Recife sees 126% rise in foreign tourist bookings in first half of 2026

Recife recorded a 126% increase in foreign tourist reservations during the first half of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, according to data from the Civitatis platform. The city welcomed 72,842 international arrivals from January to May 2026, more than double the figure a year earlier, marking a 103.6% growth and making Pernambuco the second‑fastest‑growing state in Brazil for tourist arrivals.

Argentina became the top source market, accounting for over 51% of all bookings on Civitatis, with a 442% jump in reservations. European demand also surged, with bookings from Spain, Portugal, Italy and France more than tripling (279% increase). The surge reflects improved air connectivity, including new direct flights by JetSmart from Recife to Buenos Aires, seasonal services by Flybondi from Córdoba and Rosario, and Iberia’s weekly Recife‑Madrid route, as well as heightened cultural visibility from recent award‑winning film and music projects.

These developments signal growing international interest in Recife’s beaches, culture, and tourism infrastructure.