Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados and a city with a lot of history. When the English arrived to declare the area a British colony in the 17th century they found an abandoned Indian settlement and bridge and later gave the area the Bridgetown name. The harbor became a critical port for ships traveling across the Atlantic and was heavily protected against attack from other colonizing European powers. Visit the Bridgetown Garrison, initially constructed starting in 1705 as a British fortification, and now an internationally protected World Heritage Site. Take a guided walking tour to appreciate the historic significance of the military, commercial and social activities of the 18th and 19th centuries in Barbados. Points of interest include St. Mary’s and St. Michael’s churches, Queen’s Park, Jewish Synagogue, Heroes Square and Parliament Building.Walk in the footsteps of earlier world leaders by visiting the George Washington House and the Lord Nelson Monument in Heroes Square (formerly Trafalgar Square) in front of the Parliament Building.For a lighter look at history, tour the Mount Gay Rum Factory bottling facility which claims to be the best and oldest rum in the world. It has been made in Barbados since 1703. Make reservations to enjoy taste testing on weekdays children can participate but not drink. On Saturdays, watch thoroughbred horses race at Garrison Savannah, where horses have been running for over 150 years. Bridgetown is the largest city on Barbados, with a population of nearly 100,000. It is the center for transportation, shopping and arranging excursions, a convenient hub for activities across the island. You can stay in a hotel in Bridgetown and drive or take a bus or taxi to any of the beaches and other attractions on the island in two hours or less. Or, from the city center drive or take a taxi to one of half a dozen beaches within 10 minutes.Bridgetown is just 20 minutes from the international airport.
Bridgetown
Where to stay in Bridgetown
Garrison Historic Area
Travellers to Garrison Historic Area praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Barbados Museum & Historical Society and Carlisle Bay.
Brighton
While there might not be top attractions in Brighton, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Brighton Beach and Paradise Beach.
Highgate
Though Highgate may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Barbados Museum & Historical Society and Carlisle Bay.
Phillips Road
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Phillips Road and surrounding area, you can visit Paradise Beach and Brighton Beach.
Fort George Heights
While Fort George Heights isn't home to many top sights, Wildey House and Rockley Golf Course are some notable places to visit nearby.
Pine Gardens
Pine Gardens might not have many top sights, but Carlisle Bay and Barbados Museum & Historical Society are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
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Popular places to visit
Carlisle Bay
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Carlisle Bay during your travels in Bridgetown. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Brownes Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Brownes Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Bridgetown. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Paradise Beach
One of the most popular starting off points for serious divers. Several wrecks offer beginning to advanced depth exploration.
Brighton Beach
One of the best-known beaches for short-term visitors, a popular spot for locals, and a must visit for rum drinkers.
Barbados Parliament Buildings
Barbados Parliament Buildings is just one of the places to see in Bridgetown, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants.
George Washington House
Visit the same house and surroundings where the first U.S. president stayed over 250 years ago on his visit to Barbados.
Things to do
Barbados Catamaran Turtle and Shipwreck Snorkeling Cruise
Carlisle Bay Clear Kayak Shipwreck Tour
In The Mixx Tour
Barbados Swim, Snorkel and Wildlife Experience
Bajan Wonders
Walking Tour at Bridgetown Discovering Hidden Treasures
Reviews of Bridgetown
5/5 - Excellent
Harbour lights and Boatyard were walkable along the beach or via the main road. Dollar bus (which has gone up to $3.5 bbd) or taxi was needed for Bridgetown and St Lawrence Gap.
5/5 - Excellent
The island us some of the nicest people and this is also evident in the hotel. Thank you
5/5 - Excellent
It’s the Caribbean so was as expected
4/5 - Good
Barbados is an amazing Island, great beaches, fantastic people. Your on a island, relax and have fun
5/5 - Excellent
Lots of places to eat nearby, and Bridgetown within a short walk. Water sports facilities on beach, sea very calm (without being on west coast).
5/5 - Excellent
Bridgetown excellent to explore and if you avoid the tourist traps you can get cheap drinks in the local bars and more of a local experience with it.