Maceio is a vibrant city with a passion for sun, sand and seafood. Admire the colonial-era architecture in the atmospheric historic centre and stroll along the breezy palm-lined promenade. The city’s white-sand beaches, translucent rock pools and vibrant coral reefs attract holidaymakers from across Brazil.
Things to do in Maceió
Join locals for a sunbathing session on Praia de Ponta Verde. Lush palms line the sugar-white sand, which contrasts beautifully with the aquamarine water. An offshore reef protects the beach from Atlantic swells and keeps the water calm and crystalline. Board colourful wooden boats to explore the natural rock pools just offshore. “Quiosque” beach bars dot the sand and serve fresh seafood and ice-cold caipirinhas.
Pop-up stalls dot the beachfront promenade and sell everything from beaded jewellery and wooden trinkets to colourful bikinis and beach towels. You’ll find more variety at Mercado do Artesanato in the city centre. Mercado Praia de Pajuçara overlooks the waterfront and specialises in artisan ceramics, handwoven hammocks and other high-quality souvenirs.
Stroll around the historic centre and admire colonial-era houses painted in a rainbow of pastels. Visit the 19th-century cathedral built with honey-coloured limestone and brush up on local history at the Théo Brandão Museum of Anthropology and Folklore. It’s housed in a handsome waterfront mansion and celebrates the rich history and culture of the Alagoas region.
From elegant restaurants to casual “lanchonete” snack bars set beneath thatched roofs, there are dining options for every occasion in Maceio. Seafood is a specialty and caught fresh using traditional “jangadas” fishing boats. Try dishes like sauteed shrimp salad and salt cod risotto.
Getting around Maceió
Maceio is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Buses, trains and trams are a good way to cover longer distances. Maceió International Airport - Zumbi dos Palmares is a 30-minute drive from the city centre.