population: 0.08 million

extension: 77.3 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Mindelo and want to visit museums, a great place to start is the Centro Nacional de Artesanato e Design (CNAD), which showcases traditional Cape Verdean craftwork. Another option is the Museu do Mar (Sea Museum), which displays exhibits related to the history of the sea and fishing in the region. If you're looking for similar types of places nearby, you might consider visiting other museums in Cape Verde such as the Museu da Tabanka in Santa Catarina or the Centro Cultural do Mindelo.

Food

Cape Verdean cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a mix of African, European, and South American influences. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Mindelo according to local people:

1. Cachupa - a hearty stew made with beans, corn, vegetables, and meat or fish.

2. Pastel com diablo dentro - a crispy pastry filled with spicy tuna or shrimp.

3. Grilled lobster - fresh from the sea and grilled to perfection.

4. Catchupa rica - a variation of cachupa that includes more meat, often served on special occasions.

5. Espetada - skewered meat (beef or chicken) seasoned and grilled.

6. Buzio - conch cooked in a garlic and onion sauce, often served with rice.

7. Xerém - a dish made from cornmeal or millet, usually served with fish or meat.

8. Feijoada - a bean stew with meat, often served with rice.

9. Caldo de peixe - a flavorful fish soup with vegetables and coconut milk.

10. Queijo do Fogo - a soft cheese made from goat's milk and flavored with paprika from the island of Fogo.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Mindelo include:

1. Listening to live music: Cape Verde has a rich musical heritage, and Mindelo is known for its vibrant music scene. You can catch live performances of traditional morna and coladeira music at local bars and clubs like Caravela Mindelo or Cafe Atlantico.

2. Exploring the city's markets: Mindelo has several bustling markets where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Check out the Mercado Municipal or the Fish Market for a taste of daily life in the city.

3. Visiting the beach: Mindelo is home to several beautiful beaches, including Praia da Laginha and Praia do Amor. Locals like to relax on the sand, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy picnics with family and friends.

4. Trying local cuisine: Cape Verdean food is a delicious fusion of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. Sample traditional dishes like cachupa (a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat) or pastel com diabo dentro (pastry filled with spicy meat).

5. Hiking in the mountains: Mindelo is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, and locals love to explore the rugged terrain on foot. Some popular hiking trails include Monte Verde, Monte Cara, and Pico da Cruz.