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São Tomé

São Tomé is the capital and largest city of the Central African island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. Founded in the 15th century, it stands as one of Africa's oldest colonial cities with a rich historical heritage.

Quick facts

Population
53,300 (city)
Currency
São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STN)
Language
Portuguese
Timezone
GMT (UTC+0)
Local time now
21:20:11

Hotels in São Tomé

São Tomé offers a range of accommodation options for visitors to the capital of São Tomé and Príncipe. Hotels such as Hotel Central, Avenida Hotel, Hotel Baia, Hotel City Center, and Residencial Nossa Senhora da Conceição provide places to stay in this island destination. See all hotels →

Hotel Central
133 m from centre
Avenida Hotel
333 m from centre
Residencial Nossa Senhora da Conceicao
424 m from centre

Airports in São Tomé

São Tomé is served by Aeroporto Internacional de São Tomé, the main gateway for air travel to the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. This international airport connects visitors and residents to destinations across the region. See all airports →

Aeroporto Internacional de São Tomé
4.8 km from centre

Car Hire in São Tomé

São Tomé offers several car hire options for visitors looking to explore the island independently. Local providers including Hanna & Silva, Abotur, Privilege Tours, and Yupopcar can help arrange vehicle rentals to suit your travel needs. See all car hire →

Hanna & Silva
477 m from centre
Abotur
519 m from centre
Privilege Tours
916 m from centre
Yupopcar
933 m from centre

Things to Do in São Tomé

São Tomé offers visitors a range of cultural and historical attractions. Explore the Museu Nacional Forte São Sebastião, visit the historic Antigo Forte, stroll through the 3 Fevereiro district, and discover the unique Navio Naufragado landmark. See all things to do →

3 Fevereiro
636 m from centre
Museu Nacional Forte São Sebastião
1.2 km from centre
Antigo Forte
1.5 km from centre
Navio Naufragado
1.7 km from centre

Restaurants in São Tomé

São Tomé offers a selection of dining establishments where visitors can experience local cuisine and hospitality. Notable restaurants in the capital include Pensao Turismo, Zima blue, Sabor Divino, Jasmin, and Tentadora, each providing their own dining atmosphere. See all restaurants →

Pensao Turismo
173 m from centre
Zima blue
african;local · 228 m from centre
Sabor Divino
277 m from centre

Swimming Pools in São Tomé

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

Spas in São Tomé

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

Nightlife in São Tomé

São Tomé offers a selection of venues for evening entertainment, including Discoteca Dolores, Beach Club, O Pirata, and Club Mé-Zóchi. Whether you're looking for dancing or a relaxed atmosphere, these establishments provide options for enjoying the city's nightlife. See all nightlife →

Discoteca Dolores
1.1 km from centre
Beach Club
1.5 km from centre
O Pirata
1.7 km from centre

Bars in São Tomé

São Tomé offers a selection of bars where you can enjoy drinks and soak in the local atmosphere. Notable venues include Xicos Cafe & Companha, Abaya da Bôo, Tropicana, and A Sombra da Coleira, each offering their own character and charm. See all bars →

Xicos (Cafe & Companha)
84 m from centre
Xicos (Cafe & Companha)
85 m from centre
Abaya da Bôo
101 m from centre

Cafes in São Tomé

São Tomé offers a selection of cafes where visitors and locals can enjoy beverages and casual meals. Options in the city include establishments such as Jasmin, Passante, and Bar R & J, providing different atmospheres for relaxation and refreshment. See all cafes →

Jasmin
tea · 319 m from centre
Passante
942 m from centre
Bar R & J
1.3 km from centre

Shopping in São Tomé

We're still gathering shopping listings for São Tomé — check back soon.

Nature & Wildlife in São Tomé

São Tomé offers several natural spaces for visitors to experience the island's greenery and outdoor environments. From the parks and gardens scattered throughout the capital, including Parque Sum Secreta and Parque Popular, to public squares like Praça de Independência and Praça da Juventude, the city provides opportunities to connect with nature and relax in open spaces. See all nature & wildlife →

Praça de Independência
97 m from centre
Jardim 1º de Maio
193 m from centre
Parque Sum Secreta
306 m from centre
Parque Popular
656 m from centre
Praça da Juventude
964 m from centre

Climate snapshot

São Tomé has a tropical climate typical of its equatorial island location. The city experiences warm, humid weather year-round with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Interesting Facts About São Tomé — Weird & Wonderful

  • Founded in the 15th century, making it one of Africa's oldest colonial cities
  • Its name is Portuguese for 'Saint Thomas'
  • Serves as both the capital and largest city of São Tomé and Príncipe

Frequently Asked Questions About São Tomé

What language is spoken in São Tomé?

Portuguese is the official language of São Tomé and Príncipe, reflecting the city's Portuguese colonial heritage.

What currency is used in São Tomé?

The currency used in São Tomé and Príncipe is the dobra (Db), the national currency of the country.

What region is São Tomé located in?

São Tomé is located in Central Africa on the island of São Tomé, which is part of the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe.

How old is São Tomé as a city?

São Tomé was founded in the 15th century, making it one of Africa's oldest colonial cities with over 500 years of history.

Map of São Tomé

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