Recife

Known as the Venice of Brazil for its canals and bridges, Recife is a sophisticated coastal city with a thriving cultural scene, excellent museums, and nearby beach neighborhoods. The city serves as a gateway to Pernambuco's attractions and boasts some of the region's best restaurants and nightlife.

Things to do

• Explore Recife Antigo — Wander the historic old town with colorful colonial architecture, art galleries, and street markets along the waterfront.
• Visit the Five Points Bridge — Cross the iconic Cinco Pontas bridge at sunset for views of the city's interconnected waterways and the colonial architecture it connects.
• Museum of Modern Art of Recife — Discover Brazilian contemporary and modern art in a historic sugar warehouse converted into a cutting-edge gallery space.
• Boa Viagem Beach — Relax at this popular urban beach with calm waters protected by reefs, lined with restaurants, bars, and kiosks.
• São Francisco Church — Marvel at the baroque interior covered in gold leaf and azulejo tiles, one of Brazil's finest religious artworks.
• Capibaribe River Boat Tour — Experience the Venice of Brazil by boat, viewing the city's three rivers, bridges, and waterfront neighborhoods from the water.
• Instituto Ricardo Brennand — Explore a world-class art collection including medieval weapons, armor, and Brazilian modernist paintings in a fortress-like building.

Food to try

• Carne de Sol com Macaxeira — Salted and dried beef served with cassava root, a classic Pernambuco dish that represents the region's sertão heritage.
• Bolo de Goma — A sweet cassava flour cake that's a traditional Recife snack, often eaten during Carnival celebrations.
• Peixada à Recifense — A fish stew prepared Recife-style with palm oil, coconut milk, and fresh seafood served in clay pots at waterfront restaurants.
• Tapioca — A crepe-like preparation made from cassava starch, filled with cheese, butter, or savory ingredients, sold at beach kiosks and breakfast spots.
• Água de Coco — Fresh coconut water served directly from young coconuts, an essential refreshment at beaches and street vendors throughout Recife.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan around Carnival — Recife's Carnival is world-renowned with street parades, frevo umbrella dancing, and maracatu percussion traditions; book accommodations well in advance if visiting February-March.
• Dress for sun and rain — The tropical climate means intense sunshine and sudden afternoon downpours, so carry sunscreen, hat, and a light rain jacket year-round.
• Learn some Portuguese phrases — While English is spoken in tourist areas, locals appreciate visitors who attempt basic Portuguese greetings and simple conversation.
• Respect the waterfront safety — Avoid carrying valuables on beaches or in Recife Antigo at night, and use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than hailing cabs on the street.