Best things to do in Fortaleza

Fortaleza's Absolute Essentials

Fortaleza’s coastal identity centers on the urban beaches of Iracema and Meireles, alongside the Ponte dos Ingleses, a historic pier known for sunset views. The city’s history is preserved at the 17th-century Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção and the Ceará Museum. Cultural life thrives at the Dragão do Mar Center, while the Mercado Central offers traditional crafts. For sports and recreation, the list includes the Arena Castelão stadium and the expansive beach complex of Crocobeach on Praia do Futuro.

Fortaleza's Absolute Essentials — Map

Pascal Subtil / CC BY 2.0

A

Iracema Beach

Named after a memorable Indian female, this urban beach is lined with many shops and bistros. Never stops being busy.

Otávio Nogueira / CC BY 2.0

B

English Bridge

Possibly the best spot for taking spectacular pictures of the sunset.

Jorge Andrade / CC BY 2.0

C

Central Market

Huge market where you will find any souvenir or gift you can think of. There are also countless food stalls, too.

Nakinn / CC BY-SA 4.0

D

Dragon of the Sea Cultural Centre

The Dragão do Mar Center of Art And Culture is a government funded cultural center in Fortaleza, Ceará in Brazil.

Gustavo Lajus / CC-BY-SA

E

Coco Bambu Frutos do Mar

Specializes in extensive seafood platters and regional shrimp dishes, served in a large dining space with outdoor seating.

Gustavo Lajus / CC-BY-SA

F

Crocobeach

Large leisure complex on Praia do Futuro offering swimming pools, saunas, massage areas, and live music performances.

Dominique Greusard / CC BY-SA 4.0

G

Farol do Mucuripe

Constructed between 1840 and 1846, this historic lighthouse now serves as a maritime museum overlooking the harbor.

H

Meireles Beach

Very busy and always crowded, but still retains somewhat special atmosphere and staying here is very enjoyable.

RaphaelHolanda19 / CC BY-SA 4.0

I

Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção

Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção is a fort located in Fortaleza, Ceará in Brazil.

J

Praça José de Alencar

Central square named after the famous Ceará novelist, featuring the landmark Art Nouveau Theatro José de Alencar and frequent street performances.

Trace / CC BY-SA 4.0

K

Ferreira Square

Heart of the historical area and literal centre of the city. Wander around, enjoy window-shopping and special atmosphere of the place.

L

Ceará Museum

History buffs will enjoy this museum. Small and tucked away but insightful in regard to the local history and culture.

Roosewelt Pinheiro/Abr / CC BY 3.0 br

M

Castelão

Estádio Governador Plácido Castelo, also known as the Castelão or Gigante da Boa Vista, is a football stadium that was inaugurated on…

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