Santos Cruise Port
Concais - Terminal de Passageiros Giusfredo Santini
Santos, Brazil Port
UN/LOCODE BRSSZ Port of call Homeport
Santos Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Brazil |
| UN/LOCODE | BRSSZ |
| Contact | |
| Address | Av. Cândido Gaffrée, s/n - Docas, Santos - SP, 11013-240, Brazil |
| Port phone | +55 13 3226-5600 |
| Website | www.concais.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | -23.96180, -46.33220 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The Concais cruise terminal in Santos sits approximately 3 km (1.8 miles) from the historic city center, requiring a 10-minute taxi ride costing roughly R$30–R$40 (~$5.50–$7.50 USD). Located in the Baixada Santista region of São Paulo state, this destination is often treated merely as a gateway to the megalopolis of São Paulo, which lies 75 km (47 miles) inland. The transit time on the Anchieta-Imigrantes highway can easily stretch a one-way journey to 2.5 hours, based on observations during multiple ship calls. For a standard 8-hour port call, you risk spending five hours in a vehicle. Santos is a robust ocean cruise port that rewards those who stay local. You will find the world's most significant coffee history and the longest beachfront garden on the Atlantic Ocean right here. Guarujá, a popular beach resort, is just 10 km (6 miles) away via a short ferry crossing, while the historic village of Paranapiacaba is a 50 km (31 miles) drive north. It is worth knowing that many travelers overlook the Centro Histórico, yet its architectural wealth rivals many European capitals. This port rewards the culturally curious who appreciate industrial heritage and punishes those who underestimate Brazilian coastal traffic.
Santos — Port Overview
History
Founded in 1543 by Brás Cubas, Santos is one of Brazil's oldest settlements. Its location on the island of São Vicente made it a vital defensive outpost against privateers in the 16th century. However, the city's global prominence was forged in the 19th century by the 'Green Gold'—coffee. By the 1890s, Santos had become the primary exit point for the world's coffee supply, generating immense wealth that transformed the city's skyline with ornate eclectic and neoclassical architecture. The opening of the Coffee Stock Exchange in 1922 (Bolsa Oficial de Café) marked the peak of this economic era. Parallel to the coffee trade, the city underwent a massive sanitation project led by engineer Saturnino de Brito between 1905 and 1912. This project created the famous 'Canais' (channels) that still define the city's layout and health today. In the mid-20th century, Santos gained a different kind of fame through Pelé and the Santos Futebol Clube, which dominated world football in the 1960s. When you walk through the Valongo district today, you will see the 1867 railway station where coffee once arrived from the interior, a direct physical link to the trade that built modern Brazil. The meticulously restored facades in the historic center stand as monuments to the period when the price of a global morning ritual was decided on these very streets.
The Verdict
Santos is a destination that rewards travelers who look beyond the industrial crane-lined horizon. Travelers who benefit most from this port are the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt to the coastal weather. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Santos
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bolsa Oficial de Café (Coffee Museum) | Historical Site | Rua XV de Novembro, 95, Santos | +55 13 3213-1750 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays) | museudocafe.org.br | USD R$16 |
| Orchid Garden (Orquidário Municipal) | Natural Feature | Praça Washington, s/n - José Menino, Santos | +55 13 3237-6970 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily | turismosantos.com.br | USD R$10 |
| Vila Belmiro & Pelé Museum | Cultural Site | Rua Princesa Isabel, s/n - Vila Belmiro, Santos | +55 13 3257-4000 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily | santosfc.com.br | USD R$20 |
| Monte Serrat Funicular | Landmark | Praça Correia de Melo, s/n, Centro, Santos | +55 13 3221-5665 | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily | monteserrat.com.br | USD R$55 |
| Santos Beach Garden | Landmark | Av. Vicente de Carvalho, Santos | Open 24 hours | turismosantos.com.br | Free |
Bolsa Oficial de Café (Coffee Museum) · Historical Site
USD R$16This is arguably the most important building in Santos. Once the site where coffee contracts were negotiated, the trading floor remains exactly as it was in the 1920s, with 81 hand-carved jacaranda wood chairs and stunning stained glass overhead. This is consistently reported as the highlight of a Santos port call by local destination partners. You will see the entire history of Brazil's development through the lens of agriculture and trade. The scent of roasted beans permeates the building, leading you toward the Ground Floor Cafe, where baristas prepare the highest export-grade Brazilian coffee. It is more than a museum; it is a sensory experience that explains why your morning cup costs what it does. Even if you aren't a coffee drinker, the craftsmanship of the masonry and the historical weight of the space are undeniable. It delivers a sense of grandeur that most visitors find surprising in a port city. Most travelers spend about 90 minutes here, including a stop at the tasting bar. It is a world-class historical site that justifies the trip to the city center on its own.
Rua XV de Novembro, 95, Santos ·+55 13 3213-1750 ·9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays) ·www.museudocafe.org.br
Orchid Garden (Orquidário Municipal) · Natural Feature
USD R$10A lush sanctuary in the middle of the city, the Orchid Garden is far more than a flower display. It is an urban forest containing over 3,500 plants of 120 species, including a spectacular collection of orchids. What makes this site unique is that many of the animals—including agoutis, tortoises, and exotic birds—roam freely among the visitors. You will walk under a canopy of native Atlantic Forest trees that provides a much-needed respite from the coastal sun. Feedback is consistently positive from visitors seeking a quiet alternative to the beach. It feels like a miniature jungle that was miraculously preserved as the city grew around it. The garden also features a sensory area for the visually impaired and a quiet pond that is perfect for cooling down. It delivers a peaceful, nature-focused experience that balances the industrial energy of the port. Expect to spend 45 to 60 minutes here. It's a great stop for photographers and those who want to see Brazilian flora and fauna without the logistical challenge of an actual rainforest trek.
Praça Washington, s/n - José Menino, Santos ·+55 13 3237-6970 ·9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily ·www.turismosantos.com.br
Vila Belmiro & Pelé Museum · Cultural Site
USD R$20For many, Santos is synonymous with Pelé. This is the stadium where 'The King' played the majority of his career. The 'Memorial das Conquistas' museum inside the stadium tells the story of the club that conquered the world in the 1960s. You will see Pelé's personal memorabilia, original jerseys, and the trophies from the Intercontinental Cups. You will find that even non-fans are often moved by the cultural significance of the site to the Brazilian identity. The stadium itself is a classic, compact 'cauldron' that feels intimate and historic. Walking through the tunnel to the pitch—even if just for a photo—is a bucket-list moment for sports enthusiasts. Note that the Pelé Museum (Museu Pelé) is a separate building in the Valongo district (near the Coffee Museum), while Vila Belmiro is the stadium. You should visit both if you are a fan. The stadium delivers an authentic, gritty, and deeply emotional look at the sport that defines the nation. It is a place of pilgrimage that feels lived-in and real, not polished or corporate. It is a raw piece of sporting history.
Rua Princesa Isabel, s/n - Vila Belmiro, Santos ·+55 13 3257-4000 ·9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily ·www.santosfc.com.br
Monte Serrat Funicular · Landmark
USD R$55Monte Serrat is the highest point in the city center and has served as a lookout since the city's inception. The funicular system, inaugurated in 1927, is a piece of engineering history. As the car climbs the steep incline, you get an unfolding view of the historic center's rooftops. At the summit, you'll find the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Monte Serrat, the city's patron saint, built in 1603. There is also a former grand casino that operated during the era before gambling was banned in Brazil in 1946. You can still feel the echoes of 'Old Santos' in the architecture. The primary draw, however, is the view of the Atlantic Ocean and the entire Baixada Santista coastline. You can see the ships lining up in the estuary, waiting for their turn to dock. The total time for a visit takes about 60 minutes. It delivers the essential 'overview' of the city that helps you understand its geography and its relationship with the sea. It is a classic tourist experience that remains worth the price for the perspective it provides. Don't forget your camera; the panoramic shots from here are the best you'll find in the region.
Praça Correia de Melo, s/n, Centro, Santos ·+55 13 3221-5665 ·8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily ·www.monteserrat.com.br
Santos Beach Garden · Landmark
FreeRecognized by Guinness World Records as the largest beachfront garden in the world, this strip of greenery separates the city's skyline from the Atlantic Ocean. It stretches across seven neighborhoods. You will find meticulously pruned hedges, fountains, and over 1,700 trees. This is where the people of Santos live their lives—jogging, playing chess, and enjoying the shade. It is an engineering marvel as much as a botanical one, as the soil was specially treated to withstand the salt air. Walking even a small section of it allows you to feel the rhythm of the city. You will find that the Gonzaga section is the most lively, while the Ponta da Praia end is the most scenic for ship-watching. It delivers a sense of space and tranquility that is rare in such a densely populated city. It is the perfect place to decompress after the sensory overload of the historic center. The sea breeze here is constant, and the mosaic sidewalks are a quintessential Brazilian experience. It is a simple but profound highlight of any Santos visit. You can walk as much or as little as you like; the garden is always there.
Av. Vicente de Carvalho, Santos ·Open 24 hours ·www.turismosantos.com.br
Eating & Drinking in Santos
The culinary identity of Santos is defined by its relationship with the Atlantic Ocean and the coffee trade. The most iconic dish is the 'Meca Santista,' a fish steak (swordfish) typically served with grilled shrimp and risotto—this differs from the coconut-heavy moquecas of the north by its focus on the grill. For a local snack, look for 'Pastel,' a deep-fried pastry filled with cheese or meat, found at the Friday market on Rua Goiás. You must drink coffee, specifically 'Café Gourmet' from the Cerrado or Mogiana regions, which is what the city was built on. Avoid the generic 'tourist coffee' in plastic cups; seek out the certified baristas at the Coffee Museum. One honest note: tourists expect every meal to be a massive meat-fest like in São Paulo, but locals here eat much more seafood and fresh tropical fruit. Look for 'Suco de Cupuaçu' or 'Açaí' at the corner juice bars for a genuine taste of the region. The drinking culture revolves around 'Chopp' (ice-cold draft beer) and the 'Caipirinha,' which should be made with lime and white cachaça for the classic experience.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cantina Liliana | Av. Ana Costa, 404 - Gonzaga, Santos | +55 13 3284-3538 | 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Daily | lilianacentro.com.br | R$80–R$130 (~$15.00–$25.00 USD) |
| Restaurante do Museu do Café | Rua XV de Novembro, 95 - Centro | +55 13 3219-2536 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays) | R$70–R$110 (~$13.00–$21.00 USD) | |
| Mureta do Gonzaga | Beachfront at the end of Av. Ana Costa | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Daily | R$25–R$35 (~$4.75–$6.50 USD) |
Cantina Liliana
R$80–R$130 (~$15.00–$25.00 USD)A Santos institution since 1960. You must order the Filet à Parmegiana; it is widely considered the best in the state and is large enough to share between two people. The atmosphere is classic Italian-Brazilian, with white tablecloths and professional, old-school waiters. It's consistent, comforting, and perfectly located near the Gonzaga shopping district. One honest limitation: it can be very loud during the Sunday lunch rush.
Av. Ana Costa, 404 - Gonzaga, Santos ·+55 13 3284-3538 ·11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Daily
Restaurante do Museu do Café
R$70–R$110 (~$13.00–$21.00 USD)Located in the historic stock exchange building, this restaurant serves refined Brazilian coastal cuisine. Order the Moqueca Santista, a local variation of the famous fish stew. It is a sophisticated spot for a business-style lunch with excellent service. The high ceilings and historic decor make it feel special. Honest limitation: the menu is smaller than the big restaurants in Gonzaga.
Rua XV de Novembro, 95 - Centro ·+55 13 3219-2536 ·11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
Mureta do Gonzaga
R$25–R$35 (~$4.75–$6.50 USD)While not a single bar, the 'mureta' (low wall) and the adjacent kiosks are where you should have a drink. Order a traditional Caipirinha and watch the Atlantic Ocean waves. It's where locals gather to gossip and watch the world go by. The music is usually a mix of Bossa Nova and MPB. It's the best place to feel the 'Santos vibe' before heading back to the ship.
Beachfront at the end of Av. Ana Costa ·10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Daily
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the terminal, taxis are the most reliable way to navigate. Uber is very active in Santos and is generally 30% cheaper than taxis, but wait times at the port can be 10-15 minutes due to terminal security. For exploring the beach districts, the city is impressively flat, making walking easy. A unique way to see the historic center is the 'Bonde Turístico' (heritage tram), which costs R$7 (~$1.35 USD) and takes 40 minutes for a full loop. Bike rentals are available along the beach garden via the 'Bike Santos' app, but registration requires a Brazilian tax ID (CPF), making it difficult for foreign visitors. The local 'Executive' bus (blue and silver) are recommended which runs along the shore; it is air-conditioned and accepts cash (R$5.00 / ~$0.95 USD). One tip: if taking a taxi to the historic center, specify 'Museu do Café' rather than just 'Centro' to avoid being dropped in the less-scenic commercial shopping streets.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Santos
The Coffee Museum (Bolsa Oficial de Café)
9:00 AM (90 min)
Housed in the former trading palace, the main hall features stunning stained glass and paintings by Benedito Calixto. It's the most beautiful interior in the city. You will learn how coffee quality was graded and how it influenced the world economy. Don't miss the tasting room on the ground floor.
- Taxi from Concais Terminal (R$35 (~$6.50 USD))
- Entry: R$16 ($3.00)
- The tasting room often has a 20-minute wait. Go there first to put your name down before touring the upper galleries.
Heritage Tram (Bonde Turístico)
10:45 AM (45 min)
Ride authentic vintage trams from Scotland, Portugal, and Italy. The route covers the main squares of the historic center, providing a breezy, seated view of the architecture. It's the best way to see the Valongo station and the various baroque churches without navigating the cobblestones on foot.
- Walk 2 minutes from Coffee Museum
- Entry: R$7 ($1.35)
- Sit on the left side of the tram for the best views of the Praça Mauá and the historic Town Hall.
Lunch Recommendation
Vista Mare
It offers an elevated view of the Atlantic Ocean and the gardens, with much higher service standards and fresher seafood than the basic kiosks on the sand.
Order: Moqueca de Peixe (Brazilian fish stew), Risoto de Camarão
Av. Vicente de Carvalho, 11 - Gonzaga, Santos
Cost: R$120–R$180 (~$23.00–$34.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Santos
Coffee Museum & Historic Center
9:00 AM (120 min)
Explore the cathedral of coffee and the surrounding pedestrian streets of the old mercantile district.
- Taxi from terminal (R$35 (~$6.50 USD))
- Entry: R$16 ($3.00)
- Look for the small brass markers in the pavement that indicate the original shoreline before 20th-century land reclamation.
Monte Serrat Funicular
11:30 AM (60 min)
A 1920s funicular takes you 147 meters up to the summit. The view offers a 360-degree panorama of the port, the city, and the Atlantic Ocean. You can see the old casino and the chapel of Our Lady of Monte Serrat.
- Short taxi ride (5 min) (R$15 (~$3.00 USD))
- Entry: R$55 ($10.50)
- Skip this if there is a low cloud ceiling; you will see nothing but white mist.
Lunch in Gonzaga
1:00 PM (90 min)
Dine at a traditional churrascaria or a high-end seafood restaurant near the beach.
- 15 min taxi (R$30 (~$5.50 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Order the 'Casquinha de Siri' (stuffed crab) as an appetizer.
Beach Garden Promenade
3:00 PM (60 min)
Walk through the Guinness World Record-holding garden, featuring over 1,700 trees and 70+ flower species.
- Walk from lunch
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The section in front of the Boqueirão neighborhood has the best-maintained flower beds.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee return before all-aboard, you should depart the Gonzaga beach area no later than 90 minutes before your ship's departure. For the historic center, 45 minutes is sufficient. A taxi from Gonzaga to Concais typically takes 20–25 minutes and costs R$45 (~$8.50 USD). Uber is reliable but can be slow during the late-afternoon rush; the official taxi rank for the return is recommended. If you find yourself running late, call the Concais terminal emergency line at +55 13 3226-5600. The ship will generally not hold for independent travelers. Missing the ship in Santos is a major logistical hurdle, as the next port is often a two-day sail away in Uruguay or Argentina. You would need to clear Brazilian customs in the city and arrange an international flight, which is an expensive and complex process.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Santos
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: October to April
24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). Humidity is consistently high (above 75%).
What to wear: Breathable linen or moisture-wicking fabrics are essential. Santos is casual, but a smart-casual outfit is needed for high-end restaurants in Gonzaga. Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes for the historic center's cobblestones—sandals are a recipe for a twisted ankle here. A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses are necessary for the intense glare off the Atlantic Ocean.
Weather risks: Sudden tropical storms in the afternoon can dump 2 inches of rain in an hour, causing flash flooding in the port area.
December and January are the wettest months, with 'Summer Rains' occurring almost daily around 4:00 PM.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (December–March) | Hot and humid with frequent late-afternoon tropical downpours. | Heavy rain can cause sudden flooding in the historic center's lower streets. The heat on the unshaded beach garden can reach 35°C (95°F), creating a significant dehydration risk for those walking long distances. | Centro Histórico (flooding) and the Beach Garden (heat exposure). | Carry a sturdy umbrella and prioritize outdoor walking before 10:30 AM. Use high-SPF sunscreen even if it looks cloudy; the tropical UV index is punishing. |
| Autumn/Winter (May–August) | Mild, dry days with cooler evenings and occasional sea fog. | Dense sea fog in the morning can occasionally delay ship berthing or tender operations if the channel is closed by the Port Authority. | The Santos Estuary and the main shipping channel. | This is the best time for walking tours. Lightweight layers are essential as the temperature can swing 10 degrees once the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in Santos are friendly but more formal than those in Rio. A firm handshake is the standard greeting for tourists, though locals often exchange one or two air-kisses. In restaurants, meals are a relaxed affair; you must request the bill (A conta, por favor) as it is considered rude for a waiter to bring it unasked. Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated; a 10% service charge (serviço) is usually included in the bill, and adding an extra R$10–R$20 for exceptional service is the norm for Americans. When photographing the historic Valongo area, avoid pointing cameras at port security installations or workers without a nod of permission. Queueing is generally respected at museums and tram stops, but can be a bit chaotic at beach kiosks—simply make eye contact with the server. One common misunderstanding: cruise passengers often wear swimwear into shops and museums in the historic center. This is considered very disrespectful; always wear a shirt and shorts/trousers when away from the actual sand. A simple 'Bom dia' (Good morning) earns immense goodwill.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Attempting to visit São Paulo on a Sunday when the highway is closed for the 'Litoral' return. |
Walking from the cruise terminal to the historic center. |
Wearing expensive jewelry or visible gold watches in the Valongo district. |
Skipping the Coffee Museum because they 'don't like coffee'. |
Practical tips
Local currency is the Real (BRL). Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including beach kiosks, but keep R$50–R$100 in cash for small purchases or the heritage tram. Tipping 10% is standard and usually included in restaurant bills. To earn goodwill, learn five phrases: 'Bom dia' (Good morning), 'Obrigado' (Thank you), 'Por favor' (Please), 'Quanto custa?' (How much?), and 'Tudo bem?' (Is everything well?). One specific scam at this port involves unofficial taxis at the terminal gate offering 'flat rates' to São Paulo; always use the official rank inside the terminal. The dress code for the Sanctuary of Valongo requires shoulders to be covered—carry a light scarf. The best time to visit the Coffee Museum is right at 9:00 AM to beat the buses. If you plan to use Uber, ensure you have a data plan, as terminal wifi doesn't reach the pickup zone effectively. Finally, carry a copy of your passport—Brazilian law technically requires identification to be carried at all times, though a photocopy is usually accepted for tourists.
Cruise Lines Visiting Santos
Port of Call
Embarkation / Disembarkation
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FAQ — Santos
Is it safe to walk along the Santos beach at night?
The Gonzaga and Boqueirão beachfronts are well-lit and heavily patrolled, making them very safe for a stroll until 9:00 PM. However, it is best to stay on the paved promenade rather than walking on the dark sand near the water. It is worth noting that the area remains lively with locals exercising until late evening. For cruise passengers, the main risk is opportunistic pickpocketing; keep your phone in a secure pocket. If you are returning to the ship after dark, always use a taxi or Uber rather than walking through the industrial port gates. Specific beachside restaurants offering safe, door-to-door shuttle service can be recommended.
Can I use US Dollars in Santos shops?
No, you cannot use US Dollars for most transactions in Santos. While some large souvenir shops in the Concais terminal might accept them at a very poor exchange rate, the vast majority of cafes, museums, and taxis only accept Brazilian Reais or credit cards. You will find that Visa and Mastercard are accepted at 95% of venues, including beach kiosks. It is a good idea to carry R$100 in small bills for the tram and small tips. If you need cash, use the ATMs inside the Concais terminal which offer the fairest rates. For a stress-free day, ensure your credit card is set for international travel and has a PIN.
What is the traffic like to São Paulo really?
The traffic between Santos and São Paulo is notoriously unpredictable. The 75 km trip uses the Anchieta-Imigrantes highway system, which involves steep descents through the coastal mountains. On a clear weekday, it takes 90 minutes. However, a single minor accident or heavy fog can close lanes, extending the trip to 3 hours or more. On weekends or holidays, the transit time can exceed 4 hours. These patterns over multiple seasons and generally recommend staying in Santos for port calls under 10 hours. If you must go, use the ship's organized tour to guarantee your return. Independent travel to São Paulo on a cruise schedule is high-risk and often results in a stressful day spent mostly in a car.
Is the water safe to drink in Santos?
Tap water in Santos is chemically treated and safe for showering or brushing teeth, but most locals and visitors prefer bottled water for drinking due to the taste and older piping in some buildings. Bottled water (água mineral) is inexpensive and widely available at every kiosk and pharmacy for about R$5 (~$0.95 USD). It is best to ask for 'água sem gás' for still water and 'água com gás' for sparkling. At restaurants, it is standard to order bottled water. Consider carrying a reusable bottle and filling it only from verified filtered sources in hotels or high-end cafes. Staying hydrated is critical in the Santos humidity, where you can lose fluids rapidly during a simple walking tour.
How do I take the ferry to Guarujá?
The 'Balsa' ferry to Guarujá departs from the Ponta da Praia neighborhood. It runs 24 hours a day and departures are every 15–30 minutes. For pedestrians, the crossing is free and takes only 10 minutes. It's a great way to see the Atlantic Ocean entrance to the port and get a different view of the city skyline. Once in Guarujá, you will need a taxi or Uber to reach the better beaches like Enseada or Pitangueiras, which are about 5 km from the ferry terminal. While Guarujá has beautiful beaches, the logistics of the ferry and the onward taxi can take 45 minutes each way. A private boat transfer for a more seamless and scenic visit to the neighboring island can be arranged in advance.
Are there any beach lockers in Santos?
No, there are no public luggage or beach lockers along the Santos shoreline. You should not leave your bags or valuables unattended on the sand while swimming. If you plan to go into the water, you should do so in shifts with a companion or stay at a 'Posto' (lifeguard station) where there are more people around. Alternatively, use the facilities at the Concais terminal for large bags and only carry a small daypack to the beach. Some high-end beach clubs in Guarujá offer lockers for guests, but this is rare in the urban center of Santos. Using a beachside hotel's day-pass for secure access to facilities is often preferred; this can be arranged through your cruise line or a licensed local operator.
Is there a free shuttle from the port to the city?
There is no official free public shuttle provided by the city of Santos. However, many premium and luxury cruise lines (such as Silversea or Regent) provide their own complimentary shuttles that drop passengers at Praça Mauá in the historic center. For mainstream lines, there is often a fee of $15–$20 USD for a day-pass. If your ship doesn't provide a shuttle, a taxi is your best option. You will find that taxis are almost always faster for getting you to the Coffee Museum before the crowds. Always check your 'Daily Program' the night before to see if a shuttle is offered and where the drop-off point is.
What is the best area for shopping in Santos?
The Gonzaga neighborhood is the premier shopping district in Santos. It features three major malls within walking distance of each other: Miramar Shopping, Shopping Pátio Iporanga, and Parque Balneário. Here you will find international brands alongside high-quality Brazilian retailers like Osklen and Natura. For more traditional items, the historic center's Rua XV de Novembro has several specialty shops for coffee and leather. If you are looking for local crafts, the 'FeirArte' (Art Fair) takes place on Saturday afternoons and evenings at the Boqueirão beach garden. Prices in the malls are fixed, but you can occasionally negotiate at the outdoor art markets. It is worth focusing on Brazilian leather and beachwear, which offer the best value for American travelers.
Is the Orchid Garden worth visiting for seniors?
Absolutely. The Orchid Garden (Orquidário) is a top recommendation for seniors in Santos. It is entirely flat, heavily shaded by mature trees, and offers numerous benches for resting. Unlike the historic center's cobblestones or the exposed beach garden, it provides a very comfortable environment for those who want to see Brazilian nature without physical strain. The paths are smooth and paved, making it ideal for walkers or wheelchairs. It is also quite compact, so you can see the main highlights in 45 minutes. The presence of free-roaming animals like tortoises adds a charming, relaxed element to the visit. It is located in the José Menino neighborhood, a 20-minute taxi ride from the port terminal.
How much should I tip a taxi driver in Santos?
Tipping taxi drivers in Santos is not expected but is appreciated for good service. Most locals simply round up the fare to the nearest 5 or 10 Reais. For example, if the meter shows R$32, giving the driver R$35 is a kind gesture. For a long-distance trip or if the driver helps with heavy bags or provides a mini-tour of the city, a tip of R$10–R$15 (~$2.00–$3.00 USD) is generous. For Uber, the app provides a tipping option after the ride; 10% is standard. Always ensure the meter is running when you start your taxi journey. Visitors should carry small bills specifically for these purposes, as drivers often claim not to have change for large R$50 or R$100 notes.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.