Location & Transportation
The port is conveniently located about 1 km from the historic Plateau (old town) of Praia. The city center sits on a raised plateau overlooking the bay to the southeast, offering splendid views of the ocean and the colorful colonial buildings below. Shuttles are provided for a smooth transfer between the ship and the town, and tenders are often used to bring passengers closer to shore.
If you’re looking for a place to rest your head before or after your cruise stop, there are several local hotels in the downtown area and around the Plateau that cater to cruise passengers.
Nearest Airport
Praia International Airport (also known as Nelson Mandela International Airport) is located roughly 10–15 km from the city center. Taxis and shuttle services are available for a quick and easy transfer to and from the port.
Sightseeing
I’ve found that exploring Praia is like stepping into a living piece of history. The city became the capital in 1770 and has grown into an important port, with a mix of colonial charm and modern energy.
- Stroll around the Plateau and admire the historic colonial architecture.
- Visit the impressive Praça Alexandre Albuquerque, a central square dotted with significant buildings.
- Check out highlights such as the 19th-century Palácio Presidencial (Presidential Palace), Igreja Nossa Senhora da Graça (a beautiful old church), and the Palacio da Cultura.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the nearby Ilheu de Santa Maria from the old fortified walls, complete with cannon emplacements.
For museum lovers, I recommend stopping by the local museums in Praia. The Museu Etnográfico da Praia (if you have time) showcases local art, crafts, and insights into the island’s cultural heritage.
While exploring the city, be sure to also consider a trip to Cidade Velha, located about 15 km from Praia. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the “Old City,” was the first European settlement in the tropics and offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of the islands.
Tours & Excursions
For a more organized introduction to the area, consider joining a guided tour. Here are a few ideas:
- A half-day city tour covering the highlights of the Plateau, where you can learn about colonial history and enjoy charming streets lined with local architecture.
- An excursion to Cidade Velha. Taxis are available for this day trip, with a typical return fare of around CVE 4000 – just be sure to agree on the fare in advance.
- If you prefer exploring on your own, local shuttles and tenders make it easy to reach the old town and nearby attractions.
Remember, when using taxis or local transport, it’s wise to be cautious. There are occasional reports of illegal taxis trying to overcharge, so always confirm the fare before you set off.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Praia offers a vibrant shopping experience, especially at its bustling markets. A must-visit is the Fruit and Vegetable Market on Avenida 5 de Julio, where you can see and sample a wide array of the island’s fresh produce and even pick up local handicrafts and souvenirs.
I love wandering these market stalls—it’s a great way to experience the local color and perhaps pick up a keepsake from your cruise.
Dining
For food lovers, Praia is a delight. Cape Verdean cuisine is known for its fresh seafood and robust flavors. I highly recommend trying the grilled lobster, fresh tuna, and octopus—the ocean’s bounty here is simply superb. Local restaurants and beachside cafés serve up these dishes in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that really lets you savor the taste of the islands.
Culture & Local Events
Cape Verde follows a schedule that might take some getting used to if you’re coming from a very busy city. Here’s what I’ve learned during my visits:
- Opening Hours: In Praia, most shops and markets are open Monday to Friday from about 08:00 to 13:00 and then 15:00 to 18:00. Saturdays open from 09:00 to 13:00, while Sundays are generally a day of rest with most places closed.
- Public Holidays & Special Days:
- 1 January – New Year’s Day
- 20 January – National Heroes Day
- 1 May – Labour Day
- 5 July – Independence Day
- 15 August – Nossa Senhora da Graça (Our Lady of Grace)
- 12 September – Nationality Day
- 1 November – All Saints Day
- 25 December – Christmas Day
(Mardi Gras and Good Friday are also observed as national holidays.)
- Local Currency & Payment: The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). Although some vendors accept cards in tourist areas, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Language & Communication: Portuguese is the official language, and you’ll also hear Cape Verdean Creole, especially on the islands. Don’t be shy about asking locals for recommendations—they’re friendly and proud of their heritage!
Safety & Awareness
- Always agree on taxi fares before boarding, as this helps avoid any unpleasant surprises.
- While the city is generally safe for tourists, keep an eye on your belongings in busy market areas and crowded spots.
- As always, it's a good idea to have a copy of local emergency numbers with you; in Cape Verde, the general emergency contact is 112.