· MQ

Martinique

Martinique: Where French Chic Meets Caribbean Soul Sun-drenched beaches, emerald rainforests, and a vibrant Creole culture await you in Martinique, the "Flower of the Caribbean." This captivating island, an overseas regi…

#Caribbean island#French overseas territory#Tropical climate#Beaches#Cultural diversity

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Martinique.

Top Hotels in Martinique

Top Flights to Martinique

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Martinique.

Tours

St. Pierre Ruins Exploration

Discover the historical ruins of St. Pierre, once known as the 'Paris of the Caribbean.'

Balata Botanical Garden Visit

Visit the beautiful Balata Botanical Garden, featuring exotic flora from around the world.

Shopping

Fort-de-France Market Shopping

Experience the lively atmosphere of Fort-de-France Market, offering local goods and produce.

Outdoor

Mount Pelée Volcano Hike

Embark on a thrilling hike to the summit of Mount Pelée, an active volcano with breathtaking views.

Martinique Beaches Exploration

Relax and enjoy the pristine beaches of Martinique, known for their turquoise waters and white sands.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Martinique.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Martinique is '0.37 million'.

Average weather

Martinique

Jan

28°22°

Feb

28°22°

Mar

29°22°

Apr

30°23°

May

30°24°

Jun

30°24°

Jul

30°24°

Aug

31°24°

Sep

31°24°

Oct

30°24°

Nov

30°23°

Dec

29°22°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Martinique.

What people love

Traveling to Martinique, an island located in the Caribbean, has several pros:

Stunning Natural Beauty: Martinique is known for its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and unique geological features, such as Mount Pelée, a volcano on the island. Travelers can explore tropical rainforests, botanical gardens, and picturesque coastal areas.
French-Caribbean Culture: As a French overseas territory, Martinique offers a blend of French and Caribbean culture. Visitors can enjoy delicious French-Caribbean cuisine, experience local traditions and festivals, and explore historical sites that reflect the island's colonial past.
Water Sports and Outdoor Activities: Martinique is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, surfing, and hiking. The island's clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a popular destination for water sports lovers.
Rich History and Heritage: Martinique has a fascinating history shaped by its indigenous inhabitants, European colonization, and the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. Travelers can learn about the island's heritage through visits to museums, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
Tropical Climate: Martinique enjoys a warm tropical climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers looking to escape cold weather. The island's pleasant weather allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and relax on the beach.

Overall, traveling to Martinique offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for those seeking a tropical escape with a touch of French flair.

What to know

Traveling to Martinique, like any destination, has its cons. Here are some potential drawbacks to consider when visiting Martinique:

Hurricane Season: Martinique is located in the Caribbean, which means it is susceptible to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Traveling during this time increases the risk of disruptions to your plans due to severe weather conditions.
Language Barrier: While French is the official language of Martinique, not everyone may speak English fluently. This could potentially pose a challenge in communicating with locals, especially in more remote areas.
Cost of Living: Martinique is an overseas department of France, and as such, the cost of living can be relatively high compared to other Caribbean islands. Accommodation, dining out, and activities may be more expensive than expected.
Limited Public Transportation: While Martinique does have public transportation options like buses, they may not be as reliable or extensive as in some other destinations. Renting a car could be a more convenient but costly option for getting around.
Health Concerns: As with many tropical destinations, there are health risks to consider in Martinique, such as mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus. Travelers should take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
Island Time: Like many Caribbean islands, Martinique operates on a more relaxed schedule, which may not align with the fast-paced expectations of some travelers. This could lead to frustrations with service speed or timeliness.

While Martinique is undoubtedly a beautiful and culturally rich destination, it's essential to be aware of these potential drawbacks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Martinique, an island in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean Sea, is an overseas department of France. Its history is rich and complex, shaped by indigenous cultures, European colonization, and African influence.

Pre-Colonial and Early Colonial Period:

Before European contact, Martinique was inhabited by the Arawaks and later the Caribs, who called the island "Madinina," meaning "Island of Flowers."
Christopher Columbus was the first European to visit Martinique, landing on June 15, 1502, during his fourth voyage to the Americas.

French Colonization:

In 1635, Pierre Belain d'Esnambuc, a French explorer, established the first permanent European settlement at Saint-Pierre, claiming the island for France.
The French West India Company was established to manage the island and other French territories in the Caribbean.
The island became a key producer of sugarcane, leading to the importation of enslaved Africans to work on plantations.

18th and 19th Centuries:

Martinique changed hands several times between the French and the British during the colonial conflicts of the 18th century, including the Seven Years' War.
In 1763, the Treaty of Paris returned Martinique to France after a brief period under British control.
The island was again occupied by the British during the Napoleonic Wars but was returned to France in 1815 after the Treaty of Vienna.

Abolition and Post-Slavery Era:

Slavery was abolished in Martinique on May 22, 1848, following the decree by the French government, led by Victor Schœlcher, an important figure in the abolition movement.
Post-emancipation, many freed slaves continued working on sugar plantations under harsh conditions, often leading to economic hardship and social unrest.

20th Century and Beyond:

In 1946, Martinique became an overseas department of France, granting it equal status with European departments.
The island experienced significant development in infrastructure and education post-World War II, benefiting from French investments.
In 2009, Martinique voted to remain an overseas department rather than pursue greater autonomy.

Significant Historical Figures:

Joséphine de Beauharnais, born on Martinique, became the Empress of France as the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Aimé Césaire, born in Basse-Pointe, was a prominent poet, author, and politician who played a crucial role in the négritude movement, advocating for black identity and heritage.

Important Landmarks:

Mount Pelée: An active volcano that erupted in 1902, destroying the town of Saint-Pierre and killing approximately 30,000 people.
Fort-de-France: The capital city, known for its vibrant culture, historical architecture, and the Schoelcher Library.
Saint-Pierre: The former capital, now a historic site marked by the remnants of the 1902 volcanic eruption.
Balata Gardens: A botanical garden showcasing the island's diverse flora.
The Tomb of the Woman with the Hat: Located in Saint-Pierre, it is a surviving monument from the 1902 eruption.

Martinique's history is characterized by its blend of cultures, its role in the global sugar trade, and its journey from colonization to departmental status within France.