Cruise Port Day Planner
Plan a Cruise My Trips Port Guides Featured Cruises
Back

Santos Cruise Port Guide

Brazil
Show Map

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.

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

1
Coffee Museum
Housed in the historic former Coffee Exchange building, this museum explores the history of coffee in Brazil and its importance to the country's economy. Visitors can learn about coffee production, trade, and culture, and enjoy a tasting at the café.
2
Monte Serrat
A hill offering panoramic views of Santos, accessible by a historic funicular. At the top, there's a casino (now an event space), a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Monte Serrat, and restaurants. It's a great spot for scenic views and a bit of history.
3
Santos Aquarium
Brazil's oldest public aquarium, home to a diverse collection of marine life including sharks, penguins, sea lions, and various fish species. It's a popular family attraction focused on education and conservation.
4
Orchid Garden
A beautiful municipal park and botanical garden specializing in orchids, featuring over 3,500 species. It also houses other plants, a small zoo with native animals, and playgrounds, making it a pleasant green space for relaxation and nature appreciation.
5
Beach Garden
The world's longest beachfront garden, stretching for over 5 km along the Santos coastline. It features diverse flora, sculptures, fountains, and bike paths, providing a beautiful setting for walks, cycling, and enjoying the sea breeze.
6
Pelé Museum
Dedicated to the legendary Brazilian footballer Pelé, this museum showcases his career through memorabilia, photos, videos, and interactive exhibits. It's a must-visit for football fans and those interested in sports history.
7
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.
8
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.
9
Fisherman's Museum
Located within the Faculty of Fisheries Engineering, this museum displays a vast collection of marine specimens, fishing gear, and historical artifacts related to fishing and marine biology. Highlights include a complete whale skeleton.
10
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.
11
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.
12
Barra Grande Fortress
A historic fortress dating back to the 16th century, built to defend the Port of Santos. Visitors can explore its ancient walls, cannons, and enjoy views of the bay, offering a glimpse into colonial military history.
13
Santos FC Memorial of Achievements
Located within the Vila Belmiro stadium, this memorial celebrates the rich history and numerous titles of the Santos Futebol Clube, including those won by Pelé. It's a pilgrimage site for football fans, showcasing trophies, jerseys, and historical moments.
14
Santos Botanical Garden
A large green area dedicated to botanical research and public enjoyment, featuring diverse plant collections, lakes, and walking trails. It's a tranquil escape from the city, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking peace.
15
Santos Municipal Market
A vibrant public market where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, spices, and regional delicacies. It's a lively place to experience local culture, taste traditional foods, and find unique souvenirs.
16
Basilica of Saint Anthony of Embaré
A beautiful and historically significant Catholic basilica known for its stunning architecture and religious importance. It's a place of worship and a landmark for its artistic details and serene atmosphere.
17
House of the War Train
One of the oldest public buildings in Brazil, originally built in the 17th century to store weapons and ammunition for the defense of the port. Today, it serves as a cultural space, showcasing the city's military history.
18
Maritime Museum
This museum focuses on the history of navigation, shipbuilding, and maritime activities in the region. It features models of ships, nautical instruments, and artifacts related to the sea, offering insights into Santos' port heritage.
19
Santos Port
The largest port in Latin America, offering boat tours that provide a unique perspective on its massive operations, cargo ships, and the city's skyline. It's an interesting experience to witness the scale of international trade.
20
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.