Things to do in Porto Novo
Discover the best attractions and experiences Porto Novo has to offer
Historic Monuments
Porto Novo’s past is visible in its old streets and colonial-era architecture along the coast and hills.
Porto Novo Old Town streets
Cobbled lanes and colorful houses that reflect the town’s history and everyday life.
Colonial-era façades along the harbor
Early 20th-century buildings that line the waterfront and tell a story of the island’s development.
Museums
Small museums reveal Santo Antão’s traditions, history, and daily life.
Museu Municipal de Santo Antão
Exhibits on the island’s history, geology, and local culture.
Centro Cultural de Porto Novo
Seasonal exhibitions and cultural programs celebrating Cape Verdean arts.
Centro de Interpretação da Cultura Cabo-Verdiana
A compact look at Cabo Verdean customs, crafts and music.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites offer a window into local rituals and festive life.
Capela de São Sebastião (Porto Novo)
A small chapel that hosts local religious processions and prayer.
Ermida de Santo António (Porto Novo)
A hillside chapel popular for quiet morning visits.
National & Theme Parks
Surrounding landscapes inspire day trips with dramatic viewpoints and trails.
Parque Natural da Serra da Tronqueira
A protected highland area ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Pico da Cruz
The island’s high point offers sweeping views after a memorable hike.
Ravine viewpoints along the Paul Valley
Scenic overlooks where the island’s terraces tumble to the sea.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through distinct districts that give Porto Novo its character.
Porto Novo Centro
The bustling heart with markets, shops and cafes.
Fishermen’s Quarter
Residential lanes with a close-knit feel and sea views.
Free Things to Do
Ways to enjoy Porto Novo without spending a dime.
Stroll the harbor and watch fishermen
A relaxed way to soak in daily life and sea breeze.
Walk the Porto Novo seafront promenade
A scenic route with views of the Atlantic and boats.
Sunset viewpoints along Serra da Tronqueira
Accessible overlooks offering dramatic colors at dusk.
Gastronomy
Cape Verdean flavors shine in Porto Novo’s eateries and markets.
Catchupa (Cape Verdean stew)
A hearty traditional dish with pulses, corn and meat or fish.
Grogue tasting and local pastries
Try the island’s famous spirit paired with sweet treats.
Grilled fish at a seaside restaurant
Fresh catch of the day with simple, vibrant sides.
Nightlife
Low-key evenings with Cape Verdean music and dance.
Live morna and coladeira sessions
Relaxed bars often feature local musicians.
Street-side coffee and pastry after dark
Casual spots to end the night with friends.
Traditional Cape Verdean dance evenings
Community events celebrating rhythm and motion.
Entertainment
Cultural happenings and performances to enjoy.
Cultural evenings at Centro Cultural
Pop-up performances and showcases of local talent.
Music and dance demonstrations by locals
Learn a few steps and rhythms from residents.
Artisan markets and crafts workshops
Browse handmade goods and watch craftspeople at work.
Sports
Active ways to experience the island’s terrain.
Hiking Serra da Tronqueira
Steep trails with rewarding vantage points over the coast.
Trekking the coastal trails to viewpoints
Half- to full-day hikes along cliffs and terraces.
Beach walks along Porto Novo
Easy outdoor activity suitable for any level.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious for a deeper experience.
Visit a local coffee plantation
See how coffee is grown and processed in the highlands.
Tour terraced fields with a local guide
Learn about traditional farming and irrigation.
Meet artisans making handmade crafts
Discover local crafts and stories behind them.