While postcard images of Mauritius Island may only show palm-fringed beaches and azure seas, Mauritius’ bustling capital city, Port Louis, is located on the island’s northwest coast!
Unfortunately, most visitors to Mauritius overlook it, not realising that there is so much to see and do in Port Louis!
Among the top things to do in Port Louis, Mauritius include:
- Sampling local street cuisine at the Central Market.
- Wandering through the colourful lanes of Chinatown.
- Enjoying over 60 street arts.
So, if you’re wondering what to do in Port Louis during your Mauritius tourism, this blog is exclusively for you!
Things To Do In Port Louis Mauritius
There are several things to do in the capital city of Mauritius. Let’s dive into this:
Central Market
The Central Market is one of the top things to do in Port Louis. This is Mauritius’ largest covered market, offering everything from fresh fruit to food, herbal medicines, and souvenirs.
On the bottom floor, sellers sell an extensive range of fresh fruits and vegetables, while on the first story, there is a souvenir/craft market. A souvenir market is also positioned on the opposite side of the fruit vendors. Prices are generally high, so be prepared to bargain.
There’s also a food court where you can experience some of the best Mauritian meals and snacks.
Indulge In The Street Food
There is no better spot to sample Mauritian street food than Port Louis. You’ll have a plethora of choices when it comes to food, with options ranging from Dholl Puri to Faratha (Paratha), Gateau Piment, and Biryani.
Mauritius cuisine is a delectable fusion of cuisines worldwide, including China, Africa, India, and Europe.
There are many outstanding venues in Port Louis to taste street food, such as the Central Market, Chinatown, Les Jardins de la Compagnie Market, Sir William Newton, and Bourbon Streets.
One of the best things to do in Port Louis is to go on a street food tour with a guide who will show you all the best food venues in the city.
Enjoy Walking Around The Caudan Waterfront
The Caudan Waterfront is the first retail mall in Mauritius, which comprises high-end boutiques, a craft market, a casino, a movie theatre, two hotels, and a food court.
This might not be the best spot to shop if you’re on a tight budget and enjoying tourism in Mauritius. Instead, take a stroll around the waterfront area to take in the scenery and take photos along the colourful Umbrella Street.
The Caudan Waterfront is accessible from the Port Louis centre by two underground pathways, one close to McDonald’s and the other next to The Mauritius Post.
Seek Out Street Arts
The Port Louis street art community has evolved significantly in recent years. What were once deteriorating buildings and walls are now being restored with bright murals depicting Mauritius’ cultural heritage.
The majority of the street arts may be found throughout Chinatown, with a few exceptions on Bourbon and Sir William Newton Streets. So, if you’re seeking the best things to do in Port Louis, the street arts are a must-see.
Chinatown In Mauritius
Chinatown is another popular tourist destination in Port Louis. Despite being smaller and less dynamic than its Asian counterparts, Mauritius Chinatown is progressively regaining popularity because of the efforts of the New Chinatown Foundation.
The streets have been revitalised with the inclusion of new coloured trash cans, walls have been repainted with a plethora of street arts, and the annual Chinatown Food and Cultural Festival has contributed significantly to putting Chinatown on the map.
Whether you’re a fan of street art or simply want to experience some of the best Sino-Mauritian cuisines, visiting Chinatown in Port Louis is a must.
Shopping In The Capital
Port Louis is not only Mauritius’s capital but also the capital of shopping in Mauritius. Corderie Street is the place to go if you want to buy clothes or high-quality fabrics. If you are looking for cheap and ready-made attires, you can find them at Le Workshop and the market on Dr Edouard Laurent Street.
We at Flamboyant Travel and Toursrecommend going to the Caudan Waterfront for high-end shopping. If you wish to carry some souvenirs home, visit the Central Market, the Caudan Waterfront Craft Market, or Chinatown.
Conclusive Thoughts
So, if you are looking for tourism in Mauritius, especially Port Louis city tour, contact Flamboyant Travel and Tours. We aim to provide the tourists with the best travelling experience. There is no doubt that travelling to Mauritius is a once in a lifetime experience. It’s better to make memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.
