Recife Car Tours: Top 5 Picks for Your Brazilian Getaway
So, you’re thinking of visiting Recife, Brazil? It’s almost a sure bet that you’ve heard about its amazing beaches, rich culture, and fantastic food. Very few folks actually know the best way to see all it offers, which is to hit the road and explore with a sweet car tour. Rather than getting stuck on crowded buses or only seeing the main tourist spots, having your own ride is great for getting the full Recife experience. Here are five of the top car tours you’ll be able to take, offering something for everyone, from history buffs to beach lovers.
1. Olinda Historical Tour
Olinda is just a stone’s throw from Recife, and it’s a super spot for a history lesson that looks pretty, too. This UNESCO World Heritage site is so jammed-packed with colorful colonial buildings, churches, and little artisan shops. What’s so amazing is that the Olinda Historical Tour by car means you’ll easily drive between all the top sites. You might even see São Bento Monastery, with its outstanding gold-leafed interior, that tends to stun you. Just a little way further is the Alto da Sé, with postcard views of Olinda and Recife that you’ll probably see from anywhere. Maybe stopping off at a local art studio to get some keepsakes makes this tour a relaxed mix of culture and getting that perfect photo for the ‘gram.
2. Porto de Galinhas Beach Hopping Tour
What makes Porto de Galinhas a spot most dream of? Basically, this beach town isn’t too far from Recife. Very few know how much people adore its clear waters, sandy beaches, and those naturally-made tidal pools with so many colorful fish. Typically, the Beach Hopping Tour by car brings a day filled with chilling on various gorgeous beaches. As I was saying, Muro Alto is great, so bring your snorkel and flippers with you, yet Cupe Beach tends to pump when you fancy something lively, full of surf. Really the main attraction are the natural pools at Porto de Galinhas beach. Or, you could go take a jangada boat trip. Don’t let me forget to remind you about ending your day with a nice seafood meal at one of the beachfront restaurants – ahhh, is that living or what?
3. Recife City Highlights Tour
Recife is sometimes called the “Brazilian Venice”, and that’s likely because it’s packed with rivers, bridges, and islands – so, too, it’s an eye-popper for city folks! A Recife City Highlights Tour is actually fantastic to see the city’s awesome cultural and historical sides. Is that the historic district, Recife Antigo? You could also view the Oficina Francisco Brennand sculpture park, just for something really different. In some respects, stopping by the São José Market would make an adventurous experience, it is that you may find local crafts and some seriously tasty snacks. Most importantly, don’t forget to roll through Boa Viagem, one of the main urban beaches, and hang where most Recifenses live!
4. Igarassu Historical and Cultural Tour
Just slightly outside of Recife exists the charming town, Igarassu, one that’s practically bursting at the seams with history and culture. As a matter of fact, Igarassu is home to the oldest church in Brazil, the Igreja de São Cosme e Damião. So few realize how very historic it feels as you wander those ancient streets. Visiting the Igarassu Historical and Cultural Tour offers you a calm vibe as you soak up its peaceful beauty. Actually, you can stroll through the city’s historic center and come to the Convento de Santo Antônio, packed with really nice panels. Plus, stopping at the local ceramic studio shows an artisan way of life, since pottery has always been part of the cultural bloodstream in Igarassu.
5. Calhetas Beach Adventure
When thinking of amazing sights and sounds, Calhetas Beach usually springs to mind; I mean it. Just picture this quaint, hidden beach is kind of near Cabo de Santo Agostinho. We just might discover why it’s such a super place to spend the day: lush green hills, calm turquoise water, and a relaxed vibe, to boot. The Calhetas Beach Adventure typically begins with a sweet drive along the coast, seeing some drop-dead gorgeous landscapes on the way, even though you don’t want it to. Now that we’re here, maybe try out some water sports? If you aren’t doing the zipline you’re losing. Then relax on the sand. To be honest, try one of the beachside kiosks serving tasty food and refreshing drinks that gives the spot a proper beach escape that many are yearning for!