Recife is called the Venice of Brazil for the rivers, canals and bridges crossing its centre. The comparison is inevitable but insufficient: the city’s traditions and cultural energy are distinctly Pernambucan.
Recife Antigo is explored on foot between Praça do Marco Zero, restored warehouses, churches and spaces devoted to frevo. Across the bridges, Baroque architecture, commerce and street life coexist without an obvious order.
Casa da Cultura is a former prison converted into a craft centre, its old cells now small shops. It is one of those places where the transformation of a building is immediately apparent without lengthy explanation.
Boa Viagem has the best-known seafront, but swimming requires caution: shark risk in some sections is real and official guidance must be followed. Do not swim beyond the reef, avoid murky water and obey all local signs.
Conditions, opening times and local transport can change, so verify the practical details through the official source before setting out.
Allow enough time to observe changes of light, scale and everyday detail: they often explain the place better than a hurried sequence of landmarks.
Photographs of Recife
Where to find Recife
Useful sources
Frequently asked questions about Recife
How much time should I allow for Recife?
As a guide for planning your trip, allow 2–3 days.