9 Best Cities in Martinique & Best Time of Year to Visit

Martinique, a rugged Caribbean island that's part of the Lesser Antilles, is a French overseas region known for its distinctive blend of French and West Indian cultures. Its landscape is dotted with a series of charming cities and towns that offer visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural vibrancy. From the bustling streets of Fort-de-France to the serene beaches of Les Anses-d'Arlet, each city in Martinique has its own character and attractions that make it special. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Creole culture, these nine cities are beloved by travelers and offer a glimpse into the heart of Martinique.

Fort-de-France

Fort-de-France, the capital city of Martinique, is a bustling hub of culture and commerce. The city is home to the impressive Fort Saint-Louis, a fortress with a rich history and stunning views of the bay. Visitors can also explore La Savane, a central park that's perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Bibliothèque Schoelcher is an architectural gem, housing a vast collection of books and historical documents. For shopping and local flavor, the Grand Marché, or Spice Market, offers a colorful array of local produce and crafts.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Fort-de-France is from December to May when the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid the peak tourist season in February to enjoy the city without the crowds. The annual Carnival in February is a vibrant and exciting time to visit, but plan ahead for larger crowds.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Musée Départemental d'Archéologie, which provides fascinating insights into the island's pre-Columbian and colonial history.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying at the Hotel La Pagerie or the Karibea Squash Hotel for comfortable accommodations. For dining, try the local Creole cuisine at La Route des Epices or the seafood at Le Zandoli.

Les Trois-Îlets

Les Trois-Îlets is a resort town known for its beautiful beaches and the birthplace of Empress Joséphine, Napoleon's wife. The town's main attraction is the Pagerie Museum, which is dedicated to Joséphine's life. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the Golf de la Martinique, while those interested in history can visit La Savane des Esclaves, an open-air museum that recreates the life of freed slaves. The town also offers a variety of water sports and activities.

When to Visit: Visit between December and April for the best weather. The quieter months of September and October offer great deals on accommodation and fewer tourists.

Travel Tip: Take a ferry ride across the bay to Fort-de-France for a scenic trip and a different perspective of the island.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the Hotel Bakoua for its beachfront location or the La Suite Villa for its artistic decor. For dining, L'Anse Mitan offers excellent seafood with a view.

Saint-Pierre

Once known as the "Paris of the Caribbean," Saint-Pierre is a city steeped in history. The 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée completely destroyed the city, and the ruins can still be visited today, including the Volcanological Museum that tells the story of the disaster. The city has been rebuilt and now offers a charming mix of history and modernity, with beautiful beaches and diving spots where you can explore underwater shipwrecks.

When to Visit: May to early June is ideal for visiting Saint-Pierre, with pleasant weather and before the hurricane season starts. The city also hosts a cultural festival in May, celebrating its rich heritage.

Travel Tip: The Cachot de Cyparis, a small cell that held a prisoner who survived the volcanic eruption, is a must-see for its historical significance.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider the Villa Saint Pierre for its cozy atmosphere or the Hotel Le Saint-Pierre for its historical charm. Le Fromager is a great spot for Creole cuisine.

Le Diamant

Le Diamant is named after the imposing Diamond Rock that sits off its coast. This small town is known for its long white sandy beach, which offers stunning views of the rock and is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The Cap 110 memorial, a series of statues dedicated to the memory of slavery, is a poignant site to visit. The town is also a good base for snorkeling and diving excursions to Diamond Rock.

When to Visit: The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit Le Diamant for beach activities. The town is less crowded outside of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Travel Tip: Take a boat trip around Diamond Rock to fully appreciate its size and the diversity of marine life that surrounds it.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hôtel Diamant Les Bains offers direct beach access, while the Residence Marine Hotel Diamant has self-catering options. For dining, try New Cap for its excellent seafood dishes.

Le Marin

Le Marin is a bustling yachting hub on the south coast of Martinique, known for its large marina that accommodates boats and yachts from around the world. The town's Eglise du Marin, an 18th-century church, is one of the oldest and most beautiful on the island. Visitors can also enjoy the town's market for local crafts and fresh produce. The nearby beaches, such as Cap Macré and Anse Figuier, are perfect for relaxation and water sports.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Le Marin is from mid-December to April, when the weather is dry and the sailing conditions are optimal. Try to avoid the busy Easter weekend if you prefer a quieter experience.

Travel Tip: Visit the Marina du Marin for a chance to see luxury yachts and to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the waterfront bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay & Eat: Club Med Buccaneer's Creek is an all-inclusive resort with plenty of amenities, while the Hôtel Cap Macabou offers a more tranquil setting. La Dunette offers a great dining experience with a view of the marina.

Les Anses-d'Arlet

Les Anses-d'Arlet is a picturesque fishing village with postcard-perfect beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkeling. The town's main beach, Grande Anse, is lined with traditional restaurants and bars. The iconic church, Eglise Saint-Henri, sits right on the beachfront and is a popular photo spot. The town has a relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for those looking to unwind and experience authentic Martinican culture.

When to Visit: Visit from December to April for the best beach weather. Early December or late April will offer a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Travel Tip: Snorkeling around the pier at Grande Anse can reward you with sightings of colorful fish and even sea turtles.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the Hotel Diamant Les Bains for its proximity to the beach and local charm. For dining, Ti Sable offers delicious French-Caribbean fusion cuisine right on the beach.

Sainte-Anne

Sainte-Anne is renowned for its idyllic white sand beaches, including Les Salines, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The town itself is charming, with a lively market selling spices, fruits, and local handicrafts. The nearby Pointe Marin offers a quieter beach experience, and the town is a gateway to the southernmost tip of Martinique, Cap Chevalier, where you can find secluded coves and natural beauty.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Sainte-Anne is from December to April, with the shoulder months of November and May offering a good balance of good weather and fewer tourists.

Travel Tip: Take a hike to the Savane des Pétrifications, a desert-like landscape with fascinating rock formations and petrified wood.

Where to Stay & Eat: Club Med Les Boucaniers is a popular all-inclusive resort, while Residence de l'Anse Caritan offers self-catering apartments. For dining, Le Rond Point offers local dishes with a view of the sea.

Le François

Le François is known for its "fonds blancs," shallow white sandbanks surrounded by crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration. The town is also home to the prestigious Habitation Clément, a rum distillery and plantation house that offers tours and tastings. The Ilet Oscar and Ilet Thierry are small islands off the coast that provide a secluded getaway for visitors.

When to Visit: The dry season from December to April is the best time to visit Le François, especially for boat trips to the fonds blancs. Avoid the busy Christmas period for a more peaceful experience.

Travel Tip: A guided boat tour to the fonds blancs is a must-do activity, where you can swim in the warm, shallow waters and enjoy a traditional Creole lunch on the water.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hôtel Plein Soleil offers a boutique experience with stunning views, while the Le Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa provides luxury accommodations. For dining, try the gourmet cuisine at Le Cap Est's restaurant.

Sainte-Luce

Sainte-Luce is a small coastal town with a series of beautiful beaches, such as Anse Mabouyas and Gros Raisin, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The town has a lively waterfront with restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local rum cocktails. The Montravail Forest nearby offers hiking trails through lush tropical vegetation and pre-Columbian rock carvings.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Sainte-Luce is from December to April for ideal beach weather. Early December or late April will be less crowded.

Travel Tip: Take a walk along the coastal path that connects the beaches for stunning views and a chance to discover hidden coves.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Karibea Resort Sainte Luce is a great option for families, while the Pierre & Vacances Village Club offers a range of activities. For dining, Case Coco Restaurant serves up delicious Creole dishes in a charming setting.