Papeete Map

Description: Author: Ontheworldmap.com
Map based on the free editable OSM map openstreetmap.org.

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Description: Author: Ontheworldmap.com
Map based on the free editable OSM map openstreetmap.org.

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Description: Author: Ontheworldmap.com

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Papeete, situated on the island of Tahiti, is the bustling capital city of French Polynesia. This charming tropical city, whose name means "water basket" in Tahitian, with a population of approximately 27,000, itserves as the economic, cultural, and political center of the French overseas territory.

Key Attractions and Features:

• Papeete Market (Le Marché de Papeete)
  • Traditional Polynesian crafts
  • Fresh local produce
  • Famous black pearls
  • Colorful flower displays

Dining and Entertainment:

• Les Roulottes - Evening food trucks at Place Vaiete offering:
  • Fresh seafood
  • Chinese cuisine
  • French crepes
  • Traditional Polynesian dishes

Cultural Highlights:

• Maison de la Culture (Cultural Center)
• Presidential Palace
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Parc Bougainville
• Pearl Museum

Shopping Districts:

• Vaima Center - Modern shopping complex
• Boulevard Pomare - Main shopping street
• Pearl shops and boutiques
• Local handicraft stores

Transportation Hub:

• Faa'a International Airport (5 km from city center)
• Main ferry terminal for inter-island travel
• Public bus system (Le Truck)
• Cruise ship port

Local Life and Atmosphere:

The city comes alive in the early morning when locals gather at the market, and the waterfront promenade buzzes with activity throughout the day. The blend of French colonial architecture with modern buildings creates a unique urban landscape. Traditional Polynesian culture seamlessly mixes with French influences, visible in everything from cuisine to daily life.

Climate and Best Time to Visit:

• Year-round tropical climate
• Average temperatures: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
• Dry season: May to October
• Wet season: November to April

Practical Information:

• Currency: French Pacific Franc (XPF)
• Languages: French and Tahitian (some English in tourist areas)
• Population: Approximately 26,000
• Time zone: UTC-10

Safety and Travel Tips:

Papeete is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, basic precautions should be taken. The city center is most active during the day and early evening. It's advisable to carry water and sun protection, as the tropical sun can be intense.

Surrounding Areas:

The city serves as an excellent base for exploring Tahiti's natural attractions, including:

• Point Venus lighthouse
• Marae Arahurahu (ancient temple)
• Fautaua Waterfall
• Papenoo Valley

Whether you're interested in shopping, cultural experiences, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of French Polynesia's main city, Papeete offers visitors a unique blend of Polynesian tradition and French colonial influence in a tropical paradise setting.

The Facts:
Archipelago: Society Islands.
Subdivision: Windward Islands.
Island: Tahiti.
Population: ~ 27,000.
Main sights: The waterfront esplanade, Cathedral of Notre Dame of Papeʻete, Presidential palace, Papeʻete Tahiti Temple, The Monument to Pouvanaʻa a Oopa, The Mairie, Papeʻete Market.