Taking its name from the rocky reefs that flank its cruise port, Recife’s beautiful beaches hide a treacherous coastline peppered with old shipwrecks. Wreck diving is among the most popular things to do in Recife, but above land, the Brazilian city is just as enticing. Candy-colored buildings and bustling cafés line Recife’s historic center, while palm trees and high rises fringe the urban beach in the Boa Viagem district. The Pernambuco capital is also the birthplace of the samba-like frevo, which comes out in force during Carnival.
Recife’s tropical climate means that you can swim and sunbathe all year round. The dry season of September through February is best for sightseeing, and the hot weather and long days this time of year mean maximum beach time. The rainy season typically starts in March and brings daily downpours, so you’ll need to be more flexible with your travel plans. Recife dazzles during Brazil’s annual Carnival celebrations, when the streets are filled with frevo dancers and colorful parades.
Safety is the biggest concern when getting around in Recife. You can explore Old Recife (Recife Antigo) and the Boa Viagem beachfront on foot during the day (just keep a close watch for pickpockets), but taking a taxi or Uber is highly recommended when traveling between districts or going anywhere after dark. While some travelers do use the metro and local buses to get around, it’s best to seek local advice on your chosen route first.
You can’t visit Recife without a visit to its sister city, Olinda. Just a 20-minute drive north, the smaller town is easily explored on a day trip. Start by strolling around Olinda’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed historic center with its colorfully painted buildings, steep cobbled lanes, and 18th-century baroque churches. Don’t miss the views from Alto da Sé and the Casa dos Bonecos Gigantes museum, where you can admire Olinda’s famous bocetos gigantes (gigantic papier-mâché puppets) that make an appearance during Carnival.
