Getting around Antigua and Barbuda
From V.C. Bird International Airport to local buses, taxis, and the Barbuda ferry, here's everything you need to navigate the islands with confidence.
Airports
Almost all visitors arrive at V.C. Bird International Airport on Antigua. A small airport on Barbuda serves inter-island flights:
V.C. Bird International
Coolidge, Antigua
The main gateway, about 8 km northeast of St. John's. Almost all visitors arrive here
Barbuda Codrington Airport
Codrington, Barbuda
Small airstrip for short hops between Antigua and Barbuda
Taxis & ride-sharing
Official Taxis
Taxis line up at V.C. Bird airport, hotels, and St. John's. Fares follow government-set zone rates quoted in US dollars and are not metered, so confirm the price with the driver before you set off. Airport to St. John's is roughly US$15-25.
No Ride-Hailing Apps
Antigua does not have Uber or similar ride-hailing apps. Use licensed taxis, ask your hotel to arrange a trusted driver, or pre-book a private transfer for fixed pricing.
Hiring a Driver for the Day
Many visitors hire a taxi driver for a half or full day to tour the island. Agree the route and total fare up front. Drivers double as informal guides to beaches and viewpoints.
Hotel Transfers
Many resorts arrange airport transfers, sometimes included in the rate. Book in advance through your hotel, especially for late-evening arrivals when taxis can be scarcer.
Public transportation
Public Minibuses
Privately run minibuses radiate from St. John's bus stations to villages across Antigua. Fares are paid in East Caribbean dollars and are very cheap. They generally run from early morning to about 6pm, so plan returns before evening.
Limited Evenings and Sundays
Service thins out in the evenings and is sparse on Sundays and public holidays. There is no reliable public bus to V.C. Bird airport or the northern resort area, so use a taxi for those trips.
St. John's Bus Stations
Routes are organised around two main bus stations in St. John's, broadly serving the east and the west of the island. Ask locals which station and bus to take for your destination.
Renting a car
Renting a car gives you maximum freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Rates are typically around US$40-70/day, and you must buy a temporary local driving permit to drive legally.
Good to Know
- •International and local agencies have counters at V.C. Bird airport and in St. John's
- •A temporary local driving permit is required, sold by the rental agency or police
- •Bring your home driving licence to obtain the permit
- •Minimum age and deposit conditions vary by agency, so confirm when booking
- •Fuel is sold by the gallon at stations across the island
Watch Out For
- •Drive on the LEFT, UK style, including at roundabouts
- •Narrow, winding rural roads with few lane markings
- •Potholes and speed bumps that can appear without warning
- •Poor road lighting outside St. John's at night
- •Always photograph the car before driving off
Ferries & boats
Boats connect the two islands and reach coves you cannot get to by road:
- Barbuda Express - passenger ferry from St. John's, Antigua to Codrington, Barbuda, roughly a 90-minute crossing
- Antigua to Barbuda flights - short hops by light aircraft for those who prefer not to take the ferry
- Water taxis and charters - around Antigua's coast, for example to reach quieter beaches and snorkeling spots
Quick cost comparison
| Transport | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Public minibus | Under US$2 | Budget travel between villages |
| Taxi (zone fare) | US$15-30 | Airport transfers, convenience |
| Taxi for the day | US$120-180 | Island tours with a local driver |
| Car rental | US$40-70/day | Exploring at your own pace |
| Driving permit | One-off fee | Required to drive a rental |
| Barbuda Express ferry | Per crossing | Day trips to Barbuda |
Need more travel tips?
Check out our local insider tips to make the most of your Antigua and Barbuda visit.