Best Things to do in Recife | Must-see attractions 2025

Oficina Ceramica Francisco Brennand

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Propriedade Santos Cosme e Damiao

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Oficina Ceramica Francisco Brennand in Recife, Brazil showcases works by renowned plastic artist Francisco Brennand, featuring ceramics, sculptures, and paintings.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Entrance fee is applicable; discounts available for students and seniors.

Pernambuco House of Culture

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

Rua Floriano Peixoto s/n Santo Antônio

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Pernambuco House of Culture, located in Recife, Brazil, is a former colonial prison transformed into a cultural arts center featuring craft shops and tourist information.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua do Bom Jesus 197

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Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, in Recife, Brazil, is the oldest synagogue in the Americas and a significant Jewish cultural center, showcasing murals and historical insights.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Capela Dourada

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua do Imperador D. Pedro II

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Capela Dourada, or Capela dos Noviços, is a gilded baroque chapel of the Franciscan Order in Recife, Brazil, known for its lavish decoration and historical significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Admission includes access to the attached Museu de Arte Sacra.

Embassy of Giant Puppets

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

Rua do Bom Jesus - Recife Antigo 183 Aberto diariamente de 08 às 18

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Embassy of Giant Puppets in Recife showcases large fiberglass puppets from the Olinda Carnaval, featuring notable political and cultural figures. Admission is R$4.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

R$4. A combined ticket for R$25 allows entry to both the Embassy of Giant Puppets and Embaixada de Permanbuco.

Gilberto Freyre Foundation

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua Dois Irmaos 320 Apipucos

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The Gilberto Freyre Foundation in Recife celebrates Brazilian culture, showcasing the life and work of the influential sociologist and writer, Gilberto Freyre.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Basilica and Convent of Nossa Senhora do Carmo

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Av. Dantas Barreto - s/n - Recife Santo Antônio

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The Basilica and Convent of Nossa Senhora do Carmo in Recife, Brazil, is a significant Catholic architectural complex dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations may be appreciated for maintenance and preservation.

Malakoff Tower

Mo-Fr 08:00-17:00

Tower

Praca do Arsenal Recife Antigo

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Malakoff Tower is a 19th-century observatory in Recife, Brazil, offering astronomy sessions and diverse cultural exhibits.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Parque das Esculturas Francisco Brennand

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Em frente a Praca do Marco Zero Acesso por barco or por carro via Av. Brasília Teimosa

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Parque das Esculturas Francisco Brennand features waterfront sculptures by the acclaimed Brazilian artist, set in a scenic harbor-side park in Recife.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free.

Nossa Senhora da Misericordia Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua Bispo Coutinho

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Nossa Senhora da Misericordia Church in Recife features remarkable Baroque architecture and rich religious history, attracting visitors for its stunning interior and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No ticket required for entry.

Church of Our Lady of the Conception of the Military

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Rua Nova

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Church of Our Lady of the Conception of the Military in Recife offers a historical glimpse into Baroque architecture and maritime heritage in Brazil.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance.

Fundacao Joaquim Nabuco

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Avenida Dezessete de Agosto 2187 Casa Forte

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Fundacao Joaquim Nabuco in Recife houses a rich collection of cultural artifacts, research libraries, and promotes Brazilian history and culture through various exhibitions.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Plaza Shopping Casa Forte

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Rua Doutor Joao Santos Filho 255 Casa Forte

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Plaza Shopping Casa Forte in Recife features diverse retail options, restaurants, and entertainment for families and visitors in the area.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have fees.

Shopping Tacaruna

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Avenida Governador Agamenon Magalhaes No. 153 Santo Amaro

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Shopping Tacaruna, located in Recife, Brazil, features 269 stores, restaurants, and entertainment, making it a key shopping destination since 1997.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Individual costs may apply for special events.

Brum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Praca da Comunidade Luso Brasileira s/n Bairro do Recife

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Brum Museum in Recife, Brazil, features the historic Forte de São João Batista do Brum, showcasing its architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Museum of Abolition

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua Benfica 1150

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The Museum of Abolition in Recife, Brazil, highlights the history and consequences of slavery through its exhibitions and architecture, making it a valuable cultural site.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Mau Mau Art Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Gallery

Rua Nicaragua 173 Espinheiro

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Mau Mau Art Gallery in Recife, Brazil, exhibits contemporary art from local and international artists, promoting cultural engagement and artistic dialogue.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Nossa Senhora do Monte Church

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Praca Nossa Senhora do Monte

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Nossa Senhora do Monte Church in Recife showcases Baroque architecture from the 18th century, featuring intricate woodwork and a panoramic view of the city.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free.

Botanical Garden of Recife

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rodovia BR-232 Curado

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Botanical Garden of Recife is a nature preserve featuring themed gardens and rich biodiversity, located in Recife, Brazil.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require registration or a fee.

Sao Pedro dos Clerigos Cathedral

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Patio de Sao Pedro S/N

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Sao Pedro dos Clerigos Cathedral, built in 1782 in Recife, is an example of Baroque architecture with rich history and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Memorial da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua Manuel de Medeiros S/N Dois Irmaos

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Memorial da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco in Recife, Brazil, celebrates the university's history and cultural heritage through exhibitions and archives.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may sometimes require a ticket.

Murillo La Greca Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua Leonardo Bezerra Cavalcanti 366 Parnamirim

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Murillo La Greca Museum in Recife, Brazil, features an extensive collection of Brazilian art, historic artifacts, and works by local artists in a vibrant cultural setting.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a nominal fee.

Matriz de Santo Antonio

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Praca da Independencia s/n

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Matriz de Santo Antonio, built in 1720, is a significant Baroque church in Recife, Brazil, showcasing intricate art and historical architecture.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for maintenance.

Museu do Estado de Pernambuco

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Avenida Rui Barbosa 960 Gracas

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Museu do Estado de Pernambuco, located in Recife, features rich collections showcasing regional history and culture in a historic 19th-century mansion.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a ticket.

Memorial Luiz Gonzaga

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Patio de Sao Pedro Casa 35 Sao Jose

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Memorial Luiz Gonzaga is a small state-run art museum in Recife, Brazil, dedicated to Luiz Gonzaga, the father of baião music from the Northeast region.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Praca Marechal Floriano Peixoto

Open 24 Hours

Park

Avenida General Manoel Rabelo

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Praca Marechal Floriano Peixoto is a historical square in Recife, Brazil, renowned for its lush greenery, colonial architecture, and cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entrance fee required.

Nossa Senhora do Livramento Church

8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Rua de Santo Amaro s/n

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Nossa Senhora do Livramento Church, built in 1727, blends Baroque and Romanesque styles in Recife, Brazil. A key historical site with cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance.

National Historical Park of Guararapes

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Ladeira Montes dos Guararapes

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National Historical Park of Guararapes commemorates the 1648-49 battles that shaped Brazil's history, featuring monuments, natural beauty, and cultural significance.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require paid tickets.

Shopping Guararapes

Mo-Su 10:00-22:00

Mall

Avenida Barreto de Menezes 800

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Shopping Guararapes, located in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Recife, is a large shopping center featuring over 200 stores across 30+ segments.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rock

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Praca Dom Vital São José

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Basilica of Our Lady of the Rock is a Catholic church in Recife, Brazil, notable for its unique architecture and cultural significance in the region.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Praca Oswaldo Cruz

Open 24 hours

Amusement Park

Rua Oswaldo Cruz Soledade

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Praca Oswaldo Cruz in Recife is a vibrant public square featuring lush green spaces, historical monuments, and local culture, ideal for relaxation and exploration.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to cultural events may vary.

Shrine of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ladeira Monte dos Guararapes

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The Shrine of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres in Recife, Brazil, is a historic church founded in the 18th century, known for its ornate baroque architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance.

Igreja Matriz do Espinheiro

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua Conselheiro Portela 339

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Igreja Matriz do Espinheiro, a historic church in Recife, Brazil, was founded in the 19th century and features a rich architectural style with artistic elements.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry to the church; special events may have associated costs.

Monumento a FEB

24 hours

Monument

Rua da Aurora

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Monumento a FEB in Recife honors Brazilian soldiers from WWII, featuring impressive sculptures and rich historical significance, set in a vibrant public square.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be accepted for maintenance.

Nossa Senhora do Livramento Church

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Rua do Livramento Santo Antônio

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Nossa Senhora do Livramento Church in Recife, Brazil, features Baroque architecture, dating back to the 18th century, offering cultural insight and historical significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Igreja de Sao Jose dos Manguinhos

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Avenida Rui Barbosa 396

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Igreja de Sao Jose dos Manguinhos is a historic Catholic church in Recife, Brazil, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Embassy of Pernambuco

Mo-Su 08:00-18:00

Museum

Praca Arsenal da Marinha Bairro do Recife

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Embassy of Pernambuco in Recife, Brazil, features large wax dolls of famous Brazilians and global figures, providing a unique cultural experience.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid. Adults: R$30, Children: R$15.

Igreja Matriz da Boa Vista

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Praca Maciel Pinheiro

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Igreja Matriz da Boa Vista is a historic church in Recife, Brazil, known for its neoclassical architecture and rich cultural significance since its foundation in 1869.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Paco do Frevo

Tu-Fr 09:00-17:00; Sa-Su 14:00-18:00

Museum

Praca Arsenal da Marinha

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Paço do Frevo is a cultural center in Recife, Brazil, celebrating frevo dance and music, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Free entry on select days.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and classes may have a fee.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Terco

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Patio do Terco São José

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Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Terco in Recife, Brazil, is a Baroque church founded in 1730, notable for its beautiful altar and historical significance in Portuguese colonial architecture.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free entry.

Ponte Buarque de Macedo

Open all day

Bridge

Pte. Buarque de Macedo

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Ponte Buarque de Macedo connects Recife's neighborhoods, embodying architectural charm while enhancing local transport. A vital link in the city's infrastructure.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Estacao Central Capiba

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Museum

Rua Floriano Peixoto s/n Estação Central Capiba

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Estacao Central Capiba is a historic railway station in Recife, Brazil, known for its striking architecture and cultural significance in the region's transportation history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Paroquia Nossa Senhora do Loreto

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua Nossa Senhora do Loreto

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Paroquia Nossa Senhora do Loreto in Recife, Brazil features unique architecture and cultural significance, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and pilgrims alike.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Boa Viagem Square

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Av. Boa Viagem (R. Barão de Souza Leão)

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Boa Viagem Square, located in Recife, Brazil, is a vibrant park and recreational area, known for its lush greenery, cultural significance, and lively atmosphere.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Additional events may have specific costs.

Church of Sao Jose do Ribamar

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Rua Sao Jose do Ribamar

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The Church of Sao Jose do Ribamar in Recife, Brazil, is a notable landmark combining historical architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome but not mandatory.

Divino Espirito Santo Church

8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Praca Dezessete

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Divino Espirito Santo Church in Recife, Brazil, is a historic Neo-Gothic church built in the 19th century, renowned for its beautiful stained glass and wooden altar.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Ponte Duarte Coelho

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Av. Cde. da Boa Vista

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Ponte Duarte Coelho is a historic bridge in Recife, Brazil, known for its architectural elegance and cultural significance, linking key city areas since its construction in 1903.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. No cost for access.

Baobab Garden

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Rua Me.Loiola 2 Gracas

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Baobab Garden in Recife, Brazil is a serene park featuring diverse plant life, well-maintained gardens, and recreational areas for the public.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Entry is complimentary; some programs may require a fee.

Igreja Santa Tereza D'Avila da Ordem Terceira do Carmo

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Av. Dantas Barreto

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Igreja Santa Tereza D'Avila da Ordem Terceira do Carmo in Recife showcases baroque architecture, rich history, and religious significance, offering insights into local traditions and culture.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Paco Alfandega Shopping Mall

Mo-Sa 10:00-22:00; Su 12:00-21:00; PH 12:00-21:00

Mall

Rua da Alfandega 35 Bairro do Recife

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Paco Alfandega Shopping Mall in Recife, Brazil, features diverse shopping areas and cultural attractions in a historic building, combining commerce with local heritage.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.