Map of Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia

🌴 What to do in Papeete (Tahiti)

Discover the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Papeete (Tahiti) through a variety of exciting activities, from exploring local markets to indulging in water adventures.

• Best Budget Activity in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Papeete Market Visit: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Papeete Market, where you can shop for local crafts, fresh produce, and Tahitian souvenirs.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Vaipahi Gardens Tour: Enjoy a peaceful escape to Vaipahi Gardens, a botanical wonderland filled with lush flora, serene ponds, and scenic walking trails.

• Best Luxury Activity in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Helicopter Tour of Tahiti: Soar above the stunning landscapes of Tahiti on a helicopter tour, offering breathtaking aerial views of crystal-clear lagoons, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Papeete (Tahiti)

Papeete (Tahiti) is a culinary paradise offering a fusion of French, Polynesian, and international flavors. Don't miss out on trying the fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Tahitian dishes during your visit.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Snack Mahana•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Tahitian and French fusion dishes

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Les Roulottes•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Food trucks offering a variety of local and international cuisines

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Le Coco's Restaurant•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining with a focus on fresh seafood and Polynesian influences

• Best Budget Bar in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Tiki Bar•$:

  Fresh fruit cocktails

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Papeete (Tahiti):

  The Beach Bar•$$:

  Local craft beers and tropical mixed drinks

• Best Luxury Bar in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Pink Coconut Lounge Bar•$$$:

  Premium wines and champagne selection

🏝️ What to see in Papeete (Tahiti)

Explore the enchanting sights and rich cultural heritage of Papeete (Tahiti) by visiting its iconic landmarks that showcase the beauty and history of the island.

• Sightseeing Bukit Castle:

  Discover the historic Bukit Castle, a former royal residence built in the 19th century, offering panoramic views of Papeete and beyond.

• Papeete Market:

  Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Papeete Market, where you can experience the local flavors, crafts, and Tahitian culture all in one place.

• Paofai Gardens:

  Relax in the tranquil setting of Paofai Gardens, a lush green space along the waterfront perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying beautiful sunsets.

• Black Pearl Museum:

  Delve into the world of Tahitian pearls at the Black Pearl Museum, where you can learn about the history, production, and significance of these precious gems.

• Notre Dame Cathedral:

  Admire the architectural beauty of Notre Dame Cathedral, a striking white church with vibrant stained glass windows and a peaceful ambiance for reflection.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Papeete (Tahiti)

Indulge in a shopping spree in Papeete (Tahiti) where you can find an array of unique souvenirs, local crafts, and stylish fashion items, creating a delightful shopping experience on the island.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Le Marché de Papeete: Explore the bustling Le Marché de Papeete, a vibrant market offering a wide selection of Tahitian handicrafts, fresh fruits, colorful textiles, and traditional souvenirs at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Vaima Shopping Center: Visit Vaima Shopping Center for a mix of local boutiques, international brands, and cafes, providing a diverse shopping experience with mid-range pricing options.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Papeete (Tahiti):

  Louis Vuitton Papeete: Treat yourself to luxury shopping at Louis Vuitton Papeete, where you can find high-end fashion accessories, handbags, and iconic products in a sophisticated setting.

🚌 Getting Around Papeete (Tahiti)

• Public Transport

  In Papeete, the primary mode of public transportation is buses. The main bus service in the city is Le Truck, which operates colorful open-air buses that cover various routes around Tahiti. These buses are a convenient and affordable way to explore Papeete, with fares typically starting at around 200 XPF (approx. $2 USD). The bus schedules can vary, but they generally run from early morning until late evening, providing a reliable means of getting around the city.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main transportation hub in Papeete is the Papeete Central Bus Station, located in the city center. From here, you can easily access buses to different parts of Tahiti. Additionally, the Tahiti Faaa International Airport is the primary gateway to the island, serving both domestic and international flights. For those arriving by cruise ship, the Papeete Cruise Port is another major transportation hub in the city.

• 🚗 Rental Services

  For travelers looking for more flexibility in getting around Papeete, rental services are widely available. Avis and Europcar are popular car rental companies in the city, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs. Rental prices can start from around 6,000 XPF (approx. $60 USD) per day. Additionally, for a more eco-friendly option, bicycle rentals are also available in Papeete. Providers like Tahiti Bike Rentals offer bikes for rent, ideal for exploring the city at your own pace. Rental prices for bicycles typically start at around 2,000 XPF (approx. $20 USD) per day.