Recife & Olinda Highlights
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Port
Recife, Brazil
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Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$199
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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
The Historic Center of the Town of Olinda was inscribed in 1984. Originally founded in 1537 by the Portuguese, the town was razed during the Dutch rule in the early 17th century. After the Portuguese regained control in 1654, the town as restored, and today it retains a unique balance of public and private buildings and an antique charm that characterizes 17th century Brazilian colonial life.
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. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts impressive views and dozens of century-old churches amid colonial houses. Take 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—returning 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 he/she may encounter.