Fort de France

Located on the west coast of Martinique, the city of Fort de France is the economic heart of the island. The capital of Martinique, the city concentrates most of the administrative, military and cultural functions.

Fort-de-France, which has known no less than 6 different names in its history strongly linked to colonialism, is at the center of a conurbation of 165,000 inhabitants, including the communes of Le Lamentin (you will surely pass through there if you arrive at the Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport), Schoelcher, Saint-Joseph and Case-Pilote.

Its inhabitants, the Foyalais, welcome you for half a day or a day to wander through its alleys, the covered market of Fort-de-France or the old center.

If at first glance, the city may not show any architectural specificities or typical Foyalais art of living, take the time to raise your nose, to lose yourself in the colorful shopping streets of street art. Why not entrust your list to a guide who will show you the charm of the city?

The Bay of Fort de France

The popularity of the commune is largely due to its splendid bay, the Bay of the Flemings. This name was given in connection with that of Dutch Jews expelled from Brazil in the 17th century and who found in Martinique a land of refuge.

Unique and magnificent, the bay has been recognized as one of the “most beautiful bays in the world”. The world-renowned Bay of San Francisco in California, the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel in Normandy and the Bay of Ha Long in Vietnam are among the world’s most famous bays.

Maritime shuttles allow you to cross the bay very easily and to go to Trois-Îlets, for example.

It is perhaps from the sea that you will have the best point of view to observe the beauty of the city of Fort-de-France. Speaking of viewpoints, don’t miss the one offered on the bay from land, from Fort Saint-Louis or from the top floor of the majestic Hotel Simon.

5-7 Best things to do in Fort-de-France

I have compiled for you the best activities to do during your next stay in Martinique, and in particular in Fort-de-France. Consider spending one or two mornings at the local markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover all the delights the island has to offer! Without forgetting the warm exchange with the people of Martinique who will be delighted to see you curious about the Creole culture.

Then spend an afternoon discovering Fort Saint-Louis. This is indeed the naval base of the French Navy. Don’t forget to take a guide to retrace the history of this monument during your visit!

The garden of Balata is a must in the city. You will find there 3000 species of exotic and tropical plants. The landscape is breathtaking. You’ll think you’re on the set of the Jungle Book, so unreal are the 15-meter bridges and wild flora. A real delight for nature lovers!

Fort-de-France is first and foremost a rich and eventful history. You can retrace all its history thanks to the exhibitions of the departmental museum of Martinique which is located in the city. The artifacts go back to the Amerindian civilization. A real window on the past at your fingertips.

Flemish Bay… the place is as magical as its name. Being on the Malecon pier, you absolutely must spend a few hours there. It will be your little secret place. Shhh… to relax away from all the hustle and bustle. A walk in the savannah will erase all your worries of the Caribbean breeze.