São Vicente

São Vicente is known as the cultural heart of Cape Verde. This island is where traditional music sounds blend with other forms of art. It is also home to some of the world’s most renowned festivals, including the Kavala Fresk Festival, Mindelact Theater Festival, Festival Baía das Gatas, and Mindel Summer Jazz.

Its colonial-style buildings give the city a historic charm worth appreciating. You can also climb Monte Verde, swim at Laginha Beach, observe Monte Cara from Porto Grande Bay, visit the Cultural Center of Mindelo, the Sea Museum in the replica of the Belém Tower, the National Center of Handicrafts, the Dona Amélia Lighthouse, and Mindelo Market, among other attractions.

São Vicente is home to Cesária Évora International Airport, allowing for flights with fewer layovers depending on your location. The island also has frequent ferry connections to Santo Antão, another Cape Verdean Island.