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Caribbean

Fort-de-France, Martinique

Experience a slice of the French Riviera right in the heart of the Caribbean. Start at the center, then follow the vibe.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

75-86F (24-30C)

Currency

EUR

Language

French

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Overview

Welcome to Fort-de-France, the effortlessly stylish capital of Martinique. This is where the Caribbeans natural beauty gets a sophisticated French accent. Youll feel it as you stroll past the designer boutiques on Rue Victor Hugo or admire the stunning, Romanesque-Byzantine architecture of the Schoelcher Library. Dive into the local scene at the Grand Marche Couvert, a covered market overflowing with spices, rum, and flowers. Beyond the city, lush rainforests, historic plantations, and the infamous volcanic ruins of Saint-Pierre await. This is an island that tempts you with both refined culture and wild, untamed nature.

Top Sights

  • Fort Saint-Louis
This massive, 17th-century seaside fortress is still an active naval base but offers guided tours. Explore. its historic ramparts and enjoy commanding views of the harbor and city.
  • Bibliotheque Schoelcher (Schoelcher Library)
An architectural masterpiece, this stunning iron-and-glass building was designed by Gustave Eiffels contemporary and shipped piece-by-piece from Paris. in 1889. Step inside to admire its intricate design and historical significance.
  • Le Grand Marche Couvert (Covered Market)
Immerse your senses in this vibrant, historic market hall. It's the perfect place to discover local spices. browse for crafts, and sample Ti Punch, the islands signature rum cocktail.
  • Sacre-Coeur de Balata Cathedral
A stunning, smaller-scale replica of the famous Sacre-Coeur Basilica in Paris. Perched in the hills above. the city, it offers beautiful architecture and fantastic views of Fort-de-France.
  • Jardin de Balata (Balata Garden)
Escape to a lush, tropical paradise just north of the city. This world-renowned botanical garden features a stunning collection. of 3,000 tropical plant species, peaceful ponds, and a thrilling treetop canopy walk.
  • Saint-Pierre and the Mount Pelee Volcano
Journey to the Pompeii of the Caribbean, the former capital that was tragically destroyed by the 1902 volcanic eruption. Explore. the haunting ruins and learn about the event at the Franck A. Perret Museum.

Neighborhoods

Centre-Ville (Downtown)

Local eats and photo spots

Didier

Local eats and photo spots

Pointe du Bout

Local eats and photo spots

Le Lamentin

Local eats and photo spots

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

Layers of Flavors of Rum & Bananas

5.0 Hours

Moderate

When getting a culture fix, native tastes and flavors are where to begin - and in Martinique, that is with rum and bananas.
View Details
From

$90 USD

Catamaran in the south of Martinique

7.0 Hours

Easy

Sail by catamaran into the bay of Fort-de-France, heading to Diamond Rock, and past the iconic beach of Anses d'Arlet.
View Details
From

$195 USD

Rainforest Hike in Martinique

3.5 Hours

Very Active

Head into the heart of the rainforest on a hiking trail where you'll encounter an incredible world of unique biodiversity.
View Details
From

$95 USD

Snorkeling in Fort-de-France Bay

3.5 Hours

Active

The bay of Fort-de-France is marked by its mangrove trees and the rare wildlife found all over. Sail it and discover all this nature for yourself.
View Details
From

$95 USD

Explore all Fort-de-France Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

Layers of Flavors of Rum & Bananas

5.0 Hours

Moderate

When getting a culture fix, native tastes and flavors are where to begin - and in Martinique, that is with rum and bananas.
View Details
From

$90 USD

Catamaran in the south of Martinique

7.0 Hours

Easy

Sail by catamaran into the bay of Fort-de-France, heading to Diamond Rock, and past the iconic beach of Anses d'Arlet.
View Details
From

$195 USD

Rainforest Hike in Martinique

3.5 Hours

Very Active

Head into the heart of the rainforest on a hiking trail where you'll encounter an incredible world of unique biodiversity.
View Details
From

$95 USD

Snorkeling in Fort-de-France Bay

3.5 Hours

Active

The bay of Fort-de-France is marked by its mangrove trees and the rare wildlife found all over. Sail it and discover all this nature for yourself.
View Details
From

$95 USD

Explore all Fort-de-France Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

75-86F (24-30C)

Currency

EUR

Language

French

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Ready to explore Fort-de-France?

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