Recife & Historic Olinda
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Port
Recife, Brazil
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
12,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$145
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Historic Centre of the Town of Olinda
Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, the town’s history is linked to the sugar-cane industry. Rebuilt after being looted by the Dutch, its basic urban fabric dates from the 18th century. The harmonious balance between the buildings, gardens, 20 Baroque churches, convents and numerous small passos (chapels) all contribute to Olinda’s particular charm.
Leave the pier for a drive through the streets of Old Recife with its turn-of-the-century buildings. Heading downtown, you will stop at Praça da Republica (Republic Square) for photos of the Governor's Palace, the Justice Hall, St Isabel Theatre and a baobab dating back to the slave era. Winding through the 'Amsterdam of Brazil', as Recife is sometimes known, you're now headed to Olinda. This former state capital is perched on some hills only four miles north of Recife. It boasts impressive views and dozens of century-old churches amid colonial houses. Take a short stroll to see artisans at work and, if you wish, purchase some of the items on display.
Visit the São Bento Monastery and step inside the Cathedral of the Sea to take in the view of Olinda and adjoining Recife.
The Golden Chapel, built between 1696 and 1724, is an expression of Baroque sacred art in Pernambuco. It presents gilded wood carvings and elaborately framed paintings. Enjoy an exclusive choir presentation at the Golden Chapel.
Afterwards, you will have free time to take photos or wander down the hill to see the colorful houses. You can leave the tour at the Casa da Cultura -- a former prison converted into a handicrafts market, selling local gifts and typical souvenirs, before you return to the ship by shuttle.
Please note:
The streets in Olinda are too steep and narrow for the bus to negotiate; you will transfer to a van for a short ride up the hill. Every seat on the van will be filled in order to make the transfer in a timely manner. Guests with mobility limitations may encounter difficulties getting into and out of the van. Your guide will do his/her best to speak English, but please keep in mind that the limited tourism infrastructure of Recife is part of the city's charm, and bear with any language difficulties (s)he may encounter.