For some unknown reason, many years ago it became the case that when Brazil is mentioned, only certain cities come to mind. Rio de Janeiro is associated with its vibrant carnivals. São Paulo is the business center of Latin America. But what if there is an amazing place just an hour's flight from São Paulo that will leave no one indifferent? We are talking about São Francisco do Sul.
Why is it so amazing, and why is it definitely worth visiting? São Francisco do Sul is one of the three oldest cities in Brazil. It stretches across the entire island, but its population is only about 40,000. For Brazil, this is a very small number. However, in the summer, the island's population triples! Let's take a look at what makes this city so attractive.
How to get there?
The fastest way to get to São Francisco do Sul is by plane. You will arrive at the airport in the nearest city, Joinville. However, tickets for this flight are usually more expensive than tickets to other cities in the state.
Therefore, consider other options. For example, you can buy plane tickets to cities such as Navegantes, Curitiba, or the state capital, Florianópolis. Incidentally, it is famous for the most delicious and fresh oysters.
From these cities, you can take a shuttle or rent a car to get directly to São Francisco do Sul. This island is connected to the mainland by a small bridge, so it is easy to get there.
When is the best time to go?
This city is worth visiting at any time of year. In winter, you can enjoy the colonial architecture in the historic city center. Summer is ideal for relaxing on the white sandy beaches by the ocean. But don't forget that the seasons in Brazil do not correspond to those in Belarus. For a comfortable vacation and swimming, you should come here during the Belarusian winter.
Where to stay?
If you are visiting the island for its magnificent architecture and beautiful photos for social media, then you should choose hotels in the historic center. If your main goal is to get a tan like the locals and swim to your heart's content, then opt for one of the hotels near the beach.
For a large group, you can rent a house. The island is quite large, and taxi services are not particularly well developed, so it would be very useful to rent a car to combine cultural activities with beach relaxation.
What to see?
Historic Center of São Francisco do Sul
These are 150 beautifully preserved buildings from the time when Brazil was a Portuguese colony. The most incredible view is from the Babitonga waterfront (Portuguese: Baía de Bapitonga), a favorite spot for all travelers. This is where the most beautiful photos are taken, and the echoes of Brazil's Portuguese past linger in the air.
National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum is located on the Babington waterfront. It covers an area of approximately 7,000square meters. Various types of ships, marine equipment, and instruments are stored there. It is one of the most significant maritime museums in Latin America.
Ecological park
The eco-park is located on a hill and covers an area of approximately 16,000square meters. There are numerous walking trails here. The park is a perfectly preserved green area with observation decks offering breathtaking views of the historic city center. At the top of the hill, you can see the ruins of the 17th-century San Jose Chapel.
City History Museum
It is located in one of the oldest buildings in the city, which previously housed the town hall and public prison. The museum displays various ancient artifacts donated by the Franciscan community.
Fort Marshall Luz
This is a military base that has been opened to visitors. There you can see an artillery battery with cannons, trenches, and ammunition cellars. It also offers an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Church of Our Lady of Grace
This church was built in 1793 and restored in 1926. It is the main church in the city. The church houses a wooden statue of Our Lady of Mercy, which was brought here in 1553.
Morro da Cruz Trail
will lead you to the highest point in the city, where a cross was erected in 1947. It's not an easy climb, but those who make it to the top will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire island.
Boat trip
A boat trip is the perfect addition to your island tour. Be sure to visit the Babington Bay archipelago, which consists of 24 islands. However, keep in mind that not all islands are open to visitors. Some of them are privately owned by businessmen.
Where to eat?
Since São Francisco do Sul is an island, it's no surprise that you'll find all kinds of seafood dishes in any restaurant. Octopus, shrimp, langoustines, squid — all served fresh.
Here you can also try conger eel, which lives off the coasts of Australia, Chile, South Africa, and southern Brazil. It tastes similar to shrimp, which is why it is also called "shrimp fish."
By the way, don't be surprised if the dish includes a piece of palm trunk. Brazilians simply love to eat it.
I would also recommend two restaurants. They are located in the city center: Portela and Deck. Both have incredible ocean views and a huge selection of exquisite dishes.
If you want to see Brazil's European past, then a visit to São Francisco do Sul is a must. A mix of authentic buildings, a historic city center with incredible energy, beaches with white sand and pleasant ocean waves, delicious food, and the feeling that you are on an island — all this can be found in one place on our amazing land.
