Martinique

Car hire in Martinique

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Why book with us?

  • Best price guaranteed
  • Free cancellation
  • No commissions
  • 24h Service - 7/7d
  • Hertz
  • Europcar
  • Budget
  • Avis
  • National
  • Sixt

Renting a car in Martinique is undoubtedly the best, if not the only, choice to fully enjoy the island and move easily from one beach to another.

The well-maintained road network and relatively short distances make the car the ideal way to discover the island. With a car you can easily move from the lively beaches of Les Trois-Îlets to the remote coves in the south, or reach the majestic Mont Pelée in the north.

Renting a car will allow you to experience Martinique like a local, stopping at small street markets, discovering the most authentic restaurants in less touristy locations and enjoying the freedom to change your plans according to the weather or your preferences of the moment.

Where to rent a car in Martinique

Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport is the main car rental point on the island. Here you will find all major international operators such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Budget, along with several reliable local companies such as Jumbo Car and Sixt.

For those arriving by sea or already on the island, there are rental outlets in the main resorts such as Fort-de-France, Le Lamentin and Les Trois-Îlets. However, the most convenient and practical choice remains the airport, where competition between the different companies often guarantees the best rates.

How much does a rental car cost in Martinique

The cost of car rental in Martinique varies significantly depending on the season and the type of vehicle. During the high season (December-April), prices tend to increase considerably, while in the summer period more favourable offers can be found.

A small hatchback can cost between EUR 30 and 45 per day in low season, while in high season prices can go up to EUR 60-70. For an SUV or a more spacious vehicle, which is necessary if you are travelling in a group or plan to explore more remote areas, the cost can vary between 50 and 90 euro per day.

It is advisable to book well in advance, especially during the high season or during special events such as Carnival in February.

Driving in Martinique

Driving in Martinique requires some attention but does not present any particular difficulties. The main roads are well maintained and follow French standards, with clear signposts and in good condition. However, it is important to bear in mind a few peculiarities:

Driving is on the right as in continental Europe, and road rules are the same as in metropolitan France. Speed limits vary from 50 km/h in built-up areas to 110 km/h on motorways, but road conditions and traffic often require more moderate speeds.

Mountain roads can be particularly challenging, with sharp bends and significant gradients, especially in the Mount Pelée area and the northern region. During the rainy season (June-November), extra caution is required due to the possible presence of landslides or flooding.

Traffic can be heavy during peak hours around Fort-de-France and Le Lamentin, while secondary roads require attention due to the possible presence of pedestrians, cyclists and animals.

Frequently asked questions about driving in Martinique

  1. Do I need an international driving licence to drive in Martinique?
    No, a valid European driving licence is sufficient, as Martinique is a French overseas department.
  2. Is insurance included in the price?
    Basic insurance is usually included, but it is advisable to check what additional cover is available.
  3. Can I cross the island in a day?
    Yes, Martinique is relatively small and can be crossed in about 2-3 hours.
  4. Is it safe to drive at night?
    Driving at night is safe, but extra care should be taken in rural areas due to poor lighting.
  5. Where can I park?
    Parking is generally easy to find, except in the centre of Fort-de-France during peak hours.

Recommended itineraries

The Caravelle Peninsula Tour

This one-day itinerary will take you on a discovery of the island’s easternmost peninsula. Depart early from Fort-de-France and head towards the Caravelle Peninsula. The coastal road will offer you breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Visit the ruins of the Dubuc Castle, an old sugar cane plantation, and take a break at the Caravelle Nature Reserve for a trek through the tropical forest. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Tartane beach before returning through picturesque fishing villages.

The Wild North Tour

Devote a full day to exploring the north of the island. Set off from Fort-de-France towards Saint-Pierre, the ancient capital destroyed by the eruption of Mount Pelée in 1902. Visit the volcanological museum and the ruins of the city. Continue to Grand’Rivière, the last village on the north coast, passing through banana plantations and breathtaking landscapes. On the way back, make a stop at the Jardin de Balata, a magnificent botanical garden housing hundreds of tropical species.

The Route des Rhums

This route takes you to discover the island’s most famous rum distilleries. Set off from Fort-de-France and head towards Le Lamentin, where you can visit the La Favorite Distillery. Continue to Saint-James in Sainte-Marie, one of the island’s oldest distilleries with an interesting rum museum. Finish the tour at Habitation Clément in Le François, where you can admire a beautiful colonial house and taste some of the best agricultural rums in the Caribbean.

Frequently asked questions about car rental in Martinique

Here are some quick answers to the most common doubts about car rental in Martinique.

To reserve a car in Martinique a credit card or debit card is sufficient. However, when you go to collect the car, you will need:

  • a credit card in the name of the driver. Debit and ATM cards are not accepted;
  • copy of the reservation;
  • a driving license valid for at least 12 months;
  • an identity document.

The car rental companies in Martinique allow to rent a car to all those who are between 21 and 70 years old. However, there is an additional cost for under 25 and for those over 70.

A car rental in Martinique always includes:

  • theft insurance;
  • limitation of liability for damage to the vehicle;
  • local, road and airport taxes.

Any extras or additional insurance coverage are separate.

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Find the best rates by comparing all car rental companies in one search.

Why book with us?

  • Best price guaranteed
  • Free cancellation
  • No commissions
  • 24h Service - 7/7d
  • Hertz
  • Europcar
  • Budget
  • Avis
  • National
  • Sixt
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