Car hire Barbados

Tourists who find themselves contemplating an historic monument at the National Heroes Square in the morning and then pondering their next bet at the casino at night, will know they're in thrilling Barbados. Car hire in Barbados allows easy access about the island, whether visitors are heading to see history, wildlife or nightlife.

All international flights arrive at the large and modern Grantley Adams International Airport on the south coast in Christ Church Parish. The seven-hour route from the UK is mostly served by British-based airlines. British and other western cruise ships dock at the International harbour at Bridgetown, while inter-island flights are available from Barbados to other Caribbean islands. However you plan to get to this holiday hotspot, compare cheap car hire in Barbados with CompareCarhire.co.uk before you travel, to snag the best deals.

Buses take a crisscross route across the island, with all lines ending up at Speightstown. Private AC mini-vans, known as ZRs, also pick up passengers at fixed rates and schedules. Hang on to your seats however, as these vehicles burn very quickly around town. Self-driving from the airport is by far the easiest and safest way to travel. Barbados car hire depots are located in a number of the island's major towns and cities.

There is an intricate road network running around the entire island, petrol stations abound and parking areas are easy to find. Most cars available for hire have AC, while sun roofs and top down models are also available. Those wanting to take advantage of car rental in Barbados require a temporary driving permit, which costs BD$10 and can be obtained from local rental agencies like Whizz or Sunny Isle Motors.

The allures of Barbados are its sparkling white and pink sandy beaches, its laidback daytime atmosphere and its wild nightlife. Due to strong ocean currents at the east and north coast beaches such as Soup Bowl and Cattlewash, visitors usually only opt to take romantic strolls or sunbathe here. South coast beaches on the other hand are calm enough for swimming and diving.