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Fortaleza

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Fortaleza

Enjoy a tropical holiday in Fortaleza, Brazil. The capital of the state of Ceará is a popular destination for many reasons. Spend a day out at Fortaleza’s gorgeous beaches, such as Futuro, Iracema, and Meireles. Being a seaside city, Fortaleza’s seafood is also not to miss out on. Visit the Fortaleza Fish Market to get fresh seafood and have it cooked in front of you.

Aside from its coastal charm, Fortaleza also boasts many historical landmarks, museums, as well as lively nightlife. Marvel at the Metropolitan Cathedral’s neo-Gothic architecture, learn about the local history at the Museum of Ceará, and end the day with your favorite drink at a beachfront bar. From nature to nightlife, Fortaleza has something for everyone!

Travel Tips for Fortaleza

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Fortaleza

A guide to Fortaleza's local transportation

Commuter Rail

Tourist Bus

City Bus

Taxi

Car Rental

The commuter rail in Fortaleza serves five lines: Sul, Oeste, Nordeste, VLT de Sobral, and VLT do Cariri. The Nordeste line is free of charge, while fares for other lines range from R$1 to R$3.6. You can buy and top up your transportation card at the station or purchase tickets directly using cash. Download the Metrofor app for the most up-to-date schedule.

Practical Tips for Fortaleza

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top things to do in Fortaleza?

Fortaleza offers a wide range of activities for all interests. For beach lovers, Futuro Beach and Iracema Beach are must-visit spots. When the sun sets, head to the area around Dragão do Mar for the vibrant nightlife. If you’re a shopping enthusiast, explore the Central Market and Central de Artesanato do Ceará (CeArt) for handicrafts. After all, Fortaleza is known for its exquisite handicrafts.

What are some family-friendly activities in Fortaleza?

Take your little ones to the Dragão do Mar Cultural Center to explore art, culture, and science at its two museums and a planetarium. For a relaxing beach day, head to Meireles Beach, where parents can unwind while kids enjoy the playground. Another popular attraction for families is Beach Park. Located in the neighboring city of Aquiraz, this water park features extreme slides and rides that will make for an exciting day out.

When is the best time to visit Fortaleza?

Generally, the best time to visit Fortaleza is during the dry season, from August to December. The low rainfall allows you to make the most of your trip. If you're interested in experiencing a Brazilian carnival, consider visiting in mid-February. This is when the festival usually takes place, with pre-carnival events starting the week before.

What are the must-try foods in Fortaleza?

When in Fortaleza, make sure to taste the fresh seafood, especially lobster, shrimp, and crab, cooked in various delicious ways. One of the best spots for seafood is Futuro Beach, which holds a crab festival every Thursday evening. For meat lovers, churrasco (grilled beef) is a must-try. Finally, you should also try baião de dois, a Cearán specialty made with rice and black-eyed peas.

How do I get from the airport to Fortaleza?

The Pinto Martins International Airport is located about 10 km from downtown Fortaleza. To get from the airport to the city center, you have several options. The 404 bus leaves from the bus stop in the basement. Available from 5:10 a.m. to 10 p.m, the bus will stop by the terminal on its way to the city. If you want a more direct option, taxis are available 24/7 at the arrival hall. You can also book an airport transfer in advance through Traveloka for a hassle-free holiday.