Santos(Brazil) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Santos, families should consider staying at Hotel Praia de Santos, located right on the São Paulo Coast, offering private beach access, a children’s pool, and proximity to Baía de Santos. The hotel features family rooms, 24-hour service, and is just minutes from the Santos Historical Museum.

Another top choice is Hotel do Litoral, which boasts indoor and outdoor pools, free Wi-Fi, and parking. Situated near the Port Dock, it’s ideal for exploring the city and enjoying sea breezes. Nearby seafood restaurants like O Marisqueira serve fresh Brazilian dishes, making it a perfect base for both relaxation and culinary adventures.

The best area for accommodation in Santos is Cidade Velha (Old Town), located near the Port Dock and Baía de Santos, offering colonial architecture and authentic Brazilian culture. Cobblestone streets are lined with cafés, antique shops, and local art galleries, while weekend street performances add lively charm.

Bairro de Pina and Jardim Atlântico are also excellent options—both offer good security, easy transit, and peaceful seaside neighborhoods. Whether you choose Cidade Velha for culture or Jardim Atlântico for tranquility, all areas provide convenient access to key attractions like the Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceição and Santos Maritime Museum, making them ideal for experiencing the city’s unique coastal identity.

Must-do cultural experiences in Santos include visiting the Santos Maritime Museum (Museu do Mar) to explore the city’s rich seafaring history and coffee trade legacy. Another highlight is joining a traditional Brazilian samba workshop held in community centers of Cidade Velha, led by local dancers teaching classic rhythms and movements.

Don’t miss the weekend markets at Praça da Matriz, where you can taste handmade beijinhos (coco candies) and churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), while enjoying live bossa nova music. For a scenic perspective, take a harbor cruise along the São Paulo Coast, spotting the lighthouse and dolphin sightings—perfect for blending nature and culture.

Top photo spots in Santos include Baía de Santos, with its crystal-clear waters and white sand creating a stunning backdrop—especially during sunrise and sunset. The Port Dock (Muelle de Santos) offers dramatic contrasts between old cargo cranes and modern ferries, ideal for urban coastal photography.

Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceição, with its iconic red-and-white spire perched on a hill, provides a striking view when photographed from the sea. Meanwhile, Parque do Farol (Lighthouse Park) offers panoramic 360-degree views of the harbor and city skyline, making it a favorite among photographers seeking expansive, breathtaking compositions.

For couples seeking romance, Hotel Fasano Santos stands out—a luxury boutique hotel nestled along Baía de Santos, featuring private sea-view balconies, spacious suites with Brazilian-inspired design, and ambient lighting that enhances intimacy.

Another exquisite option is Vila Sônia Hotel & Spa, located in Cidade Velha, offering an open-air spa tub, glass-roofed restaurant, and personalized guided tours to the Lighthouse Park and seaside trails. With nightly wine pairings and curated experiences, this hotel delivers unforgettable moments for couples looking to escape the ordinary.

Visitors to Santos must try atum feijoada—a rich stew combining black beans, pork, and fresh tuna, often served at street stalls in Mercado Municipal. Another must-try is camarão frito, crispy fried shrimp served with lime and spicy sauce.

At Restaurante O Mar near Praça da Matriz, enjoy freshly caught lobster soup and grilled sea bass, paired with fine Brazilian wines. For a true local experience, explore hidden comida caseira (family-style eateries) in Bairro de Pina, where you can savor corn cakes with avocado spread and banana caramelized pancakes, delightful sweet treats that capture the soul of the region.

Public transportation in Santos is reasonably convenient for tourists. Multiple bus lines connect Cidade Velha, the Port Dock, and beach parks, with frequent departures and low fares.

Use the Mobilidade Santos App for real-time schedules and digital ticketing. For trips to Lighthouse Park or Baía de Santos, taxis are affordable—around 15 BRL and a 10-minute ride. Additionally, bike rental stations near the port allow scenic rides along the seaside promenade, offering a relaxed way to explore the city’s coastal charm.

Backpackers will love Hostel Santos Beach, located on Baía de Santos, offering dorm beds, shared kitchen, 24/7 security, and free Wi-Fi—all for around 80 BRL per night. It hosts regular beach bonfires and guided city tours, fostering travel connections.

Another great option is Santos Backpackers Hostel, centrally located in Cidade Velha, just a 5-minute walk from Praça da Matriz and the Maritime Museum. Rooms are clean and bright, with a library, common lounge, and staff-led activities including hiking routes and local market visits—perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences.

The best time to visit Santos is from May to September, when temperatures range from 20–26°C and rainfall is minimal—ideal for outdoor sightseeing. While summer (December–February) brings occasional rain, it’s also peak Carnival season, offering festive energy.

During May–September, crowds are smaller, making it easier to explore museums like the Maritime Museum and Lighthouse Park. This period is also prime for dolphin watching on harbor cruises. For those prioritizing comfort and quiet exploration, late spring (May–July) offers the most favorable weather and stable prices.

Santos’ nightlife shines with seaside bars and live jazz. Bar do Porto, a historic tavern at the Port Dock, features live bossa nova performances, Brazilian cocktails, and seafood platters—perfect for romantic evenings.

Lounge da Praia attracts younger crowds with an open-air dance floor and ocean-facing bar, hosting themed parties every Friday and Saturday with local and international DJs. For a genuine local vibe, join the street music festivals in Cidade Velha, where musicians play samba, reggae, and folk tunes in public squares—showcasing Brazil’s vibrant musical heritage.