Fortaleza exudes the art and culture of Ceará, offering entertainment options for every day and a warm charm. Discover the top attractions in Fortaleza that you should be familiar with in this article.
The city of Fortaleza, in the state of Ceará, offers a wide range of sightseeing opportunities that captivate travelers. With its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, this destination is sure to impress. Before your trip, make sure to settle in and check out our suggested activities.
From beaches to museums, there are numerous tour options that you won’t want to miss to ensure a complete trip. We will incorporate the most renowned and essential attractions in Fortaleza into your itinerary, and the great news is that many of them are located on Av. Beira-Mar, making for a more self-guided journey.
For additional helpful advice, be sure to read the post! 😉
In this article, you will find:
- Top Sights in Fortaleza
- Text: Beaches in Fortaleza
- Exploring Fortaleza through guided tours.
- Activities in Fortaleza to enjoy
- Accommodation options in Fortaleza
- View additional advice from Fortaleza.
- Commonly Asked Questions:
Top Sights in Fortaleza
The capital of Ceará offers a variety of tourist attractions that go beyond its stunning beaches. In addition to beach activities, visitors can explore museums, stroll through parks, visit markets, and shop at the popular Beira-Mar Craft Festival. Here are the top sights to include in your itinerary for Fortaleza.
| Bridge of the English and Iracema Spine | Free entry |
| Dragon Center of the Sea of Art and Culture | Buy your ticket |
| Central Market of Fortaleza | Buy your city tour |
| Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza | Buy your city tour |
| Fortress Our Lady of the Assumption | Buy your city tour |
| Centro de Turismo do Ceará | Buy your city tour |
| Praça dos Mártires (or Public Tour) | Buy your city tour |
| Ceará Museum | Buy your city tour |
| Theatro José de Alencar | Buy your city tour |
| Pinion Market | Free entry |
| Craft Fair | Free entry |
| Statues of Iracema | Free entry |
| Fish Market | Free entry |
| Itapariká | Free entry |
| Unifor Cultural Space | Free entry |
English Bridge and Espigão de Iracema – Connecting Cultures
The English Bridge, a well-known spot for watching the sunset and experiencing the power of the waves, is a key attraction in Fortaleza. Constructed in the early 1900s to extend 800 meters into the sea, it is not only a popular daytime destination but also a romantic place to stargaze at night, making it a must-do activity in Fortaleza’s evening itinerary.
- Make sure you secure your ticket for additional popular attractions in Fortaleza through Civitatis.
Sea of Art and Culture Dragon Center – Paraphrased as: Dragon Center dedicated to Art and Culture in the Sea
The Dragon Center of the Sea is a vibrant hub that brings together the art and culture of Ceará. This complex offers a variety of programs that are often free or available at affordable prices. Despite its modern architecture, which was unveiled in 1999, the center stands out against the backdrop of nearby historical mansions.
One interesting fact is that his name pays tribute to Francisco José do Nascimento, who was a avenger, fisherman, and abolitionist. Known as the legendary Sea Dragon, Francis successfully halted the slave market in the port of Fortaleza for three days by immobilizing it.
The area includes the Museum of Ceará Culture and the Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as various other facilities such as an art gallery, cinema rooms, a theater, an amphitheater, an auditorium, a green space, and even a planetarium. It is a popular tourist destination in the capital city that is worth dedicating a full day to explore. For a comprehensive experience, refer to our detailed post on things to do in Fortaleza.
- Text: Explore additional essential tours offered in Fortaleza on Civitatis.
Text:3 – Fortaleza’s Central Market
Established in 1809, the Central Market of Fortaleza was originally established to offer a variety of meat, fruits, and vegetables for sale. Today, the market consists of a four-story building with 559 stores and is located near the Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza.
Described as the biggest market in the northeast region, it is a must-see in Fortaleza for purchasing a wide range of regional products. Items such as embroideries, lace, handicrafts, shells, and nuts stand out as popular choices.
- Reserve your sightseeing tour of the city, including the Central Market and other points of interest, with Civitatis.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza – Text 4
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Near the Central Market in Fortaleza, the Metropolitan Cathedral, which took four decades to construct, stands as an impressive example of Roman Gothic architecture. Designed by the French engineer George Mounier, the cathedral was completed in 1978. The vibrant stained glass windows depicting saints are a striking feature that catches the eye of passersby. The intricate details of the arches and foliage carved into the pillars add to the cathedral’s magnificent design.
The cathedral is a significant attraction for tourists visiting the historic center of Fortaleza, adding to the enriching cultural experience of the city tour.
- Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral and other city attractions on a guided tour with Civitatis.
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The Fortaleza Nossa Senhora da Assunção was constructed by the Portuguese in 1812. It is seen as the symbol of the growth of Ceará’s capital city and is a popular tourist attraction in Fortaleza.
Captain Martim Soares Moreno initiated the settlement and was a source of inspiration for José de Alencar in his book “Iracema”. The fortress, now encircled by urban structures, was once surrounded by water and was a witness to conflicts between the Portuguese and Dutch.
The headquarters of the 10th Military Region is located there, with certain areas open to visitors. The soldier on duty can provide information on permitted areas and may even offer guided tours.
- Reserve your city sightseeing tour with Civitatis, which includes a visit to Our Lady of Assumption Fortress.
Texto: 6 – Ceará Tourism Center
Area dedicated to local handicrafts, the Ceará Tourism Center is a structure recognized as a State Historical Heritage site and was the initial public chain in Ceará. The shops are located in former prison cells, offering a diverse selection of regional products, along with a food court and the Museum of Popular Art and Culture. Conveniently situated near the Central Market, it is worth a visit.
- Make sure to book a city tour of the Ceará Tourism Center and other attractions via Civitatis.
Paraphrased: Text 7 – Martyrs Square (also known as Public Tour)
The Praça dos Mártires was established in 1864 and is now known as the Public Tour. It served as a gathering place for the people of Fortaleza, with different social classes sticking to their designated areas within the square.
At present, the square is a delightful and democratic area, as it is the first in the city to offer complimentary internet access. Nearby, you can find various bars, restaurants, and occasional live music shows on weekends. Additionally, the square is home to a historic tree, the Baobab, which is over a century old.
- Reserve a guided tour of the Martyrs Square and other sights with Civitatis.
Text: 8 – Museum of Ceará
The Ceará Museum is located between Lions Square and Ferreira Square, near the tower with a clock. This neoclassical-style building was opened in 1871 and was established as the first official State Museum in 1932.
There are around 13,000 items on display, such as paintings, photographs, indigenous artifacts, and cordel literature. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region and even features items like the dagger used by Lampião. Located in the capital, it is a popular tourist attraction in Fortaleza that offers a guided tour option, highlighting art, history, and culture.
- Reserve a sightseeing tour of Fortaleza that includes a visit to the Ceará Museum through Civitatis.
Text: 9 – José de Alencar Theater
Established in 1910, Theatro José de Alencar is a neoclassical theater monument consisting of two sections. The ceiling paintings, enhanced by colorful stained glass windows, stand out in the art-nouveau-style hall. Additionally, the venue features an inner courtyard and garden for outdoor performances.
It is recommended to visit this tourist attraction in Fortaleza and see if there are any interesting activities planned during your trip, which can be found on Instagram. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour for a fee of R$ 10. Tickets for attractions and events can be purchased through the Sympla ticket office.
- Explore the theater’s interior and other attractions on a guided tour with Civitatis.
Market Pinion – Number 10
Constructed with prefabricated iron from France, the Pinhões Market, previously known as the Meat Market, is located in Praça Visconde de Pelotas. This popular destination in Fortaleza draws visitors with its diverse music styles, workshops, and cultural events held regularly throughout the week.
The food offerings at bars and restaurants vary from simple homemade options to more upscale dishes, all at affordable prices. This makes it a perfect setting for a fun happy hour with friends. The Pinhões Market is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, from 6 pm to 10 pm.
- Make sure you secure your ticket to additional tourist attractions in Fortaleza by using Civitatis.
Text: 11 – Handmade Market
Since its inception in the 1980s, the Craft Fair in Fortaleza has been a vibrant showcase of local crafts, with stalls stretching along the boardwalk of Av. Beira-Mar. As the sun starts to set, the tents start to pop up.
The location is ideal for strolling, sightseeing, shopping, and trying various local foods. If you’re unable to visit the Central Market or Tourism Center, the Craft Fair is a good alternative to explore and discover more about Fortaleza’s regional craftsmanship.
- View additional tours offered in Fortaleza through Civitatis.
Text: 12 – Sculptures of Iracema
The novel “Iracema” by José de Alencar is quite well-remembered in Fortaleza, with the heroine being honored through five statues located at different points in the city.
The initial sculpture, created in 1965 by Corbiniano Linsa from Pernambuco, is located at Mucuripe Beach, depicting a family scene with a husband, son, and their loyal dog.
In 1995, Zenon Barreto’s Iracema Guardiã sculpture was relocated from Iracema Beach in Ceará. This iron sculpture, in a bronze hue and depicted in a defensive stance, is striking when illuminated by the sun. It is now situated near Ceará’s iconic tourist attraction.
Moving forward to 2002, Ceará Descartes Gadelha was featured on the front of the Rotary Club in Fortaleza alongside another statue of Iracema, placed on top of a globe.
In the Messejana Lagoon, which is a part of the Coco River basin, you can find the fourth sculpture of Iracema. This artwork was created in 2004 by artist Alexandre Rodrigues, who won a cultural contest in the area.
The most recent statue, created in 2005 by Francisco Zanazanan, is made of acrylic resin, adorned with crystals, and can be found at the Iracema Palace.
- Explore additional guided tours around Fortaleza with Civitatis.
“Fish Market” – Text 13
Located on Av. Beira-Mar, the Fish Market was established in the 1960s to assist local fishermen. Renovated recently, the market now features three parallel corridors lined with small fishmongers and bars, making it a popular tourist destination in Fortaleza, perfect for seafood enthusiasts looking for fresh fish and seafood.
The positive values are inspiring, offering the option to either take the meal home or enjoy the fishermen’s traditional and straightforward preparation. Live music, including forró, is played in the late afternoon, enhancing the experience, especially when paired with the lovely seaside view.
The market is open daily from 7 am to 10 pm and is located in the same area as the Fish Market Boteco, which is ideal for socializing with friends.
- Make sure to not overlook the opportunity to book your ticket for other attractions in Fortaleza through Civitatis.
“Itapariká – Text 14”
Paraphrased: If you are accompanied by a child, it is recommended to visit Praia do Futuro and spend time at the Itapariká tent. Established in 1983 by the Aguiar Ramos family, this beachfront tent has expanded over the years and now operates as a restaurant offering a wide variety of tasty dishes, served at 300 tables located throughout the area.
The coconut trees help maintain the natural beauty and freshness of this tourist spot in Fortaleza. Additionally, there has been a kids’ water park since 2005 with three pools, eight attractions, and staff members for children up to 12 years old. This is a great choice for parents seeking a peaceful time.
The tent is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm, while the playground is available from Thursday to Sunday, 9am to 4pm.
Area Cultural Unifor – 15
In 2016, the City Hall of Fortaleza officially acknowledged the Unifor Cultural Area at the University of Fortaleza as a tourist attraction. Situated approximately 30 minutes away from Iracema Beach, this area has become a popular destination for its significant role in promoting art in the country.
It is not surprising that the 1988 building hosts significant exhibitions that cover Brazil’s history, featuring works by both national and international artists such as DiCavalcanti, Anita Mafalti, and Volpi. The exhibitions are regularly refreshed to offer new perspectives.
Admission is free, and it’s definitely worth taking a break at the charming Café das Artes located next to the Cultural Space. The cafe’s deck offers a relaxing atmosphere with shade and a gentle breeze from nature.
- Reserve your ticket for additional sightseeing excursions in Fortaleza through Civitatis.
Beaches in Fortaleza
The beaches of Fortaleza are exquisite treasures that should definitely be included in your itinerary. While Iracema Beach, Meireles Beach, and Mucuripe Beach are the most well-known, they are not suitable for swimming. Instead, take pleasure in strolling along the shore, admiring the sunset, and savoring tasty meals at the seaside restaurants and bars.
For an excellent diving experience, visit the Beach of the Future and Sabiaguaba Beach. Each offers its own distinctive appeal and lovely natural swimming spots.
- Iracema Beach is the subject of the text.
- Text: Beach of Meireles
- Mucuripe Beach – Rewording the text
- Future Beach
- Sabiaguaba Beach’s description
Exploring Fortaleza through guided tours.
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Activities to enjoy in Fortaleza
Fortaleza offers different schedules for various groups, including couples, families with children, and young travelers. This means that you won’t have any trouble finding diverse tour options to enjoy during your trip to Fortaleza.
During the day, it’s a must to soak up the sun at the beach. To bid farewell to the day, you can take a leisurely stroll along Av. Beira-Mar to witness the sunset, or visit the English Bridge pier. These city excursions are both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
At night, the best thing to do in Fortaleza is to experience the lively bars and nightclubs. The city offers a vibrant atmosphere with various venues featuring the popular Forro Pé de Serra music style, such as Pirata Bar. Additionally, many bars and restaurants host live music performances and entertaining shows, with places like Crab Chico and Lupus Bier standing out in this regard.
You can explore all the activities available in Fortaleza at night using our personalized guide. 😉
The capital city continues to offer a variety of museums for those interested in cultural and artistic activities. Key attractions for this type of itinerary include the Dragon Center of the Sea of Art and Culture, the Ceará Museum, and the Theatro José de Alencar, which are ideal for enjoying with loved ones regardless of the weather. Another fantastic choice for family fun is the Itapariká water park.
View the different transportation choices offered at the destination, featuring competitive prices and advantages.
Accommodation options in Fortaleza
Text: Lacking the time to search for hotels in Fortaleza? To streamline your search, we have compiled a list of top-rated accommodations in different categories. Explore to find the perfect option for you.
| Cheaper: Pousada Arco Iris | Note: 8.5 | R$ 140 / day |
| All inclusive: Carmel Cumbuco Resort | Note: 9.0 | R$ 1.400 / day |
| Honeymoon: Vila Galé Fortaleza | Note: 8.3 | R$ 514 / day |
| Families: Gran Mareiro Hotel | Note: 9.0 | $ 476 / day |
| Seaside: Praiano Hotel | Note: 9.1 | R$ 598 / day |
Locate all lodging options in Fortaleza at the most competitive rates.
View additional advice from Fortaleza.
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Commonly Asked Questions:
What are the top attractions to explore in Fortaleza during the evening hours?
In the evening, Fortaleza comes alive with music and entertainment, offering a variety of bars with live music and special performances. You can also explore the Beira-Mar Craft Fair to purchase unique regional items. Discover the nighttime activities in Fortaleza with our recommendations.
Which attractions in Fortaleza receive the most visitors?
Fortaleza offers attractions that are popular among tourists, including Iracema, Meireles, and Mucuripe beaches, as well as the Future Beach, the English Bridge, and the Dragon Center of Art and Culture by the sea.
Which beach in Fortaleza is visited the most often?
Iracema Beach is the most crowded beach in Fortaleza and is considered one of the city’s main attractions.
Text: What are the daily destinations in Fortaleza?
During the daytime, the top destination to visit in Fortaleza is unquestionably the beach. Explore renowned beaches such as Iracema, Meireles, Mucuripe, the Future, and Sabiaguaba. It’s also recommended to take a city tour to discover the historical landmarks. Find out about other sightseeing options available in Fortaleza.
What is the price of a city tour in Fortaleza?
An average of R$ 60 is the cost of a guided tour in Fortaleza’s historic center, which includes visits to landmarks such as the Central Market, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Ceará Museum, and the Public Tour, among other attractions in the capital of Ceará. Find out how to purchase your ticket for a city tour in Fortaleza.
