Recife

South America

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Brazil

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Recife

Recife, Brazil enchants with its vibrant blend of cultural heritages. Nicknamed the "Venice of Brazil" for its network of canals, Recife offers gondola rides that weave through historic neighborhoods. Delve into the Dutch influence in Recife Antigo, a charming district brimming with colorful 17th-century buildings. Explore the São Francisco Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its gilded baroque interior.

Craving a taste of Brazil's artistic soul? Head to Boa Vista, a neighborhood pulsating with art galleries and studios. Immerse yourself in the Capoeira scene, an Afro-Brazilian dance-like martial art, performed with infectious energy in lively squares.

Beyond the cultural feast, Recife boasts stunning beaches. Relax on the golden sands of Boa Viagem Beach, a haven for surfers and sunbathers alike. For a touch of adventure, take a catamaran tour to jangada boats bobbing on the turquoise waters. As the day winds down, savor fresh seafood stews in a beachfront restaurant, the flavors reflecting Recife's rich tapestry of influences. Recife is a city that lingers in your memory, a kaleidoscope of history, art, and captivating beauty.

Get to Know Recife

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Recife

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Recife

A guide to Recife 's local transportation

Bus

Recife Metro

Taxi

Walking

Buses are the most affordable option for getting around Recife. The extensive bus network covers most of the city. This will certainly make it easy to access almost all destinations. Bus fares are very affordable, usually under R$5 (Brazilian Reais). You can pay using the Recife Urbano Card (prepaid card) or with small change in cash directly to the fare collector on the bus.

However, buses can get very crowded and uncomfortable, especially during rush hour. Information at bus stops is also often minimal, especially in English.

Practical Tips for Recife

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the best tourist attractions in Recife?

Boa Viagem Beach is the pearl of Recife, with its crystal blue water and soft sand. Olinda, a historic city located near Recife, offers cobbled streets and stunning views from the top of the hill. For those who want to experience a cultural experience, visit the Instituto Ricardo Brennand to see the collection of art and historical artifacts.

When is the best time to go to Recife?

The best time to visit Recife is between September and March. This is because the weather in Recife is drier and the temperatures are cooler. This season is ideal for those who want to enjoy the beach and local festivals including the internationally renowned carnival.

How far is it from Recife to the nearest tourist location?

One of the closest tourist locations to Recife is Olinda. Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is about 7 kilometers from the center of Recife and is easily accessible by public transport or private vehicle.

What are the unique cultures and traditions of Recife?

Recife has a rich carnival tradition. Here there is a dance called frevo. This dance is a local dance that is energetic and often performed in Recife. The city is also famous for the production of giant puppets "Galo da Madrugada" which is a symbol of the Recife carnival.

How do I get to Recife?

Recife is easily accessible by air from major cities around the world. Recife's Guararapes International Airport serves domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or ridesharing service to reach the city center.