Top 8 Must-Do Activities in Recife, Brazil

Although it is Brazil’s fourth largest city, Recife hasn’t lost its traditional and cultural attractions to commercial development. The capital of Pernambuco state in northeast Brazil, Recife is a fluid mix of new and old.

Protected by the reef that gives the city its name, Recife is built around several inlets, canals, and bridges, living up to its title as the “Venice of Brazil.” It offers walkable tours, great beaches, and lively arts and entertainment.

Recife is beautiful at any time of year, thanks to its average year-round temperature in the 80s F. However, the city puts on a spectacular carnival, so you might want to schedule a visit to the Recife and Olinda carnivals in February or March, or to the off-season carnival, called Recifolia, in October. Such occasions draw thousands of visitors, so make your reservations early.

Lounge on Boa Viagem Beach

Address: Boa Viagem Beach – Boa Viagem, Recife – State of Pernambuco, Brazil

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Brazil is known for its beaches, and Recife is no different. One of the best places to catch some sun is Boa Viagem, an upscale area that also features numerous restaurants and nightclubs, some oceanfront. Just keep in mind that this beach is known to have bull sharks, so it may be wiser to stay on the sand instead of going for a swim.

Take a Cultural Walking Tour

Take a walking tour of the old city from the Praca da Republica to the impressive, 19th-century Teatro Santa Isabel. From there, head to the Catedral de Sao Pedro dos Clerigos (also called Recife Co-Cathedral). Next, browse through the colorful Mercado do Sao Jose (Saint John’s Market) for local arts and crafts, including a special section for lace, and finish your walk at the Basilica de NS da Penha.

Shop Until You Drop

Address: R. Padre Carapuceiro, 777 – Boa Viagem, Recife – PE, 51020-900, Brazil

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Shopping Recife is Brazil’s second-largest shopping center. It has been open for over 30 years and now features around 450 stores, 90 food options, and 14 cinemas. The mall is just five minutes from the Recife International Airport and a few blocks from the Boa Viagem beach, making it a prime spot for both tourists and locals.

Buy Souvenirs in a Former Prison

Address: R.Floriano Peixoto – São José, Recife – PE, 50020-060, Brazil

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The cross-shaped Casa da Cultura is one of the most unique buildings in Recife. Dating back to 1850, it was originally a prison and now serves as a crafts and arts center that sells souvenirs. There are around 150 shops selling local pottery, dolls, board games, leather accessories, embroidery, paintings, and more. Additionally, there is a food court where you can sample some of Pernambuco’s local cuisine, and on the third floor is the Frevo Museum, showcasing traditional music.

Tour a Ceramics Factory and Museum

Address: Propriedade Santos Cosme e Damião – R. Diogo de Vasconcelos, S/N – Várzea, Recife – PE, 50740-970, Brazil

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The Oficina Ceramica de Francisco Brennand is a ceramics factory, art studio, gallery, and museum all housed in one building. Brennand comes from a long line of ceramicists and he started work on this factory in 1971 after studying in Europe. While there, visitors can admire the fountains, sculptures, and wander through the extensive gardens.

Visit the City’s Best Museum

Address: Av. Dezessete de Agosto, 2187 – Casa Forte, Recife – PE, 52061-540, Brazil

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The Museu do Homem do Nordeste is regarded as one of Recife’s finest museums. It features art and artifacts that illustrate the anthropology, history, and culture of the people in this region. The museum’s modern galleries were established in 1979 to showcase local heritage and creativity.

Wander the Colorful Streets of Olinda

Address: Olinda, PE, Brazil

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Olinda is a major draw for many visitors to Recife. It is a living museum, recognized by UNESCO, and is viewed as the foundation of Brazilian culture from the 16th century. Additionally, it boasts charming old stone churches, vibrant buildings, and stunning beaches with coral reef pools.

Celebrate Carnival

Two months before the actual event, Carnival rehearsals commence, and the blocos (carnival groups) attract hundreds of spectators. The main dance featured is the frevo, a lively and exhilarating experience. In Olinda, participation is encouraged, so don’t forget to bring your costume to fully enjoy the festivities.