Tour
2,8 km
1h10
14 audios
Text version
That’s it—you’ve finally arrived in Martinique, get ready for an unforgettable vacation! But before you kick back on its soft sandy beaches, dive into the crystal-clear waters of Joséphine’s Bathtub, lose yourself in the island’s lush nature, rivers, waterfalls, vibrant flowers and colours, or head off to conquer Mount Pelée, it’s time to get to know its capital. This interactive tour of Fort-de-France invites you on a journey through time, exploring the city’s most iconic landmarks uncovering the history of Martinique—its exotic charm, flavours, rhythms, and talent, but also its ideas, its struggles, and the debates that continue to shape it. A vivid and richly layered portrait, right in the heart of its picturesque streets and cultural treasures.
You’re standing on the small Colonel Fabien Square, facing the row of colourful façades that make up the Cour Perrinon shopping centre. If you’re in the mood for a bit of shopping, this is the place to go. With 35 stores offering major Read more
This beautiful neoclassical stone building was once the town hall of Fort-de-France, built in 1884. It’s a fine example of traditional Caribbean architecture, with its generous use of wood, the serrated trim along the roof, and its four-faced Read more
The building in front of you, facing the small Victor Schœlcher Square, is the former courthouse, built in 1907 in a neoclassical style. Today, it houses the Camille Darsière Space, a multicultural venue that’s partially open to the public. If Read more
You’re now standing in front of the beautiful Saint-Louis Cathedral, right in the heart of Fort-de-France. The story of a place of worship on this site goes all the way back to the late 17th century, when the city was just beginning to grow Read more
You’ve now arrived in front of one of the most iconic landmarks in Fort-de-France: the magnificent Schoelcher Library—undoubtedly the most photographed building in the city. It was founded in 1887, when Victor Schoelcher, a passionate Read more
Take a seat on one of the benches nearby and get comfortable—we’re about to take a journey through the fascinating history of Martinique. Long before the arrival of Europeans, the island was home to the Arawak people, who had Read more
You're now standing in front of the war memorial in La Savane park. This statue was erected in 1926 to honour the Martinican soldiers who died in combat during the First World Read more
You're walking alongside La Savane, a five-hectare park nestled between the city, Fort Saint-Louis, and the sea. This vast green space has long been at the heart of life in Fort-de-France. Yet, originally, it was little more than a marshland Read more
You're now standing in front of the entrance to the famous Fort Saint-Louis, perched on its rocky promontory overlooking the bay of Fort-de-France. Its story is as old as French Read more
You’re now at the entrance to La Française beach—the only beach right in the heart of downtown Fort-de-France. It may not have the picture-perfect scenery of the island’s more Read more
You’re now passing by the charming Henri Guédon bandstand, one of the most iconic landmarks along the Fort-de-France waterfront. Built in the late 19th century, it was designed Read more
You’re now on the Malecon, the beautiful seaside promenade that runs along the Caribbean coast. From here, you get a stunning view of Fort-de-France Bay, its shimmering waters framed by lush green hills and distant mountains. This esplanade Read more
You've reached the end of the Malecon, where a stunningly colourful piece of art unfolds beneath your feet. As you walk across it, you’ll spot familiar Martinican landscapes, iconic animals, and vibrant scenes that celebrate the island’s rich culture. Read more
You’ve arrived at the entrance to the Grand Covered Market of Fort-de-France—a must for anyone who loves bold flavours and authentic local culture. This is the perfect place to dive into Martinican life and discover the island’s culinary traditions Read more
Discover Fort-de-France with app
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
14 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Set off on an adventure in Martinique: dolphin-watching cruise with snacks on board
One of the most popular and beloved activities in Fort-de-France. Located 10 km north of the city, this stunning botanical garden offers an enchanting escape during your stay in Martinique. This Eden-like oasis was created by Jean-Philippe Thoze, who in 1982 moved into his grandparents’ Creole house and began to design the garden. An artist at heart, he developed a passion for horticulture and started planting seeds from all over the world, creating a
On your way to the famous gardens, don’t miss the chance to stop by the surprising Sacred Heart Church of Balata. As the name suggests, it’s a 1/5 scale replica of its famous Montmartre counterpart. Its dazzling white dome and bell tower stand out against the lush green forest. Built in the early 20th century to serve Fort-de-France’s growing population, it was dedicated to the soldiers who fell during World War I. An original stopover that also offers beautiful views over the capital and the Pitons du Carbet.
On the road to the Balata Gardens, you’ll also find the starting point of the trail leading to the Didier Waterfalls, one of Martinique’s many natural wonders. After about twenty minutes of walking, you’ll reach the first waterfall and its natural pool, where you can take a swim. If you’ve got sturdy hiking shoes and a bit more motivation, continue on to the second waterfall. It’s harder to reach and therefore less crowded—but having the place all to yourself is priceless!
It’s impossible to visit Martinique without touring a rum distillery! During your stay, you might have the chance to visit the beautiful La Mauny distillery, set in an 18th-century sugar estate near Rivière-Pilote, or the magnificent Habitation Clément and its botanical garden, located just a few kilometres from the town of Le François. But if you’re staying in Fort-de-France, head for La Favorite instead! Founded in 1842 in the commune of Le Lamentin and modernised in 1905 thanks to a now-iconic steam engine, it’s one of the oldest and most artisanal distilleries on the island—and it still produces steam-distilled rum on-site! Entry and tastings are free, so don’t hesitate!
If you enjoy visiting museums while travelling—or if it’s pouring down and you need a backup plan—here are the museums not to miss in Fort-de-France! Start with the fascinating Martinique Departmental Museum, where you can explore the island’s pre-Columbian archaeology and learn about the way of life of the Caribbean peoples before Christopher Columbus arrived. You can also visit the Regional Museum of History and Ethnography. Housed in a grand 19th-century bourgeois home, its permanent exhibition features period furniture, objects, costumes, and jewellery, as well as numerous historical documents that trace the history of Martinique’s colonisation. And for those who love natural science, the Père Pinchon Museum is made for you. This free visit takes you through the private collection of a passionate professor. Stuffed animals, butterflies, birds, shells, and many other specimens give you a glimpse into the island’s rich biodiversity.
Nature lovers, don’t worry—the Regional Natural Park of Martinique awaits just north of Fort-de-France. Founded in 1976, it protects 63,000 hectares of the island’s nature while also supporting the development of the local economy. You’ll find numerous walking trails leading to stunning viewpoints and tropical waterfalls. For more information, stop by the Maison du Parc – Monsigny Annex, located on Avenue des Canéficiers in Fort-de-France.
If you’re looking for a short and pleasant hike nearby, head for a walk among the tree ferns along the Absalon Loop trail. This 4 km circuit with 270 metres of elevation gain takes around two hours and runs at the foot of Piton Dumauzé. It’s perfect for a wild escape into the heart of the rainforest, with spectacular views over the bay of Fort-de-France.
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200 audioguided tours for cities all around the world
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