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If you’re looking for things to do in Port Louis, this city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern life. Nestled between a bustling harbour and the Moka mountains, it provides a variety of experiences for every traveller. Stroll through colonial streets, visit lively markets with local crafts, and enjoy flavours reflecting the island’s heritage. From historic landmarks to modern waterfronts, Port Louis seamlessly combines the old and the new, making it an ideal destination for all.
Top 15 Things To Do In Port Louis
From historic landmarks to vibrant markets here are the top 15 things to do in Port Louis for a memorable experience.
1. Explore The Central Market
Photo: Svetlana Gumerova / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
To uncover the heart of Port Louis, visit the vibrant Central Market. Locals bustle about, bargaining for fresh fruits, vegetables, and exotic spices, while vendors sell handmade crafts and traditional Mauritian snacks like gateaux piments. The market, housed in a charming colonial-style building, offers a fascinating glimpse into local life. Exploring this market is one of the fun things to do in Port Louis at night. You’ll find everything from herbal remedies to unique souvenirs, making it a must-see for anyone seeking an authentic Mauritian experience.
Location: Farquhar Street, Port Louis
Timings: 8 AM – 11 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Mauritius To Explore This Tropical Heaven
2. Stroll Along The Caudan Waterfront
Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
The Caudan Waterfront blends Port Louis’ old-world charm with modern leisure. Lined with shops, art galleries, cafés, and a scenic harbour view, it’s ideal for relaxing, shopping for local goods, or enjoying a leisurely lunch. Street performers, local musicians, and open-air art displays add to the vibrant atmosphere. Loved by both tourists and locals, this family-friendly space is one of the most lively places for shopping in Mauritius.
Location: Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis
Major Attractions: Upscale shopping, waterfront dining, craft market, Blue Penny Museum, and marina views
3. Visit The Blue Penny Museum
Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
The Blue Penny Museum is home to one of the world’s most unique stamps, the blue penny stamp. It beautifully showcases the history of Mauritius, from colonial times to the modern era, through art, maps, sculptures, and maritime relics. This well-curated museum enhances the appreciation of the island’s cultural heritage. Additionally, with air conditioning, it offers a perfect escape from the tropical heat while immersing visitors in the rich history of Mauritius.
Location: Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis
Timings: 10 AM – 3 PM
Entry Fee: Approx. MUR 245 / ₹1,920
Suggested Read: Best Islands To Visit In Mauritius
4. Discover Aapravasi Ghat
Photo: Suyash Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
This significant historical site marks the landing point for indentured labourers brought from India after the abolition of slavery. Between 1834 and 1920, over half a million workers arrived through this building. The site, featuring ruins and exhibits, sheds light on a crucial chapter of Mauritian history, showing where workers were registered and held. While not a flashy museum, it offers a deeply meaningful experience, making it a must-visit for those interested in human history and migration.
Location: Trou Fanfaron, Port Louis
Timings: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 4 PM; Saturday: 9 AM – 12 PM
5. Ascend To Fort Adelaide
Photo: Ji-Elle / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Adelaide, or La Citadelle, stands proudly on a hill overlooking Port Louis. Built by the British in the 1830s, it was designed to defend the city. Today, it offers stunning panoramic views of the harbour, city skyline, and distant mountains. The fort remains well-preserved, with its thick stone walls, cannons, and spacious courtyard. It’s a serene spot for a leisurely walk and photography, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a beautiful glow.
Location: Les Ramparts Street, Port Louis
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Top Spots For Mauritius Nightlife To Have Fun After Sunset
6. Wander Through Chinatown
Photo: Joseph Hsing / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Port Louis’ Chinatown is often overlooked by tourists, yet it’s a captivating cultural gem. Shophouses, herbal pharmacies, and food stalls serving dumplings and noodles with a Mauritian twist line the streets, framed by vibrant red lanterns. This area is perfect for experiencing the blend of Chinese and Creole cultures. If you visit during a street festival, you’ll be treated to dragon dances and live music. The Chinese Spring Festival and Chinatown Food & Cultural Festival make this place truly come alive.
Location: Royal Road, Port Louis
7. Explore The Natural History Museum
Photo: Richard N Horne / Wikimedia Commons
The Natural History Museum, one of Mauritius’ oldest museums, offers a glimpse into the island’s unique biodiversity. It features taxidermy exhibits, preserved plants, ancient marine life, and a model of the iconic extinct dodo bird, the national symbol. Compact and easy to explore, it’s perfect for families or anyone keen on nature and science. Located within the scenic Company Gardens, visitors can enjoy both the museum and the beautiful surroundings in one delightful visit.
Location: Company Garden, near the Supreme Court, Port Louis
Best Time To Visit: Morning
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8. Visit Jummah Mosque
Photo: Karsten Ratzke / Wikimedia Commons
Built in the 1850s, the Jummah Mosque in Port Louis blends Indian, Creole, and Islamic architectural styles. Situated at the city’s heart, it is one of the most significant mosques in Mauritius. It serves as both a place of worship and a peaceful retreat from the bustling surroundings. The serene atmosphere is enhanced by its white marble interiors, intricate woodwork, and tranquil courtyard. A visit here offers a truly enchanting and calming experience.
Location: Royal Road, near Chinatown, Port Louis
Best Time To Visit: Mid-morning or mid-afternoon
9. Indulge In Local Cuisine
Photo: Alfredo Burgos / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Explore Port Louis through its flavours with a local-led food tour. Visit hidden street vendors, family-owned eateries, and local food spots to try dholl puri, boulettes, chilli cakes, and roti with various curries. The lively streets and markets of this town serves some of the best and most authentic food in Mauritius. Many tours also offer a glimpse into the history of the city, with stops in neighbourhoods like Chinatown and the Central Market. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious about Mauritian culture, this culinary adventure is both delicious and educational, offering a fun way to experience the city.
Location: Starts from Central Market or Chinatown
Best Time To Visit: Late morning or lunch hours; book in advance
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10. Relax In The Company Gardens
Photo: Daniel Kraft / Wikimedia Commons
The Central Business District offers a peaceful retreat in the form of this green park, ideal for a quick twenty-minute break or a weekend stroll. The Company Gardens, rich in history, draws tourists, while locals relax on benches, feeding pigeons or enjoying fresh fruit and juice from street vendors. With palm trees and shrubs lining the walkways, it feels like a tropical getaway. A leisurely walk through the park is the perfect way to recharge after exploring the area’s historic monuments.
Location: Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Port Louis
Best Time To Visit: Morning or early afternoon
11. Take A Tour Of Odysseo Aquarium
Photo: Zachary Spears/ Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located in the heart of Port Louis, Odysseo Aquarium is a mesmerising underwater journey. Visitors wander through immersive exhibits showcasing colorful coral reefs, exotic marine life, and interactive touch‑pools. Each themed zone, from native Mauritian coastal species to deep‑sea wonders, offers educational panels and live feeding demonstrations. The main tunnel tank is a highlight, letting you walk beneath graceful rays and sleek sharks gliding overhead. Ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike, the aquarium is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius.
Location: Les Salines, Port Louis, Mauritius
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
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12. Explore The Photographic Museum Of Mauritius
Photo: Christopher Ott / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nestled in a charming colonial building near the waterfront, the Photographic Museum of Mauritius offers intimate glimpses into the island’s past. Exhibits span from early 19th‑century daguerreotypes to contemporary digital artworks, tracing societal change, colonial influence, and everyday life. Exploring this museum is one of the must things to do in Port Louis for adults. Each gallery tells rich visual stories, markets bustling, sugar plantations vast, and festivals.
Location: Rue du Vieux Conseil, Port Louis, Mauritius
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
13. Witness The Architecture Of St. Louis Cathedral
Photo: Nheyob / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
St. Louis Cathedral stands majestically at the heart of Port Louis, its neo‑classical façade and twin bell‑towers dominating the skyline. Originally dating back to the 18th century, its current form reflects successive restorations and colonial architectural influences. Visiting this church is one of the peaceful things to do in Port Louis for couples. The ornate altar and side chapels exhibit local craftsmanship, blending European styles with Mauritian motifs. The cathedral often hosts mass in multiple languages, French, English, and Creole, mirroring the island’s multicultural community.
Location: Rue Saint Louis, Port Louis, Mauritius
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4 PM
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14. Seek Blessings At Kaylasson Temple
Photo: Z thomas / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kaylasson Temple, a vibrant Hindu temple in Port Louis, invites visitors into a world of color, devotion, and tradition. Its intricately carved entrances teem with deities painted in vivid hues. Inside, devotees offer flowers, incense, and prayers to draped idols of Ganesh, Shiva, and Parvati, creating a serene yet animated atmosphere. Regular poojas feature drumming, chanting, and floral offerings to bring blessings.
Location: Tranquebar Street, Port Louis, Mauritius
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
15. Visit The Mauritius Postal Museum
Photo: Suyash Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
Housed in the beautifully preserved Old Post Office building, the Mauritius Postal Museum offers a fascinating dive into the nation’s postal history. Inside, historic mailbags, old weighing scales, and telegram machines are displayed alongside rare stamps, most famously the iconic “Post Office” penny and twopence stamps from 1847. Informative panels recount tales of mail routes across the Indian Ocean, colonial-era communications, and the evolution of Mauritian stamp design.
Location: Port Louis Waterfront, Port Louis, Mauritius
Timings: Monday to Friday: 9:15 AM – 4:45 PM
Saturday: 9:15 AM – 12:45 PM
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Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and local life. Explore colourful markets, serene gardens, and colonial landmarks, or savour street food in Chinatown, the things to do in Port Louis offer something for every traveller. Whether for a day or longer, Port Louis promises an authentic and unforgettable experience. Plan your trip with TripXL today!
Cover Photo: Arne Müseler / Wikimedia Commons
