Pointe-a-Pitre is a down-to-earth city on the island of Grande-Terre. Built around a palm-shaped plaza, the city is a launchpad to the picturesque island, where you’ll find turquoise bays, sandy beaches and lush sugarcane plantations. One of the best cultural museums in the French Antilles makes Pointe-a-Pitre a rewarding destination for history buffs.
Things to do in Pointe-à-Pitre
While the city centre is bustling, the waterfront district has plenty of historic charm. Stroll along the boardwalk, stopping to browse the colourful souvenir stores and enjoy refreshments at a waterfront café.
Just south of the city centre, the resort town of Le Gosier offers a lively beach scene. Relax on the sand and cool off in the calm, crystal-clear water of the Pacific Ocean. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars to keep you entertained.
Mémorial ACTe is dedicated to the history of colonialism and slavery in the French Antilles. It occupies a striking contemporary building located on the site of a former sugar factory and explores sensitive topics such as the arrival of Columbus and the Caribbean slave trade. The narrative is brought to life with immersive audio and art installations.
Set on the waterfront, Marché de la Darse is brimming with fruit, vegetables and local produce. You can wander through the aisles, then stop to chat with friendly shopkeepers and sample exotic fruits like mango and papaya. In addition to food, the market also sells brightly coloured spices, handwoven blankets and other unique souvenirs.
Getting there
Pointe-a-Pitre is located on Grande-Terre in central Guadalupe. Taxis are a fast and comfortable way to get around while local buses are also available. The city centre is a 15-minute drive from Pointe-a-Pitre International Airport. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Grande-Terre at your own pace.