Before you go
Your trip to São José.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
São José – SC Destination Florianópolis and Santa Catarina Island about 8 km from Florianópolis
How to get there
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Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis (FLN) Florianópolis · 20 km
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Terminal Rodoviário Rita Maria Florianópolis · 9 km
Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.
São José is 8 km from downtown Florianópolis, on the mainland, just past the bridges. Metropolitan buses leave from the terminal in downtown Florianópolis. The nearest airport is Florianópolis, about 20 km away.
How many days
A morning covers the historic center, the museum and the theater. The town works as an outing from Florianópolis.
When to go
Year-round. The best day is the Sunday of the Feira da Freguesia (a fair), held once a month in the historic center square, except in January, when the museum also opens. The town's anniversary is on March 19, São José's day, and the Festa do Divino takes place in late May at the main church.
Do you need a car?
Not in the historic center: everything is around Praça Hercílio Luz and can be done on foot. To get there from Florianópolis, take a bus, car or ride-hailing app.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in São José
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Morning
Historic Center
The square with the 1765 main church, the Azorean houses and the Bica da Carioca (public fountain).
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Morning
Museu Histórico Gilberto Gerlach
In the townhouse where Emperor Dom Pedro II stayed. Closed on Saturdays.
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Afternoon
Theatro Adolpho Mello
The oldest theater in Santa Catarina. Outside of performances, visits are by appointment.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
Is the museum open on weekends?
Not on Saturdays. On Sundays, only on the day of the Feira da Freguesia. On weekdays it opens normally, and admission is free.
Can I visit the inside of the theater?
Yes, by appointment, on weekdays and on the fair Sunday. The visit is free.
What's the best day to go?
The Sunday of the Feira da Freguesia, held once a month in the square, except in January. On that day downtown is lively and the museum opens.