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French at heart, but cosmopolitan Caribbean in style, St Martin's capital city of Marigot is cluttered with traffic, shops and people in a small area that is only four streets wide. The town stretches along Marigot Bay, its main focus the harbour at the bottom of Rue de la Republique from where ferries depart to surrounding islands and fishing boats come and go.

Originally a fishing village, Marigot became the capital of St Maarten in the sugar period and became a bustling town. Marigot's buildings are largely colonial, sprinkled with several smart cafes, bistros, pastry shops and luxury boutiques reminiscent of real French market towns. There are several colonial landmarks, including Fort St Louis.

The main shopping centre in Marigot is at the southern end of the town near the harbour, and is a paradise for shopaholics with elegant stores carrying the latest designer fashions and jewellery, all tax-free. More adventurous shoppers will enjoy browsing the Wednesday and Saturday markets, located in a kiosk area near the port.