Markets
in Guadeloupe Islands

Markets in the Guadeloupe islands

The markets of the Guadeloupe islands

The Guadeloupe Islands boast a variety of markets that visitors enjoy exploring. The aroma of spices and fruits fills the air, creating a delightful, exotic atmosphere. Each town has its own array of stalls, but some markets are renowned for their popularity.

Markets provide an ideal opportunity to connect with local producers and engage in conversations about their products. It's not unusual to have the chance to sample fruits and specialties directly from the stalls.

The markets of Pointe-à-Pitre

Pointe à Pitre is the city of markets. In one location, you'll find no fewer than 5 markets, each with its own speciality. When you're on 'Place de la Victoire', to the left of the 'Darse', you'll come across the fish market stalls, and to your right, the fruit and vegetable market, where colorful parasols add a cheerful touch to this lively maze of vendors. Both markets are open from Monday to Saturday, between 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For a more serene experience, head to 'Place de la Cathédrale Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul', where the flower market takes place daily from 6 am to 2 pm, in a tranquil atmosphere often accompanied by choirs and organ music.

The city's most renowed market is located in the historic heart of the city, known as the spice market. It is held in a completely open hall that has been designated as a historic monument. Here, the merchants don their finest madras attire and charm visitors with their legendary hospitality.

Another market takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 3 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Bergevin, just a short walk from the cruise terminal.

Market by night

Five night markets take place on the Guadeloupe Islands. They kick off in the late afternoon and extend into the evening, offering fantastic opportunities to savor Guadeloupean street food.

In addition to indulging in coconut sorbets and snowballs, you can relish kassav, bokits, agoulous, sweet and savory patties, as well as local accras and cocktails, alongside an array of fresh fruits and vegetables. Moreover, an increasing number of artisans participate in the night markets, providing you with the chance to explore exceptional products such as honey, soaps, creams, woodworks, and basketry.

Gosier: Fridays 5-10pm
Moule: Wednesdays 3 pm to 10 pm
Abymes: Fridays and Saturdays 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Petit-Bourg: Fridays 3 pm to 10 pm
Saint-François: Tuesdays from 5:30pm to 8pm
Sainte-Anne: Thursdays from 6pm

The markets of Basse-Terre's island

The largest market in Basse-Terre is situated in the prefecture town of the same name and runs from Monday to Saturday, between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. This vibrant market is set in a partially covered hall facing the sea, offering traditional fruits and vegetables for sale, alongside a rich representation of local crafts.

Saturday mornings are livelier, yet more crowded, as it's a preferred day for Guadeloupeans to leisurely explore. On occasion, music fills the air, adding to the lively atmosphere already brightened by the colorful attire of the vendors.

Apart from this market, the towns of Baie-Mahault, Bouillante, Goyave, and Baillif also host well-stocked markets, operating in the mornings from Monday to Saturday. You can also shop in Sainte-Rose on the 2nd Saturday of each month and in Trois-Rivières once a month.

The markets of Grande-Terre's island

In addition to the Pointe-à-Pitre and night markets, Grande-Terre also offers a variety of markets that are perfect for leisurely strolls.

The market in Sainte-Anne is well-known for its prime location along the town's main thoroughfare, allowing beachgoers to take a leisurely walk right from the beach. Alongside traditional local products, you can find a range of beach accessories.

The market in Saint-François is held from Tuesday to Saturday at the Rotonde, located behind the church. It's famous for its decorative stalls and handicrafts.

The market of Marie-Galante

In Marie-Galante, the market in Grand-Bourg opens every morning from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fruits and vegetables take center stage, but you can also get your hands on traditional dishes to take away.

You might even find some delicious 'bébélé' or 'cacabèf', as well as fresh ingredients for your own cooking.

You can also discover attractive punch bottles, adorned with madras fabric and glass paintings.

The tradition of street vendors

The Guadeloupe Islands have a rich tradition of street trading. As you explore, you'll encounter many roadside vendors offering fresh and delicious produce such as fruit, vegetables, coconut water, snowballs, sorbet, and even fish.

Don't hesitate to make a stop - it's a authentic part of Guadeloupean tradition.