Recife and Olinda City Tour
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Recife and Olinda City Tour

Active
(9 reviews)
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a panoramic tour of Recife and Olinda. See beautiful historical buildings including the Casa da Cultura - a 19th century building that was once a prison and is now a centre for regional culture with craft stores and local delicacies. See why Olinda is a UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Monument

Available options

Porto de Galinhas - Portuguese

Tour led by a portuguese speaking guide departing from hotels located in Porto de Galinhas<br/>Pickup included

Recife - Portuguese speaking

Tour led by a portuguese speaking guide departing from hotels located in Recife<br/>Pickup included

From Recife - Spanish speaking

Tour led by a spanish speaking guide departing from hotels located in Recife<br/>Pickup included

Porto de Galinhas - Spanish

Tour led by a spanish speaking guide departing from hotels located in Porto de Galinhas<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Roundtrip Transfer to Most Hotels in Recife and Porto de Galinhas
Professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

After pick ups in the hotels, a panoramic tour is made along the Boa Viagem shore, one of the most famous urban beaches in Brazil.

2
Stop 2

Then stop at Catamaran Space, where you can take a beautiful catamaran ride (passengers who do not take the ride will head to Marco Zero by bus) through our "Brazilian Venice". During the water tour, while the guide tells about curiosities and stories of the city and the main points of the region, visitors will be able to enjoy beautiful landscapes of the city of waters, beginning with the Pina basin, passing the Wall of Porto, river mouth Capibaribe, Port Basin, Sculpture Park of Francisco Brennand, having its end at the zero point of our city, the Marco Zero Square. The duration of the catamaran ride is approximately 30 minutes.

3

From Marco Zero, we will continue on foot through Bom Jesus Street (former Judeus Street), where is the Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, the Olinda Giant Dolls Embassy (tickets not included) and the Pernambuco Embassy (tickets not included), as well as the Open Sky Museum.

4

The museum and deposit with giant dolls, who represent personalities from Pernambuco, national and international, also has a small presentation of frevo, a traditional local dance. Each place visited takes 20 minutes. Those who choose not to visit such places will be able to wait in the square of the Navy Arsenal, which is very pleasant and leafy. After the visits, around 11:30 a.m., tourists get back to vehicle and go to lunch in a restaurant with several options of regional flavors.

After an hour's lunch stop (price is not included), we head by bus to Olinda.

5

When you arrive in Olinda, on a walking tour that lasts an average of 50 minutes, we will visit the Alto da Sé, with the Sé and Misericórdia Churches, from where you can see the most beautiful view of the cities of Recife and Olinda, which is considered Heritage Natural and Cultural Heritage of Humanity by Unesco. It is also possible to shop at a nearby craft market.

6

Then we will return to a panoramic tour through Recife, including the three islands (Recife, Santo Antônio and Boa Vista), the Maurício de Nassau Bridge, the Republic Square (where is located the Government Palace, the Santa Isabel Theater and the Palace of Justice)

7

And finally a 40-minute stop at the Casa da Cultura, a beautiful building erected in the mid-19th century to be used as a prison. Today it presents itself as a representative center of the regional culture, with shops of crafts and typical foods.

After the last stop, the passengers return to the bus that will take them to their respective hotels.

What's not included

Food and Beverages
Lunch
Catamaran tour
Dolls Embassy Entrance
Tickets to Embassy of Pernambuco
Museum and Church entrances

Available languages

Guide guide
PT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.3
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The specific departure time for this tour will be determined upon reconfirmation.
Passengers who do not get the catamaran ride will follow the guide to Marco Zero on the bus.
Entrance fees to any other attractions are optional and therefore not included. Ask your guide for more information.
Those who choose not to visit such embassies can wait in the square of the Navy Arsenal, which is very pleasant and leafy.
Payments for any entrances must be made at the time in brazilian reais.
By decree of municipal law, medium and large vehicles are not allowed on the historical site of the city of Olinda. For this reason, some parts of the script are done on foot. Important to wear light clothing, comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
There are options for hotels located in Recife and Porto de Galinhas. Pay attention to your hotel address when confirming your reservation.

Important notes

Please contact Gray Line Brazil at 55 (21) 3586-8687 or 55 (21) 99777‑5888 to confirm your tour at least 48 hours prior to the activity time. Please have your voucher in hand to present to the guide upon boarding. Office working hours: from 7am to 9pm (local time) daily.

About Recife

Recife, the capital of Pernambuco, is a vibrant coastal city in Northeast Brazil known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and extensive network of rivers and bridges. Often called the 'Venice of Brazil,' it offers a unique blend of African, European, and indigenous cultural influences, making it a dynamic destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Boa Viagem Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Recife, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Recife Antigo

The historic old town of Recife, featuring colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a rich cultural heritage. It's a great place to explore the city's history and enjoy local art and cuisine.

Historical Half day Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees

Ofenmuseum (Museu do Homem do Nordeste)

A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Northeast region of Brazil. It offers a fascinating look into the region's indigenous, African, and European influences.

Museum 1-2 hours R$ 5

Olinda

A UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside Recife, known for its colonial architecture, colorful houses, and vibrant carnival celebrations.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bolo de Rolo

A traditional Pernambucan roll cake made with thin layers of dough and guava paste

Dessert Contains gluten and sugar

Moqueca de Peixe

A traditional Brazilian seafood stew made with fish, coconut milk, and dendê oil

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Tapioca

A gluten-free dish made from cassava flour, often filled with cheese, coconut, or sweet ingredients

Breakfast/Snack Gluten-free, can be vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and scuba diving in Porto de Galinhas Kayaking and paddleboarding in Recife's rivers and lagoons Sunbathing and swimming at Boa Viagem Beach Enjoying a traditional Brazilian massage at a local spa Exploring the historic sites and museums in Recife Antigo Attending a traditional capoeira or samba performance Swimming in the natural pools of Porto de Galinhas Boat tours along the Recife rivers and coastline

Best Time to Visit

July to December

This period offers the best weather with less rain and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. The city is lively with cultural events and festivals.

24°C to 28°C 75°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Portuguese
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

127V and 220V (check the specific region)V, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Recife is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Be cautious with personal belongings and avoid walking alone at night in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious with personal belongings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less touristy areas
  • • Use reputable tour operators and taxis, and agree on fares in advance

Getting there

By air
  • Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By bus

Rodoviária de Recife

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, air-conditioned, and a good way to avoid traffic. It operates from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Boa Viagem Recife Antigo Varadouro

Day trips

Porto de Galinhas
60 km (37 miles) from Recife • Full day

A picturesque beach town known for its natural pools, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a popular day trip from Recife for those looking to relax and enjoy the beach.

Igarassu
30 km (19 miles) from Recife • Half day

A historic town with a rich colonial past, known for its churches, museums, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to explore the region's history and enjoy local crafts.

Festivals

Recife Carnival • February or March (dates vary) São João Festival • June

Pro tips

  • Visit Recife Antigo for a taste of the city's rich history and culture
  • Try local street food and traditional dishes for an authentic culinary experience
  • Explore the city's beaches and natural pools for a relaxing and enjoyable time
  • Attend local festivals and events for a vibrant and festive atmosphere
  • Use public transport or app-based taxis for a convenient and affordable way to get around
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences