Tourist Cities in Santa Catarina: Complete Guide to Explore the State

Santa Catarina is one of Brazil’s most captivating states, offering landscapes that range from crystal-clear beaches to mountains covered with araucaria trees. When planning a trip through the region, one question always arises: which are the tourist cities in Santa Catarina truly worth visiting? The answer depends on the kind of experience each traveler seeks — and that’s precisely what makes this state so fascinating.

Between chilly mountain towns in winter, lively beaches in summer, and cities that preserve strong European traditions, the tourist cities in Santa Catarina form a cultural and natural mosaic unlike any other in Brazil. The state is filled with destinations for those who seek relaxation, adventure, authentic cuisine, or simply a change of scenery to recharge and get inspired.

Read more: Travel Guide to visit Santa Catarina

But with so many options available, travelers often face a dilemma: how to choose the right places to visit and create a balanced itinerary? In this guide, you’ll discover the main tourist cities in Santa Catarina, understand what makes each one special, and learn how to plan a journey that combines nature, culture, and memorable experiences — all at a tranquil pace.

The Traveler’s Challenge: Choosing Between Sea, Mountains, and Tradition

Santa Catarina may be small in size, but it’s vast in diversity. In just a few hours of driving, you can leave the warm coastline and reach cities where temperatures drop close to zero. This proximity between such different landscapes creates the traveler’s first challenge: what to prioritize in a single trip?

While the coast invites you to swim and stroll along the sand, the Serra Catarinense (Catarinense Mountains) enchant visitors with their cool climate, wineries, and breathtaking views. In between, the Vale Europeu (European Valley) region preserves colonial traditions, local festivals, and architecture reminiscent of Germany or Italy.

Exploring Santa Catarina requires more than a desire to travel — it calls for good planning and smart choices. The secret lies in understanding each destination’s personality and combining contrasting experiences to create a balanced journey between relaxation and discovery.

Tourist Cities on the Coast of Santa Catarina

Balneário Camboriú

One of southern Brazil’s most visited destinations, Balneário Camboriú blends urban sophistication with coastal charm. The skyline of tall buildings, vibrant nightlife, and well-kept beaches make it a top choice for travelers. Beyond the Central Beach, don’t miss the FG Big Wheel — one of the tallest observation wheels in Latin America — and the Morro do Careca viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the bay.

Florianópolis

Santa Catarina’s capital is a diverse destination with more than 40 beaches, lush trails, sand dunes, and traditional fishing villages that preserve Azorean culture. Lagoa da Conceição is a lively hub for visitors, while beaches like Joaquina and Campeche attract surfers and nature lovers. The city is also famous for its seafood cuisine and its perfect blend of urban energy and island calm.

Bombinhas

With white sands and transparent sea, Bombinhas is ideal for travelers seeking direct contact with nature. Beaches such as Mariscal, Sepultura, and Quatro Ilhas are perfect for snorkeling and diving. As the city is located on a peninsula with limited vehicle access, its natural environment remains preserved, offering a peaceful experience.

Tourist Cities in the Serra Catarinense

Urubici

Nestled in the Serra do Rio do Rastro, Urubici is a top winter destination. Its cold weather and dramatic rock formations create a stunning backdrop for outdoor exploration. Highlights include Pedra Furada, Morro da Igreja, and the Avencal Waterfall — some of the state’s most iconic landmarks. In winter, frost and even snow are not uncommon sights.

São Joaquim

Famous for its vineyards and orchards, São Joaquim is one of Brazil’s coldest cities and a highlight for wine tourism. Visitors can tour local wineries, enjoy tastings, and admire mist-covered landscapes that make the experience even more charming.

Tourist Cities in the European Valley

Blumenau

Blumenau is one of the most famous tourist cities in Santa Catarina, known worldwide for its Oktoberfest. Yet, there’s more to discover beyond the festival: half-timbered architecture, museums, and traditional German cuisine make it feel like a piece of Europe in southern Brazil.

Pomerode

Small, charming, and welcoming, Pomerode proudly preserves the culture of its German settlers. The city’s entrance portal and its well-preserved timber-frame houses are local icons. The Enxaimel Route, in the city’s rural area, is considered one of Brazil’s most authentic cultural experiences.

The Guide and the Solution: How to Plan Your Trip Through Santa Catarina

The best way to explore the tourist cities in Santa Catarina is to create an itinerary that combines the coast and the mountains, allowing you to experience the state’s full diversity. Travelers can fly into Florianópolis, Navegantes, or Jaguaruna airports, which provide easy access to all regions.

Plan your trip according to the season: summer is ideal for beach destinations, while winter transforms the mountain towns into cozy getaways. Regardless of the time of year, Santa Catarina offers excellent tourist infrastructure, safe roads, and warm hospitality that make every visit unforgettable.

Exploring the tourist cities in Santa Catarina means discovering a state full of contrasts and stories. From ocean to highlands, from European heritage to natural wonders, every destination reveals a unique piece of this southern gem. Santa Catarina is more than a place to visit — it’s a continuous invitation to connect, experience, and be inspired.