Mindelo Port Guide

MINDELO, ILHA DE SAO VICENTE, CAPE VERDE

Mindelo, located on the island of São Vicente in Cape Verde, is a vibrant port city known for its colonial architecture, lively cultural scene, and stunning coastal views. Dubbed the cultural capital of Cape Verde, it’s a hub for music, art, and history, offering visitors a delightful blend of tradition and modernity.

KEY INFO

PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at Porto Grande, close to the heart of Mindelo, 1 km from the city centre (10-min walk).

Facilities: Tourist information, restrooms, souvenir shops, cafes, and taxis.

Port Address: Porto Grande, Avenida Marginal, Mindelo, Cape Verde.

Getting Around: Mindelo is walkable, with most attractions located near the port. Taxis are readily available and inexpensive, with fares ranging from 200-500 CVE within the city. For public transport, minibuses (“yas”) are available for 50 CVE per ride.

Taxis: Operate on flat rates; fares to nearby beaches range from 500-1,000 CVE. Cash payment.

Tourist Bus: There is no Hop-On Hop-Off bus service in Mindelo. Private guided tours are available.

For more information: Visit www.visit-caboverde.com/en

MINDELO HIGHLIGHTS

Palácio do Povo (People’s Palace): A colonial-era building with striking architecture, now hosting events and exhibitions. Inside temporarily closed. 24 hours (outside only) | Free | 270m (4-min walk) from Marina.

Praça Amílcar Cabral: A bustling square surrounded by cafes, shops, and colourful buildings, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city’s energy. 24 hours | Free | 400m (6-min walk) from Marina.

Cultural Centre of Mindelo: A hub for local music, art, and theatre, offering performances and rotating exhibits. 9a-12:30p, 3p-8p (Mon-Fri), 10a-12:30p, 5p-8p (Sat) | Free | 130m (2-min walk) from Marina.

Núcleo Museológico Cesária Évora: Dedicated to Cape Verde’s most famous singer. This museum is in Cesária Évora’s former home, and pays tribute to the international icon of morna music.
9a-1p, 3p-6p (Mon-Fri), 9a-1p (Sat) | 500 CVE / 5 EUR | 450m (6-min walk) from Marina

Torre de Belém: A replica of Lisbon’s iconic tower. Inside, the small Museum of the Sea explores Mindelo’s maritime history. 9a-6p (Mon-Fri) | 200 CVE / 2 EUR | 200m (3-min walk) from Marina.

Mercado Municipal: Mindelo’s vibrant municipal market, selling fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. 8a-6:30p (Mon-Fri), 8a-4p (Sat) | Free | 200m (3-min walk) from Marina.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz: A serene chapel featuring beautiful stained glass and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. 8a-6p | Free | 260m (4-min walk) from Marina.

“The Bird”: Striking monument –used as a roundabout – built to commemorate the first aerial crossing of the South Atlantic in 1922, which took a pitstop here. 24 hours | Free | 50m (1-min walk) from Marina.

Centro Nacional de Artesanato: Colourful building with art and library inside.
Varies Daily (Closed Sun) | Free | 500m (8-min walk) from Marina. https://cnad.cv/

Praia da Matiota Promenade Market: An open-air market along the promenade, selling local snacks, souvenirs, & handmade goods. 10a-7p | Free | At Marina.

Monte Verde Viewpoint: The highest point on São Vicente, offering panoramic views of Mindelo, the coastline, and neighbouring islands. Accessible by taxi. 24 hours | Free | 12km (30-min drive) from port.

BEACHES NEAR MINDELO

Praia da Matiota: The closest beach to the port, known for its calm waters and proximity to local cafes and shops. Perfect for a quick dip or relaxing stroll. 24 hours | Free | 0.5 km (10-min walk) from port.

Laginha Beach: A popular city beach with soft sand, clear waters, and nearby bars and restaurants. Ideal for swimming and sunbathing. 24 hours | Free | 1.5 km (20-min walk) from port.

São Pedro Beach: A picturesque beach known for windsurfing and its tranquil atmosphere.
24 hours | Free | 10 km (20-min drive) from port.

Baía das Gatas: A natural lagoon with calm waters, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Famous for its annual music festival. 24 hours | Free | 12 km (25-min drive) from port.

Buy Daniel Edward
a coffee

x

1 2 3

Support

£ 5

No signup required

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Monte Verde: São Vicente’s highest peak, offering hiking trails and panoramic views.
24 hours | Free | 10 km (20-min drive) from port.

Santa Luzia Island: An uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches and biodiversity.
Accessible via boat tour only | Prices vary | Departure from Mindelo port.

TIPPING CUSTOMS

Optional. A 10% service charge is common in restaurants. Tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.

FOOD & DRINK

Cachupa: A hearty Cape Verdean stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat or fish.

Pastéis de Milho: Fried corn patties often filled with tuna or vegetables.

Pontche: A sweet, spiced Cape Verdean liqueur made from rum, honey, and citrus, enjoyed as an aperitif.

Grogue: A strong sugarcane spirit, Cape Verde’s traditional alcoholic beverage.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Take home locally crafted items such as woven baskets, pottery, and jewellery made from volcanic rock. Cape Verdean coffee and grogue are also excellent mementos.

LOCAL LINGO