7 best things to do in Fortaleza, Brazil, in 2 days

Introduction

Fortaleza is the fifth-largest city in Brazil and the capital of the state of Ceará. According to local authorities, it has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the country.

Being in Fortaleza meant that we had just ended our time in Argentina and that our South American trip would soon be coming to a close.

After spending two days there, we personally saw Fortaleza more as a transit city to reach Jericoacoara rather than a destination worth lingering in. That said, we did enjoy our short stay—mostly thanks to a lovely Airbnb (sadly no longer available). Unless you’re really curious to explore it yourself, we wouldn’t recommend staying more than a day.

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Getting there

Fortaleza is well connected and serves as the main gateway to Jericoacoara for most international and domestic travelers.

By Plane : The easiest way to reach Fortaleza is by flying into Pinto Martins – Fortaleza International Airport (FOR).

• International flights: There are direct international flights from cities like Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal), Miami (LATAM), and a few seasonal charters.
• Domestic flights: You’ll find frequent and affordable flights from major Brazilian cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and Recife. Airlines include GOL, Azul, and LATAM.

We personally flew from Ushuaia to São Paulo to Fortaleza, which is one of the most common routes and has multiple daily flights.

By Bus: If you’re already traveling within Brazil and prefer overland travel, long-distance buses are also an option. Companies like Expresso Guanabara operate routes to Fortaleza from various northern and northeastern cities. Expect long travel times but scenic views.

Moving Around

Getting around Fortaleza is fairly straightforward, but like in many big cities, safety is key—especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

The best and safest way to move around Fortaleza is by Uber. It’s affordable, reliable, and widely available throughout the city. Most locals use it too, especially at night or when traveling longer distances.

• Airport to city center: around 20–35 BRL depending on the time of day
• Short rides within the city: between 10–20 BRL

Avoid walking around alone at night, even in tourist areas. Stick to Uber or other trusted transportation apps.

Public Transport: Buses are available, but they can be confusing, crowded, and not the safest option, especially for tourists with valuables. Unless you’re very comfortable with Brazilian cities, we wouldn’t recommend relying on public transport in Fortaleza.

Walking: During the day, walking is possible in more touristic zones like Praia de Iracema or Beira Mar, but always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid deserted areas.

Our tip: For peace of mind, just use Uber—even for short distances. It’s safe, cheap, and saves you time and stress.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

When to Visit

Fortaleza enjoys warm and tropical weather year-round, with plenty of sunshine and steady temperatures between 26°C and 32°C.

• Dry Season: August to January (Best Time to Visit). These are the sunniest months with minimal rainfall, perfect for beach days and exploring. December and January can be lively with local holidays and summer vibes, but expect higher prices and more crowds.
• Wet Season: February to July. Quick, heavy showers—especially in March and April, the rainiest months. Even during the rainy season, you’ll still get sunny spells. If you’re looking for fewer tourists and lower prices, May to July can be a smart choice.

Our recommendation: Visit between September and November for the perfect balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices.

Psst, you can join Tina’s Yoga Studio and get access to hundreds of Yoga, Meditation, and Well-being videos.

Where to Stay

In Fortaleza, stick to Meireles or Praia de Iracema for walkability and safety. Avoid staying too far from the beach areas unless you’re with locals or know the city well :

• (€) Refugio Hostel Fortaleza: A cozy and social hostel in a quiet area, great for solo travelers or budget-conscious visitors. Clean, well-kept, and with friendly staff.
• (€€) Pauli Boutique Hotel: A charming boutique stay in the heart of Meireles, offering modern design, a peaceful vibe, and walking distance to the beach. Great for couples or digital nomads.
• (€€€) Praiano Hotel: A classic beachfront hotel in Meireles with ocean-view rooms, a rooftop pool, and an ideal location right on the Beira Mar promenade. Perfect for those who want a touch of luxury and easy beach access.

Here are all your accommodation options in Fortaleza

What to Eat

Fortaleza is known for its fresh seafood and bold flavors, but you’ll also find plenty of delicious plant-based options.

Local Dishes to Try

• Moqueca de Peixe – A traditional fish stew, but ask for the vegetarian moqueca made with veggies and coconut milk.
• Carne de Sol com Macaxeira – For non-veg travelers: sun-dried beef with cassava.
• Tapioca Crepes – Naturally gluten-free and often vegan. Try savory veggie fillings or sweet ones like banana and coconut.
• Açaí Bowls – Perfect for a refreshing vegan snack or breakfast.
• Feirinha Beira Mar – Local food stalls with tapioca, grilled corn, fruit juices, and vegan treats.

Tip: Ask for “sem carne, sem leite, sem ovo” to make sure your meal is vegan (no meat, milk, or egg).

Best Things to do in Fortaleza

Stroll Along Praia de Iracema

Fortaleza is one of Brazil’s biggest and best beach towns, and Praia de Iracema is at the heart of it. Even though it was raining during our stay, walking along the beach was still a great experience.

Here’s what you’ll find along the promenade:

• Guardian Iracema Statue – A striking sculpture representing “a virgin with honey lips”, inspired by the character Iracema from Brazilian literature, symbolically watching over the shore.

• Pier da Praia de Iracema – A great spot for a walk and panoramic views of the coastline.
• Estoril and Ponte dos Ingleses – Also known as the “English Bridge,” it’s perfect for catching the breeze and maybe even spotting dolphins.

Our Favorite Hotels in Fortaleza

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Refugio Hostel Fortaleza

Pauli Boutique Hotel

Praiano Hotel

See all available hotels in Fortaleza

Lingua Do Dragão – Passarela Vermelha Do Dragão

Before heading into the city center, make a quick stop at Lingua do Dragão, also known as the Passarela Vermelha do Dragão. This short but vibrant street is lined with colorful buildings and murals, giving it a lively, artistic vibe.

We visited during the day, under the rain, so we didn’t get to see it in full swing. But locals told us that on dry evenings, especially on weekends, the area comes to life with bars, music, and a buzzing atmosphere. Worth a quick detour—especially if you catch it when the lights and music are on.

Fortaleza Central Market

From Iracema Beach, turn left and follow the coast toward the city center. One of the highlights on this walk is the Fortaleza Central Market (Mercado Central de Fortaleza)—a massive covered market that’s perfect for picking up souvenirs or just getting a glimpse of local life.

Inside, you’ll find dozens of small stalls spread over multiple levels selling everything from handmade hammocks, colorful clothes, and leather goods, to spices, sweets, and regional delicacies. It’s a great place to practice your bargaining skills or just wander through the buzzing aisles while soaking up the lively energy. Even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s a fun cultural stop worth checking out.

Here are all your accommodation options in Fortaleza

Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza

Just a short walk from the Central Market, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza (Catedral Metropolitana de Fortaleza) is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With its imposing neo-Gothic architecture, twin spires, and intricate stained glass windows, it stands out in the heart of the historic center.

The cathedral can hold up to 5,000 people and took nearly 40 years to complete. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s worth stepping inside to admire the soaring ceilings and peaceful ambiance. It’s also a great spot to pause and reflect amidst the bustling energy of downtown Fortaleza.

Psst, you can join Tina’s Yoga Studio and get access to hundreds of Yoga, Meditation, and Well-being videos.

Mercado dos Peixes de Fortaleza

Located near Mucuripe Beach, the Mercado dos Peixes de Fortaleza is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This local fish market offers the unique experience of choosing your fresh catch of the day—shrimp, lobster, octopus, or fish—and having it grilled on the spot at one of the surrounding kiosks.

It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, especially in the late afternoon when the atmosphere comes alive. Grab a cold drink, find a seaside table, and enjoy a delicious seafood meal with ocean views and a laid-back vibe.

If you’re vegan or vegetarian, note that this spot is more about the seafood experience, but it’s still a fun cultural visit to observe local life.

Here are all your accommodation options in Fortaleza

Jericoacoara

Hidden in the heart of a national park, Jericoacoara—or Jeri as locals call it—is a remote beach village in northern Brazil that blends wild natural beauty with bohemian vibes. Once a quiet fishing town, it has grown into one of the country’s most iconic destinations for both local and international travelers.

Surrounded by dunes, lagoons, and warm ocean waters, Jeri is the kind of place where flip-flops are optional, sandy streets are the norm, and sunsets are a daily ritual. You can hike to Pedra Furada, ride a 4×4 across dunes, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, or simply relax on a hammock over the water.

The village is small but full of charm, featuring cozy pousadas, lively restaurants, street art, and Brazilian rhythms that come alive at night. Despite its popularity, Jericoacoara still maintains a laid-back and rustic atmosphere, making it perfect for slow travel, nature lovers, and beach enthusiasts.

Explore Morro Branco, Praia das Fontes & Canoa Quebrada

If you want to escape the city without planning a full road trip, this 3 beaches in 1 day tour from Fortaleza is one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do. Starting early in the morning, you leave Fortaleza behind and head straight into Ceará’s wild coastline.

The first stops are Morro Branco and Praia das Fontes, both famous for their dramatic cliffs and the surreal maze of colorful sands carved by wind and rain. Walking through these natural labyrinths feels like stepping into a living painting. If you want to level things up, you can opt for the buggy ride—a fast, fun 2.5-hour adventure across dunes, beaches, and viewpoints that makes the landscape even more unforgettable.

The day ends in Canoa Quebrada, one of the most iconic beach towns in northeastern Brazil. Here, things slow down: beach tents, cold drinks, swimming in the sea, and that laid-back vibe Canoa is known for. It’s a long day, but an easy one—and a perfect way to see some of the most beautiful beaches near Fortaleza without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

Fortaleza Itinerary

If you’re short on time—and honestly, most travelers are when passing through Fortaleza—this simple itinerary lets you see the highlights without overdoing it. Think relaxed walking, coastal views, and a smooth transition toward Jericoacoara.

• Start your day at Praia de Iracema: Walk along the promenade, stop by the Guardian Iracema statue, and head toward the pier. Even with clouds or light rain, the atmosphere feels calm and local.
• Continue toward Ponte dos Ingleses (English Bridge): A short walk with nice coastal views and sea breeze.
• Detour through Lingua do Dragão (Passarela Vermelha do Dragão): A quick stop for photos and a feel of Fortaleza’s creative side.
• Head to Fortaleza Central Market: Wander through the stalls, look for handicrafts, hammocks, and local snacks. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth seeing.
• Walk to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza: Step inside for a calm break from the city buzz and admire the neo-Gothic architecture.
• Eat near Beira Mar or Meireles: Look for tapioca crepes, açaí bowls, or a casual local restaurant. Keep it light—Fortaleza heat hits hard.
• Visit Mercado dos Peixes de Fortaleza (Mucuripe): Even if you don’t eat seafood, it’s interesting to see locals choose fresh fish and have it grilled on the spot.

The next day, head to Jericoacoara.

Our Favorite Hotels in Fortaleza

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Refugio Hostel Fortaleza

Pauli Boutique Hotel

Praiano Hotel

See all available hotels in Fortaleza