Shore Excursion: 3-Hour Guided Historic Tour of Praia & Cidade Velha
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
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
Pickup included
Shared Group Tour
Shared Group Tour<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick- up and drop off at Praia harbor
Liability Insurance
Transportation
Professional Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Get picked up at Port of Praia
2
Visit and learn a little about the history of the Jaime Mota barracks
3
Visit the presidential palace and enjoy its wonderful colonial architecture
4
Discover the oldest square in the city of Praia.
5
Explore Cape Verde's largest souvenir market, and experience the daily life of the Cape Verdean family.
6
Discover the ancient system of defense against pirate attacks.
7
Explore the ruins of the first Cathedral built by Europeans in Sub-Saharan Africa, followed by a panoramic view of the city center's colonial buildings from the top of Calhau fishing bay.
8
The walking tour continues towards the famous Banana Street with its beautiful traditional thatched houses
9
The tour ends with drop-off at Praia Harbor.
What's not included
Entrance fee per person (€5 for Fortress)
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Please bring comfortable clothes, a hat and sunscreen
A small amount of walking is involved
Note that the Praia Municipal Market is closed on Sundays and the Fortress closed on holidays.
About Santiago
Santiago is the largest island in Cape Verde and home to the capital city, Praia. Known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and stunning natural landscapes, Santiago offers a blend of urban life and traditional Cape Verdean charm. The island's rich history and diverse ecosystems make it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Plateau
The Plateau is the historic center of Praia, featuring colonial architecture, government buildings, and cultural landmarks. It offers a glimpse into the island's past and present.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Achada Santo António
A vibrant neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere, local markets, and traditional music. It's a great place to experience authentic Cape Verdean life.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore, costs for shopping
Tarrafal Beach
A beautiful beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities. It's one of the most popular beaches on the island.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free
Pico de Antónia
The highest peak on the island, offering stunning views and a challenging hike. It's a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nature
Full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cachupa
A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and various meats, often considered the national dish of Cape Verde.
Dinner
Vegetarian versions available.
Pastel de Milho
A sweet corn pastry, often filled with coconut or sweet potato, and a popular street food.
Snack
Vegetarian.
Canja
A traditional soup made with chicken, rice, and vegetables, often served with a side of bread.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Exploring local markets
Beach lounging
Sunbathing
Enjoying local cuisine
Visiting historic sites
Experiencing traditional music and dance
Best Time to Visit
November to July
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The island is less crowded compared to other tropical destinations.
22°C to 30°C
72°F to 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
Santiago is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable taxis and tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Nelson Mandela International Airport • 5 km from Praia city center
By bus
Praia Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis (Aluguer) are a common and affordable way to get around. They operate on fixed routes and can be hailed on the street.
Taxis
Available • Apps: N/A
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Plateau
Achada Santo António
Várzea
Day trips
Tarrafal
20 km from Praia • Half-day to full day
Tarrafal is a beautiful beach town with golden sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for relaxation, water activities, and enjoying local cuisine.
Assomada
30 km from Praia • Half-day to full day
Assomada is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. It's known for its traditional architecture, local markets, and the famous Achada Furna viewpoint.
Pico de Antónia
40 km from Praia • Full day
Pico de Antónia is the highest peak on the island, offering stunning views and a challenging hike. It's a great spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Festivals
Festival de Santiago • July
Carnival • February
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Cape Verdean Creole to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Try the local cuisine, especially the national dish, Cachupa.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and cultural experiences.
- Visit historic sites and museums to learn about the island's rich history and cultural heritage.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and communities.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
