Recife - Discovering Brazil

Travelling to Recife

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Recife, a pretty good destination in Brazil (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Recife and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Recife, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Brazil, here's everything to know about Recife for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Recife

Recife is a city located in the Northeast region of Brazil, in the state of Pernambuco. It is the fifth largest metropolitan area in Brazil and a popular tourist destination. Recife is known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine. It is also a hub for commerce and education in the region. The city has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal destination for beach-goers. The main airport serving Recife is the Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC). Most visitors to Recife speak Portuguese, although many people in the tourism industry also speak English.

What to visit in Recife

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Recife and some information about each of them: 1. Recife Antigo (Old Recife) - This historic district is located in the heart of the city and contains many colonial buildings and churches. In this area, you can find many restaurants, bars, and street vendors selling crafts and souvenirs.
2. Rua do Bom Jesus - Known as the Jewish street, it is located in the historic district of Recife Antigo. It has a rich history dating back to the Portuguese and Dutch colonization periods.
3. Marco Zero Square - Located in the old town, this square is one of the most important symbols of Recife. From here, you can see the historic buildings, the river, and even take a boat ride.
4. Instituto Ricardo Brennand - This museum is located in the Várzea neighborhood and houses an impressive collection of fine art, armor, and armaments from around the world.
5. Cais do Sertão - This museum is dedicated to the culture of the Northeast region of Brazil and features exhibitions on music, literature, film, and more.
6. Boa Viagem Beach - This is the most famous beach in Recife, which is located in the south of the city. It has a long strip of sand that stretches for several kilometers and is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and bars.
7. Casa da Cultura - This former prison has been converted into a cultural center where you can find crafts, souvenirs, and other products made by local artists.
8. Parque das Esculturas - This public park features sculptures by some of the most famous artists in Brazil, including Francisco Brennand and Abelardo da Hora.
9. Forte do Brum - This fortress was built in the 17th century to protect the port of Recife from foreign invaders.
10. Torre Malakoff - This tower was originally built to help protect Recife during the Dutch occupation, and today it is a cultural center for art and music.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Brazil, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Recife.

When to go on holiday to Recife

The best time to visit Recife in Brazil is between the months of September and March. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny with fewer chances of rainfall. It is also the peak season in Recife, so you'll find plenty of tourists and events happening during this time. However, if you're looking for cheaper rates and fewer crowds, then traveling during the off-season between April and August can be a good option. Just keep in mind that this period is the rainy season, so you may experience occasional showers during your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Recife

Recife can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are some of the ways: 1. By Air: Recife/Guararapes-Gilberto Freyre International Airport (REC) is the main airport serving Recife. It has connections to major cities within Brazil, as well as international destinations such as Lisbon, Frankfurt, Miami, and Buenos Aires.
2. By Bus: The city has a bus station, called Terminal Integrado de Passageiros (TIP), which connects Recife to various cities within Brazil.
3. By Car: Recife is connected to major cities in Brazil through the BR-101 and BR-232 highways.
4. By Train: Recife has a train station called Estação Central, which connects the city to surrounding areas.
Overall, getting to Recife is easy and convenient, as there are multiple transportation options available.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Recife, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Recife

Sure, here are some typical foods of Recife, Brazil with a short description for each of them: 1. Tapioca - a gluten-free snack made from cassava starch, filled with savory or sweet ingredients.
2. Acarajé - a deep-fried ball of mashed black-eyed peas, stuffed with a spicy shrimp, vegetables and/or condiments.
3. Bolo de Rolo - a rolled cake made with layers of thin cake and guava jam, served as a dessert or snack.
4. Caldinho de Feijão - a savory bean soup made with black beans and seasonings, typically served with bread or fried cassava.
5. Carne de Sol - a type of beef that is salted and sundried, then grilled or fried and served with farofa (toasted cassava flour) and beans.
6. Cocada - a sweet dessert made with grated coconut and sugar, sometimes flavored with spices or fruits.
7. Munguzá - a sweet corn pudding with a creamy consistency, typically served warm and sprinkled with cinnamon.
8. Sarapatel - a meat stew made from the parts of the pig, mixed in with seasonings and spices. It is served with rice.
These are just a few examples, but there are many more delicious dishes to try in Recife!
You can find general info about typical foods in Brazil here.

Is Recife an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Brazil, Recife can be considered as moderately expensive for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food and drinks, and transportation are generally higher than in other parts of Brazil. However, there are still affordable options available, especially if you are willing to stay in budget accommodations, eat in local restaurants or street vendors, and use public transportation. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to get the best deals and discounts on tours and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Recife

When visiting Recife, Brazil, it is recommended to find accommodation in the neighborhoods of Boa Viagem, Pina or Casa Forte. These neighborhoods are close to popular tourist attractions like the beaches, the historic center, and shopping areas. They also have a wide range of hotels and hostels to suit different budgets and preferences. Additionally, these neighborhoods are well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to explore all that Recife has to offer.
You can check hotel prices at Recife here:
Booking.com

Is Recife a safe destination for tourists?

Recife is a relatively safe place for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. The city has some areas that can be unsafe, especially at night, so it's important to stick to well-lit, crowded areas, and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. It's also a good idea to use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services rather than walking around at night. Generally speaking, Recife is a beautiful city with friendly people and a vibrant culture, and if you take common sense precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Brazil here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Recife.

What type of travelers will enjoy Recife the most?

Recife, Brazil is a great destination for all types of travelers! Here's why: 1. Couples: If you're looking for a romantic getaway, Recife offers plenty of options. You can take a stroll through the historic district of Recife Antigo which is full of charming colonial architecture, explore the beautiful beaches of Boa Viagem, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea.
2. Young People: Recife is a vibrant city with a lively nightlife scene. You can find plenty of nightclubs, bars, and live music venues throughout the city. There are also many cultural events and festivals held throughout the year that cater to young crowds, such as the Carnival of Recife.
3. Families: Recife is a family-friendly destination with activities that everyone will enjoy. Families can spend the day at the beach, visit a nearby aquarium, or learn about the history and culture of the city at the many museums and galleries. The city also has several parks and green areas for families to explore.
Overall, Recife offers a variety of experiences for all types of travelers, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a memorable trip.

How to get around Recife

In Recife, Brazil, some of the commonly used modes of transportation include taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99. Another popular option is to rent a car or a bike to explore the city. Additionally, there are metro lines that connect different areas of the city. However, some of these options may come with language barriers, so it is always recommended to plan your transportation ahead of time and have a map or a guidebook handy.

What to see around Recife

Here are some nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Recife, Brazil: 1. Olinda - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historic colonial architecture, colorful houses, and charming streets.
2. Porto de Galinhas - a beach town located 62 km from Recife, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and natural pools.
3. Cabo de Santo Agostinho - a city located 35 km south of Recife, famous for its pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and incredible nature parks.
4. Itamaracá Island - an island located 50 km north of Recife, known for its beautiful beaches, mangroves, and cultural attractions such as the Forte Orange.
5. Caruaru - a city located 130 km from Recife, famous for its colorful crafts market, regional cuisine, and lively cultural scene.
For every travel information about Brazil you can click here.

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