Discover what to do at Farol Santander with tips from Brasil ATM
Are you planning a visit to Farol Santander in São Paulo and want to know what to do there? Today, Brasil ATM will show you unmissable options to make the most of this incredible tourist spot in the São Paulo capital.
Located in the heart of São Paulo’s historic center, Farol Santander is much more than just a building. With its impressive 161 meters in height, this iconic skyscraper was inaugurated in 1947 and was once considered the tallest building in the city. Today, transformed into a cultural and leisure center, Farol Santander offers a unique experience for residents and tourists.
An attraction that combines history, art, culture, and a breathtaking view of Brazil’s largest metropolis. See below a list of 9 activity tips for you to enjoy the attraction.
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ATM24h in Brazil
| Where | Location |
|---|---|
| Curitiba | See all the points here |
| Rio de Janeiro | See all the points here |
| Porto Alegre | See all the points here |
| São Paulo | See all the points here |
9 activities to do at Farol Santander
Farol Santander is one of São Paulo’s most impressive tourist attractions, offering a unique experience that combines history, culture, and breathtaking views. From contemporary art exhibitions to a panoramic viewpoint of the city, Farol Santander has attractions for all tastes.
Brasil ATM has selected the 9 best options for those wondering what to do at Farol Santander to make the most of your visit to this icon of the São Paulo capital. See below:
1. Go up to the observation deck and be enchanted by the panoramic view
The first mandatory stop at Farol Santander is the observation deck on the 26th floor. From up there, you’ll have a breathtaking view of São Paulo. You can see the main points of the city, such as the Sé Cathedral and Ibirapuera Park. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture this moment!
The observation deck offers a unique experience, allowing you to observe the city from a privileged angle. On clear days, visibility can reach more than 40 km, revealing the vastness of South America’s largest metropolis. Take advantage of the available binoculars to identify other famous landmarks in the city, such as the Copan Building and the Municipal Theater.
2. Learn about the building’s history in the interactive museum
Go down to the 3rd floor and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Farol Santander. The interactive museum tells everything about the construction of the building and its importance to São Paulo. You’ll be surprised by the curiosities and architectural details of this iconic building.
The museum uses cutting-edge technology to provide an immersive experience for visitors. Through touchscreen displays, augmented reality, and 3D projections, you can explore each phase of the building’s construction and understand its role in São Paulo’s urban evolution. Don’t miss the interactive model that shows how the building stands out in the city’s skyline.
3. Explore contemporary art exhibitions
Farol Santander always has incredible contemporary art exhibitions. Take a stroll through the floors dedicated to the shows and discover works by national and international artists. It’s a great opportunity to expand your cultural horizons while discovering what to do at Farol Santander.
The exhibitions are renewed periodically, ensuring that each visit is a unique experience. You’ll find everything from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations and live performances. Stay tuned to the schedule, as the space frequently hosts shows by renowned artists and promotes the work of emerging talents from the Brazilian art scene.
4. Take a guided tour of the building
Want to know even more about Farol Santander? Join a guided tour! The guides are super prepared and will tell you stories and curiosities that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s an enriching and fun experience.
During the tour, you’ll have access to areas normally closed to the public, such as the former boardroom and the original bank vaults. The guides share fascinating details about the building’s art deco architecture and reveal secrets about its construction and the personalities who have passed through there. Don’t forget to ask questions – the guides love to share their knowledge and passion for Farol Santander.
5. Relax at the café with a view of the historic center
After so much exploration, how about a break? The Farol Santander café has a beautiful view of São Paulo’s historic center. Take the opportunity to have a coffee, eat a snack, and recharge your energy for the rest of the tour.
The café offers a selection of drinks and snacks that go beyond the traditional. Try the exclusive coffee blends, prepared with selected beans from different regions of Brazil. To accompany, taste the delicious sweet and savory options, many of them inspired by São Paulo cuisine. While savoring your snack, enjoy the panoramic view and observe the comings and goings of the city below.
6. Participate in events and workshops
Farol Santander always has a busy cultural program. Keep an eye on the calendar of events and workshops. You can participate in lectures, art workshops, or even music shows. It’s a chance to learn something new and have fun at the same time!
The events are carefully selected to offer enriching experiences to visitors. From urban photography workshops, taking advantage of the building’s privileged view, to lectures with renowned architects and historians about São Paulo’s development. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in yoga sessions on the terrace or intimate concerts in the Farol’s auditorium.
7. Take amazing photos on the terrace
At the top of the building, you’ll find a perfect terrace for taking incredible photos. The sunset seen from here is simply spectacular. Take the opportunity to take that selfie with the city of São Paulo as a backdrop.
The terrace is equipped with informative panels that help identify the main points of the city visible from there. For amateur and professional photographers, there are specific spots marked on the floor, indicating the best angles to capture stunning images. Be sure to visit the terrace at different times of the day – the view changes dramatically from dawn to dusk, offering unique scenarios for your photos.
8. Shop at the souvenir store
Before leaving, don’t forget to stop by Farol Santander’s souvenir shop. You’ll find super cool souvenirs to take home or give to friends. There’s everything from postcards to miniature replicas of the building itself.
The store offers a variety of exclusive products, many of them created by local artists in collaboration with Farol Santander. You’ll find everything from design pieces inspired by the building’s architecture to books about São Paulo’s history. For coffee lovers, there are special blends packaged in decorative cans with iconic images of the Farol. Don’t forget to check out the collection of t-shirts and bags with creative prints that celebrate São Paulo culture.
9. Explore the surroundings of Farol Santander
Farol Santander is located in the heart of São Paulo’s historic center. Take the opportunity to stroll around the area and discover what to do there, such as visiting Pátio do Colégio, Praça da Sé, and the Municipal Market.
The center of São Paulo is a true open-air museum, full of fascinating history and architecture. A few steps from the Farol, you’ll find the São Bento Monastery, famous for its stained glass windows and masses with Gregorian chant.
Don’t forget to also visit the Municipal Theater, one of the most beautiful examples of eclectic architecture in the city. For urban art lovers, the region offers several murals and graffiti by renowned artists, transforming the streets into an open-air gallery.
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FAQ
When thinking about what to do at Farol Santander, visiting the observation deck on the 26th floor is a must. There, you’ll have a breathtaking panoramic view of São Paulo, being able to spot the main tourist attractions of the city. Read more.
Yes, Farol Santander offers various cultural options. You can explore contemporary art exhibitions, visit the interactive museum about the building’s history, and participate in workshops and various cultural events. Read more.
To relax, you can enjoy the café with a view of the historic center, where you can savor a snack and recharge your energy. Read more.
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