Making the most of Vitoria
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The Port of Vitória is Brazil's most difficult port for ships to reach. The Bay of Vitória is exceptionally narrow, and its stones and mountains make access to the docks difficult for freighters and maritime cruisers.
The port is now used mainly by cruise ships and for repairing ships and oil platforms.
Vitória, capital of Brazil's Espírito Santo state, stands on a small island in a bay where several rivers meet the sea. It was founded in 1551.
Tree-lined streets and a fine sea front run along Camburi beach, which is six kilometers long and suited to jogging or walking. Beside Camburi is Canto beach, home to the two well known squares of Desejo and Namorados. This area has Vitória's liveliest bars and finest restaurants.
Nearby places
Vila Velha, the first place in Espírito Santo to be colonized, lies south of Vitória across the river. See Convento da Penha, high on the densely forested 154m Morro da Penha. It has magnificent panoramic views across the city, and its chapel, founded in 1558, is not too bad either. It is a major pilgrimage destination, so expect crowds around Easter paying homage to NS da Penha, with some climbing the hill on their knees.
Food and shopping
Capixaba Market is a shopping source for wicker, sisal, shells, liana and pottery, including ceramics typical of the state. For the most traditional ceramic pottery, head to Goiabeiras, a district in the north of the city.
Money
Currency: Brazilian Real
Staying connected
Portuguese is spoken.
Many parks offer free WiFi.
Opening Hours and
Most stores and businesses have basic hours of 9am to 6pm, with a longer lunch break from around noon to 2pm.
Museums are often closed on monday.