Pernambuco State

Top Attractions in Pernambuco

Pernambuco Essentials

Pernambuco’s landscape spans from the coral-fringed natural pools of Porto de Galinhas to the 16th-century Portuguese colonial architecture of Olinda’s UNESCO-listed hills. In Recife, the state’s cultural identity is preserved through interactive museums dedicated to Frevo and the Sertão, the first synagogue in the Americas, and the Ricardo Brennand Institute’s medieval-style armory. These sites highlight the region's Dutch and Portuguese history, the artistic legacy of Francisco Brennand, and the transformation of 19th-century structures into hubs for regional craftsmanship.

Pernambuco Essentials — Map

Leandro Neumann Ciuffo / CC BY 2.0

A

Porto de Galinhas

Famous for natural pools formed by offshore reefs during low tide, offering clear turquoise waters for snorkeling among tropical fish.

Prefeitura de Olinda / CC BY 2.0

B

Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 16th-century Portuguese colonial architecture, baroque churches, and narrow winding streets overlooking the Atlantic coast.

David Moraes de Andrade / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Ricardo Brennand Institute

The Ricardo Brennand Institute is a cultural institution located in the city of Recife, Brazil.

LuÃs Guilherme / CC BY-SA 2.0

D

Praça Rio Branco

Also known as Marco Zero, this waterfront square marks the city's founding point and features a large compass rose floor mural by artist Cícero Dias.

Raul DS / CC BY 2.0

E

Boa Viagem Beach

Out of all the amazing beaches you can choose from, the one near the Boa Viagem district stands out. A great place to chill out at!

F

Alto da Sé

Historic square and scenic viewpoint featuring a 16th-century cathedral, an astronomical observatory, and a restored stone monument. The site provides panoramic views of the surrounding region and hosts scientific exhibitions.

G

Paço do Frevo

A cultural center dedicated to the history and practice of Frevo, an upbeat musical style and dance recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

H

Museu Cais do Sertão

An interactive museum housed in a former port warehouse, documenting the life, music, and traditions of Brazil’s semi-arid Sertão region and musician Luiz Gonzaga.

I

Sinagoga Kahal-Zur-Israel

Established in 1636 during the Dutch occupation, this is the first synagogue founded in the Americas and features an archaeological site with an original mikvah.

Alberto.. / CC BY 2.0

J

Embassy of Giant Puppets

The amazing place is filled with huge dolls portraying a variety of famous personalities that seem very much alive! Well worth the visit.

adonis / CC BY-SA 2.5

K

Sculpture Park

A sculpture park on the reefs of the port of Recife features over 90 sculptures by Francisco Brennand. Definitely a must-see.

Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) / CC BY-SA 4.0

L

Casa da Cultura

A 19th-century penitentiary repurposed into a handicraft center where former prison cells serve as shops for regional lace, leather goods, and ceramics.

Other Lists

Hidden Gems Best Beaches in Pernambuco Churches & Monuments Museums & Culture