Santiago is the largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago. Administratively, it is divided into nine municipalities. The city of Praia is both the capital of the country and its most populous city. Santiago Island has undergone extraordinary development since independence in 1975, with the population doubling since that year.

The island is home to the recently expanded Praia International Airport, which receives international flights from Europe (Lisbon, Paris, Amsterdam, Munich), South America (Fortaleza, Brazil), North America (Boston), and the African continent, as well as domestic flights.

Ribeira Grande de Santiago, formerly known as Cidade Velha, located 15 km west of Praia on the coast, was the first major capital of Cape Verde.

Santiago Island has many interesting places to visit such as:

Pico da Antónia, the highest point in the country at 1392 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy a hike to visit the volcano and experience nature.
The Tabanca Museum located in the center of Assomada on Santiago Island, easily accessible by transportation. Tabanca is a cultural, ancestral practice in the islands of Santiago and Maio, reflecting the origin of Cape Verdean culture – the mix of European and African cultures.
Cidade Velha, situated in the Ribeira Grande de Santiago municipality, 15 km west of Praia on the coast of Cape Verde. It is the first city built by Europeans in the tropics and the first capital of the Cape Verde archipelago.
Tarrafal, where you can enjoy the beach of the same name with a view of the mountain.

Serra da Malagueta, to enjoy a hike or stroll through the mountains and visit the Natural Park to experience nature.
Praia de Quebra Canela, on the outskirts of the city of Praia, where an annual music festival with national and international artists takes place. You can also surf or ski on this beach.
Prainha for a swim in the sea and a cold beer.