What to do in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz
If you've come this far looking for What to do in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz Let's agree on one thing right away: the city wasn't made to be seen in a rush. But if your time is short, we'll help you put together a great day, one that starts in a thermal bath and ends with coffee and cake.
Santo Amaro da Imperatriz is located in the metropolitan region of Florianópolis, very close to the capital, but with an otherworldly feel. Here the mountains of Serra do Tabuleiro The Atlantic Forest dominates the green landscape, and the thermal waters are our trademark. There's also a heritage dating back to the Brazilian Empire, evident in the churches, paintings by local artists, and even the city's name.
The itinerary below was designed for those who have a whole day And he wants to leave here with the feeling of having experienced the most authentic aspects of this destination. He'll encounter hot springs, history, art, award-winning cachaça, homemade lunch, and a coffee to finish.
Before we begin: how this itinerary works
We planned the day thinking about a Saturday, This is because that's when the most attractions are open at the same time. Some places change their hours during the week (we'll tell you all about it later, in the "What if it's a weekday?" section), so it's worth checking the opening hours before leaving home.
Another golden tip: Go by car. The attractions are located in different neighborhoods, such as Caldas da Imperatriz, Centro, and Vila Becker, and having a car nearby makes things much easier. Check the route on the map and allow some extra time between stops.
One important note: prices and schedules may change. Before you go, it's worth confirming directly with each attraction (we leave contact information at almost all stops).
Ready?
Stop 1: Main Church of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz
How about starting the day by visiting one of the most important places in the history of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz?
Our first stop is at Santo Amaro da Imperatriz Mother Church, one of the main landmarks of the municipality and a place that deserves to be on the itinerary of anyone visiting the city for the first time.
The history of the parish dates back to May 29, 1854, when the region was still developing as an important link between the coast and the mountain region.
When you arrive, the neo-Gothic architecture It immediately catches the eye. But it's inside that things get even more beautiful: the imperial chandeliers and light-colored paintings create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
Take the opportunity to observe the details, learn a little about the local history and, of course, take some photographs of this heritage that is so special to the people of Santa Amaro.
The church is located in Padre Isidoro Duarte Street, 20, in the Center. Entry is free and visiting hours are from 8 am to 8 pm daily (from 7 am on Sundays).
If you come during the traditional season Feast of the Divine, There's a bonus: the imperial procession ends its route at the church, where the moving Coronation Mass takes place. It's worth checking the website's schedule for dates.
Stop 2: Sebastião da Cruz Atelier, the city in brushstrokes
Since we're downtown, take the opportunity to stop by... Atelier Sebastião da Cruz, at Travessa Pedro Simão da Cruz, 11. It's one of those small places that tells a huge story.
Sebastião da Cruz is an artist from Santo Amaro who paints the history of the city on colorful canvases full of detail. He draws inspiration from old engravings and photographs to portray the municipality from its earliest days.
The paintings take you back to 1845, when Emperor Dom Pedro II and Empress Teresa Cristina visited the region, and show the transformation of the place: from Arraial de Sant'Ana do Cubatão to Santo Amaro do Cubatão, then Cambirela and, finally, Santo Amaro da Imperatriz.
More than just viewing paintings, the visit is an opportunity to get to know the city through the eyes of someone who was born here and transformed their memories and research into art.
Entry is free, the venue has parking, offers service in another language, and provides guided tours.
Since it's an artist's studio, it's a good idea to send a message beforehand to make sure he'll be there. (48) 99696-6646.
Stop 3: Lunchtime! Discover the flavors of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz.
After a morning exploring the history and culture of the city, it's time to take a break and recharge. And what better way to do that than by discovering the flavors of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz!
The municipality offers a variety of gastronomic options, from home-style cooking reminiscent of family lunches to restaurants with dishes to suit all tastes.
Here, the experience also extends to the table, the ingredients, and the care put into each meal.
And where to have lunch? To make your choice easier, we've gathered several suggestions in the tab. “Where to Eat“ from our official tourism website.
There, you can learn about the establishments, check information about the restaurants, and choose the place that best suits your outing!
Our tip is to take some time to enjoy a leisurely lunch. After all, getting to know a destination is also about experiencing its flavors!
Stop 4: Get your hands dirty at the Azorean Ceramics Workshop.
After lunch, how about switching from "tourist" mode to "artist" mode?
Our next stop is at Azorean Ceramics Workshop, a space that values art, creativity, and a cultural tradition that is very present in the history of Santa Catarina.
The workshop is led by the ceramicist. Tania Inacio, which transforms clay into pieces full of personality and meaning.
During your visit, you can explore the environment, admire the creations on display, and even take home a handcrafted piece as a souvenir of your trip.
But the coolest program is the Day UseAn experience where you get your hands dirty with clay and create your own piece on the pottery wheel, guided by Tania herself.
It's an opportunity to learn techniques, discover more about the artisanal process, and find out how a simple piece of clay can take shape in your hands.
And you don't need any experience, you know? The idea is precisely to experiment, learn, and have fun!
The stated opening hours are from 2 PM to 4 PM, every day, So, early afternoon is the right time to plan this stop.
The venue has parking, free Wi-Fi, operates even in the rain, and welcomes children.
Our tip: Please contact us in advance to arrange your visit and book your Day Use, as the experience is subject to availability.
For more information, please contact us by phone. (48) 9996-5966 or via Instagram @oficinadeceramicaacoriana.
Stop 5: Discover the flavors of Engenho Cachaça do Imperador
After getting your hands dirty and learning a little more about our culture, how about discovering another tradition that is also part of the identity of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz?
Our fifth stop is at Emperor's Cachaça Distillery, located at Rua Vale das Termas, 1300.
Here, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere, one that invites you to slow down, chat, and discover stories about the artisanal production of cachaça and liqueurs.
During your visit, take the opportunity to learn about the work of Helium, Discover interesting facts about the production process and understand the care that goes into making each beverage.
And look at this: the beverages produced by the distillery have already won awards in important competitions, such as the... Expocachaça and the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles.
For those who appreciate a good cachaça, the visit can also include the discovery of different aromas and flavors. But even those who don't usually drink the beverage can enjoy the tour to learn about a local tradition and take home handcrafted products as souvenirs of their trip.
The Emperor's Cachaça Distillery operates from Tuesday to Friday, from 9 am to 12 pm and from 1 pm to 5:30 pm; Saturdays, from 9 am to 5 pm; and Sundays, from 10 am to 1 pm.. It remains closed on Mondays.
Entry is free, the space offers guided tours, parking, wheelchair accessibility, and accepts pets.
For more information, please contact us by phone. (48) 99682-8386 or via Instagram @cachacadoimperador.
Our tip: Since the mill closes at 5 pm on Saturdays, plan your visit to arrive early and enjoy the experience in peace.
And remember: if you're going to drive, leave the alcoholic tasting for another time and take your favorite flavors home to enjoy!
Stop 6: End the day relaxing in the thermal waters of the Bathhouse.
After a full day discovering stories, meeting artists, tasting flavors, and experiencing new things, it's time to enjoy one of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz's most famous attractions.
And let's face it: is there a better way to end a day of sightseeing than relaxing in a warm bath?
Our last stop is at Bathroom, located in Caldas da Imperatriz, one of the most traditional places in the municipality and a great choice to end the itinerary.
The space is located next to the Caldas da Imperatriz Hotel, in Princess Leopoldina Street, 3333, and it includes 14 bathtubs, some with hydromassage.. The water arrives directly from the source, at a temperature of 39.8 °C.
Each shower lasts 20 minutes, time to take a break, relax and enjoy an experience that is part of the city's tourist identity.
And there's a historical tidbit that makes this stop even more special!
The Hotel Caldas da Imperatriz is linked to the history of the first initiatives to utilize thermal waters in Brazil. It all began during the colonial period, with a decree by Dom João VI on March 18, 1818, for the construction of a hospital intended for the use of the region's waters.
The resort also holds memories of the visit of Emperor Pedro II and Empress Teresa Cristina, In 1845, an event that helped shape the history and identity of the municipality.
The historic bathtubs belong to the Hotel Caldas da Imperatriz and are for the exclusive use of hotel guests. However, those just passing through can enjoy the other bathtubs in the Bathhouse, paying for the service.
The Bathhouse is open. Every day, from 8 am to 7 pm., and the baths cost from R$ 25.00.
The space is wheelchair accessible, has parking and free Wi-Fi, and is also child-friendly.
To book or ask questions, please contact us by phone. (48) 3281-9000.
Our tip? Save this moment for the end of your tour. After a day full of discoveries, a dip in the thermal waters is the perfect invitation to relax and end your visit with one of the most traditional experiences in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz.
What if it's on a weekday?
Can't visit Santo Amaro da Imperatriz on the weekend? No problem! The itinerary can also be enjoyed during the week, but it's worth keeping an eye on a few details to better organize your trip.
A Bathroom and the Mother Church They operate every day, so you can keep those stops without worry. To learn more about... Atelier Sebastião da Cruz and participate in Azorean Ceramics Workshop, We recommend contacting us in advance to confirm availability and schedule your experience.
O Emperor's Cachaça Distillery It is closed on Mondays, but receives visitors from Tuesday to Friday, from 9 am to 12 pm and from 1 pm to 5:30 pm. If you want to end your day there, try to arrive with enough time to enjoy your visit.
And regardless of the day chosen, our advice is the same: Confirm the schedules before leaving and enjoy each stop at your own pace! Ultimately, Santo Amaro da Imperatriz has much more to offer than can be contained in a single day.
What if you enjoy adventure or are with children?
One day isn't enough for everything, but we've included a few extras for you to fit into your itinerary, swapping them for one of the stops mentioned above.
Caldas da Imperatriz Water Park. Located next to the historic Hotel Caldas, at Rua Princesa Leopoldina, 3131, it guarantees fun for the whole family. It features a thermal water pool (adult and children's), natural pools, a mini playground, a kiosk with drinks and snacks, parking, and changing rooms. Barbecue grills and a party hall are available for rent. Admission starts at... R$ 12.50. It operates from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 am to 6 pm (closed on Mondays).
Hot air balloon ride. An experience for those who want to see the region from above! The flights last approximately 40 minutes, take place daily by appointment, and always begin at sunrise, between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. The tour includes breakfast, transportation, digital photos, a sparkling wine toast, and individual insurance. It's for anyone over 5 years old (except pregnant women) and costs... from R$ 655.00 per person. It is operated by Rosa dos Ventos Balonismo, and the contact number is (48) 98156-4897.
Rafting on the Cubatao River. For those seeking excitement on the crystal-clear waters of the Cubatão River in Caldas da Imperatriz, Apuama Rafting offers experiences that combine adventure and environmental education. Contact them via WhatsApp at (48) 99148-5865 to find out about the options available for your group.
Quick tips before leaving home
- Clothing and footwear: Bring a swimsuit and towel for the bathhouse, and comfortable shoes for walking around the city center.
- Cash and card: Some smaller places may have different payment methods, so it's worth checking beforehand.
- Schedule what needs scheduling: Day use for ceramics, hot air ballooning, and rafting requires reservations.
- Look at the weather: Many things operate even in the rain (bathhouse, church, studio, workshop, and sugar mill), which makes the itinerary a good plan even on a cloudy day.
- Please confirm the opening hours: They can change. When in doubt, check the website. visitsantoamaro.com.br It's always up to date.
And now? I warned you: you'll want to stay a little longer.
If you've followed the itinerary so far, you should feel light-headed, your camera is full, you have a piece of pottery drying, and most likely, you're thinking: "Can I stay another day?". The answer is yes, you can!
Santo Amaro da Imperatriz has much more to offer: hiking trails, waterfalls, paragliding, hot air balloon rides at sunrise, and the mountains of Serra do Tabuleiro await you. And the best way to enjoy all of this is to stay a little longer!
And where to stay in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz? Don't worry, we'll help you!
The municipality offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all travel styles. There are hotels with thermal waters for those seeking rest and well-being, cozy inns for a romantic getaway, and lodgings surrounded by nature for those who want to slow down and enjoy every moment.
To make your choice easier, we've gathered several options in the tab. “Where to stay”from our official tourism website. There, you can explore the establishments, check out their facilities, and find the accommodation that best suits your trip.
And look, here's a tip: One day is enough to fall in love with Santo Amaro da Imperatriz, but staying longer is the best way to discover everything that makes our town so special!
So that's it: the day in Santo Amaro da Imperatriz ends, but the desire to return remains. When you decide to stay a little longer, we'll already be here, with open doors and hot water waiting.
