Fortaleza is a major fishing port and fast growing tourist destination in the northeast of Brazil.
In the centre there are a few interesting Historic buildings, including the Fortress of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, which was the origin of the city (the name Fortaleza is the Portuguese for Fortress). The Mercado Central and the Cathedral are the major sights in the area.

The best beaches are east of town. The Praia de Iracema and the Praia do Futuro are good options; the former is preferred by intellectuals, bohemians and night partiers, whereas the later is preferred by swimmers and surfers. Along the Avenida Beira Mar there are a few more beaches, such as Meireles and Mucuripe; here, the walkway is wide, with plenty of space for joggers and walkers, who usually refresh themselves at one of the several kioskes and restaurants established along the way. The beaches are also the focal point of nightlife and entertainment.

Fortaleza is one of the best places for buying crafts. Lacework, embroidery, leather goods and ceramics are good buys. For good prices you should skip the tourist boutiques and try either the Mercado Central or the Feirinha Beira Mar; these two places have a large number (over 100) of stalls selling all kinds of handicraft and regional product, and competition drives prices down.