Bermuda

The best way to spend seven unforgettable days in Bermuda

A verdant cluster of islands in the North Atlantic, just seven hours from London and 90 minutes from the East Coast of the United States, Bermuda is fringed by dazzling coral reefs, speckled with pastel houses and renowned for its dreamy combination of pink-tinged beaches and turquoise waters.This is an island nation with its own distinct heritage: a blend of cultures that shows up in everything from its architecture to its rich cuisine and vibrant festivals. And it’s all infused with that laid-back island vibe, where you can while away your days exploring gorgeous beaches, discovering underwater wonders on diving adventures, soaking up a touch of luxury at gorgeous hotels or enjoying a game of golf – after all, Bermuda has more courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world.With the peak season running from April to September, you can hop one of the daily flights from the UK with British Airways, and in seven hours you can be making your way to the beach.

A rich heritage, complemented by stunning beaches

Bermuda packs a lot into such a small space, with only 21 square miles of land spread across seven main islands and more than 170 small rocky islets. Discovered by the Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez in 1503, it was first inhabited over a hundred years later after an English shipwreck near its shores led to the establishment of St George’s in 1612. Shipwrecks have played an important role in Bermuda’s history, as you’ll discover when you head out on a diving expedition to explore any one of the more than 300 wreck sites. Although Bermuda is the oldest of Britain’s Overseas Territory and has some American influence, sixty percent of the population has African ancestry as a result of enslaved peoples being brought to the islands from the West Indies and Africa in the 17th and 18th century. They are honoured by the African Diaspora Heritage Trail, a powerful way to connect with the history and cultural heritage of Bermuda's modern-day population as you make your way from the Unesco-listed town of St George’s to the Bermuda Heritage Museum.With plenty of music, art and annual festivities to connect you with Bermudian traditions, you can combine cultural exploration with stunning beaches for a holiday that offers a little of everything. From the unrefined seclusion of the north to the popular sugary sands of the south-east, there’s no better way to discover the coast than through sailing or guided kayak expeditions.Dive into the sea to explore an underwater world of dazzling coral reefs, combine a day of hiking with wild swimming, or escape to a spa for a little indulgence. You can do it all in Bermuda.

Three dazzling regions

Bermuda is divided into three distinct parts, each with its own unique charm. Bermuda’s former capital, St George’s & the East End transport you back in time. With a well-preserved historic town, characterised by quaint cobbled streets, imposing fortresses and colonial architecture, you’ll stroll through history, and you can also combine culture with nature at the lush expanse of Spittal Pond Nature Reserve. Hamilton & Central Bermuda make up the vibrant heart of the country. This is the place to be for the best restaurants, bars and nightlife on the island. It’s also speckled with great beaches, lush parks and impressive botanical gardens. Finally, there’s Royal Naval Dockyard & West End, a region steeped in maritime history and an excellent spot for sightseeing, with pretty Somerset village, Snorkel Park Beach and the historic Dockyard itself.

How to spend seven days in Bermuda

There is so much to experience, you’ll need at least a week to take it all in. From its idyllic beaches and fascinating history to exhilarating activities and soaking up the local culture, here’s how to spend seven days on the island.

Day one

Bermuda’s beaches are wholly unique, which is why you should make them your first port of call. For good times and the authentic Bermuda party vibe, head to award-winning Horseshoe Bay Beach on the south of the island. Grab a seat at the Horseshoe Bay Live and while away the hours over local delicacies and some of the best rum in Bermuda.

Near the historic town of St George’s, you’ll find the romantic Tobacco Bay Beach, perfect for sunsets and night swimming. Snorkel Park Beach to the north of the Royal Naval Dockyard is perfect for families, while Astwood Cove Beach on the island’s southern curve is a stunning secluded beach encircled by steep cliffs and calm waters. With so many places to dine on the beach, you can combine a day on soft sands with an evening eating al fresco. From casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants, all have put their own twist on the traditional fish sandwich, smothered in tartar sauce and served on raisin bread. Make sure you try the mussel pie, packed with flavourful mussels, papaya, onions, potato, bacon, curry powder, lemon juice and thyme.

Day two

Start your day right with Bermuda’s traditional codfish breakfast, accompanied by tomato and onion sauce, boiled potatoes, avocado, a hard-boiled egg and banana.

Next, lace up your walking shoes to hike Bermuda’s wondrous landscapes – it is one of the best ways to explore the island at a leisurely pace. Nature lovers should head to Southlands National Park, a hidden sanctuary teeming with wildlife, lush vegetation and majestic fruit groves. You’ll also find a romantic hideaway, Marley Beach, one of Bermuda’s most serene beaches.Seek out other seaside paths, such as the stunning South Shore walking trail, arguably the best beach walk in the world. Families with little ones will love Shelly Bay Beach – its pink sands and calm waters that make it perfect for a family stroll. If you’d prefer a more competitive way of getting your steps in, the Port Royal Golf Course awaits you.Another one of Bermuda’s most exhilarating walks is the Railway Trail, an 18-mile trek that spans the length of the island and traverses along a disused railway track, taking in some of Bermuda’s most captivating landscapes.

Day three

After exploring Bermuda’s natural splendour, a visit to its historic region beckons. Perched on the north-east of the island, the Unesco World Heritage Site of St George’s invites you to step back in time for an in-depth exploration of the island’s past. This is the oldest continually inhabited British settlement in the New World. You’ll find pretty cottages and cobbled lanes, the Bermuda Old State House, which dates back to 1620, and Their Majesties Chappell, St Peter’s Church.

Here, the segregated cemeteries form one of the stops on the African Diaspora Trail, which meanders across all three regions. In St George’s, call in to Tucker House, where Joseph Hayne Rainey lived during the American Civil War before returning to become the first African American member of the US House of Representatives. And visit Pilot Darrell’s Square – named after James Darrell, one of Bermuda’s most legendary seamen who became the first documented black homeowner in Bermuda – which still stands today. See it all as part of an immersive walking or e-bike tour with Long Story Short, run by award-winning Bermudian entrepreneur, community organiser and activist Kristin White, who also owns a gift shop selling authentic handmade products in St George's.

Day four

A visit to the Crystal Caves in the parish of Hamilton, one of Bermuda’s most enigmatic wonders, is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Said to be millions of years old, this cave network of ethereal stalactites and stalagmites has inspired everyone from Mark Twain to the creators of Eighties TV show Fraggle Rock.

Combine your trip to the Crystal Caves with a visit to nearby Blue Hole Park, nestled within Hamilton’s Walsingham Nature Reserve. Here you can explore caves, swim in pristine mangroves teeming with fish and hike the park’s lush landscapes.

Day five

Dive below the surface to see another side of Bermuda, and discover the wonders of its compelling underwater world. Known as the shipwreck capital of the world, Bermuda has more than 300 shipwrecks scattered off its shores – more wrecks per square mile than anywhere else on the planet. Plunge into its turquoise waters with a guided snorkelling or scuba diving excursion, where you’ll search for sunken treasures, explore coral reefs and discover caves and grottos.

Bermuda’s priceless marine cultural heritage is one of the island’s proudest assets. Yet, although its waters are rich in flora and fauna, they are still vulnerable. Pass some time by watching the locals contribute to the island’s protection by taking part in The Lionfish Tournament, searching for and catching this invasive (but really very tasty) species to help manage lionfish numbers and prevent it damaging the reef and its ecosystem, before you enjoy a delicious festive feast accompanied by live music and cultural celebrations.

Day six

As Bermuda’s vibrant centre, the capital city of Hamilton is the perfect place for a spot of shopping and culture. Head to TABS, where you can get kitted out in a pair of authentic Bermuda shorts, before seeing the country’s contribution to the art world at the Bermuda National Gallery and the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art.

Thanks to the City Arts Festival, Hamilton is now renowned for an array of street art that has sprung up in recent years. Take a self-guided street art tour, starting at the corner of Par-La-Ville Road and Church Street, where you’ll find a stunning mural courtesy of local artist Tai-Quan Ottley. You can also discover the work of mother-daughter artists Charmaine Friday and Alshanté Foggo at the Hamilton Bus Terminal and Victoria Park. Head north to Dundonald Street, where you’ll be inspired to ‘leave a legacy of love’ by Robyn Hooper's angel wings mural. Finally, stroll a few blocks east and marvel at Alshanté Foggo’s ode to Bermudian marine culture at Till’s Hill. Combine your street art tour with a visit to the rainbow-coloured splendour of Front Street, with its handsome buildings, and the lush gardens and panoramic views at Fort Hamilton.

Day seven

One of the best ways to appreciate Bermuda’s singular beauty is from the water. On your final day, enjoy a guided kayak adventure and experience the thrill of windsurfing, kiteboarding or jet-skiing across Bermuda’s sparkling waters. Or simply toast the good life with a sunset sailboat excursion.

For an authentic slice of Bermudian life, immerse yourself in a traditional raft-up. These off-the-cuff parties are all about enjoying the moment and consist of a group of boats roped together, with locals moving freely between them. Expect reggae rhythms, fine food, delicious cocktails and an unforgettable time.You can experience the best that Bermuda has to offer with an immersive mix of blissful beach life, stunning natural wonders, intriguing history and irresistable culture. Whether watching whales, playing a round of golf, hiking in nature parks or dining on local delicacies, you’re sure to have a holiday to remember on this dreamy Atlantic island.

Find out more and plan your holiday at 

St. George's & the East End

Hamilton & Central Bermuda

Royal Naval Dockyard & the West End

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Bermuda is home to stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine and a rich heritage

Celebrate Bermudan culture at Carnival

Horseshoe Bay Beach is a perfect for a Bermudian beach party

Eat al fresco at Tobacco Bay Beach

Bermuda's railway trails are a great way to explore the island

Take a stroll down the stunning South Shore walking trail

Step into history in St George's, Bermuda's first British settlement

Tucker House is one of many important sites on the African Diaspora Trail

Explore the stunning Crystal Caves

Hike, swim and explore at Blue Hole Park

Dive deep and experience one of Bermuda's 300-plus shipwrecks up close

Guided excursions make exploring the island's waters a breeze

At the heart of Bermuda sits the capital city of Hamilton, perfect for culture and shopping

'Hands' by Charmaine Friday on Victoria Street

Soak up the Bermudian sun while enjoying an impromptu party

The island offers plenty of watersports, including paddle-boarding

From sunning yourself on idyllic beaches to diving into its rich cultural heritage, here’s how you can make the most of a week in Bermuda By Sarah Gordon

Bermuda Old State House

St George's Unesco World Heritage Site

St Peter's Church

Railway Trail

Crystal Caves

Scuba diving

Walsingham Nature Reserve

Sailboat excursion

Hamilton Front Street

Horseshoe Bay

Southlands National Park

South Shore Walking Trail

Port Royal Golf Course

Royal Naval Dockyard

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St. George’s Fort St Catherine

Hamilton