Welcome, fellow travelers and adventurers! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the ultimate travel guide to Santos, São Paulo Brazil—a city that holds a special place in my heart. Having visited Brazil four times, I can confidently say that Santos stands out with its captivating blend of beautiful beaches, warm-hearted people, and a laid-back coastal charm. Join me as we dive into this coastal gem, uncovering its hidden treasures, vibrant culture, and irresistible allure. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a taste of authentic Brazilian hospitality, Santos promises an unforgettable experience. Let’s embark on this journey together and discover why Santos is truly a destination like no other!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Santos is a coastal city located in the state of São Paulo in southeastern Brazil. With a population of around 430,000, it is Brazil’s largest port city and a popular tourist destination.
Santos has a long and fascinating history. It was founded in 1546 by the Portuguese nobleman Brás Cubas, making it one of the oldest cities in Brazil. Its strategic location by the Atlantic Ocean allowed it to become a major port city and the gateway for coffee exports from the interior of São Paulo state starting in the 19th century. Santos grew wealthy from the coffee trade and attracted immigrants from around the world, giving the city a multicultural character.
Today, Santos is known for its beaches, parks, historic architecture, and lively cultural scene. The city center features buildings dating back to the colonial era and the early 20th century when Santos experienced an economic boom. Landmarks include the Coffee Exchange building, the Cathedral of Santos, and numerous museums and theaters. The beachfront is lined with high-rise apartments, hotels, and restaurants, with a scenic boardwalk perfect for strolling.
Santos makes an excellent base to explore the coastal region of São Paulo state. It provides easy access to nearby beach towns like Guarujá and quaint fishing villages. The port is a jumping-off point for boat tours and whale watching. And the city offers plenty of dining, shopping, and nightlife options for visitors. With pleasant weather year-round, Santos is a popular Brazilian vacation spot for domestic and international travelers alike.
Getting to Santos
Santos is located on the coastline of São Paulo state in southeastern Brazil. The city has an international airport, a train station, and bus connections, making it very accessible for travelers.
Air
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Santos is by flying into São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), Brazil’s largest airport. From Guarulhos, there are frequent non-stop flights to Santos Dumont Airport (SSZ) in Santos on multiple domestic airlines, with a short 30-minute flight time. Travelers can also fly into São Paulo’s Congonhas Airport (CGH) and connect to a flight to Santos. Major airlines operating flights between São Paulo and Santos include Gol, Azul, and LATAM.
Train
Santos has a central train station served by CPTM suburban trains from São Paulo. The journey takes around 1 hour from São Paulo’s Luz station on the CPTM Line 9 (Emerald) trains. Trains run frequently throughout the day. This is an affordable and scenic option for getting to Santos along the coast.
Bus
Buses connect Santos to cities across São Paulo state and Brazil. The main bus companies are Viação Piracicabana and Reunidas Paulista, operating buses to and from São Paulo’s Tietê Rodoviária bus station. The bus ride takes 1-2 hours depending on traffic. There are also buses to Santos from cities like Rio de Janeiro and Curitiba. The Santos bus station is located in the city center close to attractions.
By Car
Driving to Santos from São Paulo takes around 1.5 hours via the Imigrantes highway and Anchieta highway. Santos is 75 km from São Paulo. Driving allows flexibility to stop along the coastline. However, traffic can be heavy on weekends. Street parking can be difficult to find in central Santos, so parking garages are recommended. Keep in mind tolls apply on the highways.
Top Attractions
Santos is known for its beautiful beaches, museums, architecture, and lively festivals. Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Santos:
Santos Beaches
- Praia do Gonzaga – This long, sandy beach located in Gonzaga features calm waters perfect for swimming and leisurely strolls along the shore. Beachside kiosks sell snacks and drinks.
- Praia do Boqueirão – Located near downtown, this beach has golden sands and natural rock pools. It’s a popular spot for beach volleyball and outdoor events.
- Praia do José Menino – Just west of downtown, this small, picturesque beach is surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s known for its excellent surfing conditions.
Museums
- Museu de Pesca – Housed in a 1918 mansion, this museum chronicles the history of fishing in Santos with exhibits of fishing tools, model boats, and more.
- Museu do Café – Learn about the history of coffee production in Brazil at this museum located within an old coffee warehouse. Interactive exhibits explain the growing process.
- Museu Pelé – Soccer fans won’t want to miss this museum dedicated to the life and accomplishments of the legendary Pelé. See memorabilia and learn about his Santos club years.
Architecture & Historic Buildings
- Coffee Exchange Museum – Tour this beautiful historic building where coffee brokers once gathered to set coffee prices. Ornate rooms contain paintings, antique furniture, and more.
- Igreja de Santo Antônio – This Baroque-style church built in the early 1700s has an impressive gilded wood interior.
- Conselheiro Paulino Boulevard – Stroll along this waterfront promenade to see historic buildings from Santos’s coffee era like the Bolsa Oficial de Café building.
Festivals & Events
- Carnaval – Santos hosts one of Brazil’s largest pre-Lenten carnival celebrations with samba school parades, costumes, music, and street parties.
- Festa de São Benedito – This festival in July honors the patron saint of Santos with colorful parades, music, and traditional foods.
- Oktoberfest – Each October, Santos puts on a lively version of the German beer festival with music, dancing, and beer tents.
Accommodations
Santos offers a wide variety of lodging options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Hotels
Santos has hotels ranging from international chains to locally-owned boutique hotels. Many are conveniently located downtown near top attractions. Luxury hotels like Othon Palace and Atlantico offer 5-star amenities and services. Mid-range options like Ibis Santos and Bristol Vista Hotel provide comfortable, affordable accommodations. Budget hotels and motels like Santos Park Hotel are simple but reliable.
Hostels
Hostels are a popular lodging choice for backpackers and budget travelers. Santos Hostel and Che Lagarto Hostel offer dorm-style rooms and common areas to meet fellow travelers. Pousada Alvorada and Beach House Hostel are small, friendly hostels close to the beach. Most hostels organize activities and tours.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals like apartments, condos, and beach houses allow for a more local, home-like stay. Sites like Airbnb and HomeAway list furnished rentals of all sizes and prices across Santos. Vacation rentals often have kitchens and extra space, great for families or longer stays. Many are located in residential neighborhoods just off the beach.
With accommodations available for all interests and budgets, Santos has lodging options to meet any traveler’s needs. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Food and Drink
Santos is known for its delicious local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Here are some highlights of the food and drink scene in Santos:
Local Cuisines
- Seafood: Given its coastal location, Santos is renowned for its fresh and abundant seafood. Dishes like bobó de camarão (shrimp stew with cassava), fish stews called moquecas, and fried fish are very popular.
- Acarajé: These deep-fried balls made from mashed black-eyed peas are a traditional street food in Santos. They are stuffed with shrimp, ground cashews, and spicy vatapá paste.
- Tropical Fruits: Santos’ tropical climate means fruits like acerola, guava, mango and pineapple are incorporated into many dishes. Keep an eye out for sucos (fruit juices) and salads featuring these bright ingredients.
Traditional Dishes
- Feijoada: The national dish of Brazil, feijoada is a hearty black bean stew made with smoky pork and beef. It’s often served with rice, collard greens, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices.
- Virado à Paulista: This plate of rice, tutu (mashed beans), and pork is quintessentially Paulista (from São Paulo state). Eggs and banana chips are common accompaniments.
- Picadinho: A homestyle comfort dish of diced beef stewed with potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s served over rice.
Restaurants & Bars
- Cana Caiana: This lively restaurant serves excellent traditional Brazilian cuisine and caipirinha cocktails in a rustic-chic space. Live music several nights a week.
- Limoncello Ristorante: High-end Italian restaurant along the beachfront with lovely ocean views. Known for fresh pasta, seafood, and an extensive wine list.
- Bar do Victor: A classic Santos bar that’s been around for decades, known for ice-cold draft beer, appetizers like cod fritters, and a friendly local crowd.
Nightlife
The bars along Rua José Bonifácio and Avenida Ana Costa are popular nightlife spots. For dancing, Santos’ clubs and live music venues come alive on Friday and Saturday nights, especially in the Aparecida neighborhood.
Shopping
Santos is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end boutiques to bustling local markets.
Popular Shopping Areas
Rua Conselheiro Ribas is the main shopping street in Santos, lined with major Brazilian and international brands. Stop at stores like H.Stern and Osklen for fashion, and Kiaro and Tok Stock for homewares and gifts. This street also has several shopping malls, such as Shopping Center Santos and Parque Balneário.
The Gonzaga area has trendy independent boutiques selling fashion, jewelry, art, and antiques. Browse Rua Boa Vista and Rua Bittencourt for the densest concentration of shops.
Local Markets
Don’t miss Mercado Municipal for an authentic local shopping experience. This covered market has fresh produce, spices, baked goods, cheese, and regional specialties. Haggle for a bargain on handicrafts and souvenirs here too.
Outdoor Feirinha de Artesanato takes place on Sundays along the waterfront. It’s a lively place to browse handmade crafts, art, clothing, and more from local artisans.
Souvenirs
Good souvenirs include Santos FC football jerseys and gear, coffee table books with photos of Santos beaches, and Carnaval memorabilia like t-shirts and accessories.
Pick up locally made handicrafts like ceramics, woven baskets, hammocks, and wood carvings. Brazilian gemstones like emeralds and amethyst are also popular.
For foodie souvenirs, choose sweets like brigadeiros or beijinhos, roasted peanuts, and cans of guarana soda. Vacuum-sealed bags of fresh Santos coffee make great gifts too.
Day trips
Santos is ideally located near several interesting day trip destinations that allow you to explore more of the region. Here are some of the most popular and worthwhile day trips from Santos:
Paranapiacaba
Located in the Serra do Mar mountain range, Paranapiacaba is a charming village that feels like you’ve stepped back in time. This former railway village was built in the late 1800s by British engineers and has a unique Anglo architecture style. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit the railway museum, and ride the historic steam train for a lovely day out.
São Vicente
The laidback beach town of São Vicente makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip from Santos. Historic sights include Brazil’s first chapel and cemetery, and the São Vicente Cultural Center located in a former prison. São Vicente is also considered Brazil’s first city. Enjoy relaxing on the town’s beaches, feasting on fresh seafood, and exploring the island vibe.
Guarujá
With nearly 30 miles of stunning coastline, Guarujá is a beach lover’s paradise. Spend a day lounging on the sands of popular beaches like Pitangueiras, Astúrias, Enseada, and Pernambuco. Check out the sea turtle preservation area, surf, or go sandboarding on the dunes. The laidback island vibe here is perfect for a sunny beach getaway.
Serra do Mar State Park
Adventurous types will love a day trip to Serra do Mar State Park, which protects a coastal rainforest area in the Serra do Mar mountain range. Go hiking through lush jungle scenery with scenic lookouts, swim under waterfalls, and spot unique wildlife like wooly spider monkeys. It’s a great way to experience Brazil’s incredible natural landscapes.
Iguape
For a dose of history and culture, visit the colonial river town of Iguape just 1.5 hours from Santos. Top attractions include the 18th-century Our Lady of Candelária Church, the Museum of Iguape, and strolling the waterfront. The town’s riverside location surrounded by mountains creates a scenic backdrop for your day trip.
With its convenient location, Santos is a great home base to explore an array of fantastic day trip destinations showcasing Brazilian nature, culture, history, and beaches.
Average Weather
Santos enjoys a warm, tropical climate all year round.
Typical Temperatures
Average temperatures range from 72°F (22°C) to 86°F (30°C) throughout the year. The hottest months are December to March, with highs around 86-90°F (30-32°C). The “winter” months of June to August see cooler temperatures in the mid 70s F (low 20s C).
Rainfall
Rainfall is high, with an average of 5-6 inches per month. The rainy season lasts from October through March. April through September are drier months. Even during rainy periods, Santos typically sees sun in the mornings and heavier showers in the afternoons and evenings.
Seasons
Santos has two main seasons:
- Summer (December to March) – Hottest and most humid time of year, with temperatures in the high 80s F (low 30s C). Increased rainfall. Peak tourist season with higher prices.
- Winter (June to August) – Cooler and less humid. Average highs in the mid-70s F (low 20s C). Drier weather. Low tourist season with lower prices.
The shoulder seasons of fall (April/May) and spring (September/October) offer warm temperatures in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and lower chances of rain. These can be pleasant times to visit.
Travel Tips
Safety
Santos is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take common sense precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, don’t display expensive cameras or jewelry, and keep your passport locked up in your hotel. Pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas, so keep valuables secured and bags in front of you. Only take licensed taxis and avoid unsolicited offers of tours or transport.
Getting Around
The best way to get around Santos is by bus, taxi, or ride-share services like Uber. Buses are very affordable and cover most parts of the city. Taxis are metered, so agree on a fare before getting in. Rideshares can be convenient but surge pricing applies at peak times. Avoid unmarked taxis. Walking is fine for shorter distances and allows you to take in the sights.
Packing
Pack light, breathable clothing as temperatures are warm year-round. Bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring. Have at least one nicer outfit if you plan to visit upscale restaurants or clubs. Don’t forget your swimsuit and beach gear. Keep medications in their original containers and bring copies of prescriptions. Bring power adapters and a backup charger for your devices.
Travel Insurance
Investing in travel insurance can protect you from unexpected cancellations, injuries, theft, or other issues. Make sure the policy covers emergency medical care, trip interruption, lost baggage, and emergency evacuation if you plan adventurous activities. Read the fine print to understand exclusions and limits. Purchase within two weeks of your initial trip deposit for the most coverage. Compare plans from insurers like WorldNomads, Allianz, and TravelGuard.
Sample Itineraries
Santos offers enough sights and activities to keep any traveler busy. Here are some recommended itineraries for exploring the top attractions and getting a good overview of what the city has to offer.
One Day in Santos
If you only have a day in Santos, focus your time on the beautiful coastline and charming historic center. Start your morning with a stroll along Gonzaga Beach and have some coffee and pastries in one of the beachfront cafes. Then head to the Centro Histórico and wander the cobbled streets, admiring the colorful colonial buildings. Be sure to visit the Santos Cathedral and stroll through Praça Mauá square. Have lunch at one of the excellent seafood restaurants on José Menino Street. In the afternoon, visit the Coffee Museum to learn about Santos’s history as Brazil’s largest coffee exporting port. End your day watching the sunset on the beach.
Three Days in Santos
With three days in Santos, you’ll have time to see the top sights while also relaxing on the beach. Spend your first day exploring the historic center, visiting the Cathedral, Coffee Museum, and wandering the pedestrian streets. On your second day, take a ferry to Guarujá to enjoy the beaches and trails on the island. On your last day, visit Mount Serrat for panoramic views on the cable car ride up. In the afternoon, browse the shops and art galleries along Rua do Comércio. End with dinner at an outdoor restaurant on Canal 3.
One Week in Santos
A week gives you time to fully experience Santos and take some day trips. Spend 2-3 days exploring the historic center, beaches, museums, and dining along the coastline. Take a full-day trip to Paranapiacaba, the historic mountain village reachable by scenic railway. Another day, visit the botanical gardens in the hills above Santos. Take the ferry to Ilha Porchat for hiking and swimming on the island beach. Consider a day trip to São Vicente to visit the colonial center or the resort town of Guarujá. End your trip with a sunset catamaran cruise in the Santos harbor.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our ultimate Santos travel guide, I hope you’ve gained a deep appreciation for this captivating Brazilian city. From its sun-kissed beaches and rich maritime history to its lively waterfront promenades and delectable seafood cuisine, Santos offers a multifaceted experience that delights the senses and warms the soul.
Whether you’re strolling along the iconic coffee museum, catching waves at Gonzaga Beach, or simply savoring a caipirinha with locals, Santos invites you to immerse yourself in its unique rhythm and charm. As you bid farewell to this coastal paradise, take with you fond memories of the welcoming people, the breathtaking sunsets, and the vibrant culture that define Santos. Until next time, boa viagem—happy travels, and may Santos beckon you back soon for another unforgettable adventure!
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