Brazil is an enormous country with tons of culture, unique Portuguese influence, Green Costa, a plethora of beautiful islands, and unique beach towns. Recife is a town along the Northeast coast, a great base for exploring this lesser-known area of Brazil boasting pristine beaches and tons of history.
Brazil is your next travel destination and you're looking for a spectacular traditional beach town to go to? That's an excellent idea! So let's talk through The Best & Unique Things To Do In Recife.
Although is a small city, Recife is a great travel destination and perhaps one of the most famous places to visit in Northeast Brazil. If you are looking for a peaceful vibe, streets filled with friendly people, and beautiful landmarks, Venice of Brazil, as Recife is named, is the best choice for you.
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Whether you are looking for a bit of inspiration or you need a lot more information in order to book your next trip, you’ll be sure to find something unmissable to do in this list!
Iconic Sights In Recife
Here are the must-do things if this is your first time in Recife!
Boa Viagem Beach
Being a beach town, Recife has many beach spots for each and every one. If you don’t have much time to explore all options, you can definitely go to Boa Viagem Beach. Is the perfect mix for a beach day and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Recife Antiguo
Recife Antigo is the Old Town, the historical center of the city, where everything happens. From art and food to culture and traditions and many tourist attractions to explore.
Traditions and Culture in Recife
There are some impressive places and spectacular traditions you should experience in Recife!
Praça do Marco Zero
Start with Praça do Marco Zero, a beautiful area filled with many landmarks. You can explore Dutch and Portuguese colonial architecture and festivities. Sundays are the best day to visit, while you can see groups of folk music style called Maracatu practice on the streets.
Basilica and Covent of Nossa Senhora do Carmo
Basilica and Covent of Nossa Senhora do Carmo was built between 1696 and 1767 in honor of Our Lady Of Mount Carmel, the Holly Patroness of Recife. It’s a beautiful baroque architectural style with great paintings, ceilings, and images.
Recife Carnaval
Carnaval in Recife and as well as in Brazil is a huge part of the country’s traditions and cultures. Every metropolis, city, and town has its own Carnaval so is definitely worth it to visit, although is overshadowed by the one in Rio de Janeiro. The tourist offices will give you the broadsheet with timetables and route details for all the Carnivals groups.
Southern Recife
Discover more by visiting the countryside, and some of the most breathtaking landmarks.
São José da Coroa Grande
The southern coast of Recife has the best beaches to visit, with picturesque landscapes, less crowded and a fishing village vibe. You can start from São José da Coroa Grande and explore village to village down the coast.
Olinda
A more exotic alternative to Recife is Olinda beach town. Although smallest than Recife, this beautiful place has many attractions, the main ones being the colorful streets. Also, the best viewpoint all over Olinda town is Alto Da Se. Exploring the beautiful beaches and dancing at the Carnaval is a must.
Wander on the Streets of Recife
Enjoy some souvenir shopping sessions while experiencing the local food.
Venice of Brazil
You definitely may want to explore the streets, neighborhoods, and canals in the city. What better way to discover a city than walking around?
Rua do Bom Jesus
One of the oldest streets in the city is Rua do Bom Jesus. The main highlights here are all the beautiful colorful buildings and the oldest synagogue in America, the Sinagoga Kahal Zur Israel.
Things To Do At Night In Recife
If you want to make your vacation in Recife unforgettable, be sure to include the following night experiences on your itinerary.
Catamaran Night Trip
To make the most of your trip in Recife you certainly should take a boat trip in the Capibaribe River. The night tours highlight the city’s history and architecture, so is definitely an unmissable thing to do.
Party the Night Away
Locals work to live and make an art of it. Mid-week happy hour, Carnival parades, family outdoor activities, vibrant nights out, and dancing make it the perfect place for parties.
