Cidade Velha Travel Guide

Explore the historic city of Cidade Velha in Cape Verde. Discover the cultural and natural attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha, meaning “old city” in Portuguese, is a historic town located on the southwestern coast of the island of Santiago in Cape Verde. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the first European colony in the tropics and played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade. The town, established in the late 15th century, has well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and fortifications, reflecting its multicultural history.

List of Places to Visit in Cidade Velha

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Real de São Filipe – A Portuguese fort from the 16th century that offers a panoramic view of the town and the bay, now serves as a museum.
  • Pelourinho – An old 15th-century whipping post that was used to punish slaves, now serves as a monument to cultural heritage and memory.
  • Cidade Velha Museum – A small museum in the town center, displaying the history of the town and its role in the slave trade.
  • Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosário – A 15th-century church which was rebuilt several times, founded by African slaves.

Natural Attractions of Cidade Velha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Serra Malagueta Natural Park – An hour’s drive from Cidade Velha, a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching in the lush mountains.
  • Tarrafal Beach – A beautiful bay on the north coast of Santiago, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
  • Praia da Gamboa – The closest beach to Cidade Velha, with a black sandy beach and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
  • Ribeira Grande – A small river that runs through the town, known for its picturesque views and scenic walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cidade Velha

  • Pico da Antónia Hike – A moderate hike to Cape Verde’s highest peak at 1394 meters above sea level, located within the Serra Malagueta Natural Park.
  • Cidade Velha to Rui Vaz Bike Ride – A scenic bike ride that takes you through the countryside passing through Rui Vaz village.

Best Things to Do in Cidade Velha: Activities and Tours

  • Walking Tour of Cidade Velha – A guided tour of the historic town’s sites, stopping at the fort, the museum, and the churches.
  • Horse Riding Tour – A unique way to explore the town’s surroundings and countryside, with local guides.
  • Sunset Cruise – A romantic way to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean, with snacks and drinks on board.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cidade Velha

Day Activity
1 Arrive at Cidade Velha, check into your accommodations, and visit the Pelourinho monument.
2 Explore the town’s history at the Cidade Velha Museum, and visit the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosário church.
3 Take a guided walking tour of the town’s sites, with stops at the fort, the museum, and the churches.
4 Go on a horse riding tour of the town’s surroundings, or take a hike to Pico da Antónia in the Serra Malagueta Natural Park.
5 Relax on Praia da Gamboa beach, get a sun-kissed tan and indulge in water sports.
6 Take a sunset cruise with your partner or a group, and enjoy drinks and snacks on board.
7 Travel to the north and visit the lovely Tarrafal Beach, and spend the day swimming and sunbathing.

Food and Drink Scene of Cidade Velha

Must-Try Dishes

Cape Verde’s cuisine is influenced by African and Portuguese influences, and seafood is a staple food. Some of the popular dishes that you must try in Cidade Velha include:

  • Cachupa – A slow-cooked stew made with beans, corn, and fish or meat, often served with rice or bread.
  • Fogo-style chicken – Grilled or roasted chicken marinated in various spices, a specialty of the island of Fogo.
  • Lagosta com molho de limão – Grilled lobster served with a tangy lemon sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Grogu – A strong, homemade spirit made from sugar cane, often served with honey and lemon.
  • Ponche – A Cape Verdean version of a fruity punch with grogu as a base.
  • Brisa – A local beer brewed in Cape Verde, that comes in several flavors like lemon, passion fruit, and banana.

Where to Stay in Cidade Velha: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cidade Velha offers a range of accommodations for every budget, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Some of the popular choices include:

  • Pestana Tropico Hotel – A 4-star hotel with a pool, restaurant, and terrace, located in the heart of Cidade Velha.
  • Vivenda Viviani – A guesthouse with a garden and a terrace, located on a hill and offering panoramic views of the town and the ocean.
  • Hostel Chez 4 – A budget-friendly hostel, located near the fort with a vibrant atmosphere and shared lounge.

What to Buy in Cidade Velha: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cidade Velha offers a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs to bring back home, including:

  • Hand-woven baskets – Made from sisal plants and used for carrying fruits and vegetables.
  • Figo Passeado – Dried and fermented figs, a local dessert that can be preserved for several months.
  • Morabeza Rum – A locally produced rum infused with exotic fruits, spices, and herbs.

Local Culture and Customs of Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha has a long history of African and European influences, resulting in a unique cultural blend. The locals are welcoming and friendly, and the town has a laid-back atmosphere. Some of the customs and traditions include:

  • Carnival – A colorful and lively annual celebration that takes place in February, featuring parades, music, and dancing.
  • Festa de São João – An annual festival held in June, to honor St. John the Baptist, with food, drinks, and local music.

Best Time to Visit Cidade Velha

The best time to visit Cidade Velha is during the dry season, between November and June, when there is less rain and the temperatures are moderate. The peak tourist season is from December to February, and prices tend to be higher during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cidade Velha

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as it can get pretty hot and sunny.
  • Bargain while shopping at street markets and vendors.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures without permission, especially of people.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places, as it can be disrespectful to the local culture.
  • Drink tap water, always prefer bottled water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha is generally safe for tourists, but it is recommended to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings safe, especially in crowded places like markets and beaches. Avoid walking alone at night and stay on well-lit streets.

Health in Cidade Velha

Cape Verde is a malaria-prone area, and it is recommended to take precautions against mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothes, and sleep under a mosquito net. It is also advised to drink bottled water and avoid street food.

Getting to Cidade Velha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cidade Velha is located just 15 km south of the capital city, Praia. The following are the transportation options available to reach Cidade Velha:

Airports Near Cidade Velha

Praia International Airport is the nearest airport, located just 25 km north of Cidade Velha. It is well-connected with direct flights to several European cities.

Bus Stations Near Cidade Velha

The town of Cidade Velha is accessible from Praia by regular bus services. The bus journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Other Options

Taxis are also available from Praia, and it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Cidade Velha. Car rentals are available at the airport, and it is recommended to book in advance.

How to Get Around in Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha is a small town that can be explored on foot. Taxis are also available for traveling to nearby destinations, and they can be found across the town. Shared minibusses, called “Aluguer,” are also available within the town and offer local transportation.

Where to Go Next from Cidade Velha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Praia

The capital city of Cape Verde, Praia, is just 15 km north of Cidade Velha. It offers several attractions like the Presidential Palace, Sucupira Market, and Praia Archaeology Museum.

Serra Malagueta Natural Park

An hour’s drive from Cidade Velha, Serra Malagueta Natural Park offers scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching.

Conclusion

Cidade Velha is a historic town with a rich cultural and natural heritage that offers a unique experience of African-European fusion. Visiting Cidade Velha is an essential part of exploring Cape Verde, and the town’s laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals create an unforgettable journey.

Pelourinho square Pelourinho square Rua da Banana Rua da Banana