Recife, Brazil 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Recife’s Historic Center

• Morning:

  • Check in at your accommodation. Recommended: Pousada Arraial do Cabral or Hotel Pestana Brasil Plaza Recife
  • Breakfast at Leão Verde - A popular spot known for its hearty breakfasts and local dishes.
  • Visit the Historic Center of Olinda - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its colorful colonial buildings and lively street art. Don’t miss the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the São Bento Monastery.

• Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Casa dos Sete Farofas - Try their signature dish, Shrimp with Seven Spices (Camarão com Sete Farofas).
  • Explore more of Olinda, visit the Lagoa da Ribeira and take a stroll along the Rua Direita.

• Evening:

  • Dinner at Freguesia dos Padres - A cozy restaurant with a variety of Brazilian dishes.
  • Nightlife in Olinda - Visit the local bars and live music venues, such as Barracão do Baião or Casa da Cultura.

Day 2: Beaches and Boa Viagem

• Morning:

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or try Mulato Garcia for a local favorite.
  • Head to the beach! Recife’s best beaches are in the Boa Viagem area: Praia do Boa Viagem, Praia do Bumba and Praia do Santo Antônio.

• Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Casa da Carne - Try their Brazilian BBQ (Churrasco).
  • Visit the Recife Antiquarium to learn about marine life and the local ecosystem.

• Evening:

  • Dinner at Olho d’Água das Brotas - A beautiful setting with a variety of dishes, including seafood and regional specialties.
  • Relax at the beach or explore the Boa Viagem area.

Day 3: Recife’s Modern Side and Departure

• Morning:

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or try Rio do Ouro for a delicious breakfast.
  • Visit the Recife Metro Cathedral and the nearby Recife Federal University.

• Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Casa da Cultura - Besides the nightlife, they also have a restaurant serving regional dishes.
  • Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs or relaxing in a park, such as Parque das Bandeiras.

• Transportation:

  • Recife’s public transportation system includes buses and the metro. Taxis are also widely available. Consider purchasing a Tourist Transportation Card (Cartão de Transporte Turístico) for unlimited travel.
  • To get around the city, walk whenever possible as many areas have pedestrian-friendly streets.

Tips:

• Brazil uses the Real (BRL) as its currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
• Portuguese is the official language in Recife. While many people may understand English, it’s helpful to know a few basic phrases.
• Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Embrace the local culture and enjoy the delicious food, vibrant music, and friendly people!