When it comes to diving into the real culture of the island, nothing beats exploring the colourful, lively markets in Mauritius. From spice-scented stalls and handcrafted souvenirs to street food bursting with flavour, these markets offer more than shopping—they’re experiences. Whether you’re a curious foodie, a souvenir hunter, or someone who loves people-watching, here’s your ultimate guide to the ten best tourist-friendly markets you shouldn’t miss.
1. Port Louis Central Market – The Beating Heart of the Capital
No list of markets in Mauritius would be complete without mentioning the iconic Central Market in Port Louis. It’s loud, hot, busy—and absolutely essential. Located in the city centre, this is where locals and tourists blend into one buzzing stream of vendors, buyers, and onlookers.
Upstairs, you’ll find rows of souvenirs: hand-carved dodo birds, colourful sarongs, essential oils, and herbal teas. Downstairs, the action continues with piles of tropical fruit, fresh fish, spices, and even local street food like dholl puri and gato piment. It’s best to go early in the morning to avoid the crowds—and the midday heat.
Open: Monday to Saturday 5:30am – 6:00pm; Sunday until noon
Location: Corderie Street, Port Louis
2. Caudan Craft Market – Elegant, Artisanal, and Tourist-Friendly
If you’re looking for a calmer, more curated shopping experience, the Caudan Craft Market—just steps from the waterfront—is your spot. This indoor market feels more like a stylish artisanal gallery, but it still retains the warmth of traditional markets in Mauritius.
With over 30 stalls, it features handmade wooden sculptures, locally woven baskets, high-quality spices, jams, infused rums, and even ship models. The scent of polished mahogany fills the air as you browse in peace. Prices are generally fixed, which makes it an easy stop for tourists.
Open: Monday to Saturday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Location: Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis
3. Quatre Bornes Market – For Textile Treasure Hunters
Quatre Bornes is the place to be if you’re searching for bargains on clothing, linens, or home goods. This large textile-focused market becomes a frenzy on Thursdays and Sundays, its designated “market days”.
From traditional Indian fabrics and embroidered kurtas to knockoff branded T-shirts and hand-stitched cushion covers, this is a bargain-lover’s paradise. Remember to bring cash and your best bargaining skills.
Open: Thursdays and Sundays, approx. 8:00am – 5:00pm
Location: St Jean Road, Quatre Bornes
4. Central Flacq Market – Big, Bold and Local
The Central Flacq Market is a sprawling open-air bazaar located in the island’s east, known for being one of the most extensive markets in Mauritius. On Wednesdays and Sundays, it springs to life with over a thousand stalls.
Expect a sensory overload: vibrant fruits, fresh seafood, Indian sweets, piles of chili and curry powders, clothing, hats, and even electronics. Despite being large, it’s very local in spirit, and prices are typically lower than in tourist-heavy areas.
Open: Daily, but best on Wednesdays and Sundays
Location: Centre de Flacq, Flacq District
5. Grand Baie Bazaar – Souvenir Shopping in the North
Situated in one of the island’s busiest resort areas, the Grand Baie Bazaar is custom-built for tourists. This bustling complex is packed with shops selling all the must-have Mauritian souvenirs—sarongs, wooden crafts, local art, handmade jewelry, and rum.
It’s not the cheapest market, but it’s convenient and airier than many others. Plus, it’s walking distance from the beach and plenty of cafés, so it’s easy to make a half-day adventure of it.
Open: Daily, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Location: Royal Road, Grand Baie
6. Mahébourg Monday Market – Authentic Island Vibes
On Mondays, the quiet coastal town of Mahébourg transforms into a market wonderland. The town’s waterfront and main road fill up with vibrant stalls selling fresh produce, fish, handmade clothes, handicrafts, and hot street food.
What makes this market unique is its rustic, unpolished charm. Here, you’re more likely to rub shoulders with locals than tourists, and the prices reflect that. Don’t miss trying the gateaux piments and fresh pineapple sprinkled with chili salt.
Open: Mondays only, 6:00am – 2:00pm
Location: Mahébourg waterfront and centre
7. Goodlands Market – For a Cultural Shopping Experience
Goodlands Market is where Indian and African influences collide in a colourful fashion. Visit on Tuesdays or Fridays for the main market days and discover a mix of sari shops, handmade bags, home goods, street food, and traditional remedies.
On other days, smaller produce markets still operate, but the real experience is on the big days when the streets are packed and lively music spills from nearby shops.
Open: Tuesdays and Fridays, 7:00am – 1:00pm
Location: Goodlands town centre, north Mauritius
8. Curepipe Market – For Handcrafted Ship Models and Antiques
Curepipe is cooler than the coastal towns, literally and figuratively. Its indoor market is a treasure trove of vintage-style goods and artistic souvenirs, including the island’s famous hand-crafted model ships—mini replicas of old colonial vessels.
Here you’ll also find duty-free boutiques and traditional souvenir stalls selling hats, paintings, rum, and spices. It’s a great place to explore when the weather on the plateau gets misty.
Open: Monday to Saturday 6:00am – 4:00pm
Location: Curepipe town centre
9. Pamplemousses Sunday Market – Pair with a Botanical Garden Visit
Just north of Port Louis, Pamplemousses is famous for its beautiful botanical gardens—but on Sundays, a charming little market also pops up nearby.
You’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, bread, pastries, and sometimes handmade soaps and teas. It’s not large, but it’s perfect for grabbing a snack before or after a visit to the gardens.
Open: Sundays only, 5:00am – 11:00am
Location: Pamplemousses village centre
10. Flic-en-Flac Beach Market – Market by the Sea
Imagine shopping for fresh seafood or a pineapple smoothie just steps from a turquoise lagoon. That’s the vibe at Flic-en-Flac’s beachfront market. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, local vendors line the coastal road offering grilled fish, fresh fruit, beach hats, towels, and handmade trinkets.
It’s casual, friendly, and the perfect mix of food and fashion—especially popular among families staying nearby. After shopping, head straight for a beach picnic.
Open: Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8:00am – 12:30pm
Location: Flic-en-Flac public beach area
Tips for Visiting Markets in Mauritius
- Go early: Morning hours are cooler and less crowded.
- Bring cash: While some stalls accept cards, most are cash-only.
- Negotiate respectfully: Haggling is common, but keep it friendly.
- Stay hydrated: It gets hot, especially in outdoor markets.
- Protect your belongings: Petty theft is rare but stay cautious in crowded spots.
Why Exploring Markets in Mauritius Is Unmissable
Visiting these vibrant markets is not just about shopping. It’s about immersing yourself in the culture, tasting new flavours, chatting with locals, and collecting memories far beyond fridge magnets. Whether you’re stocking up on handcrafted gifts or simply soaking up the scents and colours, these markets in Mauritius offer unforgettable experiences.
You’ll leave with bags full of souvenirs, and stories to tell.
Where to Stay After a Day of Market-Hopping?
After a full day wandering the best markets in Mauritius, you’ll want a peaceful, luxurious place to unwind. We highly recommend staying at the Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort, a five-star beachfront paradise in the south of the island. This all-inclusive resort blends African elegance with Mauritian charm, offering exceptional service, gourmet dining, and access to one of the island’s best beaches.
Whether you’re soaking in the spa or sipping cocktails under palm trees, Heritage Awali is the perfect base to explore the island’s cultural treasures by day and indulge in pure comfort by night.
