Fortaleza Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
city in Northeastern Brazil, state capital of Ceará
About Fortaleza
Some local historians fiercely defend the thesis that the very first European to set foot in South America was the Spaniard Vicente Yáñez Pinzón, who allegedly landed where Fortaleza's port is today in January 1500, a few months before Portuguese navigator Pedro Álvares Cabral's much celebrated arrival inPorto Seguroon April 25. The official history of Fortaleza as a permanent settlement dates back to the 17th century, when the Dutch had a brief dispute with the Portuguese over the territory. The first settlement was known as Fort Schoonenborch and it was founded by theDutch West Indian Companyin 1649. During Portuguese and Brazilian rule, the city has had several names, always beginning with Fortaleza (fortressin Portuguese). Probably the most proudly remembered occasion of local history
Top Attractions in Fortaleza
Explore the best things to see and do in Fortaleza:
- ★Aldeia Surf School
- ★Beach Park
- ★Carnival
- ★Chandler Surf
- ★Dragão do Mar
- ★Dragão do Mar Cultural Center
- ★Estoril
- ★Fortal
Where to Eat in Fortaleza
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Acarajé da Ieda
- 🍴Barbaresco
- 🍴BarChá da Égua
- 🍴Bar e Restaurante O Cazuza
- 🍴Bebelu
- 🍴Bella Italia
Where to Stay in Fortaleza
- 🏨Backpackers Ceará
- 🏨Comfort Fortaleza
- 🏨Flat Atlantico
- 🏨Gran Marquise Hotel
- 🏨Holiday Inn
- 🏨Hotel Caxambu
Fortaleza Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 15 sections including: