Florianopolis

Florianopolis is the capital city and second largest city of Santa Catarina state in the southern region of Brazil, South America. It is linked with the mainland by the Colombo Sales Bridge.

Attractions here mainly centre around the many great beaches, which include Matadeiro, Praia da Guarda and Forte to name a few.

Activities include kitesurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving.

Museums include the Museu do Naufragio, Forte Sant'Anna e Museu and the Palacio Cruz e Sousa which houses the Museu Historico Santa Catarina.

In the city centre, near Palácio Cruz e Sousa, is the Cathedral, which dates back to 1750.

Families with children may enjoy The Tamar Project, a small organisation which supports research and preservation of the birth places of baby turtles or a visit to the Aqua Show Park.

Shopping can be found on Felipe Schmidt, a pedestrian street or at an open air shopping centre at Jurere Beach Resort (complimentary shopping shuttle accessible from the jetty). Local handicrafts are a good buy.

Restaurants serve a wide range of food, from local dishes and fresh seafood, to international favourites such as sushi, Italian, Asian, Mexican and fast food options.

Cruise ships need to anchor and tender passengers ashore.

Taxis are available at nearby resort hotels.

Car hire is also available and is a good option for exploring the nearby area.

Buses can be caught from the terminal at Rua Francisco Tolentino. Yellow micro buses are slightly more expensive but have fewer stops, are air conditioned and also head to the northern beaches.