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Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde
Flag of Cabo Verde Capital of Cabo Verde

Praia

Praia is the capital and largest city of Cabo Verde, located on the southern coast of Santiago island. As the political, economic and cultural center of the country, it offers visitors a vibrant blend of African and Portuguese influences.

Photo: Xandu (Public domain)

Quick facts

Population
127,832 (city)
Currency
Cape Verdean escudo (CVE)
Language
Portuguese
Timezone
-01 (UTC-1)
Local time now
02:00:40

Hotels in Praia

Praia offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors to Cabo Verde's capital city. Choose from hotels and guesthouses such as Pousada Praia Maria, Santa Maria, Residencial Lidia, and Casa Sodadi, each providing different experiences for travellers exploring the island. See all hotels →

Entrada no numero 13
165 m from centre
Pousada Praia Maria
402 m from centre
Santa Maria
474 m from centre

Airports in Praia

Praia is served by Aeroporto Internacional Nelson Mandela, the main international gateway for the capital city of Cabo Verde. This airport connects Praia to destinations across Africa, Europe, and beyond. See all airports →

Car Hire in Praia

Praia offers several car hire options for visitors and residents looking to explore Cabo Verde. Major providers including Hertz, DELCAR, Intercidades, Atlântico, and Rental are available to help you find the right vehicle for your needs. See all car hire →

Rental
364 m from centre
DELCAR
1.0 km from centre
Hertz
1.1 km from centre
Intercidades
1.2 km from centre

Things to Do in Praia

Praia offers visitors a rich cultural and historical experience, with attractions ranging from museums and historical archives to scenic viewpoints. Key sites include the Sala-Museu Amílcar Cabral, Museo de Arqueologia, Arquivo Historico Nacional, Estatua Diogo Gomes, and Miradouro do Cruzeiro, all of which showcase the city's heritage and provide insights into Cabo Verde's past. See all things to do →

Estatua Diogo Gomes
38 m from centre
Sala-Museu Amílcar Cabral
185 m from centre
Miradouro do Cruzeiro
225 m from centre
Arquivo Historico Nacional
283 m from centre
Museo de Arqueologia
361 m from centre
Painted Stairs.
534 m from centre

Restaurants in Praia

Praia offers a variety of dining establishments where visitors can enjoy local and international cuisine. From Restaurante Di Kaza to Panorama Restaurante, the city's restaurant scene provides options for different tastes and occasions. See all restaurants →

Restaurante Di Kaza
245 m from centre
Panorama Restaurante
322 m from centre
Punto d'incontro
italian · 365 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Praia

We're still gathering swimming pools listings for Praia — check back soon.

Spas in Praia

We're still gathering spas listings for Praia — check back soon.

Nightlife in Praia

Praia's nightlife offers a relaxed island atmosphere with venues like Zero Horas and Cockpit providing places to enjoy an evening out. The capital's social scene reflects the laid-back culture of Cabo Verde, with spots where locals and visitors gather after dark. See all nightlife →

Zero Horas
1.2 km from centre
Cockpit
1.3 km from centre

Bars in Praia

Praia's bar scene offers a range of venues for visitors and locals alike. From established spots like Esplanada Morabeza and Kaza Txan to popular options including Motcha, Jóse da Rosa, and Nhamii, there are plenty of places to enjoy a drink in the capital. See all bars →

Esplanada Morabeza
164 m from centre
Motcha
229 m from centre
Kaza Txan
287 m from centre

Cafes in Praia

Praia offers a variety of cafes where visitors and locals can enjoy refreshments and relax. Popular spots include Techas Place, Artica, Anabel, Africafé, and Nho Eugenio, each offering their own unique atmosphere in the heart of the capital. See all cafes →

Techas Place
breakfast;coffee_shop · 222 m from centre
Artica
1.0 km from centre
Anabel
bagel;brazilian;breakfast;burger;cake;coffee_shop · 1.2 km from centre

Shopping in Praia

Praia offers several shopping options for visitors and residents alike. Key destinations include Praia Shopping and FIC, which provide a range of retail experiences in the capital city. See all shopping →

Praia Shopping
1.8 km from centre
FIC
2.0 km from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Praia

Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde, offers opportunities to experience the natural environment of this Atlantic island nation. Visitors can explore outdoor areas such as Praça Alexandre Albuquerque and Cruz de Papa, which showcase the local landscape and character of the city. See all nature & wildlife →

Praça Alexandre Albuquerque
163 m from centre
Cruz de Papa
1.7 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Praia enjoys a warm, tropical climate typical of its Atlantic location. The city experiences mild seasonal variation, with conditions generally remaining pleasant year-round for visitors exploring its coastal setting.

Interesting Facts About Praia — Weird & Wonderful

  • Praia is located on the southern coast of Santiago island within the Sotavento Islands group
  • The city serves as the seat of the Praia Municipality and is the largest city in Cabo Verde
  • Praia is the political, economic and cultural center of the entire country

Frequently Asked Questions About Praia

What is the currency used in Praia?

The currency of Cabo Verde is the Cabo Verde Escudo (CVE). Most establishments in the capital accept it, and currency exchange is available at banks and hotels.

What language is spoken in Praia?

Portuguese is the official language of Praia and Cabo Verde. Many residents also speak Cape Verdean Creole, and English is increasingly used in tourism-related businesses.

Where is Praia located?

Praia is located on the southern coast of Santiago island, which is part of the Sotavento Islands group in Cabo Verde.

Is Praia the capital of Cabo Verde?

Yes, Praia is the capital and largest city of Cabo Verde, serving as the seat of the Praia Municipality.

What makes Praia culturally significant?

Praia is the political, economic and cultural center of Cabo Verde, making it the heart of the nation's governance, commerce and cultural activities.

Map of Praia

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