Cabo Verde
São Vicente
Mindelo, the cultural capital — music, festivals and nightlife.
São Vicente lives in Mindelo — the most European city in Cape Verde and the birthplace of Cape Verdean music (Cesária Évora was born here). A deep crescent-shaped bay, colourful colonial architecture, and the archipelago's most famous Carnival.
- Best time
- February for Carnival — the best in Cape Verde.
- Airport
- Cesária Évora Airport (VXE)
- Ideal for
- music festivals culture food
Don't miss
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Mindelo at night
Live music bars on Rua de Lisboa. Morna, coladeira, funaná.
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Monte Cara
The mountain's distinctive silhouette seen from the bay — a 4-hour hike to the top.
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Laginha Beach
The city beach — calm water and a view of Monte Cara.
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Carnival (Feb)
The only one in the country with Brazilian samba schools. Book 6 months ahead.
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Baía das Gatas (Aug)
An open-air music festival with artists from across the Portuguese-speaking world.
Where to stay in São Vicente
We don't have accommodations listed on this island yet.