Things To Do
in Recife
Recife, Brazil sits on the Atlantic coast in the state of Pernambuco, famed for its intricate river delta and a lively historic core. The city blends colonial architecture with vibrant modern neighborhoods and a waterfront skyline that comes alive at sunset. It hosts a rich cultural scene rooted in frevo, maracatu, and superb regional cuisine centered on fresh seafood.
The surrounding area adds depth with Olinda’s UNESCO-listed streets just a short drive away, making Recife a coastal gateway to northeastern Brazil.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Praça do Marco Zero, where you can admire the stunning views of the ocean and the colorful colonial architecture surrounding the square. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets to the nearby Rua do Bom Jesus, famous for its vibrant houses and art galleries. Don't forget to stop at the Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, the first synagogue in the Americas, to learn about its rich history.
For lunch, savor traditional Pernambucan cuisine at a local restaurant, indulging in dishes like bolo de rolo and carne de sol. Post-lunch, explore the Museu do Frevo, a museum dedicated to the energetic dance and music of frevo, a hallmark of Recife's Carnaval. Take a leisurely walk along the Capibaribe River, enjoying the scenic views and watching local artists at work.
As the sun sets, head to the vibrant neighborhood of Boa Viagem, where you can enjoy a beachfront dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you taste fresh catch and sip on caipirinhas while listening to live music. Finish your night with a stroll along the beach, feeling the ocean breeze and soaking in the lively ambiance.
Begin your day at the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, a stunning cultural institution housed in a castle-like structure surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the impressive collection of art and artifacts, including works by Dutch painter Frans Post and a vast array of historical weaponry. Wander through the meticulously curated gardens, taking in the lush flora and tranquil atmosphere.
Enjoy lunch at the museum's café, where you can savor local dishes while overlooking the picturesque grounds. Afterward, head to the nearby Museu do Estado de Pernambuco to delve deeper into the history and culture of the state through its diverse exhibitions. Engage with local artists and artisans in the museum's workshop area, where you can learn about traditional crafts.
In the evening, return to the city center and indulge in a culinary experience at a renowned restaurant that specializes in contemporary Brazilian cuisine. As you dine, listen to stories from the chef about the inspirations behind each dish, showcasing local ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a performance of traditional music or dance at a nearby cultural venue, immersing yourself in Pernambuco's rich artistic heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night, mid-range) | $40-90 |
| 🚆Public transport pass (monthly) | $25-45 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural scene with music, art, and history
- Excellent seafood and Northeastern regional dishes
- Close proximity to Olinda and other coastal towns
- Warm to hot climate year-round with humidity
- Traffic can be heavy in peak hours
- Certain areas can be crowded and tourist-focused
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Boa tarde" - Good afternoon
- "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 Recife
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square at Recife Antigo with the port, colorful boats, and the skyline—especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Vibrant hillside views, radiantly colored houses, and centuries-old churches offering dramatic photo angles.
Historic port area with neoclassical buildings, stairways to the river, and street art—great for architectural photography.
Long sandy beach with palm trees and morning light reflecting on the Atlantic; ideal for seascapes.
A castle-like complex with tranquil courtyards, towers, and sculpture gardens—excellent for architectural photography.
Food in Recife
Recife Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sun-dried beef served with mashed cassava (macaxeira); a regional staple found in many restaurants featuring Northeast cuisine.
Must-Try!
A thin, rolled cake with guava jam, a Pernambuco specialty often enjoyed with coffee.
A hearty mix of rice and beans cooked with queijo coalho or dried meat; a Northeast classic served in many casasRegionais.
Fish simmered in coconut milk with regional herbs and vegetables, a coastal favorite.
Grilled queijo coalho skewered and finished with a drizzle of honey; a popular snack at markets and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in Recife Antigo offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, spices, and regional snacks like tapioca and bolo de rolo.
Outdoor stalls around Recife Antigo where you can try tapioca, coconuts water, fresh fish, and regional pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or cheek kiss among friends; address adults with Senhor/Senhora; use polite phrases like boa tarde/boa noite.
Dress casually but respectfully for churches and religious sites; modesty is appreciated in traditional neighborhoods; avoid loud behavior in sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Recife
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge of about 10% is common if not included in the bill; additional tipping of 1-2 USD or rounding up is appreciated in casual settings.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash (BRL) is convenient for markets and smaller vendors. Pix (instant payments via mobile apps) is increasingly common for quick transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings and enjoy cooling swims in the sea or pools. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and light, breathable clothing.
Warm but a bit less humid; daytime highs in the 70s°F (20s°C). Evenings can be cooler by the coast. Museums and historic sites are comfortable, making it a good time for city walks and culture.
Recife at Night
Hiking in Recife
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged coastal paths and scenic overlooks between Recife and Olinda provide easy to moderate hikes with ocean views and photo opportunities.
Forest-edge trails and cliffside vistas about a short drive south of Recife, suitable for day hikes and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Recife by plane.
Main international and domestic airport serving Recife; located in São Lourenço da Mata, about 11-20 km from central Recife depending on traffic; taxis, rideshares, and bus options are available for transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant part of the cultural fabric, contributing music, cuisine, and traditions.
Influence language, food, and festivals across the urban and rural areas.
A mix of domestic and international travelers attracted to the city’s culture and beaches.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is deeply ingrained in daily life; watch a local match or join a pickup game in public parks.
Beaches along the coast offer opportunities for surfing, bodyboarding, and swimming with ocean conditions varying by season.
Cultural dance forms and demonstrations are common, particularly around cultural centers and festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Recife.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Recife menus feature dairy, cassava, beans, and rice-based dishes. Look for baião de dois sem carne, moqueca de palmito, queijo coalho, and tapioquinha/tapioca as filling vegetarian options.