The French Antilles combine Caribbean beauty with European convenience, creating a dreamlike destination for Lykkers seeking sunshine, relaxation, and rich culture.

This island group includes Martinique, Guadeloupe, Saint-Barthélemy, and Saint-Martin—each offering unique charm, vibrant traditions, and postcard-worthy beaches.

Best Time to Visit

Seasons and Weather

The French Antilles enjoy a tropical climate, moderated by steady sea breezes. From December to April is the dry season—ideal for travel, though more popular with tourists.

May through November brings a bit more humidity and fewer visitors, making it perfect for a quieter and often more affordable getaway.

When to Go for Savings

Budget-friendly travel is possible year-round, especially during the off-peak months. Booking early for the high season is a smart way to secure better prices.

Island by Island

Martinique

Also called the "Island of Flowers," Martinique is a blend of tropical nature and cultural landmarks. A visit to the Balata Botanical Garden, home to thousands of exotic plants, reveals the island's nickname.

The towering Mount Pelée offers stunning views, while Fort-de-France, the island's capital, is full of historic sites including charming old buildings and the noteworthy Saint-Louis cathedral.

Beach lovers can relax at Salines Beach near Saint-Anne or enjoy the view of the volcano from Carbet Beach. Watersports like snorkeling and dolphin-spotting are widely available. For a scenic boat trip, head to the Îlets du Robert—ten small islets in a protected bay filled with rare marine life and coral reefs.

- Accommodation prices: €70–€180/night for mid-range hotels, €200+ for beachfront resorts.

- Food costs: Local restaurants range from €10–€20 per meal; fine dining from €35+.

- Getting around: Rental cars from €30/day.

Guadeloupe

Shaped like a butterfly, Guadeloupe offers two contrasting landscapes: Basse-Terre with its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic trails leading to the peak of La Soufrière; and Grande-Terre, where colorful fishing villages, markets, and coastline dominate.

Saint-Anne, with its historic alleys, and Point-à-Pitre, known for vibrant markets, are excellent for cultural exploration. Marie-Galante island is known for its sugar heritage, while Saint-Claude has preserved architectural landmarks from earlier eras.

Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, waterfall hikes, or strolls through villages. Guadeloupe offers a mix of eco-lodges, beach hotels, and boutique stays. Regular ferries and flights make it easy to move between islands.

- Accommodation prices: €60–€150/night for guesthouses and eco-lodges, €180+ for upscale hotels.

- Food costs: Creole eateries average €12–€18 per dish; seafood platters around €25.

- Transport: Ferries between islands from €10–€25; rental cars from €30/day.

Les Saintes

This serene archipelago south of Guadeloupe consists of two inhabited islands—Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas—and a group of untouched islets. With white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and green hills, Les Saintes is perfect for nature lovers.

Top sites include Pompierre and Pain de Sucre beaches and a scenic lookout from Fort Napoléon. Snorkeling spots are abundant, with coral gardens and colorful marine life.

Accommodations are cozy and often family-run, offering a peaceful retreat. Ferries connect Les Saintes to the main islands of Guadeloupe in under an hour.

- Accommodation prices: €80–€130/night for family-run inns and boutique stays.

- Food costs: Small restaurants and bistros offer meals for €10–€18.

- Getting there: Ferry from Guadeloupe is approx. €25 round-trip.

Saint-Martin

This small island is shared between two nations, providing a mix of experiences. The northern side is under French administration and known for its quiet, art-filled towns and gentle beaches, while the southern half has a more festive vibe.

Marigot, the French capital, is filled with markets and mural-lined streets. Orient Bay is famous for its stylish beach vibe, while Pic Paradis provides a green viewpoint over the island. Nature reserves and scenic coves make it a great stop for hiking and swimming.

Stays range from luxurious villas to mid-range hotels. Flights connect Saint-Martin to many major Caribbean and European hubs.

- Accommodation prices: €90–€200/night; luxury villas from €300+.

- Food costs: French-Caribbean meals from €15–€25; gourmet dining €40+.

- Getting around: Taxis are common; rental cars start at €35/day. Flights serve major Caribbean and European routes.

Saint-Barthélemy

Known for its tranquility and exclusivity, this island features 22 beaches, including the hidden coves of Anse de Colombier and Shell Beach.

Gustavia, the capital, is filled with charming rooftops and a picturesque harbor. Notable sites include Governor's House and scenic lookouts such as Fort Karl. Villages like Flamands and Corossol offer quiet atmospheres and small museums like the shell collection.

Ideal for those seeking peace, Saint-Barthélemy offers high-end accommodations and quiet guesthouses. Flights and ferries arrive from nearby islands.

- Accommodation prices: Upscale boutique hotels from €250–€600/night; luxury villas €1,000+.

- Food costs: Casual beachfront cafes €20–€35; high-end dining €60+.

- Transport: Flights from Saint-Martin and ferries from nearby islands (€60–€90 round-trip).

Food and Flavors

Creole Cuisine

Across the French Antilles, local meals are colorful, spiced, and full of tropical ingredients like seafood, plantains, coconut, and spices. Markets brim with fresh fruit, handmade condiments, and regional specialties served with rice or root vegetables.

Street vendors and seaside cafés are popular for quick bites and authentic flavors.

- Street food/snacks: €5–€10

- Mid-range meal: €12–€25

- Fine dining: €35–€70

Travel Tips

How to Get There

These islands are part of the French overseas territories, so European travelers need only a valid ID to enter. International airports serve Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Saint-Martin. Ferries and local flights link the islands, making it easy to explore more than one during a single trip.

Getting Around

Renting a car is often the best option, especially on larger islands like Guadeloupe and Martinique. For smaller islands, ferries and water taxis are available.

In Conclusion

The French Antilles offer more than just scenic views—they provide a perfect mix of nature, tradition, and Caribbean rhythm. From mountain trails and coral reefs to colorful markets and peaceful beaches, each island invites Lykkers to relax and explore in their own way. With easy access, friendly locals, and unforgettable landscapes, this tropical destination is truly a gem worth discovering.