Recife City Guide

Local dishes include bolo de rolo, tapioca, and moqueca. International options like Italian and Japanese food are common. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Many places stay open late on weekends.

Nightlife centers around Recife Antigo with bars, live music, and clubs for various tastes.

Coffee shops mix traditional and specialty styles. Third-wave cafes and local roasters are growing. Coffee is strong and sweet.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Restaurants often add 10% service charge. Round up in taxis. Small tips for other services.

SIM cards are sold at airport kiosks, mobile provider stores, and convenience shops. Vivo, Claro, and TIM offer good coverage. eSIMs are becoming available. Registration usually requires CPF, which can be tricky for tourists.

Cleanliness varies by area. Tourist spots are cleaner; some neighborhoods may have litter issues. Waste services exist but recycling is limited.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores are open 24/7. Private hospitals have emergency services. Late-night food options exist in busy areas.

Supermarkets stock local and some international products. Fresh produce is available at local markets.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Digital payment apps like PicPay are common.

ATMs are found in banks, malls, and supermarkets. Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Itaú, and Caixa Econômica Federal are common. International withdrawal fees can be high.

International and local schools include the American School of Recife and Colégio Boa Viagem. English instruction is mainly in international schools.

Community is small but growing. Co-working spaces and cafes are hubs. Meetup groups and social media can help connect.

Parks like Parque da Jaqueira and areas by the Capibaribe River offer green space and shaded paths suitable for walking and running.

Boa Viagem boardwalk and parks like Parque da Jaqueira are popular running spots. Generally safe during daylight.

Gyms are available across the city with a range of options.

Tennis courts at clubs and sports centers. Membership or direct booking needed. Coaching available.

Padel courts exist in private clubs with similar booking and coaching options as tennis.

Several yoga studios offer different styles with drop-ins and memberships. English-speaking instructors are rare.

Many gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, and Capoeira. Drop-in classes common but English instructors are rare.

No skiing available. Tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing happen on rivers and calm waters. Rentals and tours offered.

Surf spots exist, mostly near Boa Viagem. Beach has shark risks, so safer spots are further south. Water is warm year-round.

Diving around reefs and wrecks is popular. Sites suit beginners to advanced divers. Equipment rental and courses available.

Private hospitals like Hospital Santa Joana have some English-speaking staff. Public healthcare is free but crowded. Pharmacies are widespread, many open 24/7.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Use bottled water instead.

Parks like Parque da Jaqueira have playgrounds. Family attractions include Instituto Ricardo Brennand and Boa Viagem Beach.

Urban areas are generally accepting with safe bars and clubs. Annual Pride events occur. Legal protections exist but discrimination can happen.

Some pet-friendly hotels and restaurants. Veterinary services and pet stores are widely available. Parks allow pets on leash.