10 day itinerary for Recife, Pernambuco

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Recife

Welcome to Recife, the vibrant capital of Pernambuco! After checking into your hotel, take a leisurely stroll along Boa Viagem Beach, one of the most famous urban beaches in Brazil. Enjoy the warm sand, take a dip in the refreshing waters, and soak up the lively atmosphere. In the evening, head to the historic neighborhood of Recife Antigo and explore its charming streets, filled with colorful colonial buildings, trendy bars, and delicious restaurants.

Day 2: Olinda and Recife City Tour

Today, venture to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Olinda. Explore the cobblestone streets lined with beautifully preserved colonial buildings, visit the stunning churches, and take in panoramic views from Alto da Sé. In the afternoon, return to Recife and embark on a city tour. Visit the iconic Ricardo Brennand Institute, a museum showcasing an impressive collection of art and artifacts. End the day with a relaxing boat tour through the city's canals, known as "the Brazilian Venice."

Day 3: Porto de Galinhas

Escape the city and spend the day in the paradise-like beach town of Porto de Galinhas. Just a short drive from Recife, this coastal gem boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, natural pools formed by coral reefs, and stunning white sand beaches. Relax on the beach, go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant marine life, or take a buggy ride along the coast to explore the surrounding areas.

Day 4: Recife Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Recife today. Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Frevo, where you can learn about the traditional music and dance of Pernambuco. Next, head to the Embaixada dos Bonecos Gigantes, a workshop where giant puppets are made for the famous Carnival celebrations. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Recife by visiting one of the many bars and clubs that offer live music and traditional forró dancing.

Day 5: Gastronomic Tour

Pernambuco is known for its delicious cuisine, so today is all about indulging in local flavors. Start your day with a visit to the Mercado de São José, a bustling market where you can sample regional delicacies like tapioca, acarajé, and fresh fruits. In the afternoon, take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as moqueca or bolo de rolo. End the day with a dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor the famous regional dish, feijoada.

Day 6: Beach Hopping

Today, explore some of the stunning beaches that surround Recife. Start with Praia dos Carneiros, known for its calm waters and picturesque coconut trees. Relax on the beach, take a boat tour to explore the mangroves, or indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants. In the afternoon, head to Praia de Calhetas, a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking cliffs. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, or simply sunbathing on this secluded beach.

Day 7: Day Trip to Fernando de Noronha

Take a day trip to the stunning archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, a true paradise for nature lovers. Explore the pristine beaches, go snorkeling or diving to discover the vibrant marine life, and hike to breathtaking viewpoints. Don't forget to visit Baía do Sancho, consistently ranked as one of the world's best beaches. Although it's a bit of a journey from Recife, the beauty of Fernando de Noronha is well worth it.

Day 8: Shopping and Relaxation

Spend the day exploring the shopping scene in Recife. Visit the RioMar Shopping Mall, one of the largest in Latin America, where you can find a wide range of local and international brands. After some retail therapy, head to the tranquil beach of Pina and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the sea. Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment to unwind and recharge.

Day 9: Maracaipe and Pontal de Maracaipe

Today, venture to Maracaipe, a charming fishing village known for its beautiful beaches and excellent surf conditions. Take a surf lesson or simply relax on the beach and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit Pontal de Maracaipe, a natural pool formed by the meeting of the river and the sea. Enjoy swimming in the calm waters, go kayaking, or take a boat tour to spot seahorses and other marine life.

Day 10: Departure

On your last day in Recife, take some time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, take a final stroll along Boa Viagem Beach, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs to remember your time in Pernambuco. Bid farewell to this vibrant city and head to the airport for your departure, taking with you memories of the beautiful beaches, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Recife.