10 reasons to go to Olinda Pernambuco
I absolutely love Olinda to the point where I always say I’ll buy a house there. Its peaceful way of life in the very colorful streets has always charmed me.
It’s the perfect destination to take a calm break during a trip in a loud and vibrant Brazil.
If you’re unsure whether to settle your luggage in this beautiful city or not, here are 10 reasons to visit Olinda Pernambuco.
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Olinda in a nutshell
Founded in 1535 by the Portuguese, this charming city in northeastern Brazil overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Long before the arrival of European settlers, indigenous tribes inhabited the region.
During the colonial era, Olinda tragically became a major entry point for enslaved Africans, who were forcibly brought to Brazil and sent to work on the plantations of Pernambuco.
Nearly a century later, the city was burned down by the Dutch but was rebuilt in the late 17th century.
Today, Olinda has approximately 390,000 residents spread across 41.7 km². Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, attracts many visitors drawn to its Bohemian and artistic atmosphere. The city has become a hub for painters, musicians, and artisans.
Olinda is also famous for its vibrant Carnival, one of Brazil’s most iconic celebrations. Giant puppets, known as bonecos de Olinda, parade through the streets to the energetic rhythms of frevo and maracatu, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
TO READ: Olinda: The Places You Can’t Miss
10 Reasons to Visit Olinda Pernambuco
Discovering Olinda is above all an opportunity to unwind and enjoy a peaceful break while immersing yourself in a city rich in history and traditions.
Here are 10 reasons to explore Olinda Pernambuco!
1. Its UNESCO-listed historic center
Strolling through its cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses is a true delight. With its baroque churches and colonial buildings, Olinda feels like an open-air museum.
Every alleyway seems to tell the story of the city, offering a unique atmosphere where the past and present blend in perfect harmony.
2. Discover the Sé Cathedral
Olinda is home to many historic churches that reflect its rich religious heritage. The majestic Sé Cathedral is undoubtedly the most iconic.
Beyond its impressive architecture, it’s the breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the ocean from its terrace that truly captivates visitors.
3. Its unique Carnival
4. Exceptional local handicrafts
Olinda is full of charming shops where visitors can explore the beauty of local craftsmanship. Unique creations abound, from wooden sculptures and handmade jewelry to pottery and textiles.
Many of these artworks tell stories of the region’s rich culture, making them perfect souvenirs while also supporting local artisans.
5. Visit the Sao Bento Monastery
The São Bento Monastery is one of my favorite landmarks in Olinda and one of the oldest and most impressive religious buildings in the city. Founded in the 16th century, it is a perfect example of Brazilian Baroque architecture.
What stands out the most is the astonishing amount of gold used in its decoration. Local guides mention that around 100 kg of gold was used. In any case, the gilded altar is truly spectacular.
6. Panoramic views
From Alto da Sé, the highest point in Olinda, visitors can enjoy one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the region. From here, you can admire both Recife’s urban landscape and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s the perfect spot to capture unforgettable photos and enjoy a peaceful moment at sunset.
7. Delicious tapiocas
Tapiocas are a local specialty in Olinda! These light and tasty cassava flour crepes are typically filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as cheese, grated coconut, or chocolate.
This Brazilian culinary classic is best enjoyed at Alto da Sé at dusk, where numerous vendors prepare them right before your eyes.
8. Its proximity to Recife
Olinda is just a few kilometers from Recife, making it an easy getaway to explore a city whose urban energy contrasts sharply with Olinda’s peaceful charm.
If you want to fully explore Recife, check out this article where I reveal the best things to do!
9. Tranquil beaches
Olinda isn’t particularly known for its large beaches, but it offers several charming small beaches where you can relax in the sun.
Bairro Novo and Peixinhos are perfect examples for those seeking tranquility. These lesser-known beaches also provide a more local atmosphere to enjoy.
10. Enjoy the nightlife
Olinda’s nightlife is certainly quieter than that of Recife, but it still offers plenty of options.
Local bars and restaurants often feature live music for customers enjoying the local cuisine, creating a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.
How many days to visit Olinda?
Most tourists spend just a day in Olinda, allowing them to explore the main attractions without rushing.
However, I recommend staying at least one night to experience its peaceful nightlife and spend some time on its beaches.
Finally, if you’re truly a slow traveler and want to settle in this charming village for a few weeks, why not?
When to visit Olinda?
Olinda enjoys a mild climate year-round, so you can visit at any time, although some periods are more favorable than others.
Best time to visit: From September to March
These months offer the best weather conditions, with:
✅ Pleasant temperatures: around 25-30°C, perfect for enjoying the beaches.
✅ Little rain: the sky is often clear with rare precipitation.
✅ Major cultural events: this period includes some unmissable festivals.
Must-see events:
🎭 Carnival (February or March): one of the most popular carnivals in the country, known for its giant puppets (bonecos de Olinda).
🎶 MIMO Festival (September): a music festival attracting many tourists with concerts and cultural performances.
🎬 São João Festival (June): featuring traditional dances and local cuisine.
Times to avoid:
Brazilian holidays in January, February, and July, as well as the Easter period, significantly increase tourist crowds. To avoid the hustle and enjoy Olinda more peacefully, it’s best to avoid these times.
The rainy season lasts from April to August, bringing more frequent, though usually short, showers. This might not be the best time if you prefer good weather!
How to get to Olinda?
If you are traveling from Natal, Salvador, João Pessoa, or any other city in Brazil, you will likely arrive in Recife, either by plane or bus.
From Recife to Olinda:
🚍 By bus
Several bus lines connect Recife to Olinda in about 30 minutes. The stops may vary, so feel free to ask locals, as Google Maps is not always reliable in this area.
🚖 By taxi
From the airport or bus station, you can take a taxi to reach Olinda comfortably and hassle-free.
🚗 By Uber or moto-taxi
Uber offers car or moto rides, depending on your preference. The moto-taxi is a faster and more economical option for those traveling alone with little luggage.
How to get around Olinda?
The city of Olinda is relatively small, and chances are you’ll only explore the downtown area. Therefore, you can do everything on foot.
This is actually the best way to enjoy its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and panoramic viewpoints.
However, some streets are quite steep. If you have knee or back problems, or if you’re sensitive to heights, it might be a bit challenging.
💡 Tip: Take your time, take breaks, and feel free to look for an alternative route to avoid the steepest streets.
And if it’s too much for you, you can always take an Uber or a taxi.
Where to stay in Olinda?
In Olinda, the best option is to stay in the historic center to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and easily visit the main tourist attractions.
If you love the beach and want to wake up to the sound of the waves, or almost, you can also stay by the seaside.
My Favorite Hotels in Olinda
ROSÁRIO TEMPORADA Hostel ($): This establishment, with its very simple rooms, is still an excellent option thanks to its outdoor pool, garden, and terrace. Additionally, it is located close to several beaches.
Pousada Convento da Conceição ($$): I stayed in this former convent and highly recommend this hotel. The place is stunning, and the rooms are very clean.
Pousada São Pedro ($$): Just 800 meters from Praia dos Milagres beach, this accommodation offers very simple yet comfortable rooms. There’s also a pool!
Hotel 7 Colinas ($$$): This hotel is a true haven of peace, located in a beautiful park. Modern rooms, a large pool, free parking, and a gym await guests in this luxurious establishment.
Is it safe to visit Olinda?
As with everywhere in Brazil, there is no such thing as zero risk. However, since Olinda is a smaller, touristy town, the risks are lower compared to larger cities like Recife or São Paulo.
That said, it is advisable to take some precautions to avoid any unpleasant experiences:
🚶♂️ Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded alleys.
📵 Don’t take out your phone or valuables on the street, especially in very touristy areas.
🚖 Opt for taxis or Uber for your night-time travels.
📍 Ask the locals about areas to avoid, especially outside the historic center.
Travel responsibly in Olinda
Whether you’re in Olinda Pernambuco or elsewhere in Brazil, it’s essential to adopt responsible travel practices to protect the environment and respect the local community.
Here are some simple gestures to integrate during your stay:
🏡 Choose ethical accommodation: Opt for locally-owned pousadas or eco-friendly hotels.
🥤 Reduce plastic consumption: Bring a reusable water bottle and bamboo utensils to avoid unnecessary waste when eating on the go.
🌿 Protect the ecosystem: Use eco-friendly sunscreen, especially when swimming at the beaches. Some regular sunscreens contain harmful substances to marine life.
🚶♂️ Prefer soft transport: Olinda is best explored on foot, which not only reduces your carbon footprint but also allows you to fully appreciate its colonial charm and colorful alleys.
📚 Learn about the local culture: Before you leave, take time to educate yourself about Olinda’s social, economic, and environmental context. This will help you interact respectfully and enrich your experience.
Olinda Pernambuco is undoubtedly a destination to include in any itinerary exploring the northeastern part of the country.
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