How to Get Around Bermuda: EVERYTHING to Know!
Getting around Bermuda is a little different compared to other destinations.
With limited car rentals, efficient public transport, and unique local options, figuring out how to explore the island before you head over is a must!
Here’s everything you need to know about getting around Bermuda.
Table of Contents
- The Basics of Bermuda Transportation
- 1. Electric Car Rentals: The Best Way to Explore
- 2. Scooters and Bikes: Adventure on Two Wheels
- 3. Buses: Affordable and Efficient
- 4. Ferries: Scenic and Convenient
- 5. Taxis: Use Sparingly
- 6. Walking: A Free and Scenic Option
- 7. Tours: A Stress-Free Option
- 8. Ride-Sharing and Private Options
- Final Tips for Getting Around Bermuda
- More Bermuda
The Basics of Bermuda Transportation
Bermuda is compact but packed with incredible beaches, historic towns, and natural wonders. While its size makes it easy to navigate, there are a few quirks to be aware of.
Locals are limited to owning just one car per household to reduce congestion, and visitors can’t rent full-sized cars.
Instead, there’s an array of smaller, eco-friendly transportation options to choose from. Depending on your budget and comfort level, you can mix and match these modes of transportation to make the most of your trip.
1. Electric Car Rentals: The Best Way to Explore
Bermuda doesn’t allow traditional car rentals, but visitors can rent small electric vehicles.
These compact, zippy cars are perfect for navigating the island’s narrow roads and parking spaces.
My personal pick and most popular? Current, a rental service with convenient pick-up and drop-off locations scattered across Bermuda. There are other options as well.
What to Expect:
- These cars are tiny—think golf cart size—but comfortable for short trips.
- Rentals cost around $15 per hour, capping at $120 per day. While not cheap, the flexibility they offer is unmatched.
- The cars are fully electric, so you’ll also be traveling sustainably.
- These cars can book out! You might not want to wait until the last minute to book one. We had to wait around for an hour before a rental became available one day.
TIP: If you’re staying for a few days and want full flexibility, renting an electric car is a solid option. Just be prepared for the cost—it adds up quickly!
2. Scooters and Bikes: Adventure on Two Wheels
For a more adventurous way to get around, scooters and bikes are a popular choice.
The island’s speed limit of 35 km/h (20 mph) makes this a relatively safe option, even for less experienced riders.
Why Choose Scooters or Bikes?
- They’re one of the most cost-effective ways to explore the island.
- Scooters let you feel the breeze and take in the stunning views as you ride.
- Bike rental shops often offer discounts for multi-day rentals, so inquire if you plan to explore over several days.
- More info: Getting Around Bermuda on Scooters and Bikes
3. Buses: Affordable and Efficient
Bermuda’s bus system is surprisingly well-organized, making it the most economical way to get around.
The pink and blue buses are iconic and connect most of the island’s major attractions, including Horseshoe Bay Beach, St. George’s, and Hamilton.
Key Details:
- Buses are affordable, with single fares starting at $3.
- Prepaid passes are available for 1, 3, or 7 days, which can save you money if you’re staying a while.
- The bus schedule is reliable, but it’s worth planning ahead during peak times.
TIP: Always carry exact change if you’re paying cash.
4. Ferries: Scenic and Convenient
If you’re looking to combine transport with sightseeing, Bermuda’s ferries are a must. These boats connect key points like Hamilton, Dockyard, and St. George’s, offering a scenic way to travel across the island.
Why Take the Ferry?
- Ferries are fast and affordable, costing about the same as a bus ride.
- They offer great views of Bermuda’s turquoise waters.
- They’re a great option if you’re visiting Dockyard or heading to the historic town of St. George’s.
- More info: Ferry schedule and routes
5. Taxis: Use Sparingly
Taxis in Bermuda are plentiful, but they can be eye-wateringly expensive (the only times I’ve wanted to cry in a taxi were in Bermuda and Iceland).
They’re useful for short trips, like getting to and from the airport, but I’d avoid relying on them for exploring the island.
Cost Breakdown:
- A 15 km (9-mile) ride from Hamilton to the airport costs around $50.
- Rates increase on Sundays and during holidays.
6. Walking: A Free and Scenic Option
In towns like Hamilton and St. George’s, walking is an excellent way to get around.
Bermuda’s streets are usually pedestrian-friendly, and you’ll often stumble upon fun shops and cute alleys while exploring on foot.
With that said, residential areas tend not to have sidewalks.
7. Tours: A Stress-Free Option
If planning your own transport feels overwhelming, consider booking a tour. This is a great way to see multiple highlights in a single day, with transportation taken care of.
Tour Ideas:
- Visit many of the island’s main highlights in one epic day—The Dockyard, Horseshoe Beach, Hamilton, Gibbs Lighthouse and more! BOOK THIS TOUR
- Go snorkeling and sailing on a really cool PINK catamaran while sip on Rum Swizzles. BOOK THIS TOUR
- If you want to bask on the beach all day and do nothing more during the day, maybe a sunset cruise on a gorgeous catamaran with some drinks is more your jam. BOOK THIS TOUR
- Check out the famous Crystal Caves, shop, and explore some beaches on an awesome day trip. BOOK THIS TOUR
- Want to eat all the things but don’t want to do the research on WHERE to get the best eats? Take a Bermudian foodie tour! BOOK THIS TOUR
- Swim with the fishes, drink a Rum Swizzle, and explore shipwrecks on a half-day tour. BOOK THIS TOUR
8. Ride-Sharing and Private Options
Unfortunately, services like Uber and Lyft don’t operate in Bermuda, but you can hire private drivers or arrange transport through your accommodation.
Many hotels offer complimentary shuttles or partnerships with local drivers.
Final Tips for Getting Around Bermuda
- Book It: Transportation options can get busy during peak tourist seasons, so you may need to book rentals or tours early.
- Plan Ahead: You might not need the electric vehicle every day; maybe some days you can use the bus or bike. Since transportation in Bermuda is a bit different, you’ll need to plan where you need to go and how you’ll get there each day!
- Budget Wisely: Transportation costs in Bermuda can add up, so factor this into your trip planning.
More Bermuda
More guides to Bermuda:
- 21 Epic Things to Do in Bermuda
- 11 STUNNING Beaches in Bermuda You’ve Got to Visit
- 11 BEST Places to Stay in Bermuda
- 7 BEST Things to Do in St. George’s Island
- 11 Best Restaurants in Bermuda
- 12 ESSENTIAL Bermuda Tips
- Crystal and Fantasy Caves in Bermuda: Is It Worth It?
- Blue Hole Park in Bermuda—What You Need to Know!
- How to Get Around Bermuda: EVERYTHING to Know!
- Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve in Bermuda: A MUST Visit!
- Your Easy Guide to the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda
- Tobacco Bay, Bermuda: What to Know Before You Go!
- A Guide to Horseshoe Bay Beach: Bermuda’s Most Iconic Spot
I hope this helped you plan how to get around Bermuda!