With its modern architecture (mostly concentrated along Avenida Beira Mar), spectacular beaches and average annual temperature of 28C, Fortaleza resembles Miami and is often compared to the American city. Situated on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Fortaleza was built in 1649 by the Dutch. To discover its history, visit the Museu de Fortaleza in Mucuripe lighthouse. It’s also worth exploring the old part of the city with its main architectural gem – the 20th-century stylized cathedral designed by George Maunier. Not less interesting is Centro Dragão do Mar, the arts quarter famous for its colorful colonial architecture.
Most of the tourists visit Fortaleza for its famous urban beaches with a total length of 25 kilometers! Praia do Futuro is very popular among locals. If you want to meet artists and bohemians, head for Praia de Iracema. The luxurious Praia do Meireles, situated in the very center of the city, close to many hotels and resorts, is a top tourist spot. But if you want to windsurf or take amazing pictures choose Praia do Muscuripe where you can find jangadas – traditional wooden fishing boats selling freshly caught fish.
What to eat in Fortaleza? You should definitely try any dish made up from cassava, e.g., tapioca flour pancakes, macaxeira (fired or baked pieces of a cassava root), or farofa (toasted cassava flour mixed with eggs and onions or other accompaniments). Don’t forget to grab a bite of the typical Brazilian dish called baião de dois (rice and black-eyed peas) or meat, e.g., carne de sol (heavily salted beef). On the beach, you are highly likely to meet people selling seafood (shrimps and crabs) and coconut water served in the shell. What are the best places for dinner in Brazilian Miami? To enjoy unbeatable seafood go to the beach or alternatively, visit a restaurant, e.g., Coco Bambu Frutos do Mar and Boteco Praia on Avenida Beira. Vira Verao at 3345 Av Zeze Diogo is also good. But if you’re more into steaks, get a table at Cabana del Primo on Rua Maria Tomasia or Cantinho Do Frango on Rua Torres Camara.
