Highlights / General details
Focused on central Recife, whose islands, rivers and bridges have inspired the name Brazilian Venice, the tour starts at Praça da Republica and its fine buildings: the Law Courts, Governor's Palace and Santa Isabel Theatre. After visiting the Capela Dourada, a gilt-clad church with paintings that depict virtues, saints and martyrs, the tour reaches Carmo square, church and convent; and Patio de São Pedro, a traffic-free plaza with bars, restaurants, colorful 19th century houses and the 18th century Church of Saint Peter. São José Market is followed by Forte das Cinco Pontas, built on the site of the 1630 Dutch fortress, where the City Museum shows Recife's history and culture, before returning to the city's origins in Recife Antigo. Part of this port area now undergoing restoration was founded by the Dutch, its four-story townhouses resembling Amsterdam. In Rua do Bom Jesus, the site of the first synagogue in the Americas is now the Jewish Museum, whilst the broad quayside square of Marco Zero marks the starting point of both Recife and Pernambuco State. Port warehouses have become a restaurant complex, craft center and two museums: Cais do Sertão, an insight into the rich culture of the state's backlands; and Paço do Frevo, for the history and features of Recife's unique carnival dance.
After lunch, the tour proceeds to Olinda, a breathtaking colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site that overlooks Recife and the Atlantic Ocean. The walking tour includes unique sights such as the lavishly decorated 1582 São Bento Monastery, the home of Brazil's first law school, the Igreja da Sé, the Convent of Saint Francis and the former slave market. Further attractions include brightly painted colonial houses, artists' studios and cozy bars.
Inclusion
Hotel pick-up and drop-off; Private Transportation; Guided Tour; Lunch.
Exclusion
Gratuities.
Hours of operation
Available: Daily. No tour departures on: January 1; February 24 - March 5 (Carnival); December 24-25, 31.
Duration
Approximately 8 hours.
Location
Tour departs from Recife hotels.
Policies
Cancellation: 2 days prior 100% penalty. No show always 100% penalty.
*2 PASSENGERS MINIMUM REQUIRED TO CONFIRM RESERVATION*
Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.
**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**