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Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda (Centro Historico de Olinda)
Historic Site

Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda (Centro Historico de Olinda)

Brazil
4.6
(850 reviews)
1
Tours Available
Free (most areas), $5 (some museums)
Adult Entry
4-5 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May, September-November
Best Time

Overview

The Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful colonial architecture, historic churches, and vibrant culture. It offers a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past and is famous for its Carnival celebrations.

Olinda is one of the oldest towns in Brazil and has been a center of cultural and artistic expression since the 16th century. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, religious art, and annual Carnival.

Cultural Historical

Location

Address

Olinda, Brazil

Neighborhood: Centro Histórico

Coordinates

-8.000000, -34.850000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults
Free (most areas), $5 (some museums)
Children
Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
2 hours
Recommended
4-5 hours
Full Experience
full day with nearby attractions

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and humid

  • • Spring flowers
  • • Outdoor events

summer

hot and humid

  • • Carnival
  • • Outdoor concerts

autumn

warm and dry

  • • Harvest festivals
  • • Cultural events

winter

hot and humid

  • • Holiday lights
  • • Christmas markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book ahead for Carnival season
  • Bring ID
  • Check weather forecasts

What to Bring

essential

ID water sunscreen

recommended

camera comfortable shoes hat

seasonal

rain jacket umbrella

not allowed

large backpacks drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate (many hills and cobblestone streets)

  • • stay hydrated
  • • sun protection

Medical facilities: basic first aid available, nearest hospital 10 minutes away

Payment Information

Accepted

cash (BRL), credit/debit cards

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Typical Costs

entry Free (most areas)
parking $5
food $10-20
souvenirs $5-50

Dress Code

casual, comfortable, light clothing, comfortable shoes, walking shoes or sandals, inappropriate clothing for churches

Booking Tips

  • • 3 months for Carnival, 1 month otherwise
  • • official website or trusted tour operators
  • • 48 hours for refund
  • • available for major attractions

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Olinda Tourist App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Event calendar, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Main Square, Cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor Center, Cafes

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Guararapes International Airport (REC)

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

taxi
$25-35 25 min
public_transport
$2-3 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 7 km

bus
$1.50 25 min
taxi
$15-20 15 min
rideshare
$10-15 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history, vibrant culture, and a sense of community

Historical Significance: Founded in 1537, Olinda was the first capital of the Brazilian colony and played a significant role in the history of the region

Insider Tips

  • Visit the local bakery 'Padaria Santa Tereza' for the best 'pão de queijo'
  • Explore the less crowded streets for unique photo opportunities
  • Check out the local art galleries for unique souvenirs

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local 'tapioca' at street vendors
  • • Visit the local market for crafts
  • • Ask for recommendations from friendly locals

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Olá
thank_you Obrigado/Obrigada
where_is Onde é
how_much Quanto custa
beautiful Bonito/Bonita
ticket Ingresso

Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Alto da Sé

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide shots of the town

Result: Breathtaking panoramic views

#Olinda #Brazil #Historic

Rua dos Ladeirinhos

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Cobblestone streets and colorful houses

Result: Charming and picturesque

#Colorful #Charming #StreetPhotography

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, public streets
prohibited areas inside churches during services, private properties
flash photography not allowed in churches
commercial photography permit needed
drone policy prohibited without special permission
tripod policy allowed in public areas, restricted in museums
selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Praia de Olinda

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Beach

Museu de Arte Sacra

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Museum

Parque das Esculturas

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Park

Reviews

4.6

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Visit early to avoid crowds"
  • "Try local street food"
  • "Explore the less crowded streets"

Contact Information

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Quick Info

Available Tours

1

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

850

Adult Entry

Free (most areas), $5 (some museums)

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