Fortaleza

Thirty-seven km (23 miles) west of Fortaleza, this former fisherman's colony is one of the best options for a relaxing day-trip from Fortaleza. — Fodor's

Not far from the Mercado Central, this majestic cultural complex is an eccentric mix of curves, straight lines, and angular and flat roofs. — Fodor's

Housed in the former Assembléia Provincial (Provincial Assembly Building), this museum's exhibits are devoted to the history and anthropology of Ceará State. — Fodor's

This theater is a rather shocking example (especially if you come upon it suddenly) of the eclectic phase of Brazilian architecture, showcasing a mixture of neoclassical and art nouveau styles. — Fodor's

The Centro de Turismo, a converted 19th-century jail, houses a lot of craft stalls and, upstairs from the tourist information office, the Museu de Arte e Cultura Popular, with an impressive collection of Ceará crafts. — Lonely Planet

A clean length of soft sand stretching 5km along Fortaleza’s east-facing coast, this is easily the best city beach, though it's far from most accommodations — Lonely Planet

This folk-art museum, upstairs from the Centro de Turismo, was closed for renovations during research. It has an impressive collection of Ceará crafts. — Lonely Planet