Forte de Monte Serrat

From the Igreja do Bonfim [1], if you walk uphill from the Largo de Bonfim and take the road that swerves to the left, you’ll be treated to some magnificent panoramic views of the entire city. Follow the road for another five minutes, which will lead you downhill to the popular white-sand beach of Boa Viagem. A favorite praia popular, on weekends it is so packed with residents of surrounding neighborhoods you can barely see the sand.

Crowning the beach is the 16th-century Forte de Monte Serrat, whose cannons chased off invading Dutch. Today, its functions are decidedly less bellicose—it is a favorite place for smooching couples to get a glimpse of the sunset over the Bay of All Saints [2].

Another great vantage point is the nearby Ponta de Humaitá, whose striped lighthouse, tiny 17th-century Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat, and sweeping sea views provide a romantic spot for a late afternoon drink.