Recife, Brazil: travel guide
Rivers, bridges and the colonial lanes of Olinda next door
The "Venice of Brazil" — rivers and bridges, Recife Antigo's colonial quarter, UNESCO-listed Olinda, world-famous Frevo Carnaval, and 20 km of urban beaches.
About Recife
Recife is a city built across rivers and islands, linked by dozens of bridges, which is where its nickname of the Venice of Brazil comes from. The old port quarter, Recife Antigo, has restored colonial lanes and a lively waterfront, while the city's beaches, including Boa Viagem, are close to the centre.
Just a short ride north, the hilltop town of Olinda has a Centro Histórico of colourful houses and churches with views back to the skyline. Frevo and maracatu are the local musical traditions, and Pernambuco's Carnival is famous for being street-led and joyous.
Recife suits culture lovers and beach fans. It is warm all year, with the drier season from September to February.
- Country
- Brazil
- Currency
- BRL
- Time zone
- America/Recife
- Nearest airport
- REC
Last updated
Top places to visit in Recife
Centro Histórico de Olinda
Heritage · 4.7 rating · about 2.5 h · check the fee at the gate
UNESCO World Heritage hilltop colonial town overlooking Recife — colonial churches, Carnival traditions, ateliers of Pernambuco craft artists. Half-day trip from Recife.
Praia de Boa Viagem
Beach · 4.3 rating · about 3 h · check the fee at the gate
Recife's urban beach stretching 8km — natural reefs create calm inner pools ideal for swimming. Lined with restaurants and the main tourist accommodation strip.
Recife Antigo
Heritage · 4.5 rating · about 2 h · check the fee at the gate
Recife's historic island district — Dutch colonial buildings, the first synagogue of the Americas (Kahal Zur Israel), craft beer bars and artisanal crafts market.
Things to do
- Porto de Galinhas Reef Snorkelling Day Trip Adventure · 8 h · from 200 per person
- Frevo Dance Class in Recife Cultural · 1.5 h · from 50 per person
Where to eat
- Parraxaxá northeastern-brazilian, self-service · about BRL 50 per person
- Chica Pitanga brazilian, self-service · about BRL 35 per person
- Oficina do Sabor northeastern-brazilian, contemporary · about BRL 90 per person
Getting to Recife
Airport: Recife (Guararapes Intl) (REC)
Getting around
- Bus
- Metro
- Ride Hail
- Walking