Santos is a city in the state of Sao Paulo rich in history and boasting a vibrant modern cultural life, making it one of Brazil’s most rewarding tourism destinations. Offering a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor opportunities and historical sites, Santos is an excellent place to visit for people of all ages and tastes. The city is particularly famous for its port, the largest container port in South America and an incredibly important port historically for Brazil over the ages.
Santos offers a wide array of exciting and interesting opportunities for the entire family, whether it’s spending a day lounging on its vast beachfront or exploring the city’s many heritage sites. Those interested in understanding the history of Santos won’t want to miss a visit to the Dock Museum down by the port due to its integral role in shaping modern Santos. Alternatively, visitors who like to stay active can hike up the Monte Serrat Hill in the centre of the city which affords spectacular panoramic views of Santos.
Getting around the city of Santos is possible by public buses for those on a tight budget, although the most convenient way to explore the city is by taxi. The nearest airports to the city are those that serve Sao Paulo, the busiest being the Guarulhos International Airport which handles most of the international flights coming into the country, while Congonhas Airport handles domestic flights. From Guarulhos International Airport the journey time into central Santos takes around an hour.
The city of Santos was founded in 1546 by Portuguese settlers and soon became an important strategic port. The Port of Santos was known particularly for its coffee but nowadays has diversified and is home to a museum celebrating its history. Santos itself is home to over 400,000 residents and is a leading tourist destination in Brazil.