Olinda 3-Day Itinerary

One of Brazil's oldest Franciscan convents, dating from 1585. Its blue-and-white azulejo panels depict biblical scenes, and the courtyard is filled with mango trees and silence.

🕐 Mon–Sat 8am–12pm, 2pm–5pm, Sun 8am–12pm

💡 Entry to the church is free; the small museum upstairs costs R$5. Weekday mornings are quietest—escape the tourist trail here.

A cobbled street lined with brightly painted colonial houses, art studios, and small workshops. Many are open to the public, showing painters, ceramists, and sculptors at work.

🕐 Varies by studio, typically 10am–6pm daily

💡 Look for the house number 67—it's a cooperative space with rotating open studios. Go on a Saturday morning when most workshops are active and the owners chat freely.

Bar do Déo · ££

Yantai · ££

Housed in a former 17th-century prison, this museum focuses on modern and contemporary Brazilian art. Rotating exhibitions keep the space fresh—expect paintings, installations, and local works.

🕐 Tue–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 9am–1pm, closed Mon

💡 Free on Tuesdays, but the permanent collection is always gratis. Check the schedule for temporary shows—some may have a small fee (around R$5).

The main square at Olinda's highest point, with panoramic views over Recife and the Atlantic. A prime spot for sunset people-watching, surrounded by colonial buildings and craft stalls.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Come just before sunset to claim a spot on the low wall—street vendors sell cold coconut water and grilled cheese for a few reais.

Kung food

Palhoças

A small, calm beach just north of Olinda's historic core, with a lighthouse and murky but swimmable water. Less crowded than Recife's beaches, it's good for a q

💡 Bring your own towel and snacks—there are no rentals. The best spot is near the rocks at the south end, where locals fish for small fry.

Bar do Peneira

Estaçao Cafe