Shopping in Pointe-à-Pitre

Frébault street

Frébault Street crosses the center of Pointe-à-Pitre, linking several key districts of the city. It is easily accessible from various parts of the town, whether by car, on foot, or via public transportation. Located just minutes from the cruise port, it is also a popular stop for tourists in search of authenticity. To get there, parking is available nearby, notably at Place de la Victoire and the Saint-Antoine Market. Visitors can also use local bus lines, which have stops just a few meters from the street.

A walk through history

Frébault Street is much more than a commercial artery. It carries the soul of Pointe-à-Pitre, with its historic buildings and constant liveliness. This iconic street dates back to the 18th century, when Pointe-à-Pitre was establishing itself as a key hub for maritime trade in the Caribbean. Named in honor of Admiral Frébault, a notable figure of colonial history, the street has retained its role as the economic heart of the city.

It is the main artery of Pointe-à-Pitre, named after General Louis Léon César Faidherbe, governor of Guadeloupe from 1859 to 1863 and a French senator. In the early 20th century, the arrival of Syrian and Lebanese merchants helped boost the street's commercial activity.

Today, it remains a central hub for local commerce, even though some businesses have moved to outlying zones.

Over the years, Frébault Street has evolved into a melting pot of local and international influences. Traditional shops sit alongside major modern brands, offering a diverse range of products that attract both residents and tourists. Specialty stores sell local goods like spices, rum, and handmade textiles, as well as jewelry and popular fashion items.

Among the city's most prominent commercial areas, Frébault Street stands out with its many boutiques, jewelers, perfumeries, and ready-to-wear clothing shops. It is also near the central market, known as the spice market, located at Place Saint-Antoine. This market is renowned for its colorful stalls and local products, offering visitors a unique sensory experience.

Key events

Guadeloupe carnival

The Guadeloupe Carnival is one of the most anticipated events of the year. During the carnival season, Frébault Street becomes a vibrant stage for parades featuring groups in colorful costumes, drumming, and traditional songs. Dimanche Gras (Fat Sunday) is especially lively, attracting large crowds to the colorful parades. Special installations, such as red carpets and grandstands, are set up at the entrance to welcome spectators.

Guadeloupe cooks festival

Every August, the Guadeloupe Cooks Festival celebrates the island's culinary traditions. For example, the 108th edition took place on August 10, 2024. The celebration begins with a mass at Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul Church, followed by a parade through the streets of Pointe-à-Pitre, including Frébault Street. Dressed in traditional attire, participants carry local dishes, creating a colorful and flavorful spectacle.

Pointe-à-Pitre in celebration

To boost commercial activity and strengthen community ties, events like "Pointe-à-Pitre in Celebration" are organized. On July 9, 2022, for example, Frébault Street was closed to vehicles and transformed into an open-air shopping center. Activities included live entertainment, promotions, flash sales, and music performances, attracting both locals and tourists.

Urban labyrinth: "Interference" and "Scan me"

Fun and cultural events like the Urban Labyrinth also take place in the area. For instance, from October 21 to 24, 2025, the event "Interference: Urban Labyrinth" invited participants to explore downtown Pointe-à-Pitre via a mystery treasure hunt focused on Creole urban art. Similarly, from February 23 to 26, 2025, "Urban Labyrinth: Scan Me" offered an interactive path to rediscover the city center.

Pointe-à-Pitre, a shopper's paradise

In Pointe-à-Pitre, shops are generally open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The lively atmosphere makes it a must-see destination for shopping in Guadeloupe. You'll find everything from general stores to perfumeries, leather goods shops, and jewelers — not to mention stands selling local rum, exotic spices, oils, and madras fabrics, all symbols of Creole identity.

Local markets offer a rich sensory experience. The spice market at Place Saint-Antoine overflows with colorful stalls and fragrant local products. Nearby, Saint-Jules Market, by the waterfront, draws locals and tourists alike with fresh seafood and island-grown produce.

Local artisans keep traditional Guadeloupean craftsmanship alive. In their shops and galleries, you’ll find handmade jewelry, carved wood decor, natural fiber creations, and Caribbean-inspired artworks. Each piece reflects the soul and heritage of the island.

Pointe-à-Pitre, as a cruise port, also offers a wide range of duty-free products such as perfumes and luxury items. This system supports the local economy and gives the city a key role as a commercial crossroads in the Caribbean.

The atmosphere is just as engaging as the shopping itself. Lively alleys echo with local music, and on Saturdays, drummers (tambouyés) energize the streets with rhythmic beats. The smell of Creole food like bokits and tropical juices invites tasty breaks, enhancing the immersive experience.

Local fashion also takes center stage. Many shops feature original designs, often made with madras fabric, offering a modern take on traditional Creole attire. It’s a perfect opportunity to bring home an authentic souvenir of Guadeloupean culture.

Frébault, Nozières, and Peynier streets form a dynamic shopping triangle where most ready-to-wear, perfume, and jewelry shops are concentrated.

For handcrafted goods, check the markets (Saint-Antoine, Saint-Jules) and nearby small streets.

Focus on duty-free shopping

Since February 2024, Pointe-à-Pitre has had a new system allowing cruise visitors to make duty-free purchases during their port calls. This program, scheduled to continue until 2026, offers substantial discounts on a wide range of products — including luxury goods, perfumes, jewelry, branded clothing, and local specialties like rum and spices. Cruise passengers can access these benefits by presenting their cruise tickets at partner stores, which are marked with special signage. This initiative aligns Guadeloupe with other Caribbean destinations and strengthens the local economy while increasing the island’s appeal.

To accommodate this growing tourist influx, many businesses have adjusted their schedules to offer extended hours and special openings. On cruise ship days, partner shops often stay open late into the evening, giving visitors a chance to shop after excursions. While most stores are usually closed on Sundays, some now open to welcome cruise tourists. During festive periods such as Christmas or Carnival, nighttime shopping events are also more frequent.

These special openings often come with entertainment to make the experience more immersive. In shopping streets, traditional music groups add a festive touch, while local product tastings are offered to attract visitors. These initiatives, appreciated by shopkeepers, help increase their visibility and boost sales. As a result, Pointe-à-Pitre shops become key players in the tourist experience, offering a unique blend of culture and commerce to visiting travelers.

Activities and points of interest

Frébault Street is a shopping paradise. You'll find a variety of specialty shops, from luxury goods to traditional souvenirs. Highlights include:

• Local markets: Just steps away from Frébault Street, Saint-Antoine Market offers fresh local produce, ideal for discovering Guadeloupe's authentic flavors.
• Craft boutiques: Along the street, many small shops showcase Guadeloupean artisan work, from handmade jewelry to traditional clothing.
• Schœlcher museum: Located nearby, this museum dedicated to Victor Schœlcher, a key figure in the abolition of slavery, offers a meaningful cultural experience.

In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere of Frébault Street. The aroma of Creole dishes mingles with Caribbean music, providing a full cultural immersion.

Practical tips

To make the most of your visit, go in the morning when the street is less crowded and shopkeepers are more available to chat. The dry season, from December to March, offers ideal weather for walking around. Be sure to bring some cash in addition to your bank card, as some small shops don’t accept electronic payment.

Those with reduced mobility will find adapted sidewalks in some areas, although accessibility varies by store. For easier travel, use nearby public parking lots.

Just a short walk from Frébault Street, you can explore the spice market, Place de la Victoire, or the waterfront — all within 10 minutes on foot. By car, the Memorial ACTe cultural center is under 10 minutes away and is well worth the visit.

FAQ

1. What kinds of products can you buy on Frébault Street? You’ll find everything from local spices and handmade souvenirs to branded clothing and jewelry.

2. Is Frébault Street busy all year round? Yes, it is active year-round, but especially lively during Carnival and Christmas.

3. Are there restaurants or cafés on Frébault Street? Absolutely! You’ll find plenty of places to enjoy local dishes or relax with a coffee while people-watching.

4. Is Frébault Street easy to reach by public transport? Yes, several bus lines serve the area. It's also within walking distance of the cruise port and main city squares.