Discover Pointe-à-Pitre with Europcar Guadeloupe

Discover the city of Pointe a Pitre in Guadeloupe! © Credit source : Canva

Explore Pointe-à-Pitre: A Cultural Gem in Guadeloupe

Pointe-à-Pitre, located on the island of Grande-Terre, is a must-visit city for travelers to Guadeloupe. Known for its rich historical heritage, colorful markets, and dynamic cultural scene, Pointe-à-Pitre is the perfect destination to experience the essence of the archipelago.

Locate Pointe a Pitre on the map of Guadeloupe © Credit source : Google Map

Highlights in Pointe-à-Pitre: Events and Festivals

The city of Pointe-à-Pitre is the cultural heartbeat of Guadeloupe. Among the highlights not to be missed:

The Guadeloupe Carnival: A vibrant festival with spectacular parades, music, and colorful costumes, usually celebrated in February or March. During this period, the streets of Pointe-à-Pitre, especially rue Frébault and Place de la Victoire, come alive with vibrant parades where locals and visitors dance to the rhythm of drums and brass. The extravagant costumes and decorated floats are a sight to behold.
The Gwo Ka Festival: Dedicated to traditional Guadeloupean music, this event attracts artists and spectators from around the world. Gwo ka, a music rooted in Guadeloupe's slavery history, is celebrated through concerts, workshops, and dance performances, particularly at the Centre for Arts and Culture in Pointe-à-Pitre.
Patronal Feasts: Celebrated every August, they offer a glimpse of local traditions with religious processions, concerts, and sports competitions. Place de la Victoire and St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral are the main venues for these celebrations.
The Route du Rhum: Although this event takes place every four years, it is a major highlight in Pointe-à-Pitre. The Route du Rhum is a solo transatlantic race starting from Saint-Malo in France and ending in Pointe-à-Pitre. Upon arrival, the city transforms into a giant celebration with maritime festivities, fireworks, concerts, and activities for the whole family. The Marina and the port of Pointe-à-Pitre become the center of the festivities, attracting visitors from around the world.

Things to Do in Pointe-à-Pitre: Activities and Attractions

Pointe-à-Pitre offers a multitude of activities for all tastes:

Visit the Memorial ACTe: This Caribbean center for expressions and memory of the slave trade and slavery is a poignant and educational place. Located by the sea at the entrance to the city, the Memorial ACTe features interactive exhibits and artistic installations that trace the history of the slave trade and slavery.
Stroll through Place de la Victoire: A central square surrounded by cafes and restaurants, ideal for relaxing and observing local life. This historic place, lined with palm trees and colonial buildings, is the social heart of the city. Flower markets and local food stands offer an authentic and flavorful experience.
Discover the Marché de la Darse: A lively market where you will find local products, exotic spices, and crafts. Located near the port, this market is a vibrant place where colorful stalls are brimming with tropical fruits, fresh fish, and local specialties.
Walk around the Marina District: A chic area with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the port. The Pointe-à-Pitre Marina is a meeting place for sailing enthusiasts and yachtsmen.
Explore the Saint-John Perse Museum: This museum, dedicated to the Guadeloupean poet and diplomat Alexis Léger, known by the pen name Saint-John Perse, is housed in a restored colonial house. The museum offers an immersion into the literary and diplomatic universe of Saint-John Perse through exhibitions of manuscripts, photos, and historical documents.
Visit St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral: Often called the "Iron Cathedral" due to its metal structure, this cathedral is an impressive example of colonial architecture. Built in the 19th century, it is a symbol of resilience, having survived several earthquakes and hurricanes.
Dive into history at the Mangrove House: Located near the port area, this attraction offers an immersion into the unique ecosystem of Guadeloupean mangroves and their ecological importance.

Weather in Pointe-à-Pitre: Climate and Conditions

Pointe-à-Pitre enjoys a tropical climate with pleasant temperatures year-round. The dry season runs from December to May, offering sunny weather ideal for sightseeing. The rainy season, from June to November, can bring tropical showers but also lush and verdant landscapes. Temperatures generally range between 24°C and 30°C, allowing for outdoor activities throughout the year.

Distance from Pointe-à-Pitre Airport

Pointe-à-Pitre is easily accessible from Guadeloupe Pôle Caraïbes Airport, located just 3 kilometers from the city center. By car, the trip takes only about 10 minutes, making it a convenient destination for visitors arriving by plane.

Rent Your Vehicle with Europcar Guadeloupe

To explore Pointe-à-Pitre and its surroundings freely, Europcar Guadeloupe offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs:

Touring Cars: Ideal for couples or small families, these vehicles offer comfort and convenience for urban travel and excursions in the surrounding area.
SUVs and 4x4s: Perfect for adventurers looking to explore Guadeloupe's varied landscapes, these robust vehicles are suited for winding roads and rugged terrains.
Electric Vehicles: For an ecological and economical option, our electric vehicles allow you to explore Pointe-à-Pitre while respecting the environment.

Our Europcar Agencies in Guadeloupe

Europcar Guadeloupe has several strategically located agencies to facilitate your travel:

Airport Agency: Located at Guadeloupe Pôle Caraïbes Airport, just 10 minutes from Pointe-à-Pitre. Perfect for picking up your vehicle upon arrival and starting your island exploration without delay.
Downtown Agency: In the heart of Pointe-à-Pitre, ideal for residents and visitors staying in the city. Convenient for those who want to explore the city and its main attractions without straying far.
Marina Agency: Near the Pointe-à-Pitre Marina, perfect for those who want to enjoy the nightlife and restaurants of the Marina. An ideal starting point for a day of sailing or an evening in the city.

With Europcar Guadeloupe, enjoy flexible and tailored car rental services to discover Pointe-à-Pitre and its wonders with peace of mind.