Things To Do
in Martinique
Martinique is a lush Caribbean island and an overseas department of France, where French and Creole cultures blend with vibrant Afro-Caribbean traditions. Its landscape spans volcanic peaks, rainforest, and white-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters. The island showcases a refined Creole cuisine, colorful markets, and a rich history from pre-Columbian times through colonial era.
Visitors can expect warm hospitality, striking scenery, and a dynamic mix of beauty and culture at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Fort-de-France Airport and transfer to your hotel to settle in and refresh. Spend some time getting acquainted with your surroundings, perhaps taking a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Enjoy a typical Creole breakfast at a local café with fresh juice and pastries.
Explore the bustling heart of Fort-de-France, visiting the stunning St. Louis Cathedral and the vibrant market, Marché Couvert. Engage with local vendors to taste exotic fruits and local spices. Enhance your cultural experience by stopping at the Schoelcher Library, an architectural gem filled with history.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional Martinican dishes like colombo or accras. As the sun sets, stroll along the promenade and appreciate the lively atmosphere of the city. Wind down with a refreshing ti' punch at a nearby bar.
After breakfast, head north to the historic town of Saint-Pierre, known for its volcanic history. Explore the remnants of the 1902 eruption at the Volcanological Museum that details its dramatic past. Capture stunning views of Mount Pelée as you wander through the coastal ruins.
Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, then visit the local craft shops in the town center. Take a moment to relax at one of the nearby black sand beaches, soaking up the sun and listening to the waves. Consider a short hike to nearby viewpoints for breathtaking scenery.
Wrap up your day with a sunset boat tour along the coast, offering a unique perspective of the island’s beauty. Savor cocktails onboard as the sky transforms into a palette of colors. Return to Saint-Pierre for a cozy dinner at a local bistro, enjoying the ambiance of this charming town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Transportation (local bus/taxi) | $1-3 per ride or more depending on distance |
| 🍷Mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🏖️Day pass at a beach club | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Staggering natural beauty and beaches
- Warm Caribbean culture with French influence
- Hurricane season risk
- Limited public transport and higher costs for some goods
- "Bonjour" - Hello (polite greeting)
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Mersi" - Thank you
- "Ou est la plage?" - Where is the beach?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Martinique
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic white-sand beach with turquoise water, ideal for sunrise silhouettes and wide‑angle beach shots.
Historic waterfront with colorful boats, markets, and cityscape backdrops for lively urban photography.
Ruins of a 17th‑century plantation set against lush forests and sea views; great for atmospheric landscape photography.
Panoramic vistas over the island from the slopes of the active volcano, perfect for dramatic landscape shots.
Charred remains and volcanic scar tell the island’s history, with compelling contrast and texture.
Food in Martinique
Martinique Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cod fritters spiced with peppers, herbs, and sometimes lime; a popular street-food snack.
Must-Try!
A fragrant curry-style chicken dish seasoned with Colombo powder and coconut milk, usually served with rice or plantains.
Smoked chicken prepared with local wood smoke and aromatic spices.
Grilled Caribbean lobster with garlic, lime, and butter—often enjoyed with a side of rice and beans.
The island’s classic cocktail made with rhum agricole, lime, and cane sugar, served over ice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market full of tropical fruits, seafood, spices, and Creole snacks to sample or buy for a picnic.
Stalls offering accras, boudin, grilled fish, plantains, and fresh fruit juices with a lively island atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm bonjour or bonne journée; a handshake or light kiss on the cheek is common among acquaintances.
French is the official language; Creole is widely spoken in daily life. Be polite, patient, and ask for help when needed.
Safety
Tipping in Martinique
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; leaving 5–10% in restaurants and cafes is appreciated if service is good.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful at markets. The currency is the euro (EUR).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days and gentle trade winds; ideal for beaches, snorkeling, and outdoor exploration with cooler evenings.
Warm and humid with regular tropical showers; lush landscapes and dramatic skies, more rain gear needed.
Increased risk of tropical storms; monitor forecasts, have flexible plans, and secure itineraries accordingly.
Martinique at Night
Hiking in Martinique
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Challenging volcanic hike with sweeping island views.
Forest trails leading to the Carbet Falls with lush viewpoints.
Coastal hikes with mangroves and sea views along the Caravelle peninsula.
Airports
How to reach Martinique by plane.
Main gateway to the island, located near Le Lamentin; handles international and domestic flights, including to Paris and other Caribbean destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority heritage with rich cultural traditions and music.
People with mixed African, European, and Indigenous ancestry.
French and other European families with long-standing ties to the island.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The island’s most popular sport with local leagues and matches across towns.
Coastlines offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, sailing, and windsurfing.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Martinique, focus on plant-based dishes, vegetable stews, plantains, legumes, and seafood as needed; ask for Colombo or stews without meat and communicate clearly in French.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Martinique.