The beachside city of Santos sits on the island of Sao Vicente in Brazil’s southern state of Sao Paulo. Founded way back in 1546, it is one of South America’s oldest cities and famed for being the continents principal port and also the place where the country’s most famous son, Pele, grew to prominence and put his football genius on the world map. Today, Santos is a popular tourist destination of beaches, coffee and football.
By Brazilian standards, Santos is by no means overwhelming and a destination allowing the freedom to explore. Dominating the city are two distinct landmarks, Monte Serrat Hill and the beach garden, the latter of which has earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records. Stretching for over 5km from Ponta da Praia to Sao Vicente beach, the beach garden is a colourful esplanade of landscape gardens and abundant flora running alongside the urban beaches. The beaches themselves are not the most beautiful in Brazil; however the garden is a great place to walk and experience the life of the local food and handicraft vendors. Back in town, take a stroll along downtown’s R Quinze de Novembro street, sit in a café and admire the colonial buildings that were once used as offices by the Coffee Lords of Santos.
Santos is located just over an hour from Sao Paulo and buses and taxis are readily available for trips between the two. From Sao Paulo connections can be found for destinations all across the country. Getting around Santos is generally stress free, with friendly taxi drivers and an easy to negotiate bus system. An alternative and enjoyable way to get around is on the Tourist Tram Line that, dating back to 1861 that runs between the streets and plazas of the city’s historic centre. Ritz Hotel - Comfortable motel-like rooms in the city centre. Tel (55) 13 3284 1171.
Hotel Praiano - Good value rooms next to Praca Washington. Tel (55) 13 3237 4033.
Atlantico Hotel - Basic rooms in a superb old mansion overlooking the beach. Tel (55) 13 3289 4500.
Mendes Panorama Hotel - Business orientated hotel with contemporary rooms and good facilities. Tel (55) 13 3208 6500.
Plaza Mendes Hotel - Stylish hotel with a range of rooms and suites. Tel (55) 13 3205 6400.
Atlantico Inn - Clean standard rooms a few blocks back from the beach road. Tel (55) 13 3289 4700.
Hotel Parque Balneario - Superb hotel, bar, restaurant and entertainment for those who can afford it. Tel (55) 13 3285 6900.