The earliest recorded European visit to Louisbourg came in 1597. It wasn't until 1713, that Louis XIV claimed the area for its potential. It was then that Louisbourg was constructed and secured by France. In fact, during the 1700s, Louisbourg was the third most productive seaport in North America. In 1745, New England seized the land; it was again besieged by the British in 1758.

In the 1960s, the largest reconstruction plan in North America took place, as Louisbourg's fortress originally constructed by the men of Louis XIV, was rebuilt, preserving the city's most prominent historic element.

Louisbourg offers many attractions, including the aforementioned fortress, the Sydney and Louisbourg Railway Museum, the picturesque Louisbourg Lighthouse and the Louisbourg Harbour and its beaches. The Louisbourg Playhouse offers a variety of entertaining acts. As well, the Boardwalk is a pleasant vantage point for sightseeing.

Louisbourg accommodations offer many choices for hospitality, including bed and breakfasts, hotels, inns, cottages and more. Louisbourg is just 34.7 km (21.6 mi.) from Cape Breton.