St Maarten isn’t just a beach destination; it’s a place where every street corner and fort tells a story. The island’s unique position—divided between French and Dutch sides—means you get two cultures, two histories, and twice the chances to uncover fascinating tales. For history enthusiasts, this mix offers a wealth of stories from colonial times to modern day, all easily accessible through well-curated tours. We love the Historical Guided Walking Tour of Marigot for its intimate look at the French side’s evolution over centuries. It’s a great way to see how this town has grown from dirt roads to lively streets, all while uncovering stories behind buildings like Fort Louis and Rue de la République.
If you want a broader experience combining history with local flavors, the St. Martin-St. Maarten: Small Group, History & Cheese Tasting Tour offers visits to historic forts and cheese tastings that highlight both sides of the island. For a deep dive into local culture and traditions, the Small Group, Cultural Heritage Tour explores farms, art, and stories that shape the island’s identity. Lastly, for those seeking a personalized experience, the Private Cultural Tour in Marigot offers a tailored glimpse into Marigot’s most iconic spots. Each of these experiences offers a different way to connect with St Maarten’s story, making this list the perfect starting point for history lovers.
1. Historical Guided Walking Tour of Marigot by ISLAND FRIEND
At number 1, we have the Historical Guided Walking Tour of Marigot, which is a fantastic choice for those who want a focused, authentic look at the French side’s history. This tour lasts about an hour and a half, making it manageable even for busy travelers. The itinerary covers key sites like Fort St. Louis, where you get sweeping views and a chance to learn about the island’s colonial defenses. The tour then takes you to Rue de la République, with its Creole architecture, and the old prison, offering a glimpse into Marigot’s past institutions. Your guide will also share stories about the town’s evolution from wooden houses to modern concrete buildings, including how hurricanes like Irma reshaped the landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is the intimate storytelling and focus on local history. It’s rated 5.0/5 based on five reviews, with visitors praising the guide’s knowledge and engaging style. The tour costs around $32.41 per person, which is excellent value considering the depth of insight provided. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy walking, history, and authentic town strolls. The inclusion of admission to Fort Louis is a bonus.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a compact, engaging way to understand Marigot’s past and present, perfect for those who want a quick yet meaningful history lesson.
2. St.Martin-St.Maarten: Small Group, History & Cheese Tasting Tour
Next on our list is the Small Group, History & Cheese Tasting Tour, which combines history with delicious local flavors. For around $159 per person, you’ll spend about four hours exploring two historic forts—Fort St. Louis and Fort Amsterdam—each offering fantastic views of Marigot and Philipsburg, respectively. Visiting these sites gives you a tangible sense of the island’s strategic importance during colonial times, with each fort built to defend against invaders.
After the forts, the tour shifts gears to local cuisine with stops at cheese and liquor stores. The Dutch Cheese & Wine Tasting and French Cheese & Wine Tasting are highlights, where you’ll sample cheeses, wines, and spirits that reflect the island’s dual heritage. The reviews speak highly of the knowledgeable guide and the balance between sightseeing and tasting. One client wrote, “Great way to learn some history of the island, sightsee with ease, and try some delicious cheeses.”
This tour is ideal for those who want a little of everything—history, food, and scenic views—without rushing. It’s a well-rounded experience that offers excellent value, considering the combination of site visits and tastings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and history lovers who enjoy small groups, this tour delivers a blend of education and culinary delight in a relaxed setting.
3. St.Martin – St.Maarten: Small Group, Cultural Heritage Tour
The Cultural Heritage Tour is an immersive experience designed to connect you deeply with the island’s soul. Spanning about five and a half hours, it visits landmarks like the PasturePiece SXM St. Martin High Tea, where you can sample island flavors, and the Silk Cotton Grove & Art Gallery, which features storytelling and poetry by Dame Ruby Bute. The tour also includes a nature hike at Colombier Golden Grove Farm, providing insight into the island’s agricultural history and local flora.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on the island’s cultural identity—from local art and storytelling to traditional remedies and music. It’s tailored to give a broad understanding of what makes St Maarten special beyond its beaches. Rated highly for its depth, the tour offers a meaningful way to experience local traditions and history firsthand. The inclusion of a distillery visit with rum tasting wraps up the experience on a flavorful note.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive cultural experience, especially those interested in local arts, food, and nature. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a relaxed pace and a genuine connection to St Maarten’s heritage.
Bottom Line: For those interested in a rich, story-driven exploration of the island’s cultural roots, this tour offers an insightful and well-rounded journey.
$159.00 per person
4. Private Cultural Tour in Marigot, Saint-Martin
Finally, for travelers seeking a personalized and flexible experience, the Private Cultural Tour in Marigot lets you design your own day with a private guide. Costing $719.99 per person, it’s the premium choice for those who want exclusivity and tailored attention. Over about five hours, your guide will take you around landmarks like Place du Marché, Rue de la Liberté, and Marina Port La Royale, offering customized insights into each site.
The tour starts from your hotel, making it a seamless experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want a deeper dive into specific aspects of Marigot, whether that’s architecture, local markets, or hidden stories. Because this is a private tour, you can focus on your particular interests and spend more time at places that intrigue you most.
While it’s the most expensive option, the flexibility makes it perfect for families, couples, or groups who want a bespoke experience. Keep in mind that with no reviews yet, relying on the itinerary and your guide’s expertise will be key to maximizing this tour’s value.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a completely customized deep-dive into Marigot’s sights and stories, this private tour offers the most personalized and flexible option.
$719.99 per person
How to Choose the Right Historical Tour in St Maarten
When picking your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For a quick overview and a taste of Marigot’s streets, the Walking Tour is perfect, especially if you’re short on time. If you’re passionate about combining history with local food and drinks, the Cheese & Tasting Tour offers a satisfying blend of sights and flavors.
Travelers who want a broader cultural perspective should consider the Cultural Heritage Tour, which explores art, storytelling, and nature. For those with specific interests or traveling with family, the Private Tour guarantees a personalized experience.
Timing-wise, most tours operate year-round, but booking early always ensures you get your preferred date, especially during peak seasons. If you’re interested in private or small-group options, reserve well in advance, as they fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
St Maarten offers a surprising variety of historical tours that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a quick walk through Marigot’s streets, a mix of fort visits and cheese tastings, or a deep dive into local culture, this list has you covered. For those wanting an immersive, personalized experience, the private tour is unbeatable, while the guided walking tour offers excellent value and insight.
Our best advice: pick a tour that matches your pace and curiosity level. History and culture are woven into every corner of the island—don’t miss the chance to uncover stories that go beyond the beaches. Book early, so you don’t miss out on these enriching experiences.