Martinique Things To Do

Martinique is also known as 'The Isle of Flowers' and 'The Rum Capital of the World'. Saint Pierre, the former capital city was known as 'Paris of the Lesser Antilles'. The island is one of the most enchanting destinations in the French Caribbean with natural beauty, rich history and distinctive cuisine.

Great for: beaches, flowers, rum and French cuisine
Location: Leeward Islands, part of the French West Indies
Population: 400,000
Size: 417 sq miles
Capital city: Fort-de-France
Airport: Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport, Lamentin, FDF
Language: French and French-based Creole   
Currency: Euro (EUR or €) - check exchange rate
Time Zone: UTC -4   
Area code: 596

Did you know?
As part of France, Martinique is part of the European Union and its currency is the Euro.

Christopher Columbus landed on the Caribbean side of Martinique in 1502. Despite Columbus' initial discovery Spain did not colonize the island, but England and France fought several wars over Martinique. In 1763 France gave up Canada to England in return for the West Indies and France gained total control over the island. Today, Martinique’s reputation as a second France still remains and French is the official language of the island. However, Martinique has a distinct Creole culture too, and a French-based Creole Language is also spoken commonly.

Saint Pierre, the former capital city was destroyed in 1902 when Mont Pelee, a still active volcano, last erupted. Today the ruins of Saint Pierre are a tourist sight and visitors can explore the area. Saint Pierre also has some top dive sites. There are beautiful coral reefs and plenty of shipwrecks as all ships that were anchored in the harbor during the volcanic eruption now lie on the seabed. The capital of Martinique has been moved to Fort-de-France.

The small island of Martinique is famous for a couple of things. Napoleon's bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. Paul Gauguin lived in Martinique for a short time, painting the women of the island. Martinique's sugar industry was closely linked with rum production and there are a dozen of rum distilleries. 

Nature & Wildlife

Beaches

Diving & Snorkeling

Landmarks

Martinique is ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing and many more water sports. The beaches are beautiful and the waters are gentle. The landscape is diverse and so is the culture. Martinique has a lot to offer.

Nature & Wildlife in Martinique:

Mont Pelee - The volcano, responsible for the destruction of St. Pierre.

Diamond Rock - The British used this giant seaside rock as an armed fortress. Today it makes a great diving site.

Flower Park - Six acres of tropical flowers.

Martinique Beaches:

Les Salines Beach - One of the most popular beaches on the island.

Anse Mitan - White sands and calm waters make this beach a favorite.

Anse Turin - This grey sand beach is close to the Paul Gauguin Art Center.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Martinique:

Fonds Blancs - A coral reef, excellent for snorkeling.

Grand Anse - A popular diving spot.

Landmarks:

La Savane, Fort-de-France - Fort-de-France's central park is home to the famous statue of Napoleon's Empress Josephine.

Fort St. Louis, Fort-de-France - A French fortress with beautiful views.

Paul Gauguin Art Center & Museum - Paul Gauguin lived in Martinique for six months in 1887. This museum features reproductions of his works with an insight into Gauguin’s life on the island

Museum of Rhum - The museum chronicles the history of sugar industry and rum production.

Clement House - This is one of the most famous Plantation Homes in Martinique.

Habitation Fonds Saint-Jacques - This sugar plantation dates back to the mid 17th century.

• All Americans are required to present a passport to enter and re-enter the United States.
• Non-U.S. citizens, please contact the nearest consulate or embassy of the country to which you are traveling to determine your entry/visa requirements.
• Passport, visa and travel advisory information may be found at the U.S. Department of French West Indies pages.