Recife, Brazil 4 Day Itinerary

Recife, Brazil: A 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Exploring Recife’s Historic Center

Morning:

  • Check-in at your hotel in the Ponta Negra or Boa Viagem districts, which offer easy access to both the historic center and beach areas. (Recommended hotels: Ibis Styles Recife, Windsor Santa Rosa, or Recife Mar Hotel)
  • Start your day with a hearty Brazilian breakfast at Café Santa Rosa in the Boa Viagem district.

Afternoon:

  • Take a stroll around the Historic Center of Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the churches of São Francisco, Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, and the narrow streets of Rua Direita, Rua do Amparo, and Ladeira da Sé.
  • Visit the Museu de Arte Moderna (MAM) to appreciate contemporary Brazilian art.

Evening:

  • Savor traditional Recife cuisine at Restaurante Casa Forte in Olinda.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Recife at the bars and clubs along the Boa Viagem beachfront, such as Fortaleza da Praia.

Day 2 - Beaches & Culture

Morning:

  • Spend your morning relaxing on the beautiful Praia do Porto de Galinhas, about an hour’s drive from Recife. Don’t forget to try the local delicacy, Tucupi.
  • Visit the Baía de São Juan and explore its natural pools and coral reefs.

Afternoon:

  • Head back to Recife and visit the Recife Antiquarium, an extensive aquarium showcasing marine life from the region.

Evening:

  • Dine at Senado da Boa Viagem, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the beach.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the Recife beachfront, enjoying the sunset and local street performances.

Day 3 - Island Hopping & Leisure

Morning:

  • Embark on a boat tour to explore the Recife Archipelago, a series of islands offering pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and abundant birdlife.
  • Visit Freahy Beach on the island of Grande Recife.

Afternoon:

  • Relax at a beach of your choice within the archipelago or take part in water activities such as snorkeling, jet-skiing, or parasailing.

Evening:

  • Return to Recife and dine at Fish & Co. for some delicious seafood.
  • Take a nighttime stroll around the modern district of Tolda Velha, known for its restaurants, bars, and vibrant street art.

Day 4 - Indigenous Culture & Departure

Morning:

  • Visit the Arquivo Público do Estado de Pernambuco to learn about the indigenous history of the region.
  • Head to Villa da Praia, a cultural center showcasing Tupinamba and Caeté indigenous traditions, crafts, and cuisine.

Afternoon:

  • Spend your final hours in Recife shopping for souvenirs or exploring any sights you may have missed.
  • Have lunch at Rodizio Marisqueira before heading to the airport for your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Brazil uses the Real as its currency, and credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
  • Portuguese is the official language, but English is spoken by many in the tourism industry.
  • Recife’s weather can be hot and humid year-round, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
  • Taxis are readily available, but you can also use ride-hailing apps like 99Taxis or Uber.
  • Always be mindful of your personal belongings in crowded areas.