Located in northeastern Brazil, the coastal city of Maceió is a popular holiday destination among locals. The capital city of Alagoas is blessed with 40 kilometers of coastline that is home to rich marine life and a vibrant beach atmosphere. Visit the Pajuçara, Ponta Verde, Jatiúca, and Pontal da Barra beaches to relax under the coconut trees and take in the crystal-clear waters. You can also take a quick ride in a traditional fishing boat, called a jangada, and swim in the natural pools nearby.
In addition to its breathtaking shores, Maceió has a rich history. Discover Maceió’s history at the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Théo Brandão Museum, and other cultural attractions. In the Jaraguá neighborhood, you can walk down cobblestone streets and pass the City Hall. Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to dance and party at the Maceió Fest, which is held before Lent every year!
Maceió has an extensive bus network covering most areas of the city. There are several companies operating bus services in Maceió, including Veleiro, Cidade de Maceió, and Transporte Tropical. Buses are an affordable option for getting around the city, with fares ranging from R$3.50 to R$4 for a single trip. Before boarding, check the accepted method of payment, as some buses may require a Cartão Bem Legal card while others still accept cash.
Beautiful praias, or beaches, stretch all the way from the north to the south of Maceió. Some of the highlights include Pajuçara, Ponta Verde, and Frânces beaches. These attractions offer tourists stunning natural pools, exciting water sports, as well as seaside cafes where they can sample some local dishes. Meanwhile, Ipioca Beach is a great option for those looking to relax in a more secluded location.
Maceió's tropical climate makes it an excellent destination year-round. However, the best time to visit Maceió is from October until March. You can enjoy abundant sunshine and delightful beach activities during these drier months. Meanwhile, the rainy season in Maceió falls from April until July.
A visit to Maceió is not complete without tasting some sururu (charru mussel), a specialty of the state of Alagoas that is incorporated into many local dishes. Another must-try is tapioca, a kind of flatbread made from cassava flour. You can enjoy tapioca with various delicious stuffings, from chicken to chocolate. Finally, treat yourself to some refreshing mangaba, a native fruit with a sweet flavor.
Ceramics, straw, and renda (lace) goods are among the popular souvenirs from Maceió. You can easily find them at the Feira de Artesanato in Pajuçara, the Mercado do Artesanato, or the Handicraft Center of Pontal da Barra.
The fastest way to get from Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport to downtown Maceió is by taking a taxi. The trip will cost you around R$85 and take approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You can find plenty of taxis at the arrival hall 24/7. Alternatively, you can take a Veleiro bus from Maceio Airport to the city center. The bus service runs from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. for R$6.
Travel Tips for Maceio