Tourism in Martinique

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Americas / Caribbean

Tourist attractions

Mount Pelée Volcano

Region: North

Nature

Active volcano at 1,397m altitude. Hiking trails offer spectacular views of tropical rainforest and caldera

Jardin de Balata

Region: Fort-de-France suburbs

Botanical Garden

Private garden popular for over 200 tropical plant species and suspension bridge course

Les Salines Beach

Region: Sainte-Anne, South

Nature

Picture-perfect beach with over 1km of white sand and coconut palms

Saint-Pierre Ruins

Region: Northwest

Cultural Heritage

Stone theater and prison ruins of the former capital buried by the 1902 eruption

Fort Saint-Louis

Region: Fort-de-France port area

Early Modern Fortress

Military port from the 17th century with available guided tours

Habitation Clément

Region: Le François

Industrial Heritage

Historical rum distillery with Creole mansion and art exhibitions

Route de la Trace

Region: North-central

Driving Course

Mountain road threading through rainforest. Waterfalls and viewpoints along the way offer spectacular views

Diamond Rock

Region: Southwest offshore

Nature

Unusual rock fortified by British forces during Napoleonic Wars. Diving spot

Caravelle Peninsula and Château Dubuc

Region: Trinité, East

Nature/Historic Site

Mixed terrain of dry savanna and mangroves with 18th-century sugar ruins

La Savane des Esclaves

Region: Trois-Îlets

Cultural Heritage

Reconstructed slave life village and Creole folk museum

Suggested itineraries

3-Day Northern Volcano and Tropical Forest Tour

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Mount Pelée climb, Saint-Pierre ruins, Balata Garden

Based in Fort-de-France, efficiently experiencing the dynamic nature and colonial heritage of the north

4-Day Southern Beach and Rum Road

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Les Salines, Habitation Clément, Diamond Rock

Enjoying crystal-clear seas and world-class rum while learning history at elegant Creole mansions

7-Day Complete Island Experience

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Carnival or Yole boat race, Route de la Trace, Caravelle Peninsula, Fort Saint-Louis

Classic plan covering mountains, sea, city, and cultural events by circling the island by rental car

Travel tips

  • Rainy season (June to November) has frequent short showers, so a folding umbrella is convenient
  • For hiking, long pants are essential against slippery red clay and leeches
  • Bring insect repellent and long sleeves against mosquito-borne dengue fever and chikungunya
  • Cash is euros, credit cards widely available in major cities
  • Outlets are French-style C/E type; prepare conversion plugs
  • Public transportation is limited, so rental car is most efficient
  • Roads are narrow and hilly, so consider comprehensive insurance
  • High medical standards same as mainland France, EU insurance cards available
  • Strong sunlight requires SPF50+ sunscreen and hat
  • Local markets are lively in mornings with cheap ripe tropical fruits
  • Rum tastings have high alcohol content, so enjoy with water and food
  • Biodegradable sunscreen recommended for coral reef protection
  • Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches
  • Be cautious of security in some areas of Fort-de-France at night
  • Free public Wi-Fi at tourist offices, SIM cards available at airport

Back to list