Santiago Island: Best of Praia & Cidade Velha Tour, a World Heritage Site
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Praia on a guided tour of the Municipal Market and the city major historical sites. Visit Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the history of slavery in the first city built by Europeans in sub-Saharan Africa.
Available options
Private Tour
Private<br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Pickup included
Shared Group Tour
Shared<br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Liability insurance
Tour Guide
Transportation
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Praia
Detailed itinerary
1
Start with pick up from your accommodation.
2
Depart towards the historical center of Plateau and start the walking tour through the Jaime Mota Military Barracks, Presidential Palace, Alexandre Albuquerque Square, until the Municipal Market (closed on Sundays).
3
Here meet locals and find a diversity of local fruits and vegetables. Afterwards, explore Cape Verde's largest souvenir market, the Sucupira Market, and experience the daily life of the Cape Verdean family.
4
Move on to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first city built by Europeans in sub-Saharan Africa.
Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the São Filipe Fortress, explore the ruins of the first Cathedral built by Europeans in Sub-Saharan Africa, the former slave market and the famous Banana Street with its thatched houses.
5
Visit the Fortress Real the São Filipe that was built in 1587, to defend the city by the pirates attacks.
Please note that the €5 per person for Fortress entrance is not included.
6
Discover the ruins of the first sub-Saharan African Cathedral the only one cathedral of the country,
7
Visit the former slave market in Pilourinho, was a symbol of municipal power, on the pass.
8
Visit the famous Banana Street with its traditional houses, and meet local fishermen.
9
After a memorable day, your tour ends with a drop-off at your accommodation.
What's not included
Entrance fee (€5 for São Filipe Fortress)
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
10 reviews
5★
8
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
9 reviews
5★
9
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A small amount of walking is involved
Please bring comfortable clothes, a hat and sunscreen
Note that the Municipal Market is closed on Sundays and the Fortress closed on holidays
No serious Medical conditions
About Praia
Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and warm hospitality. It's a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.
Top Attractions
Praia City Hall (Câmara Municipal da Praia)
A historic building with colonial architecture, serving as the city's administrative center.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Plaza Alexandre Albuquerque
A central square with historic buildings, a statue of Alexandre Albuquerque, and a lively atmosphere.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Praia Beach (Praia de Gamboa)
A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Museu da Tabanka
A museum dedicated to the Tabanka tradition, a unique cultural expression of Cape Verde.
Museum
1 hour
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cachupa
A traditional stew made with corn, beans, and various meats or fish.
Main Course
Vegetarian versions available
Pastel de Milho
Corn-based pastry filled with various ingredients like meat, fish, or cheese.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Canja
A comforting soup made with chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Grogue
A traditional Cape Verdean rum made from sugarcane.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Serra Malagueta
Water sports at Praia Beach
Sunbathing at Praia Beach
Picnicking in Parque da Várzea
Visiting Museu da Tabanka
Exploring Cidade Velha
Swimming
Snorkeling
Best Time to Visit
November to July
This is the dry season with sunny weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
Time Zone
GMT-1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Praia is generally safe, but petty crime can occur. Exercise usual precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Nelson Mandela International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Praia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used, but can be crowded. Routes cover most of the city and nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Boltax
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Plateau
Achada Santo António
Várzea
Day trips
Cidade Velha
15 km • Half day
A UNESCO World Heritage site with historic buildings, churches, and a rich colonial history.
Tarrafal
30 km • Full day
A beautiful beach town with stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Serra Malagueta
10 km • Half day
A scenic mountain area with hiking trails and panoramic views of Praia.
Festivals
Carnaval de Praia • February or March (dates vary)
Festival de Música da Praia • July
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese or Cape Verdean Creole
- Try local dishes like Cachupa and Pastel de Milho
- Visit local markets for authentic shopping experiences
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems
- Respect local customs and traditions for a more immersive experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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