Visit Fortaleza: What are the best things to do and see in the one that is surnamed the “sun blonde”?
Given its isolation in northeastern Brazil, Fortaleza is a surprisingly large and tempacular place. Fifth largest city Brazil , Fortaleza attracts the inhabitants of the Ceará and also in search of employment as the Brazilian and foreign tourists who come for its beaches immediately accessible, festive atmosphere day and night and its spectacular seaside spots, sand dunes and fishing villages.
The city extends 20 kilometres along the coast and up to 10 km inside the land. Centro is the oldest part of the city and it is a alive ideal for day walks, with many lively streets full of small shops. For the rest, these are best places to visit and discover in and out of Fortaleza. Note, however, that the city does not offer countless attractions but remains a very pleasant destination. It is also an interesting stop before going further north of the country.
1. The beaches of Fortaleza
Flickr – melyssa_bree
In the centre of Fortaleza, east of the old quarter ( Centro ), you will necessarily fall on the Avenida Beira Mar along the coast and where the beaches Praia de Iracema and Praia de Meireles are ideal places to walk (especially in the evening, when it is animated along the promenade). However, these beaches are not known for their tranquility. Notably some vendors who are harassing...
There is a much more attractive beach and close to the city center called the Praia do Futuro . The wind blows a lot, with strong currents and big waves, and swimming can be a challenge, but for a small dip it is very good. We appreciate or not the very many beach huts that go from the simple little fruit vendor to the very animated large pebbles. If that doesn't tell you, get away a little. Be careful when going: take a taxi or bus, it may be dangerous to walk from the centre.
2. The Dragão do Mar
Flickr – A. Duarte
This superb and vast complex includes cinemas, showrooms, coffee, planetarium and two good museums: the Museu de Arte Contemporânea , and Memorial da Cultura Cearense with exhibitions on lifestyle and traditional culture of Ceará . Elevated walkways make it easy to move within this cultural centre, and everything blends well with the old buildings (to the pretty facades) that surround it, many of which have been restored to house bars, restaurants and craft shops. It’s a successful social orientation for the city, which is very popular with the inhabitants.
3. The José de Alencar Theatre
Flickr – Breno Peck
It was the oldest building in the Ceará, whose construction ended in 1910. It was enlarged in 1975 with an outdoor garden. Every evening except Monday, you can attend a musical, theatrical or dance show. You can visit the theatre from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays (except Monday), and only from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.
4. The sunsets
First of all, note that Ceará is not at the legal time and so it is night very early (17h approximately). Think about it for your days at the beach or to admire the sunsets. 3 points are perfect to enjoy: the Ponte Metalica (or Ponte dos Ingleses ), Praia Iracema or the beach close to the fish market Mucuripe .
5. The Parque Ecológico do Côco
pbase.com – Alex Uchoa
The Parque Ecológico do Côco was established in 1991 after local ecological groups requested the protection of mangroves against the construction of roads and industrial areas. It is the most popular park in Fortaleza, and it organizes activities to promote environmental awareness among its visitors. One excursion by boat along the Río Côco will allow you to fully appreciate the unique fauna and flora of the park. Going with a guide is recommended, because you need to know the park to avoid places that "rare".
6. Nightlife
Source: www.guiaexclusivo.com.br
The night in Fortaleza is very lively with many establishments to go out. In general, every day has its specific place. For example, the best night to get to Fortaleza is Monday, at Pirata Bar (near) Ponte dos Ingleses ). On Wednesday, it’s more like Armazem ( Dragão do Mar ). On Thursday we have to go to the Praia do Futuro To party. For the other days of the week, you won’t have trouble finding bars and clubs, but find out where to go.
7. Visit beaches and surrounding areas
Even if Fortaleza offers a few nice places, there are not as many activities as you might think. Fortaleza is rather a city to relax, do nothing, enjoy the beautiful weather (300 days of sunlight per year) and beaches. You might want to discover the surrounding area for a day or more. Here are some places to visit not far from Fortaleza and arranged on site:
- Cumbuco is a small fishing village located 30 km from Fortaleza, and has become the paradise of kite-surfers . There are freshwater lakes to swim, buggy rides on the dunes, horse riding on the beach, a traditional fishing raft ride ( Jangada ) : it is a very attractive city to spend a day.
Jericoacoara – Flickr – Stefano Liboni
- Jericoacoara is one of the most beautiful sites in Brazil, and it is therefore a trip to consider from Fortaleza or from the Lençois Maranhenses .
- Canoa Quebrada is a beach and a place attracting rather a "cool" and shifted population but gradually becomes a seaside resort for tourists. If you decide to go, plan for 2 days on the weekend to enjoy the nightlife.
- Outside Fortaleza, there is also the Beach Park one of the largest water parks in Latin America. Perfect for families with children, or for "young adults".
8. Local gastronomy
Enjoy being in Fortaleza to taste the gastronomy of Nordeste in several forms: seafood (crabs, shrimps, fish), baião de doivent (riz, beans and cheese), and of course the meats (including dried meat) served in the churrascaria .
Where to stay in Fortaleza?
The city runs along the ocean and the majority of hotels and accommodations are close to the coast. ♪ neighborhoods where to stay in Fortaleza are therefore Centro, Meireles and Praia do Futuro. You will find all types of hotels in the small pousada 5 star hotel. For prices, be careful to travel off-event periods of the city (festivals, pre-carnival, etc...). To find a cheap hotel in Fortaleza, search this Compare hotels . Another solution is to rent an apartment at home: it’s cheaper and you’re more comfortable.
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