Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France is the largest city in and capital of Martinique.

Understand
Fort-de-France became the capital of Martinique in 1902, replacing Saint Pierre, which was completely destroyed in the eruption of Mount Pelée.

The city developed around the 17th-century Fort Saint-Louis. Today it has nearly 150,000 residents and has spread like wildfire to the point of reaching the hills and plains where the airport is located.

The center, which is always somewhat crowded, extends to the seaside promenade where multiple bars and restaurants are in a typically French atmosphere. The imposing Fort Saint-Louis dominates the center. At the side you'll find "The Savannah" (French: La Savane), with many species of tropical trees. To the east of the center lies the port area, where cruise ships and merchant vessels dock.

Get in


Cruise ships often stop in Fort-de-France's harbor.

By bus
If you want to go from Fort-de-France and into other towns, don't hesitate to use public transport. In Fort-de-France, the bus service runs from 06:00 to 20:30 every day, including Sundays and holidays.

The bus system does not take cash (€ coins or otherwise). It requires you buy paper tickets at a kiosk or get the MT Ticket Mobile App.

By taxi
The city of Fort-de-France provides many taxi companies. You can use them at any time, 24/7.

Mopeds and cars are also possibilities.

See




Buy

 * La Galleria, in Lamentin (near airport), is the island's largest mall, with several European branded stores and others.
 * Fort-de-France's Spice Market offers stalls full of local/unique flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables, and herbs and spices.
 * Rue Victor Hugo is Fort-de-France's main shopping street... a Paris-like strip of boutiques, island shops and vendors of fresh fruit and flowers

Eat




Go next

 * Trois-Ilets - Take the ferry and enjoy crossing the bay by boat
 * Le Diamant