Things to Do in Northeast Brazil

Choose from 34 Fun Things to Do in Northeast Brazil

Lacerda Elevator

This incredible Salvador city highlight has been beautifully restored to its original art deco wonder and as a result, has become a destination for travelers to this Brazilian town. Lacerda Elevator uses four distinct elevators to link Comercio with Cidade Alta. Visitors to this towering icon can travel 72 meters in under 30 seconds—a major improvement on the rope-and-pulley elevator first used by Jesuits on this same site back in the early 1600s.

Travelers love that Lacerda Elevator connects the low city to the high city and provides stunning picture-perfect views from its apex. Visitors can look out over the historical houses and old school churches that dot the landscape, as well as the arches of the Camara Municipal building—a 17th century structure that often plays host to local cultural events.

Practical Info

The elevator is open from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. daily, with extended hours on weekends, in the summer and during Carnival. It costs R$0.25 to enter.

Praça Municipal, Centro Histórico, Salvador, BA, Brazil 40015-170, Brazil

Daily 7am-11pm

R$0.25

From $ 62

Ricardo Brennand Institute (Instituto Ricardo Brennand)

With its castle-like façade and sprawling complex of museums, galleries and gardens, the Ricardo Brennand Institute has fast become one of Recife’s most important cultural attractions. Inaugurated in 2002, the cultural center is the brainchild of its namesake, collector Ricardo Brennand, and is renowned for its fascinating collection of historic artifacts, including a large section devoted to Brazil’s Dutch settlers.

Highlights of the museum include the world’s largest collection of armory, dating from the 14th to the 19th century; a sizable collection of paintings by Dutch artist Frans Post; an array of

exquisite antique furniture; and a selection of rare Dutch coins.

Practical Info

The Ricardo Brennand Institute is located in Recife, around 14km west of the central beaches, and is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 1 to 5pm.

Alameda Antônio Brennand, Várzea, Recife 50791-904, Brazil

Tues-Sun 1-5pm

R$ 25,00

From $ 69

Maracajau Reef (Parrachos de Maracajau)

If the string of shallow coral reefs that grace Natal’s gorgeous, sandy coastline could be called a necklace, then Maracajaú Reef is its biggest, most beautiful jewel.

Known as Parrachos de Maracajaú, (coral reef of Maracajau) this complex reef formation full of coral, iridescent fish and other marine life, covers over 3.5 acres (15 sq km) and is about 7km (4mi) offshore from Maracajaú beach.

It is possible to dive in the area but, if you time your visit with the low tide, its natural pools are shallow enough for some fabulous snorkelling – possibly Brazil’s best. Floating in the warm, clear water above a coral garden as dozens of fish dart around you is a memorable way to spend the afternoon.

Most people visit Maracajaú on a tour. A boat will take you from the beach out to the floating platforms - a jumping off point to the reef but also a handy rest stop should you wish to come up for the occasional breather.

Practical Info

Maracajaú is about 1 hour (50km/31mi) north of Natal in the city of Maxaranguape, just off Praia de Maracajaú (Maracajau Beach).

Maracajaú, Maxaranguape, Brazil

From $ 79

Barra Lighthouse

Perched proudly at the end of the Barra peninsula and housed inside an ancient Portuguese fort, Barra Lighthouse (Farol da Barra) is a prime spot to view the spectacular sunsets and views across All Saints Bay (Todos os Santos).

Explore inside the lighthouse and you’ll find a small museum filled with maps, charts and artifacts – many of which were recovered from sunken European galleons that plied the seas transporting goods and slaves during the colonial days.

Admire the splendid fort (Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra), built in 1534 to defend the capital from indigenous and Dutch advances, then lie back against its old stone walls to take in the sunset over the bay.

Practical Info

Barra is a popular beachside neighbourhood just south of the city center. You’ll find many hotels here and Barra’s restaurants and bars are a great place to hang out and party with the locals.

Barra Lighthouse is on Salvador's southwestern tip. Catch the Barra or Via Orl bus to Barra.

Praia da Barra, Barra, Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

Open daily

From $ 114

Itaparica Island

This tropical island, which once played host to the Sul America Tennis Open, is home to some 40 kilometers of white sandy beaches, thick green forests and stunning ocean views. Travelers used to the typical Caribbean beach scene will find that the island of Itaparica offers a more rural escape, where tiny villages, scenic waterfronts and old school churches take the place of colorful beach umbrellas, pushy vendors and tourist-filled stretches of sand.

The tropical town of Mar Grande is home to bustling markets, shopping and plenty of restaurants—though visitors agree the food on Itaparica is not much to write home about. Those looking for a more traditional island getaway should head to the north coast, where the beaches are scenic and the ocean views are beautiful.

Practical Info

Itaparica Island is located about 10 kilometers from the city of Salvador. It is accessible via a one-hour ferry. Smaller boats leave from Mercado Modelo and larger ships can be found in Bom Despacho. The ferries run from 6 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. daily.

Itaparica Island, Brazil

From $ 66

Mercado Modelo

Mercado Modelo is a lively place stocked full of arts, crafts and touristy trinkets.

Located across the street from the restored art deco elevador lacerda (elevator) in a replica of the city’s old customs house, the market is a fun way to spend an hour or two and maybe pick up a bit of tourist tack for the folks back home.

Take a deep breath as you enter to prepare for the onslaught of vendors that’ll attempt to coax you towards their stall. It’s all pretty light-hearted so with a smile and a bit of friendly bartering, you’ll enjoy your visit here.

Practical Info

The original customs house (also formally a place to imprison slaves) was destroyed by fire in 1986. The rear part of the Mecardo Modelo is given over to local bars and traditional Bahia restaurants (on the street level, and upstairs on a large balcony).

Cidade Baixa is more commonly refered to as Comércio. To get here, catch any bus marked Comércio or Elevador Lacerda from Cidade Alta or hail a taxi. The surrounding area is a bit rundown and walking around here is not recommended.

Praça Visconde de Cairu, Cidade Baixa, Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

Open daily

Free

From $ 67

Museu Afro-Brasileiro

The Museo Afro-Brasileiro is one of the few museums of its type in Brazil exclusively dedicated to African cultural heritage and its influence on contemporary Brazilian culture.

The museum’s collection of African artifacts ranges from maps (depicting the original slave trade routes), masks, jewelry and clothing to musical instruments, traditional games and pottery.

The candomblé exhibit is particularly fascinating as it explains the roots, icons and rituals of this colorful religion. Don’t miss the impressive wooden tablets sculpted by noted Bahian artist Carybé that depict the candomblé orixás of Bahia with their weapons and liturgical animal. Make sure you ask for an English translation booklet at the entrance.

Practical Info

The Museo Afro-Brasileiro is in an historic building (built in 1808) that previously contained the first Brazilian School of Medicine.

Catch any bus marked Praça da Sé (Pelourinho). The museum is just to the right of the Catedral basilica.

Terreiro de Jesus, Centro Históric (Pelourinho), Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

Open Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm, Sat & Sun 10am - 5pm

Adults: R$5, Children (6 - 12yrs): $2.50

From $ 93

Teatro Castro Alves

Travelers who want to experience the local and international performing arts scene flock to Teatro Castro Alves, Salvador’s largest theater. This old-school architectural icon was recently redesigned and refurbished, giving it a much-needed update with some contemporary flare. And while the look has certainly changed, the global all-stars Teatro Castro attracts to its main stage remain constant.

In addition to an impressive calendar of classical music performances, international plays and world-class operas, travelers will find galleries dedicated to Salvador’s long-standing artistic history and colorful culture in the halls of Teatro Castro Alves, too. Whether it’s catching a concert by Bahia’s Symphonic Orchestra or taking in the beauty and talent of Castro Theater’s Ballet Company, a visit to Teatro Castro Alves is sure to be a memorable part of any trip to Salvador.

Practical Info

The theater is located near Campo Grande Square at Praca Dois de Julho s/n in Salvador. It has more than 1,500 seats in the main theater and nearly 200 in the smaller choir room.

Salvador, BA, Brazil, Brazil

Vary by performance

Varies

From $ 34

Carlos Costa Pinto Museum (Museu Carlos Costa Pinto)

Set in a mansion in the upscale neighborhood of Vitória, the Carlos Costa Pinto Museum (Museu Carlos Costa Pinto) illuminates the luxurious, decadent lifestyle of Salvador da Bahia’s sugarcane aristocracy. Exhibits focus on the history of colonial and imperial Bahio from the 17th to 19th century, with permanent installations and a rotating selection of cultural activities.

The Basics

Carlos Costa Pinto, a descendant of Bahia’s more affluent families, spent his lifetime collecting artifacts from centuries past. These items and displayed within the museum’s 12 collections, including crystal, drawings, miscellany, sculptures, engravings, imagery, furnishings, honorific orders, jewelry, paintings, porcelain, and silver. Outside the museum there’s a lovely green garden, with manicured lawns, hedges, and a pond surrounded by leafy tropical trees.

Salvador da Bahia tours often include stop at the museum along with other city highlights, such as the historic downtown of Pelourinho, the Forte de Santo Antonio da Barra, and Porto da Barra Beach. It’s also possible to book a museum-focused tour, which includes visits to many of the city’s art and history institutions.

Things to Know Before You Go

Museum entry is discounted for students, teachers, and children.
The cozy Balangandan Café features sandwiches, pastries, pies, coffee, tea, and other refreshments.
Although the collection may not hold the attention of young children, the museum's surrounding garden is a good place for kids to blow off steam.

How to Get There

To arrive via public transportation, take bus 1511 toward Eng V Federacao. Disembark at Avenida Sete de Setembro and walk about 10 minutes from there. Cabs are plentiful from downtown Salvador, and guided tours allow you to visit without the hassle of transportation.

When to Get There

Note that the museum is only open in the afternoon, from 2pm to 7pm. Arriving for lunch at the Balangandan Café and exploring the museum afterward is a great way to make the trip out of the city center worth it.

Bahia's African Heritage

Salvador da Bahia is a center of Afro-Brazilian culture, and the museum's collection reflects that. The Carlos Costa Pinto Museum has mounted exhibitions dedicated to Brazil’s vast African heritage through jewelry and clothing worn by matriarchs of the African religion Candomblé.

Avenida Sete de Setembro, 2490, Vitória, Salvador 40080-002, Brazil

Varies

From $ 95

Cachoeira

A small colonial town set on the banks of the Paraguaçu river, Cachoeira is both the capital of Reconcavo and an important vestige of Brazil’s colonial past, and makes a popular day trip from nearby Salvador. Cachoeira’s colorful colonial buildings remain its most charming asset and the central Praça da Aclamação square is the obvious starting point for a walking tour, home to striking landmarks like the 17th-century City Hall and the baroque-style Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora do Rosário church.

Additional highlights of a visit to Cachoeira include taking a boat trip along the Rio Paraguaçu; crossing the bridge to neighboring São Félix where it’s possible to tour the Dannamann Cigar Factory, one of Brazil’s most popular tobacco brands; and discovering the region’s rich Afro-Brazilian heritage by watching a live candomblé show.

Practical Info

Cachoeira is located around 110 km from Salvador in Bahia, Brazil.

Cachoeira, Bahia, Brazil, Brazil

From $ 230

Francisco Brennand Ceramic Workshop (Oficina Ceramica Francisco Brennand)

One of the most important cultural centers in Recife, the Francisco Brennand Ceramic Workshop attracts tourists, locals, artists and amateurs alike. This impressive sculpture gallery and garden honor the works one of Brazil’s renowned ceramic artists, Francisco Brennand. Founded by the artist himself, Brennand created the workshop on a large piece of land located within the bustling city of Recife to showcase his life’s work, as well as create a workshop for sculpture and ceramic artists.

The expansive grounds are dotted with galleries, outdoor sculptures, and ponds amid a tropical landscape. Visitors can roam freely on the winding paths, in and out of the breezy buildings and workspaces and admire Brennand’s famously exotic, sensual and mysterious sculptures. Highlights include an ornate ceramic gazebo, intricate ceramic tiles, a sundial and sculptures incorporated into fountains and ponds.

Practical Info

The Francisco Brennand Ceramic Workshop is located at Propriedade Santos Cosme e Damião s/n in the Várzea neighborhood of Recife. It is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday until 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is R$10 for adults and R$5 for students, teachers and seniors over 60.

Propriedade Santos Cosme e Damião, s/n - Várzea | Acesso pela Av. Caxangá, Recife, Brazil

Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays until 4 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

R$10 for adults, R$5 for children, students, teachers and seniors over 60.

From $ 50

Cacimbinhas Beach

Of Brazil's many beaches, Cacimbinhas (Praia da Cacimbinhas) is known both for being a quieter beach "” accessed only by walking down a long staircase "” and for its wind sports. It's a popular place for both kitesurfing and paragliding. The beach is framed by tall cliffs, which overlook the sprawling shoreline, turquoise waters, and reddish sand dunes below.

At almost 5 kilometers long, there are also expansive views of the coast between Tibau do Sul and Pipa. Walking down to the beach area grants visitors a more private, secluded Brazilian beach experience. Dolphins can be spotted in the waters off the coast. Others explore the Atlantic forest or the red sand dunes from which the beach gets its name.

With a lack of crowds, the remote beach is a favorite for those seeking calm. Surfing and swimming are other popular activities, depending on conditions.

Practical Info

Cacimbinha Beach can be reached by walking along the sand from Praia de Madeiro or Tibau do Sul. It is also possible to access the beach by walking down the staircase in front of the Pipa Privilege Hotel. The stairs are open to the public, with no admission fee.

Tibau do Sul, Brazil

From $ 32

Praia do Forte

Praia do Forte is an area of spectacular biodiversity less than two hours by bus from Salvador.

Like many beach towns in Brazil, Praia do Forte was once a small fishing village that became known for its beautiful stretches of coastline, diverse ecosystems, and wildlife.

Now a bustling eco-resort, Praia do Forte’s stunning beach and surrounding ocean and jungle is the main drawcard for visitors who come to relax and take advantage of the many adventure activities and whale & turtle watching.

Praia do Forte's high reef is well exposed at low tide, leaving warm pools of colorful fish and natural baths to loll about in. The area’s wide variety of marine life makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving.

Over seven different species of sea turtle live in the surrounding waters. It's worth visiting the TAMAR project to see them in their natural environment and learn more about the project’s conservation work.

Practical Info

Praia do Forte is well set up for tourists. You can choose to stay in any number of hotels, resorts or eco-lodges here and dine out on a different international cuisine every night.

Praia do Forte is 1.5 - 2 hrs on a bus from Salvador. You can get the bus from calçada (near the bottom of the Lacerda lift) or from the rodoviária bus station).

Praia do Forte, Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

Open year-round

From $ 108

Sao Francisco Church and Convent

Travelers who approach the relatively plain exterior of Francisco Church and Convent will be amazed by the ornate artwork, fine details and gilded ceilings upon entering this iconic colonial monument. Built in the early 1700s, the church took decades to complete. Its unique interior includes three aisles, rather than the more typical two, as well as some of the most impressive pillars, vaults and golden woodwork in the country. The classic Baroque style of Sao Francisco Church and Convent showcases one of the most spectacular examples of religious architecture and artwork, making it a destination for traveler seeking to experience the history, beauty and artistry of another era.

Practical Info

The church and convent are located in the historical center of Salvador in the State of Bahia, between Rue de Sao Francisco and Rue 12 de Outubro.

Salvador, State of Bahia, Brazil 40020-280, Brazil

Daily 9:30am-5:45pm

From $ 73

Dique do Tororó (Tororo Dam)

In a city that’s filled with crowds of people, bustling commercial districts and an energy that can be described as nothing short of kinetic, the quiet out-of-the-way sidewalks of Dique do Tororo provide a welcome escape. Located near the south entrance of the stadium that housed the World Cup, Dique de Torro offers travelers city skyline views, easy access to some of Salvador’s most iconic African statues and plenty of historical information about the traditions of West African slaves. Plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars line the perimeter of this man-made lake, making this an ideal spot to grab a cold beer or tuck into a warm plate of traditional Brazilian cuisine. It’s possible to cross the lake by boat and travelers warn that while the place is relatively safe during daylight hours, it’s best to avoid Dique de Tororo at night.

Practical Info

Travelers warn that this scenic destination is also a hotbed for local crime. It’s best for visitors to be mindful of their surroundings and keep personal items out of plain site as much as possible to avoid issues.

Av. Pres. Costa e Silva, Nazaré, Salvador, BA, Brazil, Brazil

From $ 55

House of Culture (Casa da Cultura)

An important cultural landmark in an unexpected place – the Casa da Cultura in Recife is a prison turned artisanal crafts market located in the city’s center. Built on the waterfront in 1850s, the three-wing prison maintained it’s original structure when it was repurposed into a cultural center and craft fair in the 1970s.

Today, the former prison cells have been converted into small shops selling colorful crafts that are typical in the region. The interior is donned with traditional northeastern folkloric art and decorations, and the region’s favorite musical genres, like frevo and forró, ring through the halls. The grounds outside have been converted to host concerts, as well as a space for food vendors, who sell northeastern treats like bolo de rolo (guava-swirl cake) and stuffed tapioca pancakes.

The Casa da Cultura is not only one of the best places to get one-of-a-kind souvenirs in Recife, but is also a taste of Northeastern traditions. The colorful, unique culture of the tropical northeast is distinctive from the rest of Brazil – this is manifested in the art, music, food and crafts that visitors will find at the Casa da Cultura.

Practical Info

The House of Culture is located at Rua Floriano Peixoto s/n in the neighborhood of Santo Antonio in Recife. It is open Monday–Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays until 6 p.m. and Sundays until 2 p.m. Admission is free.

Rua Floriano Peixoto, s/n – Santo Antonio, Recife, Northeast Brazil 50050-060, Brazil

Monday–Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

From $ 25

Pelourinho

Pelourinho is Salvador’s original colonial center and was Brazil's first slave market. Its name is derived from the post or pillory that African slaves were tethered to and whipped by their Portuguese overlords.

Despite containing the largest concentration of Baroque architecture in the Americas, Pelourinho was a seedy no-go zone until the mid-1980s largely due to drugs and prostitution.

Since being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Pelourinho has been restored to some of its former glory along with plenty of restaurants, bars and open-air cafes from which to sit and drink in the colorful and architecturally rich surrounds.

Practical Info

It’s possible to walk around Pelourinho’s main sights within a couple of hours but to truly appreciate the history and interiors of some of the most impressive buildings (and visit at least one museum!), you’ll need to allow a day or two.

To get here, catch any bus marked Praça da Sé (Pelourinho).

Pelourinho, Salvador da Bahia, Brazil

Open daily

From $ 34

Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Church

When the Portuguese Navy captain Theodozio Rodrigues de Faria and his crew survived a brutal storm at sea, the international explorer vowed to honor the saint who saved his life once he arrived on the shores of his destination. Today, the gilded halls of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Church, home to a replica image of an original Portuguese statue of Christ, still stand as homage to one captain’s survival.

Travelers venture to the top of Sacred Knoll in search of similar modern miracles, making it a point of pilgrimage for visitors from across the globe. Services at Nosso Senhor do Bonfim blend old world Catholic traditions with the worshiping practices of West African slaves, making for a memorable and uniquely Brazilian Sunday morning.

Practical Info

The church is located on Largo do Bonfim and is open Mondays from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Friday and Sunday from 5:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. The traditional washing of the steps takes place on the second Thursday of every month.

Largo do Bonfim, Salvador, BA, Brazil 40415-475, Brazil

Mon 8am-6pm, Tue-Thur & Sat 6:30am-6pm, Fri & Sun 5:30am-6pm

From $ 45

Santo Antônio da Barra Fort

Strategically located at the sharp end of Salvador’s peninsula, the Santo Antônio da Barra Fort is a historic military structure and lighthouse. The Fort, with its recognizable black-and-white-striped lighthouse is one of Salvador’s iconic landmarks. Built in 1549, the fort is the oldest military structure in Brazil and is an example of traditional 16th-century Portuguese military architecture.

The interior of the fort has been transformed into a maritime museum, with intricate models of Portuguese ships from the days of exploration, centuries-old navigating instruments, antique maps and other pieces of history. The museum also houses exhibits on the Portuguese colony’s brutal slave trade, which brought millions across the Atlantic from West Africa.

A highlight of visiting the fort is climbing to the top of the lighthouse, which boasts panoramic views of Salvador and its beautiful coastline. The fort’s geographic location also makes it the ideal place to watch the sunset over the ocean. Every evening, locals and tourists alike gather on the lawn outside the fort to watch the sky light up as the sun dips below the horizon.

Practical Info

Santo Antônio da Barra Fort is located at Largo do Farol da Barra s/n in the Barra neighborhood of Salvador. The fort is open to visitors Tuesday–Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is open every day of the week in January and July. Admission is R$15 for adults and R$7.50 for students, teachers and seniors. Admission is free for children under 7 and people with physical disabilities.

Largo do Farol da Barra s/n, Salvador, Brazil

Tuesday–Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open every day of the week in January and July.

R$15 for adults, R$7.50 for students, teachers and seniors

From $ 62

Fonte Nova Stadium

Opened in 2013, this massive stadium, which seats some 55,000 sports fans, was built by German architects and played host to World Cup excitement in 2014. Teams from Spain, Nigeria, Switzerland and the Netherlands have all graced the green of this iconic field. And in 2016, Fonte Nova Stadium again posed as a global soccer stage during the Summer Olympics.

Travelers agree that the impressive sports structure is worth checking out. A positive police presence has increased security, making it relatively safe and easy to move around the sports Mecca. While there are few places of interest beyond the gates of Fonte Nova, guided tours—which include a behind-the-scenes look at the locker rooms and playing field where some of the world’s top soccer players have already stepped foot—make it worth a visit for soccer fans and sports fanatics alike.

Practical Info

The stadium is accessible by cab, but travelers should note that vehicles are only permitted to travel to specified locations. As a result, visitors must walk around two or three kilometers to stadium’s entrance. Catching a cab post-match can be a true test of patience, so travelers should be prepared to wait.

Ladeira da Fonte das Pedras, Salvador 40050-565, Brazil

From $ 9