Things To Do
in Santos
Santos, Brazil, is a vibrant coastal city located in the southeastern part of the country, renowned for having the largest seaport in Latin America, which plays a crucial role in the Brazilian economy. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, gardens along the beachfront that are among the longest in the world, and a rich cultural scene that includes museums, historical buildings, and a lively gastronomy scene.
Santos is also the city where the legendary soccer player Pelé spent most of his career, playing for Santos FC, making it a significant spot for sports enthusiasts.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Enjoy the sun on the beautiful beaches of Gonzaga. Grab a fresh coconut and take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
Indulge in a seafood lunch at a local beachfront restaurant. Afterwards, explore the nearby shops and boutiques.
Catch the stunning sunset over the ocean. Dine at a cozy beachside café and unwind with live music.
Visit the Museu Pelé to learn about the football legend's life and career. The exhibits are interactive and fun for all ages.
Explore the charming historical center and its colonial architecture. Stop for a refreshing acai bowl at a local café.
Attend a cultural performance at the Teatro Coliseu. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that serves traditional Brazilian cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
- Proximity to São Paulo, making it a convenient getaway
- Various recreational activities available, such as water sports
- High cost of living compared to other Brazilian cities
- Traffic congestion, especially during tourist seasons
- Limited job opportunities for certain professions
- Potential for crime in some areas
- Humidity and heat can be uncomfortable during summer months
Best Activities in Santos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the various beautiful beaches in Santos, such as Gonzaga Beach, Boqueirão Beach, and Aparecida Beach.
Enjoy activities like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming in the coastal waters.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the Santos coastline and enjoy the scenic views.
Santos has several parks and gardens, including Roberto Mario Santini Park and Orchid Garden, perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santos
Visit one of these nice places.
A hill in the center of Santos providing panoramic views of the city and the port.
The waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the beach, sea, and skyline, perfect for photography.
A botanical garden with scenic walking paths and beautiful natural landscapes for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Santos
Santos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and flavorful stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, traditionally served with rice, farofa, and collard greens. It is a hearty and iconic Brazilian dish that can be enjoyed at traditional restaurants like Churrascaria Vento Haragano.
Must-Try!
Moqueca is a fragrant seafood stew made with coconut milk, palm oil, peppers, and fresh fish. It's a must-try dish that can be savored at O Rei do Camarão, a renowned restaurant known for its delectable seafood specialties.
This Brazilian-style shrimp turnover is a popular street food snack in Santos. Head to one of the many beachside kiosks along Canal 4 to savor this crispy, savory pastry filled with succulent shrimp.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the historic center, this traditional food market offers a diverse range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. Visitors can savor authentic street food like acarajé, a deep-fried black-eyed pea fritter.
This bustling street market near Orquidário neighborhood is a treasure trove of regional street food delights. Explore stalls offering tapioca crepes, grilled corn, and cocada, a sweet coconut dessert.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santos, it is common to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, even when meeting for the first time. This is a sign of warmth and friendliness.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in Santos. People generally appreciate a respectful distance during conversations and interactions.
When invited to someone's home or when dining out, it is considered polite to show appreciation for the food and hospitality. Complimenting the host or chef is customary.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santos, Brazil, tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary to leave a small tip of 10% at restaurants and for other services such as taxi rides, haircuts, and hotel staff if the service was satisfactory.
In Santos, Brazil, cash is widely accepted for payment, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. It's important to check with the merchant beforehand to confirm the accepted payment methods. Contactless payment methods such as mobile wallets are also gaining popularity in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Santos is during the summer months when you can enjoy warm weather, beach activities, and festive events such as the Santos Carnival.
In the fall, Santos experiences mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.
Winter in Santos brings cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. It's a quieter time to visit, and indoor attractions and cultural events are popular during this season.
Spring in Santos brings pleasant weather and blooming vegetation, making it a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Santos at Night
Hiking in Santos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful state park with a variety of trails, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the Atlantic Forest.
A popular hiking trail that offers scenic views of the coast and the city of Santos.
Located at the foot of the Morro da Nova Cintra, it features several trails amidst urban green areas.
This trail leads to one of the most beautiful beaches nearby, with opportunities for swimming and relaxation.
A hiking spot that rewards trekkers with spectacular views and a variety of flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Santos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Santos by plane.
The main international airport serving São Paulo, located approximately 70 km from Santos.
A domestic airport that also handles some international flights, around 70 km from Santos.
An international airport located about 120 km from Santos, serving Campinas and surrounding areas.
Located about 360 km from Santos, this is one of the major international airports serving Rio de Janeiro.
A domestic airport that also handles some international flights, located approximately 360 km from Santos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of European descent, typically comprising a significant portion of the population.
Individuals of mixed racial backgrounds, often a combination of Indigenous, White, and Black ancestry.
Individuals of African descent, representing a notable demographic in Santos.
A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of descendants from Japanese immigrants, among others.
The native population, though representing a very small percentage within the broader demographic context.
The Soul of Santos
Discover the essence of Santos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Santos, with the city being home to the famous Santos FC, which has produced legendary players like Pelé.
Due to its coastal location, beach volleyball is widely played in Santos, attracting both locals and tourists to its beautiful beaches.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Santos, with various local clubs and recreational programs engaging the community.
The beaches of Santos offer excellent waves, making surfing a favored pastime among residents and visitors.
Athletics is promoted in Santos, with facilities available for both amateur and competitive athletes to practice various track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Brazilian cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Santos offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as hearty bean stews, fresh tropical salads, and tapioca-based snacks.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a variety of gluten-free options in Santos, including tapioca crepes, grilled meats, and fruit-based desserts. It's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly at restaurants and street food vendors for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Santos with these cultural adventures.
