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Get InspiredSouth AmericaBrazilPernambucoRecife

Recife

Pernambuco, Brazil
City·Lively, Historic, Coastal
Recife
Photo by Datingjungle from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by Denys from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by thiago japyassu from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by thiago japyassu from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by thiago japyassu from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by Datingjungle from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by Denys from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by thiago japyassu from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by thiago japyassu from Unsplash
Recife
Photo by thiago japyassu from Unsplash

Recife, the bustling capital of Pernambuco, is a city that seamlessly blends its rich colonial history with modern industrial growth. Known as the 'Venice of Brazil,' Recife is characterized by its extensive network of waterways and bridges. The city is a major cultural hub, offering vibrant festivals like the Recife Carnival and proximity to historical sites such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olinda. With its stunning beaches, including the renowned Porto de Galinhas, Recife attracts tourists looking for both relaxation and cultural enrichment. Despite its beauty, visitors should be aware of the high crime rates and dangerous waters due to shark attacks. As a significant medical and industrial center, Recife also boasts a strong educational presence, making it a multifaceted destination worth exploring.

Recife, the bustling capital of Pernambuco, is a city that seamlessly blends its rich colonial history with modern industrial growth. Known as the 'Venice of Brazil,' Recife is characterized by its extensive network of waterways and bridges. The city is a major cultural hub, offering vibrant festivals like the Recife Carnival and proximity to historical sites such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olinda. With its stunning beaches, including the renowned Porto de Galinhas, Recife attracts tourists looking for both relaxation and cultural enrichment. Despite its beauty, visitors should be aware of the high crime rates and dangerous waters due to shark attacks. As a significant medical and industrial center, Recife also boasts a strong educational presence, making it a multifaceted destination worth exploring.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Known as the 'Venice of Brazil' with numerous waterways.

  • Rich colonial history with Portuguese and Dutch influences.

  • Proximity to Porto de Galinhas, Brazil's top-rated beach.

  • Home to the vibrant Recife Carnival.

  • Major medical and industrial hub in Brazil.

Before you go: Recife essentials

  • Close access to Porto de Galinhas, a renowned beach destination.

  • Rich colonial history with Portuguese and Dutch influences.

  • High rates of gun violence; stay informed about safety precautions.

  • Known for dangerous waters with frequent shark attacks.

Getting Around

Recife has an extensive public transportation system including buses and a metro, making it easy to explore the city.

Local Cuisine

Don't miss trying the local seafood and traditional dishes such as 'bolo de rolo' and 'tapioca'.

Best For

History buffs and beach lovers.

Currency

BRL R$

Average Cost

$70-$120 p/day

Languages Spoken

Portuguese, English

Safety

Be cautious in crowded areas and avoid swimming at beaches known for shark attacks.

Cultural Events

Experience the Recife Carnival for a vibrant display of local culture and music.

Historical Sites

Visit the nearby city of Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past.

Best time to visit Recife

March-MaySeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Recife offers pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and beach activities.

Summer

Summers are hot and humid, with the city bustling with tourists enjoying the beaches and festivals.

Best Season

Fall

Fall sees fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, perfect for exploring historical sites.

Winter

Winters are mild with occasional rain, a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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Where to stay in Recife

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Place
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Novotel Recife Marina

4.6(783)
Recife, Pernambuco
Modern, Convenient, Comfortable
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New Hotell Recife

4.2(1,6 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Casual, Relaxed, Budget Friendly
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Villa Park Hotel - Recife

4.5(1,1 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Informal, Comfortable, Convenient

Food & drink in Recife

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Tio Pepe

4.6(3,3 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Quaint, Relaxed, Local
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Chica Pitanga

4.6(3,6 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Vibrant, Lively, Local Favorite
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Restaurante Parraxaxá Boa Viagem

4.6(11,7 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Lively, Authentic, Family Friendly
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Bode do Nô Boa Viagem - Restaurante

4.6(11,7 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Lively, Local Favorite
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Place
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Vasto Restaurante Recife

4.9(4 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Welcoming, Local Favorite
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Terraço Carvalheira

4.4(1,2 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Lively, Vibrant, Social
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Lira Bistrô & Restaurante

5.0(429)
Recife, Pernambuco
Welcoming, Top Notch
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Bargaço Recife

4.6(3,3 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Inviting, Family Friendly, Authentic

Things to do in Recife

Day Trip to Porto de Galinhas from Recife
From $110

Day Trip to Porto de Galinhas from Recife

5.0(3)
Duration: 7h 30min
Recife
Private Transfer from Recife Airport to Porto de Galinhas
From $42

Private Transfer from Recife Airport to Porto de Galinhas

4.8(30)
Duration: 50 min
Recife
Recife and Olinda City Tour
From $34

Recife and Olinda City Tour

4.8(11)
Duration: 6h
Recife
Transfer Recife Airport/Porto de Galinhas
From $110

Transfer Recife Airport/Porto de Galinhas

5.0(8)
Duration: 1h
Recife
Private Transfer from Recife (REC) Airport to Boa Viagem Beach
From $37

Private Transfer from Recife (REC) Airport to Boa Viagem Beach

Duration: 30 min
Recife
Private Transport from Recife to Porto de Galinhas
From $40

Private Transport from Recife to Porto de Galinhas

5.0(145)
Duration: 50 min
Recife
Private City Tour Recife, Olinda and Brennand Institute By RECIFE TRANSLADO
From $100

Private City Tour Recife, Olinda and Brennand Institute By RECIFE TRANSLADO

3.8(9)
Duration: 7h
Recife
Private Guide to the best of Recife and Olinda - 5 hours
From $249

Private Guide to the best of Recife and Olinda - 5 hours

Duration: 6h
Recife
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Recife

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Parque Dona Lindu

4.5(29,4 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Lively, Cultural, Family Friendly
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Botanical Garden of Recife

4.5(9,5 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Peaceful, Educational, Family Friendly
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Recife City Museum

4.6(3,4 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Educational, Historical, Insightful
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Memorial Chico Science

4.1(110)
Recife, Pernambuco
Cultural, Educational, Introspective
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Parque de Esculturas Francisco Brennand

4.5(1,3 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Artistic, Scenic, Cultural
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Centro de Artesanato de Pernambuco

4.6(4 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Colorful, Cultural, Artisanal
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Embassy of Pernambuco - Olinda Dolls Giants

4.5(1,5 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Playful, Cultural, Family Friendly
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Paço do Frevo

4.7(8,3 K)
Recife, Pernambuco
Lively, Educational, Cultural