Discover the Brazilian city behind the award-winning film’s most striking locations
Recife, Brazil — Fresh from winning two Golden Globe Awards — Best Actor for Wagner Moura and Best Foreign Language Film — The Secret Agent is shining a global spotlight not only on Brazilian cinema, but also on the vibrant city where the film was brought to life: Recife, capital of Pernambuco.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kleber Mendonça Filho, the political thriller transforms Recife into a central character on screen. With its historic bridges, sun-drenched beaches, colonial architecture and pulsating Afro-Brazilian culture, the city emerges as one of the film’s great protagonists — and an irresistible destination for travellers eager to experience Brazil beyond the obvious.
As The Secret Agent continues its international festival run and builds momentum toward a potential Academy Award nomination in 2026, Recife is enjoying a moment of cinematic stardom of its own.
A cinematic journey through Recife
Downtown Recife
The film opens in the heart of the city. In the Boa Vista neighbourhood, visitors can admire the iconic Cinema São Luiz, one of Brazil’s last grand street cinemas, known for its striking façade and stained-glass windows. Nearby, Parque 13 de Maio offers a green pause amid the urban landscape, while Vila Santo Antônio, a cluster of 1940s houses featured in the film, adds a nostalgic touch.
Cross the historic Ponte 6 de Março (Ponte Velha) to reach the lively São José Market, a hub for local handicrafts and regional flavours. Culture lovers can explore the Recife City Museum, then stop at Chá Mate Brasília — where a special tea flavour was created in tribute to the film.
Old Recife: the historic soul of the city
Cobblestone streets and restored colonial mansions define Old Recife, where culture, history and art converge. Highlights include Marco Zero, the city’s birthplace; the Pernambuco Handicraft Centre; and Rua do Bom Jesus, named the third most beautiful street in the world by Architectural Digest. Museums such as Paço do Frevo and Cais do Sertão, alongside the colourful Embassy of the Giant Puppets of Olinda, reveal the city’s creative spirit.
Recife’s bridges by catamaran
Recife is famously known as the “Venice of Brazil.” A catamaran cruise along the Capibaribe River passes under more than 15 historic bridges, including the 6 de Março Bridge and Governor Paulo Guerra Bridge, both featured in the film. The route offers scenic views of Rua da Aurora, the Sculpture Park, and the city’s waterfront skyline.
Afro-Brazilian heritage and living culture
Recife’s identity is deeply shaped by Afro-Brazilian culture. Visitors can explore this heritage at the Afro-Brazilian Museum, attend vibrant Maracatu performances, and venture to nearby Olinda — a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 10 km away. Guided tours through Olinda’s historic hills reveal landmarks such as Alto da Sé, Ribeira Market, and the Church of Our Lady of Amparo, highlighting African influences woven into the city’s architecture and traditions.
A sensory journey through Northeastern cuisine
A culinary capital of Brazil’s Northeast, Recife blends Indigenous, African and Portuguese influences into a cuisine rich in flavour and colour. Must-try dishes include Pernambuco-style fish stew, chicken à cabidela, and arrumadinho. Street markets like São José serve up stuffed tapiocas, bean broth and local sweets — especially the iconic bolo de rolo, a rolled guava cake beloved nationwide.
Beaches and coastal escapes
No visit to Recife is complete without its beaches. Boa Viagem, the city’s most famous, is known for warm natural pools formed by coral reefs. Nearby Pina Beach and Brasília Teimosa offer a more laid-back coastal vibe. Beyond the city, travellers can explore Porto de Galinhas, Muro Alto, Praia dos Carneiros, and Itamaracá Island — all renowned for crystal-clear waters and postcard-perfect scenery.
Resorts for every travel style
The region also boasts world-class resorts, from the luxury Nannai Resort & Spa at Muro Alto to the family-friendly Summerville All Inclusive in Porto de Galinhas. Standouts include Vila Galé Cabo and Ocaporã, named one of Brazil’s best all-inclusive resorts in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice – Best of the Best 2025 awards.
