Top Recife Culture in 2026

Compare past and present with a tour of modern Recife and colonial-era Olinda. Take a panoramic ride through Recife, crossing graceful bridges in the old town areas and on the way, you will drive along the scenic shoreline through Boa Viagem, passing the imposing colonial-era Governor’s Mansion and Santa Isabel Theater. Arrive in charming Olinda and begin exploring. Founded in 1534 and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, historic Olinda retains many fine examples of colonial-era architecture, despite the Dutch burning down much of the city in the early 17th century. Visit Sé Cathedral and admire its Portuguese tiles and gilded carvings. Stop for a photo of the picturesque views of Recife and Boa Viagem, and enjoy a refreshing beverage before returning to your Hotel.

Recife’s blend of colonial heritage, waterways, and modern life can be difficult to fully appreciate without local insight. Discover the city alongside a local guide on a private walking tour. This personalized tour allows you to discover the exterior of monuments, including museums, while learning about the city’s history and culture. Museum visits can be arranged if requested in advance. Your guide contacts you before the tour to tailor the experience to your interests. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers, this tour reveals hidden gems and local stories that showcase the true spirit of Recife.

Explore the Ricardo Brennand Institute during this 5-hour tour in Recife. Follow an audio guide through the world-class art collection, including one of the world's largest weapons collections and a significant number of Frans Prost paintings. Continue to the Oficina Francisco Brennand to see a collection of a native Brazilian contemporary sculptor, with an additional visit to the Park of Sculptures to see more of the artist's work. Entrance fees and round-trip transportation from select Recife hotels are included.

City Tour: Recife and Olinda (Pernambuco State – Brazil) Enjoy a wonderful tour visiting one of the oldest cities in the Americas (founded in 1535). On this tour, you will visit the highlights of Recife, a city colonized by the Portuguese and the Dutch, also known as the "Brazilian Venice" due to its vast number of canals and bridges. We will visit old Dutch sites such as the Dutch Walls and walk along the historic Jewish Street (with the option to visit the oldest synagogue in the Americas). Next we will visit OLINDA, a beautiful Portuguese-style town built over seven hills with breathtaking views, old Baroque colonial churches, historical houses, local craft shops, and cachaçarias, where you can try the famous local drink made from sugar cane. Optional: Stop for lunch to sample local dishes prepared with international flair (at Restaurante Oficina do Sabor or Beijupirá). It will be a pleasure to help you discover these cities! Join me on this beautiful experience! Best regards, Leo