This large sprawl of a coastal city has a number of phenomenal beaches and a lively nightlife scene that attracts Brazilians and tourists wishing to party. It’s relative isolation means that it’s a great city hub for heading out to some of Brazil’s more remote countryside and fishing villages. Fortaleza also has a growing reputation for homegrown comedy and the ever more popular forro music and dance - indicative of the city’s fun-loving spirit.
Areas & Neighborhoods in Fortaleza
Praca do Ferreira and Praca Jose de Alencar — These two gathering points are the perfect spots to immerse yourself in the spirit of Fortaleza. Praca do Ferreira is the main city square and a great place to simply hang out and watch life go by. You’ll also find stores, restaurants and a cinema here. Praca Jose de Alencar meanwhile offers more greenery, plus the city’s finest street performers to keep you entertained.
Praia do Meireles — This attractive beachfront is another great place to set up for the day. As well as the beach itself there are also plenty of charming beer barracas by the sand and great restaurants just across the street. What’s more, Mercado Central is just a short walk from here. This three-story central market is a great place to pick up some tasty local foods and traditional crafts.
The Dragao do Mar — This incredible complex, first opened in 1999, has brought some creative cohesion to a whole district of Fortaleza. With elevated walkways joining different blocks the regenerated architecture plays host to an art museum, a library, a cinema, performance spaces, and plenty of exciting nightlife.
Parque Ecologico do Coco — Fortaleza’s largest green area, this park was set up in 1991 after pressure from locals to protect the mangrove swamps from the ever expanding city. It’s a great place to go for a walk in the woods, but the best way to fully appreciate the park’s wonders is to take a boat tour along the Rio Coco.
Things to See in Fortaleza
Fortaleza has more to see and do than you’re likely to be able to cover in one trip. If you love drama, then you’ll certainly want to check out the Theatro José de Alencar. As well as being a splendid architectural landmark, there are theatrical performances pretty much every evening.
If Fortaleza’s artistic and cultural heritage intrigues you then Museu de Arte e Cultura Popular is another must. Located in an old prison, this museum is home to a wonderful selection of folk art, boats and other cultural relics.
A great example of Fortaleza’s capacity to be quirky is the Mini Siara, or Museu de Miniaturas. This curious little museum consists of scale models of Fortaleza’s colonial buildings and landscapes. Quirky for sure, but utterly charming.
Things to Do in Fortaleza
With its 13 miles of beachfront, it should come as no surprise that Fortaleza has plenty of watersports to enjoy. If you’re a surfer then there are great waves to be caught on all of the beaches, and even regular competitions at Praia do Futuro. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are also popular options. If you’d prefer to work on your handicap, there is a great golf course available just down the road in Iguape.
