A layover in Pointe-a-pitre is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Pointe-Ã -Pitre Le Raizet sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Local Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Pointe-a-pitre, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Guadeloupe vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Pointe-a-pitre is roughly 60 minutes from PTP via Local Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Pointe-a-pitre from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Pointe-a-pitre, budget roughly $43 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $22 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $11 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Pointe-Ã -Pitre Le Raizet
Luggage storage options at PTP can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Pointe-a-pitre for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What’s Worth Seeing in Pointe-a-pitre
For a layover visit to Pointe-a-pitre, we’d suggest Place de la Victoire and Marché Saint-Antoine (Spice Market). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PTP, you can spend time at Salon VIP PTP (PTP VIP Lounge) or try Dufry Duty Free PTP. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Pointe-a-pitre: La Table de Bwa-Patat and Le Mahina. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for L’Escale Gourmande or Le Goût Pays. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PTP.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PTP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Guadeloupe and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Pointe-a-pitre genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.