Salvador — Arena Fonte Nova
In Salvador, don’t miss Barra. Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse, the oldest in South America) is one of the main attractions and has enough historical relevance since it was the first capital of Brazil. The place is also the official stage for the trios elétricos during carnival. Not to mention that a dip in the sea here is also a delight, whether during the day or at night, thanks to the lights around the beach.
Brasilia — Estadio Nacional
When you are in Brasilia, the capital city of Brazil, you just cannot miss the Television Tower, a brilliant piece of urban architecture. You can also pay a visit to the small and beautiful church of Nossa Senhora de Fátima and stay to witness the fantastic work of Oscar Niemeyer, the Lúcio Costa. Also check out the panel works of Athos Bulcão and the brand new and rather controversial panel work by Francisco Galen.
Manaus — Arena da Amazônia
Check out Manaus and you’ll marvel at the fact that a city like this is right at the heart of thick Amazon. And Amazon Theatre (Teatro Amazonas) is something you should not miss on your trip here. The German filmmaker, Werner Herzog had paid a tribute to the theatre in his famous Fitzcarraldo. Located in Largo de São Sebastião, the theatre was built in the golden period of the rubber boom and thus, stands as a symbol of prosperity and progressive times for the countrymen.
Cuiabá — Arena Pantanal
Cuiabá is a beautiful city with the perfect environment for those who seek peace. If you are a sea food lover and particularly love fish, the city will be a treat for you with its several fresh fish restaurants. And you could also visit Chapada dos Guimarães, a town and national park located 60km from Cuiabá. And if you’re a social media junkie, don’t forget to take a selfie from that famous cliff!
Natal — Arena das Dunas
At Natal, you should go around the city and explore its beaches. Sun-kissed and warm, Natal has some of the most gorgeous beaches in the country. And don’t forget the buggy ride!
Curitiba — Arena da Baixada
Once you reach the Pine Nut Island, all you need to do is get some time and relax at the Botanical Gardens. After that if you have some more time in hand, then you should not miss the amazing train journey along the Estrada Graciosa. The landscape will be etched in your mind forever!
Fortaleza — Arena Castelão
At Fortaleza, the most important destination is the Beach Park on Porto das Dunas beach. The park has the world’s tallest water slide, Insano. To give you a rough idea, it’s about 14 storeys tall and makes for a great adrenaline rush.
Recife — Arena Pernanbuco
Tourists in this city should definitely buy some time and take the Caramaran tour (the one that leaves from Marco Zero). You will get to see the beauty of Recife Antigo, and you will get to know the historical aspects of the city. You can also navigate along the Rio Capibaribe and explore its vast mangroves.
One love ride
You may want to watch out for and wave out to One Love Riders. This ride is a journey on bicycle through Central and South America to the soccer venues in Brazil. One Love stems from the lyrics of late legendary singer Bob Marley’s song (he was an avid football fan). This bike ride cements a dream mixed with my passions in life: Football, bike riding and arts — specifically films and music.
Football museum
Situated on the grounds of the city’s sacred Art Deco sports masterpiece — Pacaembu Stadium — the Museu de Futebol (Soccer Museum) attracts children and adults alike with its fascinating, interesting and highly interactive exhibitions. History and memorabilia from “The Beautiful Game” mark the story of the sport as it is played in its spiritual home. Visitors who aren’t big fans of the sport will also find the displays eye-catching along with poignant photographs.
Street art
Brazil is big on street art — graffiti and sand sculptures dot the beaches and city roads. Stop to stare at and appreciate these magnificent works of art that spell FIFA fever like nothing else.
