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Olinda: A UNESCO-listed Colonial Gem

Explore Olinda, Brazil: A vibrant UNESCO World Heritage city with colorful colonial architecture, stunning views, and a lively arts scene.

Olinda, a historic city in northeastern Brazil, enchants visitors with its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and lively Carnival celebrations. Founded in 1535, it's a city of colorful houses, baroque churches, and stunning views, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1982.

A brief summary to Olinda

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on Olinda's cobblestone streets and steep hills.
  • Visit during Carnival for an unforgettable experience of music, dance, and street parades.
  • Explore the local craft markets for unique souvenirs and artwork.
  • Take in the panoramic views of Olinda and Recife from Alto da Sé.
  • Try local delicacies like tapioca and other street food.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Recife, several buses connect the city center and Boa Viagem to Olinda. The best bus from Recife downtown is the Princesa Isabel - Rio Doce, which can be caught across the road from City Hall. From Boa Viagem, take the Piedade - Rio Doce bus along Avenida Conselheiro Aguiar. Ask the driver to get off in front of the Correios (Post Office) in Olinda, which is the best starting point for exploring the historic center. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately R$4.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Recife and can take you to Olinda. A taxi ride from Boa Viagem to Olinda typically costs between R$30 and R$40. Uber fares may vary, but are often a convenient and affordable option. Using Uber, a ride to Patteo Olinda Shopping, a popular destination, averages R$13. Starting taxi prices are around R$6.00, with an additional R$3.00 per kilometer.

  • Walking

    Once in the historic center, walking is the best way to explore Olinda's charming streets and attractions. The area is relatively compact and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to easily discover its colorful houses, churches, and craft shops. Be prepared for some steep hills and cobblestone streets.

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Discover more about Olinda

Olinda, located in the state of Pernambuco, is a captivating city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Founded in 1535 by the Portuguese, the city quickly became a significant center for sugarcane production and trade. Its strategic location on the Atlantic coast contributed to its early prosperity and importance in colonial Brazil. Olinda's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting a wealth of colonial-era architecture, including ornate churches, monasteries, and colorful houses. The city's skyline is dotted with numerous churches, such as the Igreja da Sé (Olinda Cathedral), Convento de São Francisco (the oldest Franciscan convent in Brazil), and Igreja e Mosteiro de São Bento, each showcasing unique architectural details and historical significance. Walking through Olinda's cobblestone streets is like stepping back in time, with art galleries, studios, and craft shops housed in beautifully preserved buildings. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, attracting painters, musicians, and artisans. Olinda's Carnival is one of Brazil's most famous and lively celebrations, featuring traditional street parades with giant puppets (bonecos), music, and dance. The city also hosts a mini-Carnival every Sunday evening, offering a taste of the festivities year-round. From Alto da Sé, the highest point in Olinda, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea. The city's rich vegetation, colorful murals, and charming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience Brazil's colonial past and vibrant culture.

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