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Where to Stay in Santos

Where to Stay in Santos

Santos Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

General Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly, offering dormitory beds and private rooms. Ideal for solo travelers seeking to meet others. Hostel Casa Branca Santos is an example.

  • Pousadas

    Guesthouses, often family-run, providing a more intimate and local experience. Styles range from basic to charmingly decorated.

  • Hotels

    A range from budget chains to mid-range and upscale multinational brands, suiting various service expectations and price points.

  • Apart-hotels/Flats

    Serviced apartments with kitchenettes and living areas, a good choice for longer stays or families who prefer self-catering.

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments and houses available through platforms such as Booking.com and Vrbo. Suitable for families or groups desiring more space and self-catering flexibility.

  • Homestay Opportunities

    Less organized as formal options within Santos compared to rural areas, though individual Airbnb rentals can provide a corresponding experience.

  • House Sitting

    For those seeking unique exchanges, platforms like TrustedHousesitters sometimes list opportunities.

  • Camping

    Camping options are not typically available within the city of Santos itself. Sites exist in less urban coastal areas away from the urban center.

Neighborhood Guide

Santos consists of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character. Your pick of area influences your city experience.

Gonzaga

Pros
  • Central location
  • Lively atmosphere
  • Excellent amenities
  • Proximity to attractions
Cons
  • Can be noisy
  • Generally higher prices
  • Busy tourist hub
  • Limited quiet spaces

Ponta da Praia

Pros
  • Scenic views
  • Quieter atmosphere
  • Good for relaxation
  • Close to port and ferry
Cons
  • Further from main commercial centers
  • Some distance from nightlife
  • Fewer immediate entertainment options
  • Can be less accessible without public transport

Centro Histórico

Pros
  • Cultural immersion
  • Unique architecture
  • Historical sites readily available
  • Quiet nights
Cons
  • Limited nightlife
  • Caution needed at night
  • Fewer modern accommodation choices
  • Daytime bustle

Considerations by Area

Safety Outlook

Beachfront neighborhoods (Gonzaga, Boqueirão, Ponta da Praia, Embaré, Aparecida) are generally safe during the day and early evening. The Historic Center is safe during the day, but caution is suitable at night. Avoid isolated or unlit locations in the evening.

Proximity & Ambiance

Gonzaga provides excellent proximity to shopping and dining. Ponta da Praia suits port activities and the Guarujá ferry. The Historic Center grants direct access to museums. Gonzaga experiences higher noise levels, while Ponta da Praia and Embaré/Aparecida are generally quieter.

Booking Strategies

Thoughtful booking helps secure the lodging you want at a favorable price.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (December-February, holidays): Book several months ahead for popular beach hotels or close to New Year's and Carnival. Prices climb, and availability decreases.
  • Shoulder Season: Book 1-2 months ahead for a nice selection and favorable rates.
  • Low Season: Greater flexibility here. Book a few weeks prior or even last minute; better deals are generally present.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is not customary for larger hotels. Smaller pousadas might offer minor flexibility during the low season or for longer stays.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia are widely used and reliable platforms.
  • For vacation rentals, Vrbo or Using airbnb are popular choices.
  • Many hotels have direct booking websites where you might discover special offers. Consider IHG Hotels for their brand options.
  • For budget options, Hostelworld specializes in hostel bookings.

Important Policies

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Policies vary by accommodation. Always review the specific terms when booking.
  • Most online platforms feature free cancellation up to a certain point, giving flexibility.
  • A clear understanding of these terms protects your travel plans.
  • Read all fine print before confirming your reservation.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Expect substantial price increases (up to 50-100% or more) during peak season.
  • This includes New Year, Carnival, major holidays, and school breaks.
  • Prices are typically lowest during the winter low season, offering better value.
  • Plan accordingly to align with your budget and travel preferences.

Affiliate Resource Insight

Booking.com

A global platform for a vast selection of accommodations.

Agoda

Strong in Asia, also features many global options, including Santos.

Vrbo

Specializes in vacation rentals, ideal for families or longer stays.

Accommodation Recommendations

Find the most suitable place for your spending plan and travel style.

Budget & Mid-Range Options

Budget Travel

Look for backpacker lodgings or simple guesthouses. Options a few blocks from main beach areas or in the city center typically present good value.

  • Consider shared dorms for cost savings.
  • Seek out places with good public transport links.
  • Utilize Hostelworld for specialized budget accommodation.
  • Check recent feedback for cleanliness and safety.
Mid-Range Comfort

Hotels in Gonzaga or Boqueirão with good reviews frequently provide solid value, like Atlantica Hotels or Ibis Budget.

  • Search for properties with amenities like breakfast included.
  • Check for proximity to desired attractions and dining.
  • Book via Booking.com or Agoda for diverse choices.
  • Loyalty programs like IHG Hotels may offer benefits.

Luxury & Specialized Stays

Premium Experience

Higher-end hotels in Gonzaga or Ponta da Praia deliver premium amenities. Park Inn by Radisson Santos or Mendes Plaza Hotel.

  • Look for hotels with ocean views, pools, and full-service restaurants.
  • Consider properties with concierge services for planning activities.
  • Booking straight with luxury hotel chains can sometimes yield exclusive benefits.
  • Check for spa facilities for enhanced relaxation.
Unique Stays

Serviced apartments or vacation rentals are suitable for longer visits. Some guesthouses in the Centro Histórico also present a traditional ambiance.

  • Vacation rentals provide more space and cooking facilities.
  • For homestay options, individual Airbnb rentals can connect you with locals.
  • TrustedHousesitters offers another sort of long-term immersion.
  • Seek out cultural relevance in your preferred accommodation for an authentic feel.

Family-Friendly Stays

  • Apart-hotels or Vacation Rentals

    These typically feature kitchens and lounges, which simplify meal preparation plus offer more space. Check Vrbo for family-sized options.

  • Hotels with Amenities

    Look for hotels offering pools, play areas, and family rooms. Properties in Embaré or Aparecida are often quieter and geared towards family holidays.

  • Beachfront Access
  • Parking Considerations

    If traveling by car, confirm if the accommodation provides secure parking, especially important for families.

Solo Traveler Focus

  • Hostels for Socializing

    Hostels like Hostel Casa Branca Santos are great for meeting other travelers and participating in group activities. Use Hostelworld to explore options.

  • Well-Located Mid-Range Hotels

    In Gonzaga, these provide convenience and a sense of security, with easy access to attractions and dining.

  • Amenities for Connectivity

    Look for accommodations with reliable Wi-Fi for staying connected and planning your daily adventures.

  • Safety Measures

    Confirm properties have good security, like 24-hour reception or secure access, for peace of mind.

Long-Stay & Cultural Properties

Extended Stays

Serviced apartments (flats) or holiday rentals are highly suitable for extended stays. These typically come equipped with full kitchens and laundry facilities.

  • Check monthly rates on platforms like Booking.com or Vrbo.
  • Residential beachfront neighborhoods often present many options.
  • Consider properties that include utility prices in the rental price.
  • Long-term discounts are often available outside peak seasons.
Culturally Significant Properties

Fewer dedicated "historic hotels" exist in Santos, but some guesthouses in the Centro Histórico can offer a more traditional ambiance and a connection to the city's past.

  • Look for independently owned pousadas with unique decor.
  • Staying in the historical quarter places you amidst architectural heritage.
  • Agoda and Booking.com may feature boutique options in older buildings.
  • Read descriptions meticulously for hints of historical character.

Special Mention: House/Pet Sitting

TrustedHousesitters

For those open to caring for homes and pets, TrustedHousesitters can have distinct, cost-effective stays. This a fantastic way to immerse in local life.

Local Living

Engage in a different travel style by living like a local in a residential area, potentially for longer durations.

Pet Companionship

Ideal for animal lovers, this option pairs accommodation with the joy of caring for pets during your visit to Santos.

Where to Stay in Santos. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation