You don't need to be a nun or a monk to appreciate the dignified atmosphere of São Francisco monastery and church. Visit for a glimpse into some local religious traditions and cultures.

This Cidade Velha residence for monks is an interesting place to begin your day of sightseeing. There's plenty to see and do in the vicinity, such as Prainha Beach, Royal Fortress of São Filipe, and Estadio da Varzea. Take your time at São Francisco monastery and church before hitting up these other fine attractions.

Plan a trip to see São Francisco monastery and church

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Hotel Blue Sky

per person

Sep 5 - Sep 9

found 7 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Boston (BOS) to Santiago Island (RAI)

9/10 Wonderful! (6 reviews)

Hotel Pérola

per person

Sep 20 - Sep 27

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

London (LON) to Santiago Island (RAI)

8.8/10 Excellent! (163 reviews)

Our stay at Hotel Perola was overall great. Our first day in our assigned room we noticed the bathroom had a leak from the toilet, we told the front desk staff and they were more than happy to help. They sent a technician to check it out. In the end, they ended up upgrading us to a suite and we were very grateful. Overall cleaninless was decent, however the curtains in the room were a bit dirty and either require a good deep clean or new curtains altogether. The staff, especially Josiene the receptionist, was absolutely lovely, breakfast was tasty, as well as dinner options, and the views were great!

Reviewed on Jul 6, 2025

Aparthotel Palace

per person

Oct 11 - Oct 17

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Boston (BOS) to Santiago Island (RAI)

8/10 Very Good! (15 reviews)

This was my first visit to Cape Verde and I will definitely stay here again on any future visits. The entire property was very neat and clean and reasonably priced. Loved the unique decor. From the front desk to the bartender…Every single member of the staff was super friendly and helpful, even with problems I had trying to move around the country away from the hotel. They definitely went above and beyond. I absolutely recommend!

Reviewed on Mar 9, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore São Francisco monastery and church

Tours & day trips

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Santiago Island: Banana Plantation, Natural Park & Workshop with a local fa...

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

See all 14 activities

Private tour: Explore Santiago Island

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

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Santiago Island: Full-Day Sightseeing Experience

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

The Fort of São Filipe in Cidade Velha, Cape Verde.

Royal Fortress of São Filipe

Find out about the history of Cidade Velha when you take a trip to Royal Fortress of São Filipe. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosario

You can learn about the history of Cidade Velha when you stop by Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosario. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Quebra Canela Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Quebra Canela Beach during your travels in Praia? Make some time to visit the cathedral while you're in the area.