A major fishing port, Fortaleza is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in northeast Brazil. Its beaches are home to resorts, kitesurfers, and lively beach paths where visitors, vendors, and locals gather for festive late afternoon and evening trade. Visit the central market (Mercado Central) if you're looking for a handwoven hammock, and the Cathedral in the historic centre, if you're looking for architecture.

The best beaches are east of town: Praia de Iracema (for bohemians, intellectuals, and night time party-goers) and Praia do Futuro (for swimmers and especially for kite surfers) are some of the favorites. Along the Avenida Beira Mar, you'll find more beaches (Meireles and Mucuripe) and one of the best walkways wide enough for joggers and walkers. Fortaleza is a great place to buy crafts, from tapestries to leather goods to ceramics; skip the tourist boutiques and head straight to the Mercado Central or the Feirinha Beira Mar. Both destinations have over 100 stalls offering handicrafts and products from around the region.