Porto Novo

Porto Novo is a city on the island of Santo Antão, Cape Verde, in the central Atlantic Ocean. The city was once called Carvoeiros, and it gradually became the largest urban settlement and main harbour of the island.

For magnificent 360 degree views, climb up the 2,000m high Topo de Coroa, located behind the town.

There are some old churches from the Portuguese era, as well as a couple of squares with pleasant bars and cafés.

Nearby places of interest include Cova, a valley in a crater of an extinct volcano and Farol de Boi, the largest and oldest lighthouse of Cape Verde. It was built in 1886 but is now abandoned.

Try the local rum, a Cape Verde speciality called "grogue" or sample delicious local fresh tuna, grilled lobster and octopus.

Cruise ships dock close to the centre of town.

Visitors can hire an open minibus (called "alugers") for the day to explore the surrounding areas.