First and foremost, unlike in the UK, cars in Guadeloupe are left-hand drive and you drive on the right side of the road. Stay alert and don't assume anything.
Rental Recommendation
A compact car will perform well in getting around Pointe-à-Pitre, with its bustling streets and tight parking spaces.
Parking
On-street parking in downtown Pointe-à-Pitre is limited due to the narrow streets. There are several large, well-signposted car parks around the perimeter of the city centre.
Exploring Pointe-à-Pitre
Get the most out of your visit by taking your rental car to explore the wonders of this tropical paradise.
Districts
The Spice Market district vibrates with the rhythm of local life. Visit the Musee Saint-John Perse to learn about one of Guadeloupe's famous poets. Stroll around and discover the French and Creole architectural styles in Darse and Vatable.
Beaches
In less than an hour, your rental car can drive you from Pointe-à-Pitre to some of the most spectacular white-sand beaches on Grande-Terre's southern coast.
Attractions
Pointe-à-Pitre has something to offer every traveler. From the colourful Spice Market to the Musee Saint-John Perse alongside numerous churches. Venture just outside the city to the Parc des Mamelles for a rainforest adventure with ziplines and suspension bridges.
Practical Information
Keep your travel safe and comfortable with these practical tips and notes on local customs.
Climate
Pointe-à-Pitre has a tropical climate, hot throughout the year, with a relatively cool, dry season from January to mid-April.
Currency
The currency is the Euro. Make sure to have some cash for smaller shops and vendors who might not accept cards.
Events
Guadeloupe's biggest annual event is Karneval, which runs from January to Ash Wednesday. Pointe-à-Pitre is the heart of it, with parades, music, and dance filling the streets.
Road trips from Pointe-à-Pitre
Make the most of your rental car and set off on a memorable road trip.
Basse-Terre Island
Drive across the Rivière Salée to reach Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe’s western half. Discover picturesque fishing villages, gorgeous coastline, mountainous rainforests, and the fascinating Parc National de la Guadeloupe with active La Grande Soufrière volcano.
Port-Louis Beach
An hour's drive north of Pointe-à-Pitre, you'll travel through sugarcane fields to reach the commune of Port-Louis on Grande-Terre’s northern coast. The endless sandy beach backed by almond trees is breathtaking.
Point des Châteaux
A day trip to the easternmost tip of Grande-Terre gives you stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring islands.
We wish you an enjoyable and safe journey exploring Pointe-à-Pitre and its wonderful surroundings with your rental car. May this guide serve as your starting point to the adventure that awaits.
