Best things to do in Olinda

Olinda Essentials

Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage site defined by its 16th-century Portuguese colonial architecture and steep cobblestone streets. This selection highlights the town’s significant religious heritage, including the gold-leaf Baroque altars of São Bento and the historic Igreja do Carmo. Beyond its churches, the list explores cultural landmarks like the Ribeira Market and the Museu do Mamulengo, alongside panoramic viewpoints at Alto da Sé and the coastal Farol de Olinda, which represent the artistic and historical core of Pernambuco.

Olinda Essentials — Map

Prefeitura de Olinda / CC BY 2.0

A

Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, this area features 16th-century urban planning, vibrant colonial houses, and numerous Baroque religious buildings reflecting the town's history as a center for the sugar trade.

B

Alto da Sé

The highest point in the historic center, this square offers panoramic views of the Atlantic and Recife. It is a central hub for traditional Pernambuco handicrafts and local food vendors.

Valdiney Pimenta / CC BY 2.0

C

Convent of Sao Francisco

With its baroque architecture, this building is outstanding. It was built in the 16th century as the first Franciscan convent in Brazil.

D

Convento São Bento

Founded in the late 16th century, this Benedictine monastery features a renowned gold-leaf Baroque altar. Rebuilt in the 18th century after Dutch destruction, it remains an active center for religious choral music.

E

Igreja do Carmo

Established around 1580, this is the oldest Carmelite church in Brazil. The structure features a late Baroque facade and underwent extensive restoration following the Dutch occupation in the 17th century.

F

Ribeira Market

Housed in an 18th-century building with stone arches, this former market now serves as a hub for local artisans, featuring galleries and workshops for woodcarvings and traditional crafts.

G

Museu do Mamulengo Espaço Tiridá

The first museum in Brazil dedicated to the traditional art of mamulengo (hand puppets). The collection includes over 1,200 figures representing regional folklore and Pernambuco’s cultural heritage.

H

Elevador panorâmico

A glass elevator located within the Alto da Sé water tower, providing 360-degree views of Olinda’s historic rooftops, the surrounding greenery, and the neighboring coastline.

Prefeitura de Olinda / CC BY 2.0

I

Museum of Contemporary Art

The museum houses a vast collection of local Pernambuco artists, such as Brannand, Bajado and João. Also often does exhibitions.

J

Farol de Olinda

Constructed in 1941 on Morro do Serapião, this 42-meter lighthouse features characteristic black and white horizontal stripes and serves as a prominent coastal landmark.

Other Lists

Hidden Gems of Olinda Historic Churches of Olinda Parks and Squares of Olinda