Things To Do
in Fort-de-France
Fort-de-France is the lively capital of Martinique, perched on a crescent-shaped bay with colorful storefronts and a bustling harbor. The city blends colonial architecture with vibrant markets, waterfront cafés, and a rhythm of Creole music. It serves as a gateway to the island’s beaches, rainforests, and volcanic landscapes, all within easy reach from its streets and hills.
Expect a warm Caribbean welcome infused with French flair as you explore the port, markets, and nearby natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Fort Saint-Louis, where you can delve into the history of the island and enjoy stunning views of the harbor. Afterward, stroll through the bustling Market of Fort-de-France, where vibrant stalls showcase local produce, spices, and handcrafted goods. Don’t forget to sample some fresh tropical fruits as you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Visit the magnificent La Savane park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, where you can relax under the shade of palm trees. Explore the nearby Schoelcher Library, known for its stunning architecture and rich collection of literature, which reflects the island's cultural heritage. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the sea breeze.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café in the city center to enjoy authentic Creole cuisine and local rum cocktails. Join locals for an evening of live music, where you can experience the vibrant culture of Martinique and perhaps even learn a few dance steps. End your night by taking a peaceful walk along the waterfront, admiring the twinkling lights of the city.
Head to the popular Anse Mitan beach, where golden sands and crystal-clear waters await you. Start your day with a refreshing swim or try your hand at snorkeling, exploring the colorful marine life just off the shore. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the beachfront cafés, savoring freshly caught seafood and tropical juices.
Continue your beach day by renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the nearby coastline at your own pace. As you glide across the water, take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the distant island of Rocher du Diamant. Afterward, unwind on the beach with a good book or take a nap under the shade of a palm tree.
As evening approaches, indulge in a seaside dinner at a local restaurant, where you can feast on grilled fish and plantain while listening to the sound of waves lapping the shore. After dinner, take a twilight stroll along the beach, enjoying the soft glow of the setting sun. Cap off your day with a cocktail at a beach bar, enjoying the vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries (basic groceries) | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi start (inside city) | $3-8 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant market life and Creole cuisine
- Gateway to rainforests, beaches, and volcanic landscapes
- Hot humidity and hurricane season, occasional rain
- Some areas require transport to reach beaches and hiking trails
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Où est le marché?" - Where is the market?
- "Je voudrais ceci, s'il vous plaît" - I would like this, please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
- "L'eau reste-t-elle potable ici?" - Is the tap water potable here?
Places to Visit in Fort-de-France
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic coastal fort with sturdy stone paths and panoramic harbor views.
A green city square with palm trees, benches, and locals going about daily life—great for morning light.
Colorful market interiors and outdoor stalls bursting with produce, spices, and textiles.
Elegant French-Caribbean cathedral featuring stained glass and architectural details.
Food in Fort-de-France
Fort-de-France Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy cod fritters often served with a lime wedge and spicy sauce.
Must-Try!
Caribbean curry (chicken, pork, or vegetable) with fragrant spices and coconut milk.
Baked sea bream with garlic, lime, and herbs.
Dessert with coconut cream and delicate pastry, a Creole favorite.
Conch prepared in a stewed tomato and herb broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indoor market brimming with tropical fruits, spices, seafood, and Creole snacks.
Casual stalls offering accras, skewers, grilled plantains, and fresh juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Bonjour or Bonsoir; a handshake is common. In informal settings, locals may use Creole greetings.
Respect religious customs and dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; casual-smart attire is suitable for most venues.
Safety
Tipping in Fort-de-France
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities are appreciated but not always included. In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service is not included; round up at cafes.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash in euros is common for street vendors and small shops; mobile payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wet and hot with frequent showers; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Pack light rain gear and sunscreen; ocean breezes help, but humidity stays high.
Drier and slightly cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities and city strolls. Expect higher tourist presence and more crowds at popular sights.
Fort-de-France at Night
Hiking in Fort-de-France
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with viewpoints toward the Caribbean Sea and surrounding peaks.
Dramatic volcanic landscapes with challenging hikes and dramatic panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Fort-de-France by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway to Martinique, about 25–40 minutes by car from Fort-de-France depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with deep Afro-Caribbean roots and vibrant Creole culture.
Residents and long-term visitors from France and other parts of Europe, contributing to the island's bilingual culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Martinique, with local leagues and many passionate fans.
Coastal location fosters a strong culture of snorkeling, sailing, and fishing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort-de-France.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Creole dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable curries (colombo) with vegetables, beans, and plantains; request seafood-free versions and ask for sides like grilled greens.