The urban jungle of Fortaleza isn’t so attractive to outdoor lovers, but bursts with incredible stretches of beaches. Fortaleza is the fifth largest city in Brazil, ideal for sun-seekers and surfing chasers. The capital of Ceara state is a fantastic place for cultural geeks and inspires numerous  tourists to visit.
Fortaleza was our welcoming stop in Brazil on the magnificent adventure from Tenerife called Nomad Cruise. One day in Fortaleza is filled with vibrant sights set between the large and almost infinite blocks of buildings.
Though I would recommend skipping Fortaleza on your Brazilian journey, this city is a blend of hidden treasures and excellent urban beaches in North Brazil.
Central Market of Fortaleza
Stretching next to the Cathedral, Central Market is a magnificent place to experience the Brazilian vibes and its cuisine. At four floors you’ll find amazing source of souvenirs and handicrafts, particularly wooden sculptures, hammocks and textiles.
Taking its roots in 1809, the market developed a drastical change serving as a hub for fresh vegetables and meat.
Now you can try the delicious Brazilian fruits and local dishes.
Theatre Jose de Alencar
The gorgeous design of this theatre is the testimony of the Art Nouveau style, taking roots in the early 20th century. Though the construction lasted 6 years, now it’s the most marvelous place in Fortaleza.
The name of the theatre gives tribute to the famous Brazilian novelist and local of the city- Jose de Alencar. It also represents the National Historic and Artistic Patrimony, covering a capacity for 800 people in its colourful ambiance.
The outdoor performances for 90 people are the spectacle of its own. The lovely garden honours the design of the Roberto Burle Max and accompany this stunning theatre.
Dragao do Mar Cultural Center
The interesting complex of buildings pours a shine into a bit different Fortaleza than the urban center. I did not find out about this place during the cruise, except it seemed to offer some cultural exhibitions.
Providing the picturesque photos, it was a lovely glimpse into an esthetically pleasing world. With the attractive name Dragão do Mar (Dragon of the sea), it’s a top attraction in Fortaleza.
It hosts the Museum of Contemporary Art, Ceará History Museum, planetarium and public library. Chilling in restaurants and bars around will let you immerse its impressions.
After a fantastic experience in the theatre or cinema, you’ll be more than delighted to visit this majestic complex.
Dragao de Mar is inaugurated in 1999, transferring artistic treasure as its main role. Taking place near the beach of Iracema, it’s one of the rare spots to enjoy colourful buildings in the city.
Coco Park
You would say that the labyrinth of high buildings makes the green spaces irrelevant and nonexistent in Fortaleza. Parque Ecológico do Cocó is such an incredible example that will save you from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Coco Park is one of the largest in South America, located close to Praia do Futuro. Created in 1989, it serves the protection of the local area and keeps the bio diversity on a high level.
In Coco Park, you can enjoy numeral walking trails and even the zipline or take a paddleboat in the lake. Observing the mangroves at the boat trip on Rio Cocó will let you notice the fantastic ecosystem. Except the mangroves, there are many plant and animal species and some of them are endangered.
Another park that will thrill you with hiking possibilities is the Adahil Barreto Park, that is also ideal for children.
Beaches of Fortaleza
As every coastal city, Fortaleza has its beach promenade known as Beira-mar. By the contrast of the skyscrapers with the sea, you can enjoy the handcrafts from the local vendors. Lots of restaurants fill the area so it’s your chance to grab a delicious meal or even a snack like tapioca.
Iracema Beach- The Urban Stroll Near the Sea
Iracema Beach got the name by one of the characters in José de Alencar’s novel. Stretching close to Beira-mar it’s a stunning place to admire the Atlantic ocean.
With the Iracema statue in sight, the fantastic blend of skyscrapers unfolds the image of Fortaleza. Right from Iracema you can see Inglese Bridge, the best place for sunset lovers in the city.
Praia do Futuro
Praia do Futuro is a stunning stretch of white sand along the blue sea. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the whole Brazil, perfect for paddling.
Surrounded by restaurants and caffes, it’s a perfect place to soak up the sun. With lovely baracas and seafood you’ll stay comfortable the whole day at the beach.
The best way to reach the beach is by Uber or through a travel agency.
Other beaches close to Fortaleza
If you decide to explore more of Ceara, Lagoninha Beach will delight you with its picturesque ambiance. Within 110 from Fortaleza, it’s a stunning place to enjoy buggy tours of the dunes.
It’s worth mentioning the village of Jericoacoara, about 300 km from Fortaleza. It’s a paradise with the turquoise beaches and tranquil vibes.
How it looks a day trip to Fortaleza during the cruise
As Fortaleza didn’t leave amazing impressions to me, I would even say it’s the ugliest city I have ever seen. On this day trip, we spent lot of time in the bus, but still saw the main attractions. Dragao do Mar and Theatre Jose de Alencar are totally worth it with its splendid design, even the Central Market.
Seeing the beach only from the bus was a bit disappointing, but Praia do Futuro glimpsed with an invite.
I’m sorry that we didn’t hear anything about the places like Coco Park as I got an impression that Fortaleza is such an urban jungle.
Where to stay
Budget
Sohno de Iracema Boutique Hostel– hostel with the wonderful beach view and cozy ambiance;
Mid-range
Hotel Casa de Praia– awesome view to enjoy the breakfast close to the beach;
Hotel Villa Mayor Charme– charming hotel with the garden and lovely pool near the beach;
Luxurious
Crocobeach Hotel– stunning hotel near Praia do Futuro with outdoor pool and sauna;
Final thoughts
While being the lush contrast to the cities like Salvador or Rio and its viewpoints, Fortaleza has a vibrant urban heart. Though not my favourite, I’m keen to give it another chance and explore stunning forests like Coco Park.
Taking a day trip on a cruise feels to be in a rush, but it was a fantastic postcard to this city. On the other hand, Fortaleza is kind of a city I would like to avoid so take time to research first.
Exploring the market bursts with local vibes and something that would feel your heart so full.
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What an honest view on the city. There are def some lovely places to explore and love what you have highlighted. As I have never travelled overseas, I find reading travel blogs gives me a way to live vicariously through those who do travel. Maybe one day. 🙂
Woah!!! Fortaleza is soooo beautiful. There are so many lovey cities and places to visit in Brazil. Reading your post makes me want to visit Fortaleza. Thank you for sharing.
Fortaleze looks beautiful and they have some really great sights there! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Omg what!? A cruise from Tenerife to Brazil!? Sign me up! And love that it was an experience for digital nomads. I would want to see Coco Park the most but beautiful beaches are not a bad runner-up.
I knew nothing about Fortaleza so it was really interesting to read a bit about it see some of the photographs. I think it would be worthwhile visiting here and seeing some of the beaches in particular. Great post!
This has long been on my list, and your blog post only makes me more excited!! The beaches especially….. so wonderful!
I have never heard of Fortaleza before! Theatre de Jose Alencar looks like such a unique building! Hope to visit one day! Thanks for the inspiration
What a shame you didn’t get to see the best of the city (although the food and fruits sound really good!)
I wonder if you would have had a better time just relaxing on beach and in Coco Park!?
I hadn’t heard of Fortaleza before–it doesn’t sound like a top destination based on your description, but I would love to visit Brazil.