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Farol Santander: A Beacon of Art, Culture, and History in São Paulo

Experience São Paulo from above! Art, culture, and panoramic views await at the iconic Farol Santander, a historic landmark reborn as a modern cultural hub.

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Farol Santander, formerly known as the Banespa Tower, is an iconic skyscraper in São Paulo's historic center. Inspired by the Empire State Building, this Art Deco landmark offers panoramic city views, art exhibitions, and cultural experiences. Once the tallest building in Latin America, it now stands as a vibrant hub blending history with modern creativity.

A brief summary to Farol Santander

  • Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-8 pm
  • Friday 9 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or exhibitions before your visit.
  • Take advantage of the observation deck for stunning panoramic views of São Paulo.
  • Santander cardholders receive a 10% discount on tickets and select items.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The closest metro station to Farol Santander is São Bento (Line 1 - Blue). From the station, it's a short walk to the tower. São Paulo public transportation including buses and subway now costs R$5.00 - R$5.20. Purchase tickets at the ticket booths inside the Metro stations.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the central area, simply navigate to Rua João Brícola. Look for landmarks like the São Paulo Cathedral or the Edifício Martinelli, and head towards the area between them. Walk along Rua São Bento until you reach the intersection with Rua João Brícola, then turn left. Farol Santander will be on your right at number 24.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available in Sao Paulo and can drop you off directly at the tower. A 5km ride in Sao Paulo costs about 25.6 BRL. The starting price of a taxi in Sao Paulo is 5.6 BRL and each KM is then priced at 4.0 BRL.

Unlock the Best of Farol Santander

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Discover more about Farol Santander

Farol Santander, located in the heart of São Paulo, is more than just a building; it's a journey through the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Originally built as the headquarters for Banco do Estado de São Paulo (Banespa) and completed in 1947, the tower was inspired by the Art Deco architecture of New York's Empire State Building. For nearly two decades, it reigned as the tallest building in São Paulo, standing at an impressive 161 meters. In 2000, Banco Santander acquired the building and transformed it into a center for culture, tourism, leisure, and gastronomy. Reopened in January 2018, Farol Santander now hosts art exhibits, interactive installations, and a rooftop observation deck offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the sprawling cityscape. Visitors can explore the building's 35 floors, each offering unique experiences. From the basement's Bar do Cofre to the 31st-floor kitchen, there are cultural, educational, and recreational activities for everyone. The 24th to 19th floors feature art galleries with temporary exhibitions by national and international artists. The Memory Space retraces the building's history, while the 21st floor houses a skate park designed by Bob Burnquist. Farol Santander is easily accessible and provides a unique perspective on São Paulo's past, present, and future. It stands as a symbol of the city's ambition, resilience, and creativity, blending historical charm with modern facilities.

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