Recife, the vibrant capital of Pernambuco, is a city of contrasts: historic churches and futuristic buildings, Afro-Brazilian rhythms and European architecture, urban energy and tropical beaches. Often called the “Venice of Brazil” due to its rivers and bridges, Recife is more than a gateway to Porto de Galinhas—it’s a destination full of culture, art, history, and flavor.
This guide covers the best things to do in Recife, from museums and colonial neighborhoods to beaches and Carnival traditions.
Why Visit Recife?
Recife is one of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in Brazil. It offers a combination of:
- Colonial architecture and Dutch history
- A dynamic art and music scene
- Cultural diversity with strong Afro-Brazilian influences
- Urban beaches like Boa Viagem
- Easy access to nearby destinations like Olinda and Porto de Galinhas
How to Get to Recife
Recife is home to one of the busiest airports in the Northeast:
- Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC) serves domestic and international flights
- Located about 20 minutes from the city center and 10 minutes from Boa Viagem
Public transportation, taxis, and ride-share apps like Uber are available throughout the city.
Top Things to Do in Recife
1. Explore Recife Antigo (Old Town)
The city’s historic core is filled with:
- Colorful buildings and baroque churches
- The Marco Zero square, where Recife was founded
- The Rua do Bom Jesus, one of the oldest streets in Brazil
- The Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, the first synagogue in the Americas
Visit on Sunday afternoons for live music and food markets.
2. See Art and History at Instituto Ricardo Brennand
This impressive museum and cultural complex features:
- Medieval weapons, tapestries, and European art
- A replica castle in a rainforest setting
- Regular exhibitions and events
Great for families and art lovers alike.
3. Relax at Boa Viagem Beach
This is Recife’s main urban beach, known for:
- White sands and natural reefs
- Walkable promenade with food kiosks and bike paths
- Caution: pay attention to shark warning signs and swim only in designated areas
Enjoy coconut water, beach chairs, and sunsets over the Atlantic.
4. Take a Boat Ride Through the City’s Canals
Recife’s waterways make it a perfect city to explore by boat:
- Tour under bridges and past colonial buildings
- Learn about the city’s nickname: “Brazilian Venice”
It’s a relaxing and unique way to discover the cityscape.
5. Visit the Cais do Sertão Museum
This modern museum celebrates the culture of Sertão, the Brazilian semi-arid backlands:
- Learn about music icon Luiz Gonzaga
- Discover local traditions, folklore, and food
- Interactive displays in a beautifully designed space
Day Trips from Recife
1. Olinda
Only 15 minutes away, this UNESCO World Heritage city is famous for:
- Colorful colonial houses
- Carnival with giant boneco puppets
- Panoramic views from Alto da Sé
2. Porto de Galinhas
One of Brazil’s top beach destinations, just 1.5 hours away by car or bus.
Festivals and Events
- Carnival in Recife and Olinda is unlike any other—no samba schools, just frevo, maracatu, and bloco parades in the streets
- São João (June Festivals) feature folk music, square dancing, and rural traditions
- Rec-Beat Festival (during Carnival) highlights alternative and international music
Where to Stay
Boa Viagem (Beachfront):
- Hotel Atlante Plaza
- Grand Mercure Recife Boa Viagem
Recife Antigo (Cultural Hub):
- Hotel Central Recife
- Pousada do Recife Antigo
Mid-range and budget options:
- Ibis Recife Boa Viagem
- Hostel e Pousada Boa Viagem
What to Eat in Recife
Pernambucan cuisine is bold, rich, and full of regional flair.
Must-try dishes:
- Bolo de rolo – A rolled cake filled with guava paste
- Feijoada – Black bean stew with pork
- Carne de sol com macaxeira – Dried beef with cassava
- Tapioca with coconut or cheese
- Caldinho de feijão – Black bean broth served on the beach
Recommended restaurants:
- Leite – One of Brazil’s oldest fine dining restaurants
- Parraxaxá – All-you-can-eat Northeastern food
- Oficina do Sabor (in Olinda) – Creative regional cuisine
Best Time to Visit Recife
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sep–Mar | Sunny and hot | Carnival, best beach weather |
| Apr–Jul | Rainy season | Good for museums and cultural events |
| Aug | Mild and pleasant | Great for walking and local life |
The most popular time is February, during Carnival—book in advance!
Why Recife Should Be on Your Travel Itinerary
Recife is not just a stopover—it’s a destination in its own right. With its mix of beach, history, music, art, and flavor, this Northeastern gem is Brazil in all its vibrant diversity. Whether you’re dancing in the streets, diving into local food, or tracing centuries of heritage, Recife will surprise and inspire you.
It’s alive, layered, and colorful—just like Brazil itself.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.