10 Best Things to Do and See in Florianópolis
Exploring Florianópolis on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Florianópolis, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Florianópolis. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Hercílio Luz Bridge
The Hercílio Luz Bridge is one of the great symbols of Florianópolis and an iconic silhouette of the city, visible from several points along the coast. This suspension bridge impresses with its scale and elegant metal structure that connects the island to the mainland. When discovering it, visitors can also enjoy beautiful views of the bay, the port, and the lively urban surroundings. Even without crossing it for long, it attracts visitors for its remarkable architecture and the maritime atmosphere around it, between the sea, the open sky, and the landscapes of the capital of Santa Catarina.
2. Trapiche Beira Mar Norte Avenue
The Trapiche on Avenida Beira-Mar Norte, in Florianópolis, is a popular strolling spot appreciated for its open views over the bay and the city’s waterfront. Located in a central, lively area, it offers a pleasant coastal setting, ideal for walking, relaxing, and taking photos. It is especially a place to experience the urban and maritime atmosphere of Florianópolis, with the calm traffic along the avenue, the open horizon, and leisure spaces enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
3. Parque de Coqueiros
Parque de Coqueiros, in Florianópolis, is a seaside leisure area appreciated for its large lawns, walking and cycling paths, and shaded relaxation spots. Visitors come here to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere overlooking the coast, watch local life go by, and take part in outdoor activities with family or friends. The park also offers beautiful views of the bay and is a pleasant stop for a stroll, a picnic, or a moment of rest throughout the day.
4. Quinze de Novembro Square
Quinze de Novembro Square is one of the best-known public spaces in downtown Florianópolis, Brazil. Located in a lively area, it offers a pleasant landmark for discovering local urban life, between pedestrian traffic, historic center buildings and nearby shops. It is a place where you can feel the city’s daily rhythm, with benches, trees and walkways that invite a short break. It also makes a good starting point for exploring the nearby streets and the central atmosphere of Florianópolis.
5. Santinho Beach
Santinho Beach is a long sandy beach located in the north of Florianópolis, in an area that is still largely unspoiled. It appeals with its usually clear waters, waves popular with surfers, and natural setting surrounded by dunes, rocks, and coastal vegetation. It is an ideal spot for a stroll by the sea, relaxing with an ocean view, or admiring the island’s typical landscape. Wilder than other beaches in the city, it offers a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
6. Parque da Luz
Parque da Luz, in Florianópolis, is a pleasant green space appreciated for an outdoor break in the heart of the city. It features lawns, shady trees, and walking paths, in a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the lively urban surroundings. The park attracts both locals and visitors looking for a simple place to relax, take a walk, or enjoy a moment close to nature. It is a nice stop for exploring the city at a more relaxed pace.
7. Florianópolis Botanical Garden
The Florianópolis Botanical Garden offers a green escape close to the city, with areas dedicated to discovering the local flora and other carefully displayed plant species. Visitors will find walking paths, botanical collections, shaded areas, and a pleasant setting for observing nature in peace. It is a popular place for a peaceful visit, relaxing outdoors, and learning about the biodiversity of southern Brazil, in the heart of a calm, well-maintained environment.
8. Cruz e Sousa Palace
Palacio Cruz e Sousa, located in the center of Florianópolis, is an elegant historic building that attracts visitors with its refined architecture and important cultural role. As you explore it, you will admire a striking facade, exhibition rooms, and spaces dedicated to the memory of the city and the state of Santa Catarina. The site also offers a better understanding of the local heritage through collections, artifacts, and displays on regional history. It is a popular visit for its solemn atmosphere and cultural interest.
9. Sesc Museum of Florianópolis
The Sesc Museum of Florianópolis is a museum dedicated to the memory and culture of the city, offering visitors a look at its evolution and local identity. Here you can discover exhibitions that may blend heritage, urban history, visual arts and everyday objects, in a setting designed to make the visit accessible and enjoyable. Located in Florianópolis, it is an interesting stop for better understanding life on the island and in the region, while enjoying a vibrant cultural space suited to a discovery that is both educational and relaxed.
10. MESC – Museu da Escola Catarinense
The MESC, Museu da Escola Catarinense, in Florianópolis, invites visitors to discover the history of education in the state of Santa Catarina through a heritage trail set inside a former landmark building in the city center. This local history museum features school objects, documents, photographs, and exhibits that shed light on the evolution of education, teaching methods, and everyday life in the school environment. The visit also lets you appreciate the building’s architecture, while offering a vivid look at the region’s educational and cultural memory.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
