Olinda is synonymous with Carnival. At the historical city centre, the biggest popular party in Brazil is a spectacle that brings together creativity and irreverence, attracting people from all around the world. To the sound of frevo orchestras, people go up and down the slopes behind giant dolls, troças (small parades), and maracatus.

Originated from a cultural blend between Europeans, Africans and Indians, the Carnival of the Heritage City boils from Saturday of Zé Pereira until Ash Wednesday. Many residents rent their homes for groups of people that literally move into the place during the four days of fun, not to miss a single moment of the party.

Typical cuisine

The city is a gastronomic centre where sophisticated restaurants of international standards coexist with casual bars that attract young people. The food from Olinda is also a heritage of the city. Influenced by African, indigenous and European cultures, it is diverse and exotic, based on natural products of the region: roots, fish, seafood and tropical fruits.

One of the most traditional dishes is “Camarão na Moranga” (shrimp served in a kind of pumpkin). Other characteristic flavours of the city include the traditional tapioca, found in Alto da Sé, as well as coalho cheese, handmade cookies and liqueurs produced in centennial convents and monasteries.