Things To Do
in Natal
Natal is a sun-soaked coastal city in northeastern Brazil, famed for its sandy shores and historic forts. It blends lively urban neighborhoods with expansive dunes and crystal-clear lagoons. The city offers rich seafood cuisine, vibrant markets, and a gateway to nearby natural wonders like Genipabu and Parque das Dunas.
Visitors enjoy warm hospitality, year-round sunshine, and a relaxed tropical vibe that makes it easy to linger.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Igreja do Rosário, a stunning baroque church that encapsulates the city's colonial past. Stroll through the vibrant streets of the historic center, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and charming shops. Stop by a local café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast, enjoying fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee.
After lunch, head to the Museu Camara Cascudo, where you can delve into the rich culture and history of Rio Grande do Norte. Explore the nearby Forte dos Reis Magos, a 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the Potengi River and the Atlantic Ocean. Spend some time in the Praça André de Albuquerque, where you can observe local life and perhaps catch a lively street performance.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Northeastern cuisine, such as carne de sol and macaxeira. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade of Praia dos Artistas, soaking in the ocean breeze and vibrant atmosphere. End your night with a visit to a local bar featuring live forró music, dancing the night away with friendly locals.
Kick off your day at Ponta Negra Beach, known for its stunning views of Morro do Careca, a giant sand dune. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm waters or relax on the soft sand with a good book. Indulge in a light breakfast at one of the beachside kiosks, sampling tropical fruits and fresh juices.
After soaking up the sun, try your hand at some water sports such as paddleboarding or jet skiing along the coastline. For lunch, savor a delicious seafood meal at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the fresh catch of the day. Spend some time exploring the local shops and artisanal stands that line the beach, picking up unique souvenirs.
As the day winds down, take a sunset stroll along the beach, watching the sky change colors over the ocean. Dine at a popular seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes and fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. Cap off the evening with a cocktail at a beach bar, mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi start (mid-range ride) | $1-2 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.75-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and dunes
- Vibrant seafood cuisine
- Relatively affordable for NE Brazil
- Friendly local culture
- Hot and humid climate can be tiring
- Seasonal rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
- Tourist crowds during peak beach season
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Natal
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic dune and coastline offering golden hour silhouettes.
Historic fortress with the river mouth as a dramatic backdrop.
Expansive sand dunes and subtropical forest with varied trails and viewpoints.
Rolling dunes and turquoise lagoon ideal for dynamic landscape shots.
Food in Natal
Natal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Regional fish stew made with coconut milk, palm oil, peppers, and fresh fish, typically served with rice and farofa.
Must-Try!
Salt-cured beef served with manioc (macaxeira), a quintessential northeast combination.
Rice and beans with cheese and sometimes dried meat, a staple in the region.
Savory or sweet tapioca crepes sold by street vendors, perfect for a quick snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh seafood, regional ingredients, and handmade crafts.
Night market area with stalls selling snacks, crafts, and local bites along the beachfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake and a friendly 'bom dia/tarde/noite' are common; address people by title and surname when appropriate.
Dress modestly in religious sites; beachwear is fine on beaches but not in town centers.
Safety
Tipping in Natal
Ensure a smooth experience
Approximately 10-15% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Cash or cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and street vendors; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect regular showers, especially in the afternoons; pack a lightweight rain jacket and quick-drying gear.
Long sunny days with lower humidity; great for beach time but stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Natal at Night
Hiking in Natal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular forest-dune loop with shade and dunes; accessible for a half-day hike.
Dune trails offering scenic viewpoints; part of a larger dune system.
Volcanic crater hike a bit farther from Natal; ideal for a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Natal by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway to Natal, located in São Gonçalo do Amarante; taxis and rideshares connect to the city center in about 20-40 minutes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents identify as mixed heritage, reflecting the region's diverse roots.
European-descended and Afro-Brazilian communities contribute to the city’s cultural fabric.
A steady influx of visitors from across Brazil and beyond, especially during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and beach side pick-up matches are common.
Widespread on many beaches, especially Ponta Negra and Meio Beach.
Strong coastal winds make Natal a great spot for board sports.
A cultural and athletic showcase found in parks and cultural spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Natal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose tapioca, rice and beans, moqueca de palmito, fresh fruit bowls; ask for dairy-free options and avoid heavy manteiga.