Florianópolis, Capital city in Santa Catarina, Brazil
Description
Florianópolis is the capital of Santa Catarina state, spreading across Santa Catarina Island and adjacent mainland areas linked by several bridges. The city extends over coastal stretches with sandy beaches, hills, residential neighborhoods and a busy commercial center on the mainland, while the island holds villages, coves and forest-lined waterfront.
History
Portuguese settlers founded the site in 1675 and named it Nossa Senhora do Desterro, later receiving its present name in 1893. During the 20th century the city grew into an administrative and commercial hub with bridges connecting the island and the mainland.
Culture
Residents keep Azorean traditions alive through festivals, lace making and handwoven crafts, while the local kitchen serves fresh seafood and dishes with Portuguese roots. On weekends, families gather at beaches, public squares, and cafés overlooking the water.
Practical
Buses connect the island and the mainland, while Hercílio Luz international airport provides links to Brazilian cities and some destinations abroad. Most beaches are accessible by public transport or taxi, with many lodgings and restaurants within walking distance of the water.
Did you know?
The city spreads across more than 40 beaches with different shapes and exposures, from calm bays to wind-exposed sections favored by surfers. The nickname Silicon Island arose from the concentration of technology and software firms operating here since the nineties.
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Hercilio Luz Bridge
1.3 km
Praia dos Ingleses
23.8 km
Campeche Island
14.2 km
Joaquina
10.7 km
Praia Brava
25.7 km
Colombo Salles Bridge
1.3 km
Pedro Ivo Campos bridge
1.3 km
Praia da Lagoinha do Leste
21.2 kmPalácio Cruz e Sousa
506 m
Fortress of Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim
18.5 km
Mole Beach
11.9 km
Fortaleza de São José da Ponta Grossa
18.3 km
Praia dos Naufragados
26.8 km
Daniela
16.3 km
Morro da Boa Vista
19.9 km
Catedral Metropolitana
513 m
Praia da Galheta
12.6 km
Praia do Campeche
12.2 km
Mercado Público de Florianópolis
446 m
Praia do Santinho
23.3 km
Mozambique Beach
18.1 kmPraia do Matadeiro
18.2 km
Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Araçatuba
27.7 km
Fortress of Santo Antônio de Ratones
13.4 km
Praia da Armação
17.2 km
Santa Catarina's Historical Museum
504 mPolydoro Ernani de São Thiago University Hospital
3.5 kmMorro da Cruz
2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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