Things to do in Olinda

Our most recommended things to do in Olinda

Recife & Olinda City Tour: Unveiling the Charm of Two Cities

Recife & Olinda City Tour: Unveiling the Charm of Two Cities

Explore the cities of Recife and Olinda on a comprehensive full-day tour of the major sights of both cities. Discover the first areas in Brazil to be settled by the colonial Portuguese in the 16th century, all in the company of an expert Spanish and Portuguese-speaking guide. The tour is also available with an English-speaking guide as a private option. Get a panoramic tour of Recife, with fantastic Atlantic Ocean views. Touring all 3 sectors of the city, including Santo Antônio and Boa Vista, admire sites such as the Maurício de Nassau Bridge and Republic Square, dominated by the Governor's Palace and neo-classical Santa Isabel Theatre. Feel the electric atmosphere of the Casa da Cultura, a former prison that now serves as a center for regional culture with craft stores and restaurants serving local cuisine In Olinda, you will discover one of the best preserved and most harmonious colonial cities in Brazil. Home to the most popular Carnival, look out for music rehearsals and the trademark papier-mâché puppets on the enchanting streets. Tour the downtown area, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Misericórdia and 16th-century Alto da Sé Cathedral, where you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views.

Olinda City Tour and Instituto Ricardo Brennand

Olinda City Tour and Instituto Ricardo Brennand

Depart Recife at approximately 11:00 and travel along the Boa Viagem-PIna coastal road to Olinda, passing Beberibe, the Capibaribe River and the zero kilometer mark of Marco Zero along the way. Upon arrival in Olinda, go to the square of Alto da Sé and visit 3 churches. Journey up to the viewpoint to take panoramic pictures of the historic city. Enjoy 45 minutes of free time to purchase souvenirs of local crafts, or relax with some food and drinks if you prefer. Next, descend the hill of the Igreja da Misericórdia (Church of Mercy), strolling the narrow streets lined with colorful houses. Arrive at the former slave market of the Mercado da Ribeira and see the giant dolls used in the Olinda Carnival. Continue to São Bento Church, and end at the Ricardo Brennand Museum, where you can learn about the colonization of Recife and Olinda by the Dutch army.

Recife: City Tour Recife & Olinda

Recife: City Tour Recife & Olinda

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Olinda's Historic Colonial Center, where a picturesque cityscape awaits. Marvel at the colonial houses nestled amidst lush palm trees and the vibrant Atlantic jungle, all against the backdrop of the magnificent sea. As we explore the cobblestone streets that wind through the Historical Center of Olinda, you'll be immersed in a kaleidoscope of colors, with captivating houses adorned in vibrant hues that exude joy and warmth. Our first stop will be at the Monastery and Basilica of São Bento, where Brazilian Baroque Art comes to life, captivating our senses with its exquisite beauty. Continuing our adventure, we'll wander along Rúa do Amparo, a bustling street lined with artisan workshops and talented artists showcasing their craft. At Largo da Misericórdia and Alto da Sé, prepare to be enchanted by the charm and history that pervades every corner. Our next stop will introduce us to the famous giant dolls of Olinda, masterfully created by the renowned artist Silvio Botelho, whose creations bring boundless joy during the Carnival season. Venturing into the neighborhood of Recife Antigo, we'll uncover its hidden treasures until we reach Arsenal, the neighborhood's second most important square. Here, you'll encounter a vibrant hub of crafts and marvel at the architectural splendors of yesteryear. Join us on this captivating journey through Olinda's Cultural Center, where every step reveals a story, a burst of colors, and a deep connection to the city's rich heritage. Prepare to be captivated and let Olinda's charm leave an indelible imprint on your heart.

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Frequently asked questions about Olinda

What are the best indoor activities in Olinda for rainy days?

The best indoor activities in Olinda for rainy days are:

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What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Olinda?

These are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Olinda:

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What people are saying about Olinda

Overall rating

4.6
(5 reviews)

Júnior is an excellent guide. But the city tour is sold as Recife and Olinda. Not as a city tour in Recife with a stop in Olinda. If we want to do the city tour with transportation we have to pay an extra 60 reais. Misguiding and not fair to the guide.

It is a very nice excursion, Irene the guide is spectacular. I booked an excursion in Spanish, but 90% was in Portuguese. In any case, you understood practically everything reported by the guide, you just missed details.

The excellent guide. They could add some more places and leave more time to visit each place.