Depending on the kind of vacation you wish to enjoy, there are plenty of places to see and explore in Barbados. This tiny West Indian nation is one of the most popular Caribbean tourist destinations not just because of its coastal beauty, but also because of its historical and natural wonders as well. Sample the island’s many delights as you explore the more sophisticated city of Bridgetown or for a more rustic holiday, venture inwards into the country’s interior to see many colonial homes and lush plantations.

A great place to start a tour of Barbados would be from Bridgetown, the capital, located in Carlisle Bay in the southwest of the island. The only city in the country, Bridgetown is a mixture of old and new Barbados, giving tourists plenty to see out here from museums and churches to many historical landmarks. Do visit the Barbados Museum to get a glimpse into this island’s rich history, while the Harry Bayley Observatory nearby also makes for a wonderful trip. The only observatory in the West Indies, a visit here is a treat for the young and old alike.

National Heroes Square in the center of the city is another must visit site. Paying homage to Bajan heroes, you can also find a statue of Lord Nelson here. North of the Square you will find the Parliament Buildings also worth looking at. Built in 1871, these neo-gothic styled buildings house the Senate and House of Assembly. If you enjoy exploring religious sites, then St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Barbados Synagogue are advisable stopovers. The only synagogue on the island, this place of worship was built in 1833.

Outside of Bridgetown, Hastings, Rockley and Worthing are attractive places to stay at, as they are prime tourist zones. With plenty of accommodations, you can find everything out here from supermarkets to snack kiosks and clothing vendors. Head down south from Worthing to the parish of St. Lawrence and Dover Beach, known for its great nightlife. With plenty of bars, clubs and discos out here, this area is a definite tourist magnet.

Further south is the town of Oistins, the fishing center of Barbados. A bustling busy zone, it merits coming here on a Friday and Saturday night, with some of the best parties thrown here after dark. On the southernmost tip of Barbados sits Silver Sands, known as a mecca for windsurfers from all over the world. From here head on up into the parish of St. Philip’s, where you can find the Sunbury Plantation House, one of the oldest plantations in the region. Built in the 1600’s, this house is absolutely worth seeing.

If you are in the mood to explore Barbados some more, head inland to see the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill, St Nicholas’s Abbey, Gun Hill, the Tyrol Cot Heritage Village, Welshman Hall Gully and the Francia Plantation. You will also find Harrison’s Cave out here, which is probably the biggest tourist attraction in Barbados. This cave system makes for a breathtaking way to spend an afternoon.

If you are into horticulture, then do visit the Flower Forest of Barbados, Farley Hill National Park and the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. With plenty to see, these 3 parks offer a unique insight into the island’s indigenous flora and fauna. For a more comprehensive glimpse into the tropical plants on the island, visit the Andromeda Botanic Gardens in Bathsheba. This remarkable garden has a huge collection of plant life with impressive oceanic views.