Recife, Brazil

The most accessible and popular area is Recife Antigo (Old Recife), the city's historic heart, located just a short walk or taxi ride from the port. Here you can explore colorful colonial architecture, visit the Paço do Frevo museum dedicated to the region's unique dance, and see Marco Zero, the city's Kilometer Zero marker.

For a truly remarkable cultural experience, take a taxi to the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, located about 30-45 minutes from the port. This castle-like complex houses an incredible collection of medieval armor, weaponry, and Brazilian and European art.

Nearby is the equally fascinating Oficina Cerâmica Francisco Brennand, a sprawling, otherworldly sculpture garden and workshop created by the brother of Ricardo Brennand. It features thousands of mystical and sensual ceramic pieces set amidst lush tropical gardens.

Just 7 kilometers (about 4 miles) north of Recife lies Olinda, a stunningly preserved colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Reachable in about 20-30 minutes by taxi, it offers breathtaking views, baroque churches, and a vibrant arts scene set on charming, steep cobblestone streets.

For those seeking one of Brazil's most famous beaches, Porto de Galinhas is located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of the port. The journey can take 1 to 1.5 hours each way, but rewards visitors with crystal-clear natural pools, perfect for snorkeling among tropical fish. Due to the travel time, this is best visited as part of an organized shore excursion.

The Recife Cruise Terminal (Terminal Marítimo de Passageiros) is conveniently located on a purpose-built pier adjacent to the city's historic heart, known as Recife Antigo.

The main attractions of the historic district, such as the Praça do Marco Zero, are approximately 1-2 kilometers (about 1 mile) from the terminal, making it a pleasant 15-20 minute walk for those who are able.

Taxis are readily available at the terminal for passengers who prefer not to walk or wish to travel to destinations further afield. Cruise ships dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not required.

The terminal itself is modern but has limited amenities; the main concentration of shops and restaurants is a short distance away in Recife Antigo.

The official currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL).

While some tourist-focused shops might accept US Dollars at an unfavorable rate, it is highly recommended to use the local currency for most transactions. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and larger stores.

ATMs are readily available throughout the city, including in shopping malls, and are the most convenient way to obtain local currency. It is advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans before your trip.

Recife is a large city, and visitors should exercise the same precautions they would in any major metropolitan area. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab thefts, can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport.

It is advisable to leave valuable jewelry on the ship, carry only necessary cash, and keep cameras and smartphones secure and out of sight when not in use. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when using ATMs.

Exploring the main tourist area of Recife Antigo during the day is generally considered safe for independent travelers. However, for visiting attractions further away or exploring less touristy neighborhoods, using a registered taxi or joining a guided tour is recommended.

Recife features a tropical climate, with consistently hot and humid weather throughout the year. The primary cruise season from December to March coincides with the Brazilian summer, which is the warmest and driest part of the year.

During this period, average daily temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F), with high humidity making it feel even hotter. While this is considered the drier season, brief, intense tropical rain showers can occur at any time.

Passengers should pack lightweight and breathable clothing, such as cotton and linen, along with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. A small umbrella or light rain jacket is also recommended for unexpected downpours.

Taxis are the most convenient transportation option for cruise passengers and are readily available at the cruise terminal.

Ride-sharing services also operate in Recife and can be a cost-effective alternative. For a truly local experience, Recife has an extensive bus network, though it can be challenging for non-Portuguese speakers to navigate.

The city also has a metro system, the Recife Metro, but its routes are generally more useful for commuters than for reaching the main tourist attractions from the port. Given the proximity of Recife Antigo, walking is a viable option for exploring the immediate historic area.

Excellent shopping opportunities for local crafts can be found throughout Recife Antigo, especially at the Sunday antique and craft fair on Rua do Bom Jesus.

A must-visit for authentic souvenirs is the Casa da Cultura, a former prison where each cell has been converted into a small shop selling regional handicrafts. Here you can find ceramics, lace, leather goods, and wood carvings.

Local specialties to look for include colorful naif art paintings, clay figurines from Alto do Moura, and bottles of cachaça. For a modern shopping experience with international brands, the Shopping RioMar Recife mall is a short taxi ride from the port. While prices in malls are fixed, bargaining is acceptable in open-air markets.