Visiting Port Louis, the vibrant capital city of Mauritius, is a captivating experience that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. Nestled on the northwest coast of the island,  Port Louis serves as the economic, political, andcultural hub of Mauritius.

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the historic Fort Adelaide, locally known as La Citadelle. Perched on a hill, the fort provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding ocean. It’s a perfect spot to start your exploration of Port Louis, offering a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. The fort was built by the British in the 19th century and named after Queen Adelaide.

As you descend from the fort, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the city, surrounded by a bustling atmosphere and a myriad of attractions. The Caudan Waterfront is a popular destination, featuring a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. This waterfront precinct is an ideal place to indulge in some shopping, savor local cuisine, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the harbor.

For those interested in the rich history of Mauritius, the Blue Penny Museum is a must-visit. Housed in the Caudan Waterfront, this museum showcases the island’s history through an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, including the world-famous Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps.

A short walk away leads you to the vibrant Central Market, known locally as the Port Louis Bazaar. This bustling market is a sensory delight, with stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local crafts. It’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mauritian daily life and sample some delicious street food.

No visit to Port Louis would be complete without exploring its diverse religious sites. The Jummah Mosque, with its intricate architecture, the peaceful St. Louis Cathedral, and the lively China Town where you will find a wide range of businesses and Chinese architecture and artworks stand as symbols of religious harmony in this multicultural society.

Venturing further into the city, you’ll encounter the Champ de Mars racecourse, one of the oldest in the southern hemisphere. If your visit coincides with a race day (usually on Saturday and Sunday, from March to November), it’s an opportunity to experience the excitement of horse racing, a beloved tradition in Mauritius.

As the sun sets, the city transforms into a vibrant nightlife scene. The streets come alive with the large variety of street foods. La Rue Desforges (SSR Road) boasts a variety of restaurants, food stalls, and local eateries that offer a range of cuisines, including Creole, Indian, Chinese, and European.

List of Restaurants/snacks to eat:

  1. Rozi Darbarr (Indian Cuisine)
  2. Spice City (Indian Cuisine)
  3. O’Maza (Local Cuisine and grill)
  4. Gloria Fastfood (Grill & BBQ)
  5. Via Pizza (Italian Pizza)
  6. Lamian Langzhou (Chinese Cuisine)
  7. Chapeau LaPaille (Local cuisine)
  8. Dimashk (Syrian Cuisine)

We have listed all the mentioned places on a short map to walk around Port-Louis from Caudan Art Center Parking that will take you roughly half a day.

Parking at Caudan Art Center will cost you MUR80 for the first 4 hours, then MUR50 for every additional hour. It is a safe and covered parking and from there you can walk around and enjoy the Capital from a local perspective.

Please use this Google Map link. 

In conclusion, a visit to Port Louis is a journey into the heart of Mauritius, where history, culture, and modernity converge. Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the lively markets, Port Louis promises a rich and unforgettable experience.