Praia do Futuro: Fortaleza Brazil Travel Guide

Fortaleza, Brazil's fifth-largest city, dates to Portuguese colonization in 1603 and was named after defeating the French in 1612 (previously São Sebastião). The Ministry of Tourism calls it Brazil's second-most visited city, with hotels booked solid on summer weekends. Expect hot weather year-round and rain from January to July. Forró music dominates the Northeast. Praia Iracema features calmer waters, a local vibe, and nightlife like Pirata Bar and Ritmo Urbano. Nearby Meireles (15-minute walk) is family-oriented with upscale restaurants, expanded sidewalks, bike paths, vendors, and artisan booths.