How to get to Nassau

Planning a trip to Nassau takes you to the vibrant heart of the Caribbean, located on New Providence Island. As a world-class resort and popular cruise port, the capital attracts tourists with its colonial architecture and pristine white beaches. Finding out how to get to Nassau is quite simple: despite its island location, the city is excellently connected to the outside world by regular flights and sea routes.

The fastest way to reach this tropical resort is by air. The city is served by Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS), which is the country's largest aviation hub and welcomes flights from numerous cities in the USA, Canada, and Europe.

The airport is located approximately 16 kilometres west of central Nassau and features modern infrastructure. Thanks to high passenger traffic and many airlines, finding a convenient flight to the Bahamas is usually not difficult, especially with transfers through major hubs in Florida.

Since Nassau is located on an island in the Atlantic Ocean, getting here by train is impossible. There is no railway infrastructure in the Bahamas, and trains are not used even for internal transport.

Tourists who prefer ground transport are advised to take a train to one of the port cities on the US coast (for example, Miami), and then continue the journey by water or air.

Direct bus service to the city of Nassau from other countries or cities is unavailable due to the capital's geographical location on an island. It is impossible to arrive here by intercity bus as one would on the mainland.

However, once you are there, you can use the local minibus system known as "jitneys". They operate across New Providence Island but serve exclusively for local transport, not for arriving in the city from outside.

Getting to Nassau by private car directly is impossible, as the city is separated from the mainland by the ocean. The only theoretical option is transporting a car on a cargo ship, which is highly impractical for the average tourist.

Nevertheless, the car remains a popular means of transport on the island itself. Travellers often rent cars at the airport upon arrival to explore the Bahamas at their own pace, but it is worth remembering the left-hand traffic rule adopted in the country.

To ensure your journey to sunny Nassau is as comfortable and carefree as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations. Considering the island specifics and local atmosphere, these tips will help you adapt faster.

1. Clothing and Climate. Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), sunglasses, and a hat. A light cardigan may be useful for evenings or visiting restaurants with air conditioning.
2. Transport. The cheapest way to get around is by "jitney" minibuses, which run until 18:00–19:00. For late trips, use a taxi, but agree on the price in advance, as meters are rarely used.
3. Currency. The local currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is pegged 1:1 to the US Dollar. US dollars are accepted everywhere, so there is no specific need to exchange money.
4. Safety. Try to stick to tourist zones and central streets, especially after dark. Avoid walking alone in remote areas ("Over-the-Hill").
5. Sockets. The Bahamas uses Type A and B sockets (like in the USA). If your devices use UK-style or European plugs, be sure to bring an adapter.
6. Sun Protection. The sun here is very strong. Use cream with high SPF (30-50) and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
7. Local Etiquette. Bahamians are friendly and value politeness. It is customary to greet bus drivers, shop assistants, and passers-by. A leisurely pace of life ("island time") is the norm, so one should not rush service personnel.
8. Shopping. At the Straw Market, it is customary to bargain, but do so with a smile and respect for the artisans' labour.

Following these simple rules, you will be able to enjoy your holiday in the Bahamas, avoiding common tourist mistakes and unnecessary expenses.