Recife

Brazil, South America

Recife, often dubbed the 'Venice of Brazil', enchants visitors with its vibrant culture and stunning colonial architecture. Known for its rich artistic heritage, Recife boasts beautiful beaches, lively street parties, and the famed Carnival celebrations. Key attractions include the historic old town, the spicy flavors of local cuisine, the Museu do Frevo, and the nearby natural pools of Porto de Galinhas. The city's unique blend of history, music, and beach life makes it a compelling destination for young travelers seeking adventure and culture.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Guararapes

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Recife

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the historic Recife Antigo

Explore the vibrant old town with colonial architecture.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Boa Viagem Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and the warm waters of the Atlantic.

No booking required
3

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Instituto Ricardo Brennand

Discover art and history in a stunning castle-like museum.

Booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of the Brazilian Revolution

Learn about Brazil's military history and political changes.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local food at Mercado de São José

Taste authentic Pernambuco dishes at this lively market.

No booking required
6

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience the Carnival of Recife

Join in the exuberant street festivities and parades.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour of the rivers

See the city from a different perspective on the water.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue

Explore the first synagogue in the Americas, rich in history.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through Parque da Jaqueira

Relax in the lush greenery and enjoy a picnic.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Museo do Frevo

Discover the unique dance and music of Frevo culture.

No booking required
11

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a day trip to Olinda

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Brazilian Real

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Portuguese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Feijoada

Black bean stew with pork and beef. (National dish)

Churrasco

Brazilian barbecue with various meats.

Moqueca

Fish stew with coconut milk and spices.

Coxinha

Chicken-filled dough ball, deep-fried.

Acarajé

Black-eyed pea fritters with shrimp filling.

Phrases to learn

English

Portuguese

Hello

Olá

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Sim / Nao

(Seem / Nowm)

Thank you

Obrigado

(Oh-bree-gah-doh)

Excuse me

Desculpe

(Deh-skul-peh)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-too)