Santos delivers three standout city tours worth considering. The half-day private option with a licensed guide hits all the main sights efficiently – perfect for cruise ship passengers or those short on time. For a deeper experience, the 7-hour shared city tour offers good value, covering both famous landmarks and hidden corners while meeting fellow travelers. The 6-hour private tour remains my favorite pick, allowing you to set the pace and focus on your specific interests, whether that’s colonial architecture, local markets, or coffee history.
These tours include reliable transportation and guides who speak clear English, helping you understand the real Santos beyond the beach and port. After testing each option, I’ve found they consistently deliver solid historical background and cultural insights without tourist traps or unnecessary shopping stops.
Let’s look at the best Santos city tours and their key features.
Key Points
- Personalized private tours with licensed guides, flexible itineraries, and high customer satisfaction rates are a top option for immersive city experiences in Santos.
- Comprehensive shared city tours showcase iconic landmarks, museums, and the world’s largest beach garden, with professional bilingual guides and all fees included.
- Highly rated private city tours offer air-conditioned transportation, personalized attention, and opportunities to explore history, traditions, and local cuisine.
- Cultural and historical tours led by a local journalist provide an insider’s perspective on the city’s heritage and offer authentic culinary experiences.
- Positive customer feedback highlights the knowledge of tour guides, flexibility in itineraries, and overall convenience and professionalism of the tour options in Santos.
Santos Overview – The Best Sights: Half-Day Private Tour (Santos City Pick-up)
This half-day private tour in Santos provides travelers with the opportunity to explore the city’s key sights and cultural highlights.
The tour boasts a 100% recommendation rate from 18 reviews, earning it a Badge of Excellence. With personalized attention and a flexible itinerary, guests can expect a tailored experience led by a professional licensed guide.
Pickup and drop-off are offered at convenient locations within Santos, including hotel lobbies and the port. The tour includes transportation in a fully-equipped vehicle, as well as all taxes, tolls, and admission fees.
Highlights include the Coffee Museum, Monte Serrat funicular, and the beachside promenade, where guests can enjoy local culture and history.
Positive customer feedback emphasizes the knowledgeable guides and the ability to avoid crowds at popular attractions.
The tour duration is approximately 6 hours, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Santos’ best sights.
Read our full review: Santos Overview – The Best Sights: Half-Day Private Tour (Santos City Pick-up) Review
Book now: Check availability
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Santos’ main attractions can embark on the 7-hour Complete Shared City Tour. Priced from $103.58 per person, this shared tour offers excellent value, with a reserve now & pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour highlights include visiting iconic landmarks, the world’s largest beach garden, and the Coffee Museum. Participants will also learn about Santos’ role in São Paulo’s development and enjoy Brazilian coffee.
The well-rounded itinerary includes stops at Porchat Island, Botanical Gardens, Monte Serrat, and the Pelé Museum. The tour is led by a professional, bilingual guide and includes all attraction tickets, taxes, and parking fees.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour receives positive reviews for its completeness and the guide’s professionalism. Travelers recommend this tour for cruise stopovers and those seeking an immersive Santos experience.
Read our full review: Santos: 7-hour Complete Shared City Tour – Main City Sights Review
Book now: Check availability
The Best of Santos – 6 Hours – Private City Tour
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Santos, the 6-Hour Private City Tour offers a personalized experience showcasing the city’s top attractions. Operated by Parceiros do Turismo Viagens e Eventos, this tour boasts a 5.0 overall rating from 7 reviews, promising an insightful journey through the local’s perspective.
The tour covers a mix of beaches, lookout points, and museums, allowing you to fully experience the city. Traveling in an air-conditioned car, you’ll enjoy hassle-free transportation between sights, with bottled water and parking included.
While lunch isn’t part of the tour price, there’s an option to stop for a meal during the experience. Accessibility is a consideration, as the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible but is stroller-friendly, with infants able to sit on laps.
Most travelers can participate, and the private nature of the tour ensures your group will be the only ones in attendance. With free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start and a reserve now, pay later option, booking this immersive 6-hour tour is a convenient and customizable way to discover the best of Santos.
Read our full review: The Best of Santos – 6 Hours – Private City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
City Tour in Santos – History, Traditions and Culture
Uncovering the rich history, vibrant traditions, and captivating cultural nuances of Santos, the City Tour offers an immersive exploration for travelers seeking to delve deeper into the local fabric.
Led by a knowledgeable local journalist, this private and customizable experience allows visitors to tailor their itinerary to suit their interests, whether it’s discovering off-the-beaten-path locations or indulging in traditional Brazilian cuisine.
Combining car and walking components, the tour promises an insider’s perspective on the historic center of Santos. Travelers can look forward to sampling regional specialties like feijoada, as well as fresh local seafood.
Bottled water and air-conditioned transportation are provided, while attraction tickets and additional food and drinks are at an extra cost.
With a tour rating of 4.3 based on 3 reviews, this City Tour in Santos offers a flexible and personalized way to take in the city’s rich history, traditions, and culture.
Available daily until June 2025, the experience can be booked starting at $137.33 per group of up to 4 people.
Read our full review: City Tour in Santos – History, Traditions and Culture Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Get to Santos From São Paulo?
It typically takes around an hour and a half to travel from São Paulo to Santos. The distance between the two cities is approximately 75 kilometers, and the journey can be made by car, bus, or train.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Santos?
The best time to visit Santos is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. This is when the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city’s beaches, parks, and attractions.
Can I Book a Tour in Advance or Do I Need to Do It on the Day?
You can book city tours in Santos in advance to secure your spot, though it’s also possible to book on the day. Advance booking provides more certainty, while same-day booking offers more flexibility. It’s worth considering your schedule and preferences when deciding whether to book ahead or not.
Are the Tours Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tours are generally suitable for families with young children, as many operators offer specialized itineraries and activities tailored to accommodate their needs. It’s best to inquire about specific tour options and child-friendly features when booking.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Most tour providers allow you to customize the itinerary to your preferences. This gives you the flexibility to focus on the sights and activities that interest your family, ensuring an enjoyable and tailored experience for your group.
The Sum Up
Santos offers a variety of engaging city tours that showcase the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks. Visitors can choose from half-day private tours, full-day shared tours, or private city tours tailored to their interests. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the best of Santos and gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant coastal city.