Antigua and Barbuda

North America > 🇦🇬 Antigua and Barbuda

The city by city Car or no Car advice for Antigua and Barbuda can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Antigua and Barbuda;  is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).

🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Antigua and Barbuda?

These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.

---

💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Antigua and Barbuda?

These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.

---

🏙️ Main Cities in Antigua and Barbuda

---

🚗🌴 Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island nation famous for having 365 beaches – one for every day of the year. It offers luxury resorts, laid-back Caribbean culture, historic ports, and pink-sand escapes. But the islands are small and relaxed, and transport options vary a lot between the two. So the big question is: should you rent a car in Antigua and Barbuda? Let’s explore both islands in one clear guide .

---

🌴 Overview – Car or No Car?

Antigua is larger, with multiple beaches, viewpoints, and cultural landmarks spread across the island. Barbuda is smaller and wilder, with fewer roads and more nature. Transport style depends on how active and independent you want to be.

---

🚫 When You Don’t Need a Car

If you’re planning a resort stay, moving between just a few beaches, or sticking to guided tours, you can easily get around without driving yourself.

✅ No-Car Situations

➡ In these cases, taxis and tour operators handle everything.

---

🚗 When Renting a Car Makes the Trip Better

If you enjoy exploring independently — beach hopping, visiting hidden coves, or discovering local food spots — a car gives you complete freedom across Antigua.

✅ Benefits of Renting a Car

➡ Roads are generally good, and driving is safe with caution.

---

🗺 Antigua at a Glance

---

🏝 Barbuda – Different Story

Barbuda is rural, quiet, and lightly populated. Most travellers either:

• Take a day tour with included transport

• Stay at a local guesthouse where the host arranges pick-up

• Use taxis or guided excursions for limited routes

➡ You generally do not rent a car on Barbuda unless staying long-term.

---

🚦 Driving Notes

• You drive on the left-hand side

• A temporary driver’s permit is required (issued by rental agency)

• Roads are mostly paved on Antigua, more rugged on Barbuda

• Traffic is light and relaxed

---

🏁 Final Recommendation

---

✨ Final Takeaway

So, should you rent a car in Antigua and Barbuda?
👉 If you want to see more than just your resort, especially in Antigua, then yes — renting a car is the best way to fully experience the island’s beaches, culture, and scenic viewpoints.
👉 However, if you’re planning a relaxed stay in one area or travelling mainly to Barbuda, you can easily get around without a car using tours, taxis, and local transfers.

---

---

🚗 ✅ ❌ Summary Table

This summary brings together taxis*, how much you really need a car, whether it’s worth it, driver options, local driving rules, and an overall recommendation. *Taxis act as a hybrid between private cars and public transport, so they aren’t counted in the overall public-transport or non-car scores. 🚕  This site is planned for full launch on 1st January 2026. Full terms, advice, FAQs, disclaimer etc to follow.