Where to Stay in Natal
Brazil
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Natal at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Natal
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Consider renting a car or hiring private transfers for day trips to attractions like Genipabu Dunes or Pipa, as public transport can be time-consuming and less convenient for these locations.
Getting Around
For longer distances or to explore beyond Ponta Negra, Uber or taxis are the most convenient and relatively affordable options.
Watch Out For
Distraction theft (pickpocketing) on beaches and busy streets.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night or when alone in less crowded areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying expensive items.
Hidden Gems in Natal
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Forte dos Reis Magos
This star-shaped fortress, the city's oldest monument, offers a glimpse into Natal's colonial past and boasts panoramic views of the Potengi River estuary and the Atlantic Ocean.
Parque das Dunas
FREEA vast urban oasis with sand dunes, walking trails, and native Atlantic Forest vegetation, perfect for a peaceful escape and observing local flora and fauna.
Mercado de Artesanato de Ponta Negra
FREEWhile Ponta Negra is popular, this artisan market tucked away offers a more authentic shopping experience for local crafts, souvenirs, and regional delicacies away from the main tourist drag.
Bar da Laje
A charming, laid-back bar built into the side of a hill with stunning ocean views, known for its delicious seafood, refreshing drinks, and live music on weekends.
Via Costeira
FREEThis scenic coastal road offers breathtaking views of the ocean and beaches, ideal for a leisurely drive or a bike ride, with many local spots to stop for a snack.
Praia de Genipabu (Buggy Tour)
While the dunes are famous, venturing further to Genipabu for a thrilling buggy ride 'com emoção' (with emotion) over the massive dunes is an unforgettable local adventure that many tourists skip.
What It Costs in Natal
Daily budget per person in BRL
💡One of the cheapest destinations worldwide
BRL 150/day
BRL 300/day
BRL 700/day
Where to Stay in Natal
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Morro do Careca10 min
- Praia de Ponta Negra5 min
- Via Costeira15 min
Pros
- +Direct beach access
- +Wide range of dining and entertainment
- +Well-developed tourist infrastructure
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Higher prices than other areas
Top stays in Ponta Negra
Wish Natal
$$$Luxury resort with stunning ocean views and extensive amenities.
Ocean Palace Beach Resort & Bungalows
$$$All-inclusive option with multiple pools and direct beach access.
Praiamar Natal Hotel & Convention
$$Family-friendly hotel with good amenities and a central location.
Pousada Coqueiros
$Charming and affordable pousada with a homely atmosphere.
Best for
Walk to
- Praia de Ponta Negra20 min
- Genipabu Dunes (via tour)60 min
Pros
- +Quieter atmosphere
- +Large resorts with good facilities
- +Scenic oceanfront promenade
Cons
- -Limited dining and shopping options within walking distance
- -Requires transport to access most attractions
Top stays in Via Costeira
Serhs Natal Grand Hotel
$$$Large resort with extensive leisure facilities and ocean views.
Holiday Inn Natal
$$Reliable international chain with comfortable rooms and good service.
Marsol Beach Resort
$$Beachfront resort offering a relaxed atmosphere and good value.
Best for
Walk to
- Teatro Alberto Maranhão5 min
- Forte dos Reis Magos (via transport)30 min
- Mercado de Artesanato15 min
Pros
- +Rich historical and cultural sites
- +More authentic local experience
- +Cheaper accommodation and food options
Cons
- -Can feel deserted and less safe at night
- -Limited tourist amenities
- -Requires transport to reach beaches
Top stays in Cidade Alta/Centro
Natal Dunnas Hotel
$Simple and affordable hotel in the city center, good for budget travelers.
Hotel Senac Barreira Roxa
$$Located on a hill with great views, part of a hospitality school offering good value.
Hotel Aeroporto Natal
$Convenient if you need to be close to the airport, basic but functional.
Best for
Walk to
- Parque das Dunas15 min
- Via Costeira (access)25 min
- Praia de Ponta Negra (via transport)15 min
Pros
- +Good mix of local life and amenities
- +Safer and quieter than the center
- +Access to green spaces
Cons
- -Not directly on the beach
- -Can be a bit spread out
Top stays in Petrópolis
Comfort Hotel Natal
$$Comfortable and modern hotel with good amenities and service.
Best Western Premier Majestic Hotel
$$Well-located hotel offering good value and reliable service.
Pousada Castanheira
$Cozy and well-maintained pousada offering a pleasant stay.
Areas to be cautious
- Certain parts of Cidade Alta/Centro after dark: High incidence of petty crime and muggings, especially in less populated or poorly lit streets.
- Areas far from main tourist zones without local knowledge: Can expose travelers to higher crime risks and lack of essential tourist infrastructure.
Insider tip: Consider renting a car or hiring private transfers for day trips to attractions like Genipabu Dunes or Pipa, as public transport can be time-consuming and less convenient for these locations.
Safety in Natal
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night or when alone in less crowded areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying expensive items.
At Night
Stick to main tourist areas like Ponta Negra's beachfront and well-lit streets. Avoid deserted areas, especially in the city center. Use reputable transport.
Emergency
190 (Military Police), 193 (Fire Department)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Distraction theft (pickpocketing) on beaches and busy streets.
- 2Overpriced taxi fares (insist on meter or agree price beforehand).
- 3Fake tour guides or vendors offering inflated prices.
Getting Around Natal
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxi: ~R$ 60-80, 40-60 mins. Uber: ~R$ 40-60, 40-60 mins.
🎫
Day Pass
Not available for buses; single rides are cheap.
Single: R$ 4.00 - R$ 5.50 (bus)
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber
📶
WiFi
Good25 Mbps
Public Transport
Local buses (red buses are common for tourist routes), taxis, and rideshares.
Ride-share
Uber, 99Taxi. Uber costs typically R$ 15-30 for short to medium trips within the city.
Transport Tip
For longer distances or to explore beyond Ponta Negra, Uber or taxis are the most convenient and relatively affordable options.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, many restaurants and cafes, some public squares.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; check options like 'CoWorking Natal' if available, daily cost ~R$ 30-50.
Hotels & Accommodation in Natal
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Who Is Natal Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers the most concentrated tourist infrastructure, beach access, and dining options.
Budget Backpackers
Provides the cheapest accommodation and food, along with access to historical sites, but requires vigilance.
Families
Resorts offer extensive amenities and a safe, contained environment for children.
Couples Seeking Relaxation
Quieter atmosphere and beachfront resorts provide a peaceful escape.
Culture Enthusiasts
Home to historical landmarks and a more authentic glimpse into Natal's past.
Foodies
The highest concentration of diverse restaurants, from local seafood to international cuisine.
About Natal
NATAL or Natal may refer to:.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natal
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Natal Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel