Recife, Brazil 6 Day Itinerary

Title: 6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Recife, Brazil

Day 1 - Arrival & City Introduction

  • Arrive at Guararapes International Airport (REC). Transfer to your accommodation in the Boa Viagem neighborhood, a popular tourist area with easy access to beaches and city center. Recommended accommodations: Pousada da Pajuçara or Hotel Recife Inn.

  • Lunch at Terezeiros, a traditional restaurant offering local dishes such as moqueca (fish stew) and vatapá (shrimp paste).

  • Visit the Boa Viagem Beach to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

  • Explore the Recife Antigo (Old Recife) area, including the historic Tunnel dos Abacatezes.

Day 2 - Beaches & Culture

  • Breakfast at Café da Pajuçara, a popular spot with excellent views of the beach.

  • Head to Praia do Porto da Areia and Praia do Serrano for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

  • Lunch at Tapioca & More, a casual eatery serving traditional Brazilian dishes and delicious tapiocas.

  • Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Bom Jesus and Santa Cruz.

Day 3 - Nature & Architecture

  • Visit the Recife Zoo, home to a variety of native and exotic animals.

  • Lunch at Casa das Culturas, a cultural center that also houses a restaurant serving traditional cuisine.

  • Spend the afternoon exploring the unique architecture of the Brazilian Architecture Institute (IAB) and the nearby Ponte de Rei bridge.

Day 4 - Island Hopping & Relaxation

  • Take a ferry to the Spiritist City of Santo Amaro da Purificação. Explore this unique city and its spiritual heritage.

  • Lunch at one of the local restaurants on the island.

  • In the afternoon, visit Swallow’s Island (Ilha dos Milagres) for a relaxing day on pristine beaches and bird watching opportunities.

Day 5 - Art & History

  • Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or try a local café in the Boa Viagem neighborhood.

  • Visit the Guararapes National Park, home to numerous museums, including the Museum of Pernambuco and the Fortresses of Alagoas.

  • Lunch at Café do Forte, located inside the Guararapes National Park.

  • In the afternoon, explore the contemporary art scene at the Recife Art Museum (MAR) and the Serralves Memorial.

Day 6 - Farewell & Shopping

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your accommodation.

  • Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs in the Boa Viagem neighborhood or at the Recife Market (Feira Pública de Recife).

  • Depart from Guararapes International Airport (REC) with unforgettable memories of your trip to Recife, Brazil!

Tips & Practical Information:

  • Brazil uses the Real (BRL) as its currency. Exchange money before you arrive or use ATMs in Recife.

  • Taxis are widely available and affordable, but Uber is also popular. Public transportation options include buses and metro.

  • English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to learn some Portuguese phrases.

  • Brazil’s timezone is Brasília Time (BRT), which is 3 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during standard time and 2 hours behind GMT during daylight saving time.

Enjoy your trip to Recife, Brazil!