Port Louis, the Capital of Mauritius, founded by Mahé de La Bourdonnais in the Eighteenth century is the only commercial port of the island. Protected by a range of mountains, Port Louis has buildings that date back to 1735. It also has the most beautiful waterfront with the nicest architecture of the region. The Caudan and Port Louis Waterfronts are interesting places for shopping. Their restaurants, snacks, duty-free shops, craft shops, cinema halls and bars make them the ideal place for everybody. At Caudan, there is also a casino.

The old colonial buildings of Port Louis, its old paved roads as well as its Natural History Museum are among the other centres of interest. One should always remember that the best deals are found in the Capital, Port Louis.

In the centre of Port Louis, Fort Adelaide stands on a hill.Built under the British. Better known as the Citadelle, it hosts a craft centre. It is also an ideal view point to admire Port Louis and its surroundings. The oldest race course of the Indian Ocean, the Champ de Mars, is a major attraction centre for gamblers and the generally curious public. The Central Market, a kind of Mauritian souk, is no doubt, the busiest place of the city with tourists and well as locals. As a witness to the religious diversity of the island, a Cathedral, colourful temples, mosques and Chinese Pagodas can be found in Port Louis. 

Government House
It is one of the oldest buildings of the country. The ground floor was constructed under Mahé de La Bourdonnais in 1738 and two other storeys were added later. Many other colonial houses can be seen in the Port Louis vicinity.

Port Louis Theatre
Constructed in 1822, this masterpiece of art has lately been renovated. Foreign and local artists provide shows in the theatre.

Champ de Mars
Sheltered in a natural amphitheatre at the back of Port Louis, this race course was a long time ago used for military purposes. In 1812, Colonel Draper founded the Mauritius Turf Club which is the second most ancient race course in the world. The racing season from May to December attracts large and colourful crowds.

Fort Adélaide or the Citadel
The fort was built in 1835 by the British on a hill overlooking Port Louis and dominates the harbour. It is now a spectacular venue for concerts, shows and exhibitions.

The Port Louis market
The Central Market is a must in Port Louis. An amazing outburst of colours and smells greets you once you enter the market. The bright colours of fruits and vegetables, the heady smell of multicoloured spices, extraordinary herbal brews to cure every ailment, clothes and brightly-coloured pareos thrown across stalls are fascinating. Hundreds of baskets and wickerwork handicrafts hanging from the ceiling - these are some of the sights you will enjoy in this fun-filled atmosphere.

Marie Reine de la Paix
Built on the slopes of Signal Mountain, this Christian holy site overlooks the city of Port Louis. It is a gathering place for pilgrims as well as town dwellers who like to contemplate spectacular view.

Freeport Exhibition Centre
A recent addition to our popular spots, the centre now has a calendar of exhibition during the year attracting large crowds of professionals, businessmen, students and tourists to the latest inventions or creations in a multiplicity of areas: Information technology, Cars, Fashion and Food from all continents. Watch the programme.