Cruise Port Day PlannerCruise Port Day Planner
Find Cruises Plan a Cruise My Trips Port Guides

Santos BrazilCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Santos

Santos, a historic city in Brazil's São Paulo state, welcomes cruise passengers at the Concais Passenger Terminal. The terminal is located just 1.5km (less than a mile) from the city center and its historical sites. Cruise ships dock alongside the port, often directly in front of or near the terminal, with buses transporting passengers to their vessels. Santos is known for its Coffee Museum, a football memorial dedicated to players like Pelé, and its extensive 5.335 km long beach garden, recognized by the Guinness Book of Records. However, the port area itself is not suitable for walking.

Getting Around from the Port

The Concais Passenger Terminal is approximately 1.5km (under a mile) from Santos' city center and historical attractions. Taxis are generally the primary, and often only, option for transportation directly from or to the port. It's advisable to check with your cruise line for any alternative transportation they might provide. Be aware that taxi drivers are not always reliable. For local excursions, vans are available to take passengers to nearby shopping centers. If planning a trip to São Paulo, the journey is about 70km and takes approximately one hour each way.

Attractions and Activities

For your 8-10 hours in port, consider these options:

  • Explore Historic Santos: The renovated "Centro" (downtown) offers a compact historical experience. You can take a tram tour to see the sights. For panoramic views of the city, take the funicular up Monte Serrat. Don't miss the Coffee Museum, where historic coffee prices were once negotiated, and the football memorial celebrating local legends like Pelé.
  • Day Trip to São Paulo: Located about 70km (an hour's drive) from Santos, São Paulo is South America's largest city with 11 million inhabitants. While it might not offer many traditional tourist sights, it's renowned for its world-class restaurants, diverse regional and international cuisine, and a wide array of cultural activities.
  • Visit Guarujá: Head to Guarujá for beautiful beaches. This modern town, approximately an hour's drive away, features upscale shops and restaurants, though it has fewer historical tourist attractions beyond its coastal appeal.

It is generally recommended to opt for organized excursions, whether through your cruise line or third-party providers like GetYourGuide and Viator, as it is considered safer, especially outside the immediate port area.

Dining & Shopping

Next to the ship's docking area, you'll find a small outdoor mall offering local coffee and handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs. General store and business hours in Santos typically run from 9 am to 6 pm, often including an extended lunch break from around noon to 2 pm.

Weather

Santos has a tropical climate on Brazil's southeastern coast with temperatures between 64°F and 88°F (18°C to 31°C). The cruise season runs November through March during the Southern Hemisphere summer, and Santos serves as the primary port for São Paulo. Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a compact rain jacket for afternoon summer showers.

Average Temperature (°F)
8474Jan8574Feb8474Mar8070Apr7866May7663Jun7462Jul7462Aug7665Sep7769Oct8069Nov8272Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
9.82Jan7.35Feb8.2Mar5.38Apr3.8May3.86Jun3.8Jul3.99Aug4.65Sep6.82Oct6.64Nov8.25Dec

Safety

The port area in Santos is not recommended for walking around independently due to safety concerns. When using taxis, be aware that drivers are not always reliable. It is generally considered safer to participate in organized excursions for exploring the city and surrounding areas.

Currency and Language

The local currency is the Brazilian Real. While credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, it's advisable to carry some local currency for smaller purchases. Portuguese is the official language. Free public WiFi is scarce in cafes, but internet access is available within the cruise terminal.

Top Attractions

Show map
Coffee Museum
Explore the history of coffee in Brazil, from cultivation to trade, in the beautiful former official coffee exchange building. Admire the stunning architecture and learn about the commodity that shaped the nation.
Santos Aquarium
Home to a diverse collection of marine life, including sharks, penguins, and various fish species. It's a popular family attraction dedicated to education and conservation of aquatic ecosystems.
Monte Serrat
Take a funicular ride to the top of this hill for panoramic views of Santos and the coastline. Explore the historic Monte Serrat Sanctuary and the ruins of an old casino, offering a blend of history and breathtaking scenery.
Beach Garden
Recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest beachfront garden, stretching over 5 kilometers. It features diverse flora, fountains, sculptures, and themed sections, perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Pelé Museum
Dedicated to the legendary football player Pelé, this museum showcases his career through memorabilia, photos, and interactive exhibits. It's a must-visit for sports fans and those interested in Brazilian football history.
Historic Center of Santos
Wander through charming cobblestone streets, admiring colonial architecture and historic buildings. This revitalized area offers a glimpse into Santos' rich past as a major port city, with many cultural sites and cafes.
Municipal Orchid Garden
A beautiful botanical garden specializing in orchids, featuring thousands of species. It also houses other animals like peacocks, sloths, and birds, roaming freely in a lush environment.
Beachfront Gardens
Stroll or bike along the world's longest beachfront garden, stretching for over 5 kilometers. Adorned with diverse flora, sculptures, and fountains, it's a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Santos Beach
The extensive urban beach of Santos, divided into several sections like Gonzaga, Boqueirão, and Embaré. It's a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, sports, and enjoying the vibrant beachfront atmosphere.
Santos Tourist Tramway
A charming tram ride through the historic center of Santos, offering a guided tour of the city's architectural heritage and main landmarks. It's a nostalgic way to explore the old town and learn about its past.
Santos Tourist Tram
Enjoy a nostalgic ride on a historic tram through the charming streets of Santos' Historic Center. The tour provides insights into the city's past and highlights its architectural heritage.
Valongo Station
A historic railway station, one of Brazil's oldest, known for its beautiful architecture. It's a significant landmark in the city's historic center and often serves as a starting point for the tramway tour.
Vila Belmiro Stadium
Visit the iconic home stadium of Santos FC, one of Brazil's most famous football clubs. Take a guided tour to explore the locker rooms, stands, and learn about the club's glorious history, including Pelé's era.
Benedito Calixto Art Gallery
Housed in a beautiful historic mansion, this art gallery showcases works by the renowned Brazilian painter Benedito Calixto, known for his landscapes and historical scenes of Santos. It also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
Gonzaga Beach
One of Santos' most popular beaches, known for its wide sandy strip, calm waters, and vibrant surroundings with shops and restaurants. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Parque Roberto M. Santini
A modern park built around the submarine outfall, featuring a large skate park, a monument to surfers, and a scenic pier. It's a popular spot for recreation, enjoying ocean views, and watching sunsets.
Pinacoteca Benedito Calixto
Housed in a beautiful historic mansion, this art gallery features works by the renowned Brazilian painter Benedito Calixto, known for his seascapes and historical paintings of Santos. It also hosts temporary exhibitions.
Roberto Mário Santini Park
A coastal park built around a submarine outfall, featuring a large monument to surfing, skate parks, and a pier. It's a popular spot for sports, leisure, and enjoying ocean views, especially at sunset.
Basilica of Santo Antônio do Embaré
A stunning neo-Gothic basilica known for its intricate architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and serene atmosphere. It's a significant religious landmark and a peaceful place for contemplation.
Memorial das Conquistas (Santos FC Museum)
Located within the Vila Belmiro stadium, this museum celebrates the history and achievements of Santos Futebol Clube, one of Brazil's most iconic football teams. It showcases trophies, jerseys, and memorabilia.
Coliseum Theater
A grand historic theater known for its impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage. It hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and ballets, serving as a major cultural hub in Santos.
Municipal Market
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and local delicacies. It's a great place to experience local culture, sample regional flavors, and find unique souvenirs.
Fishing Museum
Located within the Institute of Fishing, this museum showcases a vast collection of marine specimens, fishing gear, and historical artifacts related to fishing in Brazil. Highlights include a giant squid and various preserved fish.
Valongo Sanctuary
A historic church and sanctuary, significant for its role in the history of Santos and its connection to the city's early development. It features beautiful religious art and architecture.
Port of Santos Museum
This museum delves into the rich history of the Port of Santos, showcasing its evolution, technological advancements, and its vital role in Brazil's economy. Exhibits include models, documents, and artifacts.
Santos FC Memorial of Achievements
Located within the Vila Belmiro Stadium, this memorial celebrates the glorious history of Santos FC. It displays trophies, jerseys, and historical artifacts, honoring the club's legendary players and achievements.
Deck do Pescador
A scenic pier extending into the sea, offering picturesque views of the coastline, the port entrance, and passing ships. It's a popular spot for fishing, leisurely walks, and enjoying the sea breeze.
Museum of Sacred Art
Housed in a former convent, this museum preserves and exhibits a collection of sacred art, including sculptures, paintings, and religious artifacts, offering insight into the region's spiritual heritage.
Santos Cathedral
The main cathedral of Santos, featuring a beautiful neo-Gothic architectural style. Its impressive facade and serene interior make it a significant religious and architectural landmark in the city center.
House of War Train
One of the oldest buildings in Santos, this historic structure once served as an arsenal. Today, it often hosts cultural exhibitions and events, offering a glimpse into the city's military and colonial past.
Parque Estadual Xixová-Japuí
A protected state park encompassing Atlantic Forest remnants, hills, and coastal areas. It offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying pristine natural landscapes with panoramic views.
Moela Lighthouse
An iconic lighthouse located on Moela Island, marking the entrance to the Port of Santos. While direct public access might be restricted, it's a significant landmark often seen during boat tours of the port and coastline, offering picturesque views from a distance.
Santos Botanical Garden
A tranquil green oasis featuring a diverse collection of plants, including native species and exotic flora. It's a peaceful place for nature lovers to stroll, relax, and learn about botany.
Fisherman's Deck
A popular pier offering scenic views of the Santos channel and the port entrance. It's a great spot for fishing, watching ships pass by, or simply enjoying the sea breeze and coastal atmosphere.
Chico Mendes Botanical Garden
A tranquil green space dedicated to environmental education and conservation, featuring diverse plant species, walking trails, and a lake. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers seeking peace and quiet.
Erasmus Mill
The ruins of Brazil's first sugar mill, established in the 16th century. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into the early colonial history and the origins of sugar production in the country.
Municipal Natural Park of the Hills
An urban natural park preserving remnants of Atlantic Forest on the hills surrounding Santos. It provides green spaces for recreation, trails, and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Xixová-Japuí State Park
A protected natural area offering lush Atlantic Forest vegetation, hiking trails, and stunning viewpoints over the coastline. It's a haven for biodiversity and a great escape for nature enthusiasts.
Boqueirão Beach
A pleasant urban beach offering a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking a quieter seaside experience. It features a wide promenade and is surrounded by residential areas.
Lagoon of Saudade Municipal Park
A charming municipal park centered around a serene lagoon, offering walking paths, playgrounds, and green areas for relaxation. It's a popular spot for local families and nature enthusiasts.
Braz Cubas Monument
A monument dedicated to Braz Cubas, the founder of Santos. It commemorates his historical importance and contributions to the city's establishment and development.
Embaré Beach
Located near the Basilica of Saint Anthony, this beach is known for its calm waters and family-friendly environment. It's a great spot for swimming and enjoying the beachfront amenities.
Independence Square
A grand and historic square in the heart of Santos, surrounded by beautiful buildings and featuring a central monument. It's a significant public space for events and gatherings.
José Menino Beach
The westernmost beach in Santos, known for its surf-friendly waves and the nearby Municipal Orchid Garden. It's a lively area with various recreational options and a long stretch of sand.
Mauá Square
A picturesque square in the historic center, known for its beautiful architecture, including the City Hall building. It's a lively hub and a great starting point for exploring the old town.
Ponta da Praia Beach
Situated at the eastern end of Santos' coastline, this beach offers views of the port entrance and passing ships. It's a popular spot for fishing and enjoying the maritime scenery.
Andradas Square
A historic square located near the Valongo area, featuring monuments and green spaces. It's part of the city's colonial heritage and offers a glimpse into its past.
Hang Gliding Hill Viewpoint
A popular viewpoint on one of Santos' hills, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city, its beaches, and the surrounding coastline. It's also a launch point for hang gliding.
Nova Cintra Hill Viewpoint
Another excellent viewpoint providing expansive views over Santos, the port, and the ocean. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying the city's unique topography.