Florianópolis, or popularly known as Floripa, is the capital of the State of Santa Catarina, in the Southern Region of Brazil.
This State has in its historical formation a strong influence of German and Italian immigrants, in addition to a strong presence of Portuguese and Azoreans who influenced its architecture and, above all, its gastronomy.
Fun facts
Florianópolis has an unusual urban configuration, divided between the mainland and the Island of Santa Catarina.
It has already been named by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the list of 10 urban model cities of the future, along with Helsinki (Finland), Copenhagen (Denmark) and Seoul (Korea).
Florianópolis is one of 4 Brazilian cities that are part of the UNESCO International Network as a Creative City of Gastronomy.
A paradise in the south of Brazil.
A great diversity of landscapes made up of mangroves, lagoons, dunes, hills and small islands form the coast of this region, which has been awarded with 42 breathtaking beaches. The island is divided into two parts: a coastal island and the small continental peninsula that form the city, and it is this unique geography that transforms Florianópolis into one of the main beach destinations in Brazil. Part of the city is an environmental preservation area, with beaches surrounded by hills covered by Atlantic Forest vegetation.
Florianópolis has different types of beaches. There are perfect beaches for those who enjoy water sports such as surfing, kitesurfing and sailing, such as Joaquina and Praia Mole, beaches to enjoy with the family, such as Daniela beach, less popular and with calmer waters; beaches like Campeche, which offer, in addition to a stunning view, the possibility of visiting Campeche Island, home to an ecological sanctuary and archaeological site listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN); and also more popular beaches, such as Jurerê Internacional beach, in a neighborhood with refined restaurants, attracting many young people with one of the liveliest nights in the region.
Other beaches such as Brava, Canasvieira, Armação, Lagoinha, Matadeiro, Ingleses and do Forte offer diverse experiences, proving that there will be no shortage of options. In the regions of the small islands, you can find imposing forts and ruins. The main ones are the forts of Baía do Norte, Sant’Ana do Estreito and Santa Bárbara da Vila, open to visitors.
Cultural traditions of the Magic Island.
Floripa, which is also known as Magic Island, due to its island portion, also stands out for its cultural traditions, crafts and architecture that combines the ancient and the modern. Busy resorts, fishing villages and typical towns, such as Vila de Santo Antônio de Lisboa and Ribeirão da Ilha prove that urbanity and tradition can coexist, creating a unique destination.
The historic center, with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, is home to the Metropolitan Cathedral, a symbol of the city’s religiosity. The Hercílio Luz Bridge, an architectural icon, and Azorean cultural festivities, such as the Boi de Mamão, enrich the cultural experience in the city. The diversity of attractions provides a fascinating journey, delving into its traditions, history, and beauty.
The oyster capital.
Florianópolis is one of 4 Brazilian cities that are part of the UNESCO International Network as a Creative City of Gastronomy. To learn a little about the history that also relates to gastronomy, you can visit the Public Market, a historic building built in 1899, in the center of Florianópolis. At its fish stalls, bars and restaurants, it is possible to taste various typical dishes, with emphasis on cockle pastries, shrimp pastries and, of course, oysters, traditional to the region.
Known as the “Oyster Capital”, the city has farms open to visitors, where you can understand their cultivation and, of course, taste them.
Cruises and resorts to make the most of the Santa Catarina coast.
If you choose to take a cruise in the region, in addition to Florianópolis, you will also have the chance to visit other spectacular destinations on the coast of Santa Catarina, such as Balneário Camboriú and Bombinhas. While the All-Inclusive Resorts on the coast of Santa Catarina are also another good option, especially for those looking for relaxation and tranquility or to enjoy with the family.
Florianópolis is a jewel on the south coast of Brazil, which will certainly enchant you with all the magic of this world-famous island.
Photo gallery
How to get there?
Main Airports
Main Bus Terminals
