The cruise ships dock in the center of town.

Printable map to take along.

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Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and is located on the largest of its islands, Tahiti. The city is the most important hub of French Polynesia with its waterfront and South Seas port frequently docked by waves of cruise ships, ferries, yachts, luxury liners, and cargo boats.

The heart of Papeete is perhaps its waterfront and port with its rows of docked boats. There is a walk-able promenade along the port, and this is the scene where many of the city's festivals take place. At night, the waterfront often plays hosts to "roulottes" or Tahitian dinners accompanied by festival-like, Polynesian performance shows.


In Papeete, like in other places in French Polynesia, you can enjoy the array of tropical activities from swimming, beach tanning, to surfing, sailing, snorkeling, and diving. The Bain Lot is a particularly popular beach in Papeete. The city is also a great base to go on excursions into the interiors and suburbs of Tahiti

Except for shopping, there isn't much to do around the port area during the day

The most inexpensive and common form of transportation is the public bus system. Tthe RTC large white coaches. During the day you can catch buses about every 20 minutes at official stops.

Taxis can be hired at most hotels, airports, and ferry terminals. For scenic tours around the islands, try escorted excursions by boat, 4x4 safari, bus, or helicopter.

Moorea, it's only 12 miles away, a 30-minute ferry ride away.

It pays to compare your cruise line shore excursions here.

Papeete is also home to many sidewalk cafes and multicultural restaurants – cuisines from Tahitian, to French, to Asian. Besides fine restaurants, the city also boasts a number of luxury resorts, spas, bars and clubs, chic shops, flea markets, and boutique French stores. Le Marché ("Municipal Market") is perhaps the most famous of Papeete's shopping ensemble. Hundreds of stands fill this public market selling everything from fruits, flowers, jewelry, shell necklaces, souvenirs, to Tahitian crafts and Tahitian oils. The market is very lively, and is definitely the place where all the action is.

1000 CFP francs = about 8.38 euros.

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Official languages: French, Tahitian, locals in the touristy areas and shops speak some English.

There is an Internet cafe at Vaima Center, directly opposite the cruise ship pier. Some open WiFi near the cruise dock.

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