How to get to Cape Verde from Italy: flights and layovers: Organizing a trip to Cape Verde means facing a fundamental question: how do you get to this African paradise? The good news is that reaching the archipelago from Italy is simpler than you might think, thanks to direct connections and strategic layovers that make the journey accessible to all types of travelers.
Cape Verde is about 4,500 km from Italy, with a flight time that varies from 6 to 9 hours depending on the route and layovers. The archipelago has four international airports located on the main islands, ready to welcome visitors from all over Europe.
In this comprehensive guide, we will analyze all the options available for flying from Italy to Cape Verde: airlines, departure and destination airports, direct and connecting flights, tips for finding the best deals, and practical information on documents and luggage. The goal is to provide you with all the tools to plan your trip stress-free, choosing the solution that best suits your needs. Read our guide for your trip to Cape Verde
The international airports of Cape Verde
Before we delve into the details of flights, it is important to know the arrival points in the archipelago. Cape Verde has four international airports, strategically located on the main islands.
Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) – Sal Island
This is the most important and busiest airport in the archipelago, as well as the main entry point for flights from Europe. The airport is located on the island of Sal, the ultimate tourist destination with its famous white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Most flights from Italy land here, making Sal the preferred gateway to the archipelago.
Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) – Boa Vista Island
The second most important airport for tourism, it receives seasonal and charter international flights, especially during the high winter season. Boa Vista is renowned for its vast golden beaches and sand dunes that resemble desert landscapes.
Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) – Santiago Island
Located in the capital Praia, this airport serves the largest and most populous island in the archipelago. It is the ideal arrival point for those wishing to immerse themselves in authentic Cape Verdean culture, visit the vibrant capital, and discover local traditions.
Cesária Évora International Airport (VXE) – São Vicente Island
Named after the famous Cape Verdean singer, this airport serves the island of São Vicente and the city of Mindelo, considered the cultural capital of the archipelago. It receives international flights, mainly from Portugal and other European countries.
Direct flights from Italy to Cape Verde
In recent years, connections between Italy and Cape Verde have significantly expanded, offering various direct flight options. Currently, non-stop flights represent the most convenient and fastest way to reach the archipelago.
Italian departure airports
Direct flights to Cape Verde mainly depart from three Italian airports:
Milan Malpensa (MXP): it is currently the main hub for direct flights to Cape Verde. Starting from October 29, 2025, easyJet has launched a direct connection twice a week (Wednesday and Saturday) to Sal Island, representing the only direct flight currently active from Malpensa. The flight duration is approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes.
Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY): seasonal flights to Sal also depart from this airport, mainly operated by Neos and Cabo Verde Airlines, with variable frequency depending on the time of year.
Verona Villafranca (VRN): Neos operates a weekly direct connection to Boa Vista Island, with a flight duration of approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes.
Rome Fiumicino (FCO): although direct flights are less frequent, there are seasonal options mainly operated by Neos and Cabo Verde Airlines. According to KAYAK data, there is one direct flight per day departing from Rome-Fiumicino with an average flight time of 6 hours and 35 minutes.
Airlines offering direct flights
The main airlines operating direct flights from Italy to Cape Verde are:
easyJet: since 2025, it operates the Milan Malpensa – Sal route with two weekly flights.
Neos: an Italian company specializing in leisure flights, operates seasonal connections from Bergamo and Verona to Sal and Boa Vista.
Cabo Verde Airlines: the Cape Verdean flag carrier offers seasonal flights from various Italian airports, with variable frequencies.
Flight frequency
On average, there are about 6-14 weekly flights between Italy and Cape Verde, depending on the season. During the high season (December-January), frequencies increase to meet tourist demand.
Connecting flights: options and connections
For those who cannot find direct flights on their desired dates or are looking for cheaper fares, connecting flights are a great alternative. Most connecting routes pass through well-connected European hubs with Italy.
Layover in Lisbon: the most common option
Lisbon is the main layover for flights to Cape Verde. TAP Air Portugal offers numerous daily connections from Lisbon to all four Cape Verdean destinations (Sal, Boa Vista, Praia, and São Vicente).
From any Italian airport, it is possible to reach Lisbon with frequent flights operated by TAP, Ryanair, easyJet, and other airlines. The average layover time in Lisbon is about 1 hour and 40 minutes, for a total travel time that can vary from 8 to 10 hours.
According to KAYAK data, the cheapest flight from Rome-Fiumicino to Cape Verde with a layover in Lisbon operated by TAP AIR PORTUGAL is around 357 euros to Espargos (Sal).
Other European layovers
In addition to Lisbon, there are other layover options:
Paris: Transavia and TUI Fly offer connections from the French capital to Cape Verde.
Amsterdam: TUI Fly operates flights to São Vicente with increased frequencies in the summer season.
London and Manchester: TUI Airways and Jet2 connect the UK with the archipelago.
Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf: TUI Fly offers flights from Germany.
Madrid, Barcelona: Binter Canarias operates connections from Spain.
Which island to choose as the arrival destination?
The choice of arrival airport mainly depends on the planned travel itinerary.
Arriving in Sal (SID)
Sal is the ideal choice for those looking for a classic beach holiday. The island offers beautiful beaches, good tourist infrastructure, and numerous activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and diving. From Sal, it is possible to reach the other islands by domestic flights or ferries.
Arriving in Boa Vista (BVC)
Boa Vista is perfect for those seeking wild beaches and desert landscapes. The island is less developed than Sal but offers authentic charm and the opportunity to witness sea turtle nesting between June and September.
Arriving in Santiago (RAI)
Santiago is the best choice for those who want to immerse themselves in Cape Verdean culture. Praia, the capital, offers museums, vibrant markets, and a lively music scene. From here, it is easy to reach the other islands of the Sotavento group such as Fogo and Brava.
Arriving in São Vicente (VXE)
São Vicente is the ideal starting point to explore the culture of Mindelo and, from there, take a ferry to the nearby and spectacular island of Santo Antão, a favorite destination for trekking enthusiasts.
How much does a flight to Cape Verde cost?
Flight prices vary significantly based on the season, how far in advance you book, and the airline chosen.
Average prices
According to search engine data, a round-trip flight ticket from Italy to Cape Verde costs an average of 860 euros, with a range from 178 to 961 euros. However, with a bit of flexibility and booking in advance, much cheaper rates can be found.
Skyscanner reports that the cheapest flight recently found was 128 euros one way, with an average round-trip price around 306 euros. Kayak indicates offers from Rome-Fiumicino starting at 193 euros.
Cheapest periods
The cheapest month to fly from Italy to Cape Verde isNovember, when prices drop significantly. October is also indicated as a convenient month.
In contrast, the most expensive months are December, January, April, and August.
Tips for saving
Book in advance: booking 2-3 months in advance increases the chances of finding good rates.
Be flexible with dates: flying during the week instead of on weekends can make a difference.
Compare search engines: use platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Liligo to compare all options.
Set price alerts: many sites offer the option to receive notifications when the price of desired flights drops.
Consider flights with layovers: sometimes, flying with a layover in Lisbon can be cheaper than direct flights, even if the travel time is longer.
Required documents for entry to Cape Verde
Before departing, it is essential to check that you have all the necessary documents.
Passport
A valid passport is required. It does not need to have a specific remaining validity beyond the departure date, but it is always advisable for it to be valid for at least six months.
Tourist visa
Italian citizens need a tourist visa to enter Cape Verde. The visa costs about 25 euros and can be requested in several ways:
Online (e-visa): the most practical solution, to be requested on the official website of the Cape Verdean government before departure.
At the airport upon arrival: possible but not recommended as it involves queues and waiting times.
At the embassy or consulate: in Italy, the Cape Verdean embassy is located in Rome.
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Cape Verde. However, it is always advisable to be up to date with standard vaccinations (tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A and B) and to consult your doctor before departure.
How to reach the other islands from the arrival airport
Once you land in Cape Verde, you may need to travel to other islands or to locations different from the arrival airport.
Inter-island flights
To move between the islands, domestic flights are the fastest option. They are mainly operated by BestFly Cabo Verde, with regular connections between the main islands:
Praia (Santiago) – São Vicente (Mindelo)
Praia – Sal – Boa Vista
São Vicente – Sal
Domestic flights take about 20-45 minutes and have prices ranging from 60 to 120 euros per leg.
Inter-island ferries
Ferries represent a more economical but slower alternative. The main routes include:
Santiago – Fogo – Brava: the most reliable route in the Sotavento group.
São Vicente – Santo Antão: very frequent, with daily departures (about 4 euros).
Sal – Boa Vista: seasonal service, not always available.
The services are operated by CV Interilhas, but schedules can be variable, so it is advisable to check and book in advance.
Transportation from the airport
Upon arrival at the airport, to reach your accommodation you can choose:
Taxi: available at all airports, with rates to be agreed upon before departure (on average 10-20 euros for transfers to the city center).
Organized transfers: many hotels offer shuttle service upon reservation.
Car rental: available on the main islands, with agencies present at the airport.
Practical travel tips
Carry-on luggage: new regulations
Be aware of the new regulations regarding liquids in carry-on luggage. From Italian airports, it is possible to transport electronic devices and liquids in containers with a maximum capacity of 2 liters each. For the return flight, it is necessary to check the regulations in force at the departure airport in Cape Verde.
Time zone
Cape Verde is in the GMT-1 time zone, which means that in winter it is 2 hours behind Italy, and in summer it is 3 hours behind (when daylight saving time is in effect in Italy).
Currency
The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE), with a fixed exchange rate of 1 euro = 110 escudos. It is advisable to bring cash in euros to exchange on-site or withdraw from ATMs, which are widespread in the main cities.
Language
The official language is Portuguese, but the population commonly speaks Cape Verdean Creole. In tourist areas, English and Italian are quite common.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about how to get to Cape Verde
How long is the flight from Italy to Cape Verde?
The direct flight duration is about 6 hours and 15 minutes from Milan or Bergamo. With a stopover in Lisbon, the total journey can take between 8 to 10 hours.
Which airlines fly from Italy to Cape Verde?
The main airlines are easyJet (Milan Malpensa-Sal), Neos (Bergamo and Verona), and Cabo Verde Airlines. For flights with a stopover, TAP Air Portugal via Lisbon is the most common option.
What is the best time to find cheap flights?
November is the cheapest month to fly to Cape Verde. October also offers affordable rates.
Is it better to land in Sal or Boa Vista?
It depends on the type of vacation: Sal offers more services and tourist infrastructure, while Boa Vista is wilder and more authentic. Both are great for beach holidays.
Do you need a visa to go to Cape Verde?
Yes, Italian citizens need a tourist visa (about 25 euros), which can be requested online or upon arrival.
Are there direct flights from Italy to Cape Verde?
Yes, there are direct flights from Milan Malpensa (easyJet), Bergamo (Neos), and Verona (Neos) mainly to Sal and Boa Vista.
How much does a flight from Italy to Cape Verde cost on average?
Prices range from 300 to 900 euros round trip depending on the season. In the low season, you can find deals around 350-450 euros.
Which Italian airport has the most connections to Cape Verde?
Milan Malpensa and Bergamo Orio al Serio are currently the airports with the most connections, thanks to easyJet and Neos flights.
Can I reach the other islands from the arrival airport?
Yes, via domestic flights (BestFly Cabo Verde) or inter-island ferries (CV Interilhas).
What documents are needed to enter Cape Verde?
A valid passport and a tourist visa. No mandatory vaccinations.
Getting to Cape Verde
How to get to Cape Verde from Italy is now a question with increasingly simple and varied answers. The archipelago is well connected to our country thanks to direct flights operated by easyJet, Neos, and Cabo Verde Airlines, which transport you in a few hours to a paradise of white beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The choice of departure and arrival airport depends on your needs: Milan Malpensa and Bergamo offer the best options for northern Italy, while seasonal connections depart from Rome and Verona. Lisbon remains the reference stop for those opting for connecting flights, with TAP Air Portugal ensuring extensive connections to all the islands.
Planning ahead, being flexible with dates, and comparing offers are the keys to finding the best value for money. Whether you choose to land in Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, or São Vicente, the journey to Cape Verde is the first step of an unforgettable experience filled with sun, sea, and authentic Cape Verdean hospitality.
Review date:March 9, 2026