Nestled in the Brazilian Northeast Region, Fortaleza boasts an impressive 30 km of beautiful coastline adorned with pristine beaches. Beyond the sandy shores, the city offers a plethora of leisure activities to enthrall visitors, from immersive museums and lively theaters to vibrant handicraft markets that showcase the creativity of the region.
For a delightful culinary experience, head to the beachfront along Beira-Mar Avenue, where numerous restaurants serve up mouthwatering seafood dishes and other typical delights. The city’s handicrafts market is a treasure trove of authentic items, including leather goods, costume jewelry, clothing, and local delicacies, all providing a perfect opportunity to connect with the genuine warmth and friendliness of the locals.
Fortaleza’s diverse offerings and welcoming ambiance make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an enriching and unforgettable experience in the heart of Brazil.
Towards the far end of Beira-Mar Avenue, travelers will discover the Fortaleza Fish Market, a vibrant hub where fresh fish, shrimp, and a variety of seafood can be purchased. For those with a craving, a few stalls at the back of the market offer delicious stir-fried seafood dishes, making it a perfect spot to indulge right away while enjoying the picturesque sunset.
Nearby lies Iracema Beach, a captivating area where culture thrives. The Dragão do Mar Center of Culture and Arts stands as a cultural haven, housing movie theaters, a planetarium, and the city’s Museum of Contemporary Art, making it one of the state’s most significant cultural centers. As the evening sets in, Iracema transforms into a lively hub with its array of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
For beach lovers, Futuro Beach proves to be a bustling and beloved spot in Fortaleza. Offering various musical attractions, unique decorations, and traditional local cuisine, this beach attracts a vibrant crowd both during the day and into the fun-filled evenings. The Thursday evenings are particularly special with their delightful Crab Festival, where local restaurants serve delectable crab meat alongside ice-cold drinks and live music.
Venturing towards Aquiraz, Porto das Dunas Beach showcases breathtaking landscapes, pristine white-sand beaches, and impressive dunes. Nestled within is the famous Beach Park, a water park complex boasting three resorts and a hotel. Heading north from Fortaleza leads to the municipality of Caucaia, from where tourists can explore the stunning beaches of Icaraí and Cumbuco.
For adventure seekers, the entire coast provides ideal wind conditions for water sports like sailing and kitesurfing, while the landscape is perfect for activities such as trekking and rally racing.
To bring home a unique souvenir of the city, a visit to the Central Market is a must, where an array of handicraft stores awaits exploration, offering an abundance of original keepsakes to cherish.
By Plane
+55 (85) 3392-1030
Pinto Martins International Airport operates flights from all major cities in Brazil and from some international destinations.
By Bus
+55 (85) 3256-5786
If you are already in Brazil, you can get to Fortaleza by bus. Engenheiro João Thomé Bus Terminal is located just a few kilometers from the airport.
By Bus
The city has plenty of bus routes that will take visitors to most local tourist attractions. For more information on the routes, please visit the Fortaleza City Hall website.
On Foot
A stroll along the city’s beautiful beachfront is a unique experience. Besides taking a pleasant walk and experiencing the breathtaking sunset, visitors can check out the beachfront stalls for souvenirs and typical handicrafts.
Personal Vehicles or Rentals
A good way to get around the city and to visit nearby destinations is to rent a car.
Taxis and Ridesharing Companies
Taxis and ridesharing companies are a comfortable way to get around the city.
Tourist Information Center – Airport:
+55(85) 3488.5869
Tourist Information Center – Central Market:
+55 (85) 3105.1475
Military Police: 190
Paramedics: 192
Fire Department: 193
220V
Fortaleza is generally sunny all year round. Out of all the state capital cities in the Brazilian Northeast, it is the one that gets the least rain. Having said that, the rainy season begins in January and lasts till June. The dry season begins in August and lasts till December.