Martinique’s French-Caribbean charm, volcanic peaks, and vibrant beaches make it a top destination – but understanding money in Martinique and how currency works is essential for a smooth trip. Whether you’re sipping rum in Saint-Pierre, shopping at local markets, or exploring the coastline, knowing how to pay is key. This guide covers what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Martinique (Euro – EUR), how to handle cash safely, and essential dos and don’ts. With these tips, you can explore Martinique without hidden fees or payment hassles.
How to pay in Martinique – cash or card?
In Martinique, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, especially in tourist and urban areas. However, keeping some cash on hand is still recommended for smaller and quicker transactions. The euro (EUR) is the official currency.
You can use cash for:
- Street Vendors and Markets: Farmers’ markets, food stalls, and small vendors often prefer cash.
- Public Transportation: Buses and shared taxis (taxi collectifs) are usually cash-only.
- Small Businesses: Family-run shops, snack stands, and small cafés may prefer cash.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Some budget stays or rural lodgings may require cash.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are common for guides, taxi drivers, and service staff.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: All hotels accept cards, including Visa and Mastercard.
- Restaurants: Most sit-down restaurants take cards, especially in tourist areas.
- Retail Stores: Shops, supermarkets, and malls widely accept cards.
- Car Rentals and Tours: Cards are standard for bookings and deposits.
- Online Bookings: Flights, ferries, and accommodations can be paid online by card.
What’s the best currency to take to Martinique?
The Euro (EUR) is the official and only accepted currency in Martinique, as it’s an overseas department of France. Bringing Euros is the best – and only – option for travelers.
USD, GBP, or any other foreign currencies are not accepted, even in tourist areas.
Where to get currency in Martinique?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Martinique. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Banks for currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Martinique
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Martinique
If you’re withdrawing money in Martinique from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus, Maestro, CUP, JCB cards. Others like American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Martinique?
If you’re traveling from a Eurozone country, you don’t need to exchange money, as Martinique uses the Euro (EUR). If you’re coming from outside Europe, it’s helpful to bring a small amount of EUR for taxis, snacks, or tips upon arrival.
ATMs are widely available in Fort-de-France, the airport, and tourist areas, and most accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Plus cards. International withdrawal fees may apply, so check with your bank before you travel.
Currency exchange is available at local banks and some exchange offices, but airport and hotel rates may be less favorable. USD, GBP, and CAD can be exchanged locally, but EUR is preferred for transactions.
Where to withdraw money in Martinique
You can withdraw money in Martinique at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Martinique are those owned by popular banks such as:
- BNP Paribas and
- Banque Postale.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Martinique.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Martinique.
Where to exchange currency in Martinique
There are few dedicated exchange bureaus. Instead, travelers exchange money in Martinique.
You can exchange currency at banks in Fort-de-France and major towns or airport kiosks or select hotel desks. However, these may not always offer competitive rates, and hotel exchanges often include hidden fees.
You can use Popular Banks Offering Currency Exchange Services are:
Banque Postale
Société Générale
BNP Paribas
Most banks are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some open Saturday mornings.
You can find good currency exchanges in Martinique using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Martinique. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.
Is carrying cash in Martinique safe?
Carrying cash in Martinique is generally safe, as the island has a relatively low crime rate. However, travelers should still take standard precautions – particularly in markets, beach areas, and busier towns like Fort-de-France.
To carry cash safely in Martinique:
- Bring only what you need for the day and keep the rest in your hotel safe.
- Use a zippered crossbody bag or front-pocket wallet to avoid theft.
- Avoid showing large amounts of cash when shopping or paying for meals.
- Be cautious in open-air markets and at crowded events or ferry terminals.
- Use ATMs in banks or supermarkets rather than isolated outdoor machines.
- Carry small bills for local vendors, taxis, or tips – especially in more rural areas.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Martinique
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
