Top Rated Attractions in Fortaleza

Located in the quiet neighborhood of José de Alencar, Casa de José de Alencar was the childhood home of José de Alencar, the beloved Brazilian writer. The house is now a living museum and thriving tourist attraction. A visit here is quite enlightening and gives more insight into de Alencar's personality and thus his literary works thanks to the regular tours lead by well-informed guides. Managed by Federal University of Ceará, Casa de José de Alencar also provides various educational programs and courses for interested candidates.

Located where Igreja da Sé once stood, Catedral Metropolitana de Fortaleza, which took almost 40 years to complete, was inaugurated by Cardinal Arlindo Lorscheider in 1978. Designed by renowned French architect George Mounier, Catedral Metropolitana de Fortaleza is one of the most beautiful historic monuments in the city, famed for its stained glass windows and fusion of Romanesque and Gothic features. One of the largest churches in the country, Catedral Metropolitana de Fortaleza can accommodate 5000 people.

Created to protect and preserve the flora and fauna of the region, Cocó Park has proved vital to the city's environment, economy and tourism. Occupying 1,155.4 hectares (2,855 acres) of land, the park is an oasis of greenery, and possesses all the ingredients that go into the making of a fun day out. Many recreational activities can be enjoyed, and it is a great place to observe wild animals in their natural environment. If you wish to escape the noise and pollution of the city, Cocó Park offers a green retreat.

Beira Mar Avenue or as the locals call it Avenida Beira Mar is located near the beach and is one of the best spots get a glimpse of the local culture. A recreational space where sleek pathways joggers, volleyball courts, roller hockey zones, and Asian gardens collide, this street is also the home to a smattering of restaurants that are known to take its guests for an exciting culinary journey. It is also known for its handicrafts and street markets where you will get some of the unique local items. Street performers, food fairs, and cultural festivals make Beira Mar an exciting entertainment venue in Fortaleza's cityscape.

Housed within the huge Centro Dragão do Mar de Arte e Cultura, Planetário Rubens de Azevedo is ideal for an educational yet fun outing with the family. Accommodating 80 people, the planetarium features state-of-the-art technology and equipment that afford a fantastic star-gazing experience. There are various programs offered, which teach visitors about anything from the 'ABC of the Universe' to the 'Origins of Life'. For an enlightening celestial experience, Planetário Rubens de Azevedo is a must-visit.

Established in 1973, Estádio Plácido Aderaldo Castelo, also known as the Arena Castelão, is one of the city's premier sports venues. It hosts big-ticket football fixtures and is one of the venues for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The stadium is home to two of Fortaleza's major football clubs, the Ceara Sporting Club and Fortaleza Esporte Club. It underwent a set of major renovations in 2012 and boasts of enhanced seating capacity, luxurious VIP boxes and modern facilities for spectators. In addition to that, the complex also includes a cultural center for performing arts and other events.