A Day Around Florianópolis: Private Tour Highlights and Insights

If you’re looking to see the highlights of Florianópolis without the hassle of navigating on your own, this private 6-hour tour offers a well-balanced blend of iconic sights, scenic views, and local flavor. For around $154 per person, you’ll get personalized attention from a dedicated guide, with plenty of time to explore at your own pace—plus the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. This tour is designed to be flexible, ensuring your interests shape the experience, whether you’re into stunning beaches, historical neighborhoods, or panoramic viewpoints.

What really sets this experience apart are two things: First, the personalized attention from your guide, which means you’re not just a face in a crowd. Second, the customizable itinerary allows you to prioritize what excites you most about Florianópolis, whether that’s surfing, history, or simply soaking in views. The only potential consideration? With only six hours, you’ll be covering quite a bit, so if you crave a deep dive into one particular area, this might be a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

This private tour works best for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of the island’s key sights in a single day. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who values comfort and flexibility. If you prefer a structured group with set stops, it’s worth noting this is a fully private experience, ensuring your group’s pace and interests always come first.

Key Points

Private, customizable experience tailored to your preferences
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for maximum convenience
Visit top sights like Lagoa da Conceição, Joaquina Beach, and Santo Antônio de Lisboa
Learn about local culture and history from a knowledgeable guide
Spectacular viewpoints and photo opportunities at various stops
Affordable for a private tour offering excellent value

Exploring Florianópolis in a Day: An In-Depth Look

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Florianopolis

The Convenience of a Private, Customized Tour

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the personalized touch. A dedicated guide like Lidia (mentioned in reviews) makes all the difference. Knowing that your guide’s full attention is on your group means you can ask questions, skip stops you’re not interested in, or linger longer at favorites. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off means no wasting time figuring out how to get to the starting point—you’re picked up directly at your accommodation, which is a real time-saver and comfort boost.

What You’ll Cover in Just Six Hours

This tour packs in a lot, and that’s part of its appeal—a whirlwind overview of Florianópolis’s most iconic spots. You start in the Centro Historico, where you can admire the cathedral and explore the public market—perfect for soaking in local life and perhaps grabbing a snack or souvenir. The history here is palpable, and your guide will share insights about the island’s past, making it more than just snapshots.

Next, crossing the Hercilio Luz Bridge—an engineering marvel—gives you a sense of the island’s connection to the mainland. It’s a quick drive inside the steel structure, giving you a vivid sense of its scale and beauty.

The Coastal and Natural Highlights

From there, it’s on to the Lagoa da Conceição, a favorite for many. You’ll stop at a viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of one of the island’s most famous lagoons, renowned for its calm waters and vibrant scenery. Driving along its shoreline, you get a sense of both the natural beauty and the lively atmosphere, often buzzing with water sports.

Joaquina Beach is next—famous worldwide for its surfing waves. We loved the way the tour highlights this spot’s dual appeal: a surfing paradise for thrill-seekers and a stunning stretch of sand for sunbathers and photographers. It’s a lively scene, full of surfers catching barrels, and you’ll get ample time to breathe in the salty air and watch the waves.

Discovering Local Culture and History

Moving inland, the tour visits Santo Antônio de Lisboa, a charming neighborhood that feels like stepping back in time. Colonial houses line the narrow streets, and the 18th-century church offers a glimpse into the area’s past. Here, you get sweeping bay views, making it a perfect place for photos and to appreciate the blend of history and scenery.

While you're exploring Florianopolis, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Upscale Neighborhood of Jurere

The tour wraps up in Jurere, a neighborhood of luxurious mansions and quiet beaches. This part of the tour is ideal if you’re interested in seeing how the wealthy enjoy this island, or simply want to relax and take in the tranquil surroundings. The peaceful ambiance contrasts nicely with the lively beaches earlier in the day, giving a rounded picture of life on the island.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Feedback

A key reason travelers love this tour is the authentic, local perspective the guides offer. One reviewer raved about her day with Lidia, sharing that it was “phenomenal” and that the tour allowed her family to see the most important sites while learning about the island’s history. The small group size and private format foster a comfortable environment where questions are encouraged and your interests shape the day.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $153.85 per person, the price reflects a high level of personalization and convenience. For what you get—private transport, a knowledgeable guide, and a flexible itinerary—it’s quite reasonable, especially compared to joining a larger bus tour. Remember, the tour lasts about 6 hours, so plan accordingly with comfortable shoes and an appetite for a full, engaging day.

While lunch isn’t included, the stops at popular spots like Joaquina Beach and Santo Antônio de Lisboa offer plenty of opportunities for casual bites and local snacks. Bottled water is provided, keeping you refreshed as you explore.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to Florianópolis, want the comfort of a private guide, and enjoy customizing your daily itinerary, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for families, first-timers, or travelers who value local insights and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a deep dive into one specific area or activity (like surfing or hiking), this tour might serve better as a stepping stone.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Florianópolis, balancing scenic views, local culture, and history—all with the flexibility you won’t find on larger group excursions. It’s a great choice for those who want to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed, especially with a guide who can tailor the day to your interests.

Whether it’s the stunning vistas at Lagoa da Conceição, the surf-ready waves at Joaquina, or the colonial charm of Santo Antônio de Lisboa, you’ll leave with a collection of memories—and plenty of great photos.

Travelers who appreciate personalized service, are comfortable with a moderate physical pace, and like the idea of experiencing a mix of natural beauty and local culture will find this tour a smart and enjoyable way to spend a day on Florianópolis.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you a good overview without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. The tour is private and flexible, so your guide will tailor the experience to your interests.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention family groups, and the moderate pace makes it family-friendly. Just bring comfortable shoes.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bottled water is provided, but you might want to bring sunscreen and a camera.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While the tour covers outdoor sites and some walking, it’s best to check with the provider about specific mobility needs.

Choosing this private tour of Florianópolis means gaining a personalized, relaxed, and well-rounded view of one of Brazil’s most charming islands. It’s an excellent introduction for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a comprehensive yet intimate experience.