Getting Around Antigua And Barbuda 2025
Navigate Antigua And Barbuda like a local with our transportation guide.
Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island paradise in the Eastern Caribbean, famous for its 365 pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich colonial heritage. From the UNESCO-listed Nelson's Dockyard to pink sand beaches in Barbuda, this nation offers luxury resorts, water sports, and authentic Caribbean culture.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Antigua And Barbuda.
Public Transit
Irregular yellow minibuses exist but are impractical for most tourists. Service is infrequent, routes confusing, and schedules non-existent. Useful only for budget travelers comfortable with uncertainty.
Taxis
Licensed taxis (L-plates) are reliable, widely available, and use government-fixed rates. No meters — always confirm the fare before departure. Widely considered the best option for point-to-point travel without a rental car.
Car Rental
The best way to explore Antigua is by rental car. Roads are generally good, the island is small (23km x 17km), and having your own transport unlocks all 365 beaches and remote attractions. Drive on the LEFT with a temporary Antiguan permit ($20).
Walking
St. John's city center is walkable for shopping and attractions. Resort beaches are walkable within resort areas. The island as a whole is not walkable — distances between attractions require motorized transport.
Getting There
How to arrive in Antigua And Barbuda.
✈️ By Air
V.C. Bird International Airport
Barbuda Codrington Airport
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Antigua And Barbuda.
🚌 Buses
Yellow minibuses operate from two bus stations in St. John's — West Bus Station (West Street) for the west coast, East Bus Station (Market Street) for the east. Fares EC$2.50-$5. Service is irregular and routes not always obvious to visitors.
🛺 Local Alternatives
Rental cars (most practical for exploring the island), licensed taxis (L-plates), hotel shuttle services, and bicycle rental at some resorts
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Long-Distance Buses
Minibuses connect St. John's to villages around Antigua. Fares EC$2.50-$5. Infrequent and unpredictable schedules.
Shared Taxis/Minivans
No formal shared taxi system, though some taxi drivers will accept multiple passengers going in the same direction for a reduced fare per person.
Domestic Flights
SVG Air and ABM Aviation operate daily 15-minute flights between V.C. Bird Airport and Barbuda's Codrington Airport. Round trip approximately $150-200. Book well in advance during peak season.
Private Car/Driver
Rental cars from $40-70/day at airport. Local companies include Oakland and Avis. Mandatory temporary Antiguan driving permit ($20) issued by rental agencies. Drive on the LEFT.
Driving in Antigua And Barbuda
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Generally not recommended
Driving Side
Right-hand traffic
License Required
International Driving Permit recommended
Road Conditions
Varies by region. Main highways usually good, rural roads may be poor.
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Rent a car for the best island experience — at $40-70/day it's often cheaper than taking multiple taxis and gives complete freedom to explore all 365 beaches
Always agree on the taxi fare before entering the vehicle — government fixed rates exist but some drivers may try to charge higher rates to tourists unfamiliar with the system
Drive on the LEFT and be alert for speed bumps (sleeping policemen), wandering goats and donkeys, and narrow village roads with limited visibility
For Barbuda, the Barbuda Express ferry ($100 return) is more affordable than the flight ($150-200 return) — book ahead as it operates limited days
Rental car companies require a temporary Antiguan driving permit ($20) in addition to your home license — this is issued by the rental agency
Taxis are more expensive late at night and on public holidays — plan ahead or budget for the premium
Useful Apps
Barbuda Express
Official booking system for the Barbuda Express ferry service between Heritage Quay St. John's and Codrington Barbuda. Book online in advance.
ABST Taxi Service
Antigua's main licensed taxi dispatch service. Pre-book airport transfers and inter-island journeys. Available by phone rather than app.
Navigate Antigua And Barbuda Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
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