquoise waters, fine soft sand beaches, catamaran cruises and delicious island fare.
Restaurants in Barbados
1. Walking Tour of The Historic Garrison and its Museum - A Military Story
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Are you craving a historical military-based adventure in Barbados? Have you ever wondered what military life was like during the colonial period? Then boy have I got a story for you! I was here to defend this gem of an island and it was nothing like what I would have expected as a soldier. My story is bittersweet, but nonetheless, has to be told. I want to tell you about the prison and the walk of shame I had to endure. About the services offered around the “Savannah” and all the joys that can be drawn from this area despite the hardships that have made it what it is. Join me by the Barbados Museum and Historical Society for a culturally rich journey into history. On this intriguing walking tour, I will show you the Garrison I lived in. The changes it has undergone. All the while paying homage to me by preserving my legacy.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Personal audio device to hear the guide clearly, Headsets, Local guide, Snacks
Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions
Reviewed By Kemi A
Deborah is an A1 tour guide and tourism professional! I had a great afternoon walking through Bridgetown, learning of its history and the history of Barbados in general, and because Deborah is known everywhere she goes I also meet some locals. She answered all of my questions, even if not on topic, and has awesome energy. COVID procedures followed and Deb does everything to keep her guests safe, engaged, and comfortable. She loves what she does and it shows. If you're in Barbados GO ON THIS TOUR.
2. Walking Tour of Speightstown and its Museum - The Forgotten Town
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
This tour takes you for a relaxing and informative stroll through the quaint town of Speightstown which is always awash with activity but somehow maintains its British colonial charm. Our tour package, which is tailored for small groups, is aimed at maximizing the authentic experience of a Speightstown tour through the eyes of an informed local. You will get to learn the stories behind the 17th century architecture historic buildings as you experience the sense of development which is evident by the integration of modern architecture. To top it up, you will go on a complete tour of the Arlington House Museum and learn much more about the cultural history of Speightstown and Barbados as a whole. You will visit the forts that Little Bristol used for protection. Get to interact with the people of Speightstown as the wayside hawkers and rum shops are still very much a part of this town, and on our tours, you are sure to encounter one or two such characteristics of this unique town.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Personal audio device to hear the guide clearly, Headsets, Local guide, Snacks, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Gratuities,
Reviewed By Kemi A
Deborah is an A1 tour guide and tourism professional! I had a great afternoon walking through Bridgetown, learning of its history and the history of Barbados in general, and because Deborah is known everywhere she goes I also meet some locals. She answered all of my questions, even if not on topic, and has awesome energy. COVID procedures followed and Deb does everything to keep her guests safe, engaged, and comfortable. She loves what she does and it shows. If you're in Barbados GO ON THIS TOUR.
3. Afternoon at St. Nicholas Abbey in Barbados
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Spend an afternoon at the Abbey. St Nicholas Abbey is one of the top attractions in the Caribbean. The Plantation House is likely the last remaining authentic house of the 17th Century that exists anywhere in the "New World". When this residence was built around 1658 of brick and limestone, many of the structures in the North America were made of timber, and have long since perished. The residence was built only 30 years after Barbados' settlement by the British in 1627. The Plantation produces award winning rum and they are always delighted to offer you a sample. After a memorable visit to St Nicholas Abbey we will head to North Point where you will enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic surf crashing into the cliffs.
Inclusions: Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Bottled water
Exclusions: Gratuities, Lunch
Reviewed By Die_Reisenden_Worms
We took a private tour similar to the "Beautiful Barbados" tour GloryTours offers on their website, and were very satisfied and truly enjoyed the day. Our driver made every effort to put us at ease, offered possibilities for activities, and we could stop and take our time as needed. We started with a tour through Bridgetown, then heading north along the Platinum coast, with some short stops on the way. Around noon we arrived at Animal Flower Cave, which was nice (and not difficult) to visit. As it was a bit crowded there, we asked whether we could have lunch at a later stage, and he selected a wonderful remote restaurant for us, Chill`n Breeze, which was located on its own at the Eastern coast, run by an old and very friendly couple and providing excellent food. From there we drove towards Bathsheba, where we could spend nice time walking on the beach and looking at the beautiful landscape, before slowly going back to our hotel in Worthing. We would definitely choose GloryTours again if we come back.
4. Discover Rum Barbados Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Explore some of the rums of Barbados, discover how the rum is made, experience the local rum shop and, best of all, taste the flavors of award winning rum.
Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Beverages, Transport by air-conditioned coach , Transport by air-conditioned minivan , Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Alcoholic Beverages, Entrance Fees, Mount Gay Visitor Centre, Four Square Distillery
Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities, Due to Covid 19 no Plantation visit
Reviewed By Twycross1
You won’t understand Barbados from your resort. Get out with Scott (born & bred Bajan) in his air conditioned minibus and bluetoothed headset to learn about flora, fauna, history, society, religion, culture, geography, food (lunch included), climate, drink (a free rum punch, proper stuff) and anything else that you want know. If you want to see sea-eroded caves, windmills for crushing sugar cane, appreciate race tracks (horses and cars), understand how many variety of snakes live in the island, why houses are built the way they are, how to plant banana trees, how letters get delivered where there are no addresses, why breadfruit might be the cash crop of the future, despite Non-Disclosure Agreements who’s doing what to who, Scott’s yer man. Not interested in who Abramovich visits, where Princess Margaret’s house was, why people dumped their rubbish on top of Quakers’ family vaults, where they banged up Jerry Hall in the cells, why the largest Jewish cemetery in the Caribbean is in Bridgetown, how many polo fields there are on Barbados, why Simon Cowell’s and Andrew Lloyd Weber’s houses went down the pan, why you need to know much sugar has been added to the rum you are buying, why the Bajan Prime Minister and the Greek Royal Family are buried in different directions in the same churchyard, get someone to check your temperature again cos you’re probably no longer with us. For USD87, buy yourself an education about the Island or just sit back and enjoy the different geography of the Island’s parishes.
5. Around The Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
This tour takes you 360º around the island stopping at all the must see sights. Ask all the questions you can think of as you will have a friendly knowledgeable local tour guide as well as a safe and reliable driver who are always very happy tell you more about our island. This tour also includes a delicious local lunch.
Inclusions: Lunch
Exclusions:
Reviewed By kateemo_burgess
This place is imaginative, playful, calming, and thoroughly Caribbean. My children and I visited yesterday and spent a most pleasant early afternoon wandering around this magical space. I even managed to convince them to sit still for a while in a lovely corner of the garden and listen to the soothing sounds of nature (and some meditative music, which was nice). The diversity and health of the plants is impressive, as is the generosity of the owner/gardener Anthony Hunte. We sat and had a socially distanced chat with him, as he was happy to speak with all the visitors who came in for a visit. We will be back soon! We signed in at the front, used hand sanitiser at the beginning and were reminded to do so at the end after touching the handrails.
6. Small-Group eBike Adventure Tour in Oistins
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 28 reviews
Tour begins in the south coast fishing village of Oistins and cruises eastward up the coast line taking in breathtaking views along the way as well as the historic South Point Lighthouse. Off road track leads onto the cliff trails of the south east coast revealing hidden coves, secluded beaches and fantastic picture opportunities of the untouched coastline. On the way back to base we encounter the uniqueness of the Chancery Lane Wetlands, a layover for migratory birds making their way to and from North America, as well as the mysterious Christ Church Parish Church and finishing at Oistins Bay for some good old fashioned Bajan rum punch to end off this one-of-a-kind scenic experience.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Use of bicycle, Air-conditioned vehicle, Safety Gear, Bike Helmets, Backpack, Dry Bags
Exclusions:
Reviewed By jamesdtaylor2021
My partner and I did the round the island ride with Roger and Gregory. We were very well looked after with drinks and snacks provided. It was a great challenge and a lovely way to see the whole island of Barbados. Would highly recommend.
7. Private Customised Island Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
You will have a blast of a time. Travelers will have the opportunity to plan their personal itinerary with the assistance of a courteous, honest, friendly and well-informed driver/guide if needed and he will ensure that your interest is realize on the day while driving in comfort on this full-day private customised island tour. Below is a list of places of interest which you can choose from. We be going: Carlisle's Bay Beach Independence Square Minister Office Bridgetown Barbados Port Cricket Oval Garrison Horsing Track Rihanna's Drive Sandy Lane Rihanna's Mansion Animal Flower Cave Gun Hill Bathsheba St James Parish Church Cherry Tree Hill St Nicholas Abbey Wild Life Resort Holetown George Washington House Speightown Harrison Cave Flower Forest Hunte Gardens Sunbury Plantation House Garrison Museum & much much more When on your private customised island tour, please bring beach wear, sun cream, towels, extra clothes if needed and passport if you'll want to shop in the malls.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Traditional Bajan Rum Punch OR Local Banks Beer, A few snacks for the kids, Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Mostly Sprite
Exclusions:
Reviewed By brianat473
I recently travelled to Barbados during the Covid pandemic and used Julian for my airport transfer. He was very helpful and professional yet friendly and welcoming. I had a tough few days however chatting with him on the slow, cautious ride to the airport definitely cheered me up. His taxi was super clean and he took necessary sanitation steps to keep us both safe. I will certainly use his services again and recommend him to anyone visiting Barbados.
8. Barbados 5 hour Private Island Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 19 reviews
Perfect for cruise passengers and anyone who wants to see the 'real' Barbados. This tour around the island gives you a flavour of all things Bajan, taking you to the must see locations as well as some hidden gems, all with stunning photo opportunities. Also ideal for newcomers to Barbados to see the sights, hear the history, find out about our lifestyle and decide which areas or attractions you might want to explore further. This is a small group tour, with just 2 - 6 persons, ensuring a fun, personal experience. Travel in a clean, comfortable, air-conditioned minivan and enjoy your time with your friendly and knowledgeable local driver/guide. He will make your day one to remember with his unique brand of Bajan hospitality! We can't wait to meet you.
Inclusions: Bottled water, Rum punch, Air-conditioned vehicle, Knowledgable local guide, Small numbers ensures a personal service
Exclusions: Entrance fee to go inside Animal Flower Cave, Lunch
Reviewed By non_sheep
Mike really knows his island well and was a wealth of knowledge! He was very friendly and adaptable (we had our 8month old son on tour with us we needed regular snack, toilet, crawl around stops.) The animal flower cave is a must see, the views on the east coast are amazing. During the tour mike stopped and got us various fruits that we would never have known what to do with without him. They were delicious even though they looked a little odd! What we loved most was that mike gave us choices over what we’d prefer to do in our timescale and it didn’t feel rushed in any way. We will definitely return!!
9. Private Guided Barbados Island Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
We can walk on trails and beaches and go off the beaten path to avoid crowds from tour vans and tour buses. I am the only totally exclusive private tour in Barbados and exclusively Barbadian, I am 100% 16th generation Barbadian experienced Tour Guide of 14 years doing Boat and Island Tours of Barbados. Former Captain of the famous "Bajan Queen" 1989-90 since 1996 A wreck in the marine park of Carlisle Bay, where we can also go for snorkel off the beach and see turtles and wrecks , no need to hire a boat .(for good swimmers with their own equipment ) Driver Tour Guide for The Original Adventureland 4X4 off road Tours 2005-06 I am a Barbadian of British heritage . St Bernard Bimshire county of England was the British title and Los Barbados is from the Portuguese who were the first Europeans to discover Barbados in the 1600s
Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes, Private transportation, Experienced 100% Barbadian , Conversational Spanish
Exclusions: TIPS, Attraction Fees and Lunch
Reviewed By Broughmetals
Vance gave us an incredibly insightful tour of Barbados. We managed to squeeze the whole island into one day. His knowledge of the island is exceptional and he will show you exclusive parts of the island and some of the hidden gems. Would highly recommend!
10. Private Customized Island Tour of Barbados
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 30 reviews
Be chauffeured around the island in a private vehicle as you visit attractions and take in spectacular views. Travel at your own pace with your guide. Places of interest to choose from below for your four and half hour private tour... Oistin Town, Garrison Savannah, Barbados Museum, George Washington House, Parliament Museum Bridgetown, Agapey Chocolate Factory, Cricket Legends Museum, Nidhe Israel Synagogue, Mount Gay Visitor Centre, Holetown, St James Anglican Church, Speightstown, Arlington House Museum. Animal Flower Cave, St Nicholas Abbey Plantation house or ride the Train, Wildlife Reserve, Cherry Tree Hill, Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill. Bathsheba, Andromeda Gardens, St John's Anglican Church, Codrington Collage, Sunbury Great House Plantation, Banks Brewery. Harrison's Cave, Welchman Hall Gully, Huntes Garden, Flower Forest, Earth Works Pottery and Batik Studio, Gun Hill Signal Station, Orchid World. Carlisle Bay, Crane Beach, Rockley
Inclusions: Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Bottled water , Driver / local guide, Live commentary on board, Private tour, Transport by private air-conditioned minivan
Exclusions: Beverages (available to purchase), Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Gratuities, Lunch, Attraction entry fees , Excess luggage charges (where applicable) Cruise port entry charges (where applicable)
Reviewed By jasonkR9995GT
Excellent and friendly taxi service, with local knowledge and interesting conversion. I recommend highly
