Best things to do in Santos

Santos Essentials

Santos blends its industrial legacy as the world's leading coffee exporter with a deep-rooted passion for football. This collection features the historic Coffee Exchange and the Vila Belmiro stadium, home to Pelé’s legacy. Visitors can explore the world’s longest beachfront garden, ride a historic funicular up Monte Serrat for panoramic views, or visit the 1945 Neo-Gothic Embaré Basilica. From the city's oldest aquarium to the lush Orquidário botanical gardens, these sites highlight the cultural and natural landmarks of the Baixada Santista.

Santos Essentials — Map

Berenice Kauffmann Abud / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Museu do Café

Housed in the 1922 Palácio da Bolsa Oficial de Café, this museum documents the history of the global coffee trade. It features stained glass by Benedito Calixto and the original marble-floored trading room.

GiRusso / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Memorial das Conquistas

Located within the Estádio Urbano Caldeira, this museum showcases the history of Santos FC. It displays trophies, jerseys, and memorabilia from the club’s golden era, including Pelé’s personal items.

Me / Public domain

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Aquário Municipal de Santos

Opened in 1945 as Brazil's first public aquarium, it houses hundreds of marine and freshwater species. Exhibits include sharks, rays, and penguins within a 3,000-square-meter facility.

Eduardo Gatti / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Monte Serrat

A 147-meter hill accessible via a 1923 funicular or a 400-step staircase. The summit features the 16th-century Chapel of Our Lady of Mount Serrat and panoramic views of the city and port.

Richard Sarver / CC-BY-SA

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Praia do Gonzaga

A central urban beach known for its wide stretch of sand and proximity to the city's famous beachfront garden. It serves as a social hub surrounded by shops and restaurants.

World Economic Forum / CC BY-SA 2.0

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Pelé

Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known as Pelé, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as a forward.

BrazilianDude70 / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Estádio Urbano Caldeira

Estádio Urbano Caldeira, also known as Vila Belmiro, is an association football stadium located in the Vila Belmiro neighborhood of Santos,…

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Coliseu Theater

A historic performing arts venue inaugurated in 1924. It features eclectic architectural styles, a horseshoe-shaped gallery, and a seating capacity for over 1,000 spectators.

Fulviusbsas / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Praça da Independência

The central square of the Gonzaga district, featuring a monument to the heroes of Brazilian independence. It is a traditional site for public gatherings and celebrations.

Sasha India / CC BY 2.0

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Parque Zoobotânico Orquidário Municipal de Santos

A botanical garden and zoo featuring over 3,500 orchids and a forest environment. Many animals, including agoutis and peacocks, roam freely among the visitors.

Elcio Reis / CC BY-SA 4.0

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Paróquia Santo Antônio do Embaré

A Neo-Gothic basilica completed in 1945. The interior features intricate wood carvings, stained glass, and frescoes by Italian artist Pedro Gentili.

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