Travel Budget for Recife Visit Recife on a Budget or Travel in Style

Recife, Estado de Pernambuco, Brazil

Recife is an under-rated city known for its football and music scenes. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Recife that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Recife?

You should plan to spend around $194 (R$1,111) per day on your vacation in Recife. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $108 (R$622) on meals
  • $7.55 (R$43) on local transportation
  • $157 (R$900) on hotels

A one week trip to Recife for two people costs, on average, $2,711 (R$15,554). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $194
    R$1,111
  • One Week Per person
    $1,355
    R$7,777
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,711
    R$15,554
  • One Month Per person
    $5,809
    R$33,330
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,711
    R$15,554
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,422
    R$31,108
  • One Month For a couple
    $11,618
    R$66,660
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Recife cost?

A one week trip to Recife usually costs around $1,355 (R$7,777) for one person and $2,711 (R$15,554) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Recife on average costs around $2,711 (R$15,554) for one person and $5,422 (R$31,108) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Recife will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Recife on average costs around $5,809 (R$33,330) for one person and $11,618 (R$66,660) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Recife expensive to visit?

Recife is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Recife can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $86 (R$490) per day, mid-range travelers spend $195 (R$1,111) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $396 (R$2,253) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Recife.

Within South America, Recife is a very expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in South America for its travel costs. There are only a few cities as expensive as Recife in the region, such as Santiago.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Recife Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Recife?

The average Recife trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Recife travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Recife cost?

Recife on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$31
(R$178)
$78
(R$450)
$199
(R$1,139)
Local Transportation 1 $8
(R$43)
$8
(R$43)
$8
(R$43)
Food 2 $49
(R$282)
$108
(R$622)
$182
(R$1,047)
Entertainment 1 $4
(R$21)
$10
(R$58)
$30
(R$169)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Recife. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.

What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $86 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

Thankfully, Recife is filled with plenty of hostels, such as Hostel e Pousada Boa Vista and APRAIANA HOSTEL. Staying in these hostels means you can enjoy low-cost dorm accommodation and a fun social atmosphere, although amenities may be basic. While food is a highlight for every visitor in Recife, budget travelers often opt for street food or cook in their hostel, which can prevent them from enjoying the exquisite culinary offerings.

What Makes You an Average Traveler?

As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Many visitors to Recife are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $195 per person, per day.

Recife offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Bugan Recife Hotel by Atlantica is an excellent option for kids, and Hotel Atlante Plaza is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Recife here.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

If you're looking for a complete getaway that features every luxury and a high level of service, plan on a cost of about $396 daily. To enjoy nicer hotels, dine at award-winning venues, indulge in extravagant experiences, and travel around the city with taxis or private drivers, you'll need to set aside a luxury budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Transfer from Olinda to Recife Airport - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Recife

In Recife, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $36, but during peak season they jump to an average of $67. You can find budget options starting at $25 up to luxury rates at $110. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Recife for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $157 (R$900). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $78 (R$450) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $78
    R$450
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $157
    R$900

Hotels in Recife

Looking for a hotel in Recife? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Recife

The average hotel room price in Recife based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $36 in the low season and $67 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Recife include:

  • Bugan Recife Hotel by Atlantica starting at $80
  • Radisson Recife Hotel starting at $76
  • Hotel Atlante Plaza starting at $63
  • Mar Hotel Conventions starting at $58
  • Transamerica Prestige - Beach Class International starting at $67
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Recife

Recife has a good public transit system, which means you could stay outside the city and commute in, but you'll have to balance cheaper accommodation with higher transport costs.

By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Recife

Recife has a good public transit system that reaches some of the major sights. The city has a metro system as well as city buses. If you want to save money and get around quickly, the public transit is the way to go if it's conveniently located to where you're going. Also, you'll find taxis and rideshare services around town.

It's unfortunate that the walkability in most of the city is lacking. Parts of the city are more walkable than others. It's also best not to walk alone at night.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $7.55 (R$43) per person, per day, on local transportation in Recife. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Recife is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $7.55
    R$43

Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:

  • Private Transfer from Olinda to Recife (REC) Airport for $45 details
  • Private Transfer from Igarassu to Recife (REC) Airport for $100 details
  • Departure Transfer from Olinda to Recife Airport for $100 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Recife
How much does it cost to go to Recife? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Recife
The price of renting a car in Recife will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Recife

Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Recife by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local restaurants around town. Grilled meat is a staple in many of the dishes and you should definitely visit a churrascaria, which is a restaurant that specializes in cooking meat in the churrasco style. Food carts are great for picking up a coxinha (a pastry), and other local dishes include camarão na moranga (pumpkin stuffed with shrimp) and picanha (sirloin cap).

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Recife can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Recife is $108 (R$622) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $108
    R$622

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Recife is around $109 (R$622) per person, with previous travelers spending from $49 to $184. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Recife are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $11 to $33
  • Lunch: $16 to $44
  • Dinner: $33 to $76
  • Coffee: $9
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $16

Cuisine of Brazil varies greatly by region, usually a mix of indigenous, European, and African influences. As one of the largest cities in Brazil, Recife has a full range of flavors from traditional dishes to international fare, and some of the best quality restaurants in the country. Brazil's northeastern coastline is also renowned for the seafood. As a result, there are plenty of seafood restaurants as well as seafood markets where patrons can choose from a wide selection of shrimp, lobster, squid, and much more. Other common ingredients include things like manioc flour (main ingredient of tapioca), cuscuz (corn flour), pumpkin, yam, palm oil, coconut sauce, native fruits, jerked beef, goat, and lamb. There are even specialties specific to the city including desserts such as Bolo de Rolo and Bolo Sousa Leão, which are both varieties of cake. Another favorite throughout the city is a soup known as caldinho, which comes in an assortment of flavors. Additional dishes include caldeirada (seafood stew), buchada (goat stew), dobradinha (bean stew), cozido pernambucano (beef stew), rice and beans, and many more.

Food & Dining Tips

Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.

Opt for a reusable water bottle to avoid buying drinks everywhere. It's beneficial for the earth as well.

When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Recife

Visitors find Recife irresistible, especially for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Recife typically cost an average of $10 (R$58) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $10
    R$58

Having been built around its beaches, Recife is home to one of the world's best urban beaches, Boa Viagem Beach. Blanketed in white sands, this beach is lined with 8 kilometers of hotels and restaurants as well as a beach road and walkway dotted with food and drink stands and other vendors selling beach necessities. The waters offshore from the beach are, however, known for sharks so swimming is not always recommended. Other beach options include Brasilia Teimosa Beach, which is smaller and less crowded located near the port, and Pina Beach, which is well-developed and popular just north of the main beach.

As far as historic sights go, one of the best known is Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue, which was built in the first half of the 17th century by Jews who settled during Dutch occupation. The structure was restored to its original form in the early 2000s and today serves as a museum and cultural archive as well as an active place of worship for the Jewish faith. As far as other religious landmarks go, the most important church of the city is the Church of São Salvador do Mundo, which was built by the Dutch in the early 16th century as a Catholic church. Another popular site is the Convento Franciscano de Santo Antonio (Franciscan Convent of Saint Anthony), known for its extravagant gold-covered engravings and elaborate ceiling paintings.



In addition to beaches and historical sight-seeing, Recife also has opportunities for experiencing the modern culture of the city. The Caixa Cultural Recife, for example, is a modern venue for exhibitions, shows, cinema, and recitals. Other events, workshops, and lectures for both children and adults are also held here. Another neat venue for modern art is the Parque de Esculturas de Francisco Brennand where visitors can observe 90 exhibits of varying sculptures by plastics artist Francisco Brennand, all installed on a harbor dock. A museum and workshop of the artist can also be visited at the Museu-Oficina Francisco Brennand. Other museums throughout the city cover topics including natural history, archaeology, abolition, military, trains, and other aspects of local history.

Additional opportunities for entertainment include a zoo, botanical gardens, Mirabilandia theme park, tours of all kinds (both offshore and on the mainland), an annual Carnival festival with music and dancing, and much more.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Recife is famous for its world-class museums and historic sites. The city is large and cultural, so there are a number of museums that you can explore. Some of the favorites include the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, the Jewish Museum and Cultural Center, the State of Pernambuco Museum, and the Recife City Museum.

Beaches:
A large number of tourists find their way to Recife for its beautiful beaches. The city's beaches are clean and enjoyable to visit and one of the most famous is Praia de Boa Viagem. Some beaches are lined with hotels and nightclubs while others are a bit more removed. If you decide to swim, do take note that shark attacks in the area are a real concern.

Shopping:
Shopping here is something you definitely shouldn't overlook. The city has many local shops, art galleries, and larger shopping centers. Whether you're looking for clothing or a cultural souvenir, there are many places to browse.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Recife. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Olinda Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour for $8 details
  • Olinda City Tour and Instituto Ricardo Brennand for $94 details
  • City Tour Recife with Catamaran included for $150 details

Recommended Activities


Budgeting and Travel Tips for Recife

  • The peak season of summer typically means higher prices and more tourists. For those looking to save money and enjoy a more peaceful experience, the shoulder or low seasons are ideal.
  • Taking your time while traveling can save you some cash, allowing you to soak in the area's beauty at a leisurely pace. If you cram every day full of activities, you'll likely spend a fortune. But by slowing down and savoring your experience, you often find that your expenses decrease.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Traveling with young ones usually means you'll want a private vehicle or taxi. Skipping the public transport hassle can make life simpler, but be ready to spend a bit more cash.
  • There aren't many hostel options in Recife, so if you're counting on a cheap dorm to save cash, it's time to adjust your expectations. Look for inexpensive hotels or apartment rentals instead.
Traveling in Recife
Recife Recife

One of the largest cities on Brazil's northeast coast, Recife is also the capital of the state of Pernambuco. The city gets its name from the Portuguese word for "reef," as it was built around a landscape of natural reef beaches. Many people visit to enjoy these beaches, experience the culture, and explore the history of this important Brazilian city.



Neighborhoods & Around

Recife can be generally divided into four major zones: Centro (Center), Zona Sul (South Zone), Zona Oeste (West Zone), and Zona Norte (North Zone). The historic and governmental Center consists of a number of neighborhoods-both on islands and the mainland-connected by a series of bridges over the Capibaribe River. The South Zone, as the most modern part of the city, is the hub for tourism. Here visitors will find beautiful natural reef beaches as well as hotels, restaurants, bars, the airport, and the city's largest shopping mall. The West Zone has two well-known museums (Instituto Ricardo Brennand and Museu-Oficina Francisco Brennand), a university, military school, and the remnants of the Atlantic forest that once covered Brazil's east coast. And finally, the North Zone is largely residential, known for its schools, hospitals, parks, and bars.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.