Recife

Travel Guide

A cityscape with a prominent bridge, a river, and a coastal view.
A colorful circular plaza with geometric patterns and people walking around.
A coastal cityscape with high-rise buildings, a sandy beach, and a clear blue ocean.
A historic street with ornate buildings and a cobblestone plaza.
A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, small boats, and a few people enjoying the water.

See the sun-soaked beaches, historic sites, and local culture that make each visit to Recife unique.

Recife is an ideal destination for beach and family travelers. You can enjoy the sun at Pina Beach, take a stroll along Rua da Aurora, or explore the historic Forte de São João Batista do Brum. For shopping enthusiasts, venues like Shopping RioMar and Shopping Tacaruna offer a variety of retail options. If you're interested in local culture, consider visiting the Apolo-Hermilo Theater or the public market at Sao Jose Market for a taste of the region's vibrant community.

While you're in Recife, be sure to explore some of its interesting neighborhoods. Santo Amaro and Boa Vista are known for family experiences, with Santo Amaro featuring the Rowing Museum and Joaquim Nabuco Palace, while Boa Vista offers several theaters, including Teatro Boa Vista and Parque Theater. Additionally, Boa Viagem is recognized for its beach and city experiences, where you can visit Shopping Recife or relax at Santos Dumont Park.

The best time to visit Recife depends mainly on how busy it is, as the weather stays warm and fairly constant throughout the year. You might find the city bustling with tourists during peak seasons, which can affect accommodation prices and availability. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during off-peak months, when you may have a more leisurely time exploring the attractions and neighborhoods without the crowds.

Where to stay in Recife

Find the best Recife areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Recife
Learn more about Recife
A coastal beach with clear turquoise waters, a sandy shoreline, and a resort area with umbrellas and palm trees.

Porto de Galinhas

Travelers like the seafood restaurants in Porto de Galinhas, and Muro Alto Beach is a top attraction you might want to visit.

A coastal cityscape with a wide beach, ocean, and dense urban buildings.

Boa Viagem

Take time in Boa Viagem to visit attractions like Praça Boa Viagem and Shopping Recife. You might also appreciate the beaches, and you can hop on the metro at Airport Station to see more of the city.

A crowded beach with people swimming and boats with colorful sails.

Ipojuca Centro

If you're spending some time in Ipojuca Centro, Porto de Galinhas Beach and Porto de Galinhas Natural Pools are top sights worth seeing.

A yellow church with a clock tower and arched windows.

Boa Vista

Travelers like the theaters in Boa Vista, and Rua da Aurora is a top attraction you might want to visit.

A beach with palm trees, a sandy shore, and a large ship in the distance.

Pina

Pina is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Pina Beach and Shopping RioMar.

Rede Andrade Vela Branca

Rede Andrade Vela Branca

3 out of 5
Av. Eng. Domingos Ferreira, 4395 Recife PE
$27 nightly
The price is $29 total per night from Dec 9 to Dec 10
$29 total
Dec 9 - Dec 10
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Recife. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
Rede Andrade Vela Branca
BEACH CLASS CONVENTION BY MAI

BEACH CLASS CONVENTION BY MAI

4 out of 5
Rua Maria Carolina, 661 Recife PE
$64 nightly
The price is $68 total per night from Dec 13 to Dec 14
$68 total
Dec 13 - Dec 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Recife. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the overall value in ...
BEACH CLASS CONVENTION BY MAI
Rede Andrade LG Inn

Rede Andrade LG Inn

3.5 out of 5
Av. Engenheiro Domingos Ferreira, 3067 Recife PE
$24 nightly
The price is $25 total per night from Nov 30 to Dec 1
$25 total
Nov 30 - Dec 1
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Recife. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
Rede Andrade LG Inn
See all 2,241 properties in Recife
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Haus Smart Living Recife

Haus Smart Living Recife

3 out of 5
Rua Monte Castelo 277 Recife PE
Stay at this apartment in Recife. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Boa Viagem Beach and Mau Mau Art Gallery are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (174 reviews)
"Es un departamento ruidoso por su cercanía a calles muy transitadas. El ruido aturde de un lado al otro a toda hora. La cocina es patética. No está hecho para cocinar: unos pocos utensilios, ollas y sartenes para una comida básica. Pocos enchufes en la cocina. Cada vez que hay que usar un electrodoméstico ..."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2026

Haus Smart Living Recife
GoldMen Business Recife

GoldMen Business Recife

3.5 out of 5
Av. Bernardo Vieira de Melo, 1701 Jaboatão dos Guararapes PE
Stay at this aparthotel in Jaboatão dos Guararapes. Enjoy free WiFi, valet parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Boa Viagem Beach ...
7.4/10 Good! (201 reviews)
"Por el precio que pagué está bien, debió haber sido un lindo hotel, hoy está venido a menos. El desayuno pago es recomendable"

Reviewed on Jan 7, 2026

GoldMen Business Recife
Porto Alto - GAV Hotéis e Resorts

Porto Alto - GAV Hotéis e Resorts

4 out of 5
Praia de muro alto Ipojuca PE
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Ipojuca. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Muro Alto Beach and Gaibu Beach ...
9/10 Wonderful! (70 reviews)
"The property is amazing, but for the price it was not worth it. The property does charge for a glass of wáter you have. There is no water fountain even in the gym. They lack to replace food during dinner, and many options goes really fast. The food was delicious, but the prices are very ..."

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2026

Porto Alto - GAV Hotéis e Resorts
See all properties in Recife
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Recife attractions

A beach with palm trees, umbrellas, and clear blue water.

Muro Alto Beach

9.0/10 (361 reviews)
Set on Brazil’s glorious northeastern coastline, this beach is the place to idle about on the soft sand and swim in the transparent water.
See properties

Things to do

Recife street on an overcast day

City Tour Recife And Olinda

$31
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
City Tour Recife And Olinda
Porto de Galinhas sign

Full Day Tour To Porto De Galinhas

$34
per adult
Full Day Tour To Porto De Galinhas
Catamaran tour in Praia dos Carneiros

Catamaran tour in Praia dos Carneiros

$50
per adult
Catamaran tour in Praia dos Carneiros
See all activities in Recife

Frequently asked questions

Is Recife worth visiting?
Recife is worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, such as Muro Alto Beach and Maracaipe Beach, offering travelers relaxing seaside experiences. The city also provides diverse dining options with Latin American and Asian cuisines. Getting around is convenient with available bus and metro services.
When is the best time to visit Recife?
The best time to visit Recife is from May through September, when the climate is typically most pleasant for exploring. For travelers looking for fewer crowds and better value, the warmer months of December through March are a good option to consider.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Recife?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Recife depend on what you want to see:

  • Olinda Historical Center offers historic sites like Casa de Alceu Valenca Historic Place, Sao Bento Monastery, and Mauricio de Nassau House.
  • Santo Antônio features cultural spots such as Nossa Senhora do Rosario dos Homens Pretos Church and the CASA Do Carnaval.
  • Recife Antigo is home to Centro Cultural Cais do Sertão, Praça Rio Branco, and Paco Alfandega Shopping Mall.
  • Porto de Galinhas is known for its beaches, including Maracaipe Beach, Muro Alto Beach, and Cupe Beach.
  • Boa Viagem provides green spaces like Third Garden of Boa Viagem, Santos Dumont Park, and Praça Boa Viagem.

What is Recife known for?
Recife is known for its beautiful beaches, including Muro Alto Beach, Maracaipe Beach, and Boa Viagem Beach. The area also features neighborhoods like Olinda Historical Center and Santo Antônio, where travelers can find Latin American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Recife?
A good itinerary length for Recife is three to four days to explore areas like Olinda Historical Center, Santo Antônio, and Recife Antigo, and enjoy Boa Viagem Beach. For an extended stay of five to seven days, travelers can also visit Muro Alto Beach and Maracaipe Beach, or take a Buggy Tour to Porto de Galinhas. See Recife Activities.
How do you get around Recife?
Recife offers convenient public transport, with bus, metro, and train services available. Travelers can use key hubs like Rodoviaria Station, Joana Bezerra Station, and Avenida do Forte Bus Terminal to navigate the city. For exploring further afield, rental cars are available in neighborhoods such as Porto de Galinhas, Boa Viagem, and Imbiribeira. Rideshare services also provide a flexible option.
What are the top things to do in and around Recife?
Recife and its nearby coastal areas offer beautiful beaches and exciting outdoor tours:

  • Stroll Boa Viagem Beach in Recife itself.
  • Explore the natural pools of Porto de Galinhas.
  • Relax at Muro Alto Beach, known for its calm waters.
  • Take a buggy tour through Muro Alto, Porto de Galinhas, and Maracaipe.
  • Bike the dunes of Porto de Galinhas for an active adventure.

How do I plan a trip to Recife?
To plan your trip to Recife, book flights and hotels in advance. Explore areas like Olinda Historical Center, Santo Antônio, and Recife Antigo. Consider a rental car for activities such as a Buggy Tour near Porto de Galinhas or visiting Muro Alto Beach. Plan outdoor experiences for early morning or late afternoon.
What cuisines can you find in Recife?
In Recife you can find South American cuisine, featuring dishes like feijoada, pão de queijo, and empanadas. Travelers can also enjoy Latin American options such as Mexican tacos and burritos, along with Italian, Asian (Japanese, Chinese), and European fare. Seafood is also widely available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Recife?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Recife by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Recife with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Recife trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Recife?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Recife can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Recife trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Recife trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Recife trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Recife trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Recife?
If it's your first trip to Recife, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Recife hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Recife hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Recife

A beach with rocky shorelines and a city skyline in the background.

Jaboatão dos Guararapes

A coastal area with clear turquoise waters, rocky outcrops, and several small boats and yachts.

Ipojuca

A rocky shoreline with boats, palm trees, and a clear sky.

Cabo de Santo Agostinho

A coastal cityscape with a beach, dense residential area, and a distant urban skyline.

Olinda

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