Discover Pointe-à-Pitre with Europcar Guadeloupe

Anse-Bertrand in Guadeloupe

Pointe-à-Pitre is where Guadeloupe comes alive. Beyond its lively streets, you'll find colourful markets, beautiful Creole architecture, vibrant street art, museums and a genuine local atmosphere.

If you think it's just a place to pass through, think again. Here are the best things to do and discover in Pointe-à-Pitre beyond the usual tourist stops.

We love Pointe a Pitre for:

• 💚 Its energy is unlike any other in Guadeloupe. Here, people chat loudly in the markets, the scent of spices fills the air on every street corner, and every stroll reveals a new colorful facade or a street art mural.

• 💚 Its heritage tells a story that goes far beyond that of a simple city. From the ACTe Memorial to the Creole buildings and bustling squares, Pointe-à-Pitre is best discovered both with your eyes and by taking the time to listen to its history.

• 💚 Its “let’s just go with the flow” vibe. The best discoveries often happen when you turn down an alley, stop at a little shop, or order a bokit simply because the smell was impossible to ignore.

Things to Do in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe: Top 8 Attractions

1. Wander Through Pointe-à-Pitre's Historic Center

Pointe-à-Pitre is one of the liveliest cities in Guadeloupe and is best explored on foot. As you stroll through its streets, you'll discover colorful colonial buildings, traditional Creole houses with wooden balconies, and historic landmarks that reflect the city's rich commercial past.

Take time to admire the architectural details, vibrant street art, and shaded squares that give the historic center its unique charm. It's also the perfect place to experience everyday local life, with bustling cafés, small shops, and lively markets around every corner.

2. Visit the Mémorial ACTe

No visit to Pointe-à-Pitre is complete without exploring the Mémorial ACTe, one of the Caribbean's largest museums dedicated to the history of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.

Through modern exhibitions, immersive installations, artwork, and historical archives, the museum tells the story of several centuries of history while offering a deeper understanding of Guadeloupe's cultural identity. Allow two to three hours to fully experience this remarkable museum.

3. Explore Saint-Antoine Market

To discover the authentic flavors of Guadeloupe, head to Saint-Antoine Market.

The colorful stalls are filled with local spices, vanilla, cocoa, tropical fruits, homemade rum infusions, and handcrafted products. It's also an excellent place to sample traditional specialties such as accras, savory pastries, or freshly squeezed tropical fruit juices.

Don't hesitate to chat with the vendors—they're often happy to recommend local restaurants or share stories about the city.

4. Relax at Place de la Victoire

The lively Place de la Victoire is the beating heart of Pointe-à-Pitre.

Surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and historic buildings, the square regularly hosts cultural events and local entertainment. Grab a seat on one of the terraces, enjoy the shade of the large trees, and watch daily life unfold before continuing your visit.

5. Admire Saint Peter and Saint Paul Cathedral

With its impressive metal framework and distinctive architecture, Saint Peter and Saint Paul Cathedral is one of Pointe-à-Pitre's most iconic landmarks.

Built after several devastating earthquakes, the cathedral was designed to better withstand seismic activity. Its bright, elegant interior is equally worth exploring.

6. Visit the Saint-John Perse Museum

Housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century colonial mansion, the Saint-John Perse Museum celebrates the life and work of the Guadeloupean Nobel Prize-winning poet.

The museum also offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of wealthy Creole families during the colonial era through its original furniture, historical artifacts, and remarkably preserved architecture.

7. Go Shopping in the City Center

Pointe-à-Pitre remains Guadeloupe's main shopping destination.

Shopping streets such as Rue Frébault, Rue Nozières, and the downtown arcades are home to fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, bookstores, traditional shops, and local artisans.

Whether you're looking for authentic souvenirs, locally made products, Caribbean fragrances, or simply enjoy browsing lively shopping streets, you'll find plenty to explore.

8. Discover the Islands of Guadeloupe

Thanks to the Bergevin Ferry Terminal, Pointe-à-Pitre is the perfect gateway to explore the islands that make up the Guadeloupe archipelago. In just a few hours—or even less—you can reach Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, or La Désirade, each offering its own unique landscapes, atmosphere, and experiences.

Les Saintes is famous for its turquoise waters, Fort Napoléon, and its spectacular bay, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world. Marie-Galante is renowned for its rum distilleries, unspoiled beaches, and laid-back island lifestyle, while La Désirade attracts nature lovers with its hiking trails, dramatic scenery, and peaceful surroundings.

If you're spending several days in Guadeloupe, taking a day trip to one of these islands is one of the best ways to discover another side of the archipelago. Be sure to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during school holidays and peak travel seasons.

Cultural Calendar and Events: Must-See Highlights in Pointe-à-Pitre

📅 January – March

Pointe-à-Pitre Carnival: It is impossible to talk about Pointe-à-Pitre without mentioning its famous Carnival. For several weeks, the streets come alive with traditional carnival groups, spectacular costumes, and colorful parades that attract thousands of spectators. It is one of the best places in Guadeloupe to experience this iconic tradition.

📅 April – June

May 27 Abolition of Slavery Commemoration: Pointe-à-Pitre plays a major role in the annual ceremonies marking the Abolition of Slavery. The commemorations bring together locals and visitors around Saint Peter and Saint Paul Cathedral, followed by a procession to the Mémorial ACTe. It is a powerful moment of remembrance and cultural transmission.

Jou A Mizik Lapwent: Organized around the Fête de la Musique, this event transforms downtown Pointe-à-Pitre into a huge open-air stage. Concerts, local bands, and a vibrant Creole atmosphere fill the streets until late in the evening.

📅 July – August

Festival of the Guadeloupean Cooks (Fête des Cuisinières): Every summer, the famous Guadeloupean Cooks parade through the streets dressed in their traditional costumes before sharing the flavors of Creole cuisine. It is one of the most emblematic events in Pointe-à-Pitre and a must-see experience for anyone wishing to discover the island's culinary traditions.

Summer Events in the City Center: Night markets, open-air cinema screenings, exhibitions, performances, and concerts regularly bring the historic squares and neighborhoods to life throughout the summer holidays.

📅 September – December

European Heritage Days: The Mémorial ACTe, the Saint-John Perse Museum, Place de la Victoire, and Saint Peter and Saint Paul Cathedral host guided tours, exhibitions, and special events celebrating the rich history of Pointe-à-Pitre.

Route du Rhum Destination Guadeloupe: Every four years, the finish of the legendary Route du Rhum transatlantic yacht race transforms Pointe-à-Pitre into the sailing capital of the Caribbean. For several days, the race village, concerts, and entertainment attract hundreds of thousands of visitors in an exceptional festive atmosphere.

Chanté Nwel: From the end of November, traditional Creole Christmas songs echo through the neighborhoods of Pointe-à-Pitre. Combined with local specialties and a warm community atmosphere, it is a wonderful way to experience Guadeloupean Christmas traditions before the holiday season.

💡 Planning your trip to Guadeloupe? Discover all the festivals, sporting events, and cultural celebrations taking place across the archipelago throughout the year in our "When to Visit Guadeloupe" guide.