Exploring Recife — The “Venice” of Brazil

Established in 1537, the city of Recife, the capital of the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil is one of the most unforgettable destinations for visitors when traveling to this South American country.

Recife is located on two main islands and several small islands connected by 49 bridges, most of which were built during the Dutch colonial times. The two winding rivers, Capiraribe and Jaguaribe, bend and dividing neighborhoods in the city center, bringing the “Venice Brazil” nickname for Recife.

Like Venice, the annual carnival in Recife is very exciting and attractive. In addition, the old town with many buildings bearing traces of history, the waterways system leading to the sights, landmarks, and attractions… has created the attraction for Recife. Similarly, the popular type of tourism in Recife is also the cruise ships that bring visitors chill out between the canals interwoven between the streets and the wild mangrove forests.

Located in the center of the Recife Antigo old town, opposite the church of Sao Pedro dos Clerigos is the square that has always resounded ’frevo’ rhythm, traditional art with fast tempo and strong rhythm that combines different genres of music and dances of Brazil. This is where Recife residents and many artists come in every evening or weekend to chill out and find inspiration.

Visiting Recife, you do not forget to explore Bom Jesus, one of the oldest streets in the old town of Recife, characterized by house blocks that the front halls have been painted by colorfull brightly and often held the bustling markets. Also, try to look the Aurora street with the lovely house blocks reflected on the Capibaribe canal, discover Forte das Cinco Pontas fortress or visit the craft art workshops set in an old prison.

Porto de Galinhas is one of the most beautiful beaches of Brazil. In addition to swimming, sunbathing …, you can participate in surfing courses to try feeling adventurous on surfing the waves. In particular, coral reefs protect the shorelines creating turquoise-colored natural swimming pools at low tide and is completely covered when tide up.

If you want to experience the daily life of local people, avenue Boa Viagem opposite the beach, where gathered a large number of restaurants, bars, hotels … along the white sand beach is the road you need to go to when night falls.

The nonprofit private cultural complex Francisco Brennand Institute, 11 km to the west of the city center, is the place where visitors not to be missed. It was once a brick factory in the primeval forest of the Brennand family, a wealthy landowner who brings the soul of an artist in Varzeas street outside the city.

The building has the overall architecture like a medieval castle surrounded by vegetation, including a museum, an art gallery, a library and a large park. The outdoor gallery area exhibits nearly 2,000 human and things sculptures, inside for paintings and other items.

However, the beautiful beaches or the unique architectures only contribute a small part to the charm of Recife, only the street festival makes the most impressive highlight for this city. On the occasion of the festival, all the across roads of the city become extremely lively and colorful with more than 1.5 million participants. If you miss the annual spring Carnival festival, you can visit Recife in September to attend the world famous Refeno boat race.