Manaus is the capital of the largest state in Brazil (Amazonas), locally known for its exuberant fauna and flora, and especially for housing the Amazon Forest. But the city also has many places to explore and awesome neighborhoods to accommodate yourself during your trip or even to live if you are looking to move to Brazil.
Whether you’re at the iconic Manaus historical Center or visiting the luxurious beaches of Ponta Negra, there are several neighborhoods in Manaus that you can pick to stay. Each of them has very interesting aspects to them, so there is a lot to take in.
In this post, we are going to go over the best neighborhoods in Manaus, highlighting all the pros and cons, talk about the main attractions in each of them (like bars and restaurants), how well-located are each district on the list, and the best places to stay!
1. Centro Histórico
As in most touristic places, staying at the city’s historical center is the perfect thing to do for those who want to combine culture and history with good infrastructure. The region houses, for example, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Amazonas Theater, two big cultural staples of the North Region of Brazil.
On the other hand, the Centro Histórico neighborhoods leave nothing to be desired in terms of city structure, housing a lot of nice restaurants, luxury hotels, commercial buildings, bars, among other attractions. Unfortunately, the average price to live/stay in this neighborhood is a tad expensive in relation to other districts in Manaus.
Leisure
The São Sebastião square is located in the highest portion of the center of Manaus. The area includes the Teatro Amazonas, the Palace of Justice, and a historic townhouse that still stands in its surroundings. Honestly, the Square is the only part of the neighborhood that is really interesting for tourists, but it houses a lot of nice places to visit and see.
Here are some of the districts main attractions:
- Amazon Theater (Teatro Amazonas)
Possibly one of the main landscapes of Manaus, the Amazon Theater is the most significant expression of the richness of the Amazon region in colonial times. With imposing beauty, the theater has existed since 1896 and it is definitely worth taking a guided tour and especially watching a show.
- São Sebastião Square (Largo São Sebastião)
Right accross the Amazon Theater, you will be able to find the São Sebastião square, which houses the São Sebastião Church and the Palace of Justice. At the very center of the São Sebastião Square is a monument called “Open of the Ports” made entirely of marble.
The square has a floor of Portuguese stones that form black and white waves and would have served as an inspiration for Copacabana’s sidewalk in Rio de Janeiro. You will most likely be taking a lot of Instagrammable pics in this spot of the Centro Histórico district.
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Manaus | Cathedral Museum (Catedral Metropolitana de Manaus / Museu da Catedral)
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Manaus (also known as Igreja da Matriz) was the first church built after the foundation of Manaus, built in 1695 by Carmelite missionaries.
On the right side of the Cathedral, you will be able to visit the Cathedral Museum, which houses pieces from the altar of the outdoor mass celebrated by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Manaus in 1980. In the Museum hall, excavations of ancient structures that were below are on display the floor. - Manaus County Market (Mercado Municipal de Manaus)
At the Adolpho Lisboa Market, (or just Mercado Municipal – as most locals call it), it is possible to discover spices, herbs, fruits and local crafts. Personally, I love visiting these markets to try out new flavors and delicacies I have never had before, as well as shop for souveniers (I mean, who doesn’t love getting food as a gift? I know I do!)
The architecture of the Market is also a great attraction in itself, and can be enjoyed from Monday to Saturday, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on Sundays, until 12:00 pm. The market also has a privileged view of the Rio Negro river. - Palácio Provincial
The Provincial Palace houses 5 different museums in the same space: Numismatics Museum (historical study of coins and medals), the Museum of Image and Sound of Amazonas, the State Art Gallery (Pinacoteca do Estado), the Tiradentes Museum (also known as Museum of the State Military Police) and the Museum of Archeology.
Guided visitation is available from Tuesday to Saturday, from 9 AM to 2 PM and is admission free.
Gastronomy
There are great places to eat at the Centro Histórico district in Manaus. According to the top-rated local restaurants by Google and TripAdvisor, here are a few options according to the different types of cuisine:
Self Service and Buffet Restaurants
- Restaurante Tempero Bom
- Kilo Center Restaurante
- Bar e Restaurante Katkero
- Restaurante La Veneza
- Restaurante Paladar Caseiro
Japanese Restaurants
- Kawamura Lámen Ya
- Restaurante Himawari
- Sushi Ponta Negra
- Himawari
Brazilian Food
- Tacacaria Amazônia Cozinha Regional
- Tambaqui De Banda
- Caxiri Manaus
- Restaurante Tempero Amazonico
- Tacacá da Gisela
Burger Restaurants
- Home’s Burger
- Malibu Mao
- Bob’s Burger
Miscellaneous Restaurants
- Boi Gordo – especializes in traditional Brazilian barbecue
- La Gioconda – located inside the Amazon Theater, acts as a coffee house and bar
- Açaí Top Frozen – especializes in açaí, a traditional brazilian fruit usually consumed as a smoothie
- Casa da Pamonha – especializes in vegan and vegetarian food
- Sorveteria Barbarella – especializes in ice cream and other desserts]
- Libanus Gastronomia – especializes in LIbanese food
- Restaurante Chinês – especializes in Chinese food
Best Bars in Centro Histórico
- Bar Do Armando
- Bar do Caldeira
- Bar Castelinho
- Jangadeiro Bar
Safety
After sunset, most of the streets in the neighborhood become pretty deserted and empty, with the exception of the surroundings of the São Sebastião Square. For all its cultural importance, the square is safer, day or night (as all the bars and restaurants stay open until late).
Although the region has an Integrated Police District to ensure the safety of the neighborhood, it is best to be careful in desolated areas, especially in the night time.
Accessibility
Accommodating yourself at a hotel in the Centro Histórico district is the best way to stay in the center of Manaus and, at the same time, ensure that you are well located in the city, as the district is the most convenient region to stay in Manaus.
2. Adrianópolis
Adrianópolis is a district in Manaus located on the south side of the estate and it is locally known for being quite noble due to its urban design. Aside from the benefit of staying/living in a beautiful place, you also have the Manauara shopping mall nearby, as well as hotels, and several restaurants and other businesses.
The urbanization projects in Adrianópolis are also locally famous for their excellence, with clean paved streets and wide and tree-lined sidewalks. It is definitely a great place for those who put the quality of life as a priority.
Leisure
There are a few interesting places you could visit in the Adrianópolis neighborhood in Manaus. Here are a few of them:
- Manauara Shopping Mall
A lot of people don’t really consider visiting shopping malls when visiting a foreign place, mainly because they think that they are pretty much the same everywhere you go. And while there is some truth in that, the Manauara Shopping Mall in Adrianópolis is one of the few exceptions.
Aside from the fact that you will find the most important brands in the country there, you will also be surprised to find out that there is a small forest in its interior, which makes you forget you are inside a mall. It’s definitely worth having an ice cream and enjoying the natural quirkness of this beautiful mall.
Gastronomy
Being so well-planned and with a much-praised urban design, rest assured that you will have no trouble finding a good place to eat around Adrianópolis. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite in the district:
Self Service and Buffet Restaurants
- Quitutes Refeições
- Banzeiro
- Mercato Brazil
- Restaurante Confraria da Vila
Asian Restaurants
- Restaurante Maru
- Sushikai
- Ara
- Ichiban Sushibar
- Hachi Steak Sushi
Pizza Parlors
- Coliseu Pizzaria
- Mercado 153
- Latorre Pizzaria e Restaurante
Miscellaneous Restaurants
- Choupana – especializes in seafood dishes
- Village – especializes in Brazilian and international cuisine
- Zefinha Amazonas – especializes in Brazilian gourmet food
- Alentejo Cozinha Portuguesa – especializes in Portuguese food
- Rota da Sopa – especializes in different types of soup
Coffee Houses and Bakeries
- Kalena Café
- Café Com Leite
- Pão & Cia Manauara
- Delli Paes Delicatessen
- Molen Cafés Especiais
Best Bars in Adrianópolis
- Cachaçaria do Dedé e Empório
- Jack’n’Blues Snooker Pub
- Taberna Pub
- Open House
- Umê Bar N Food
- Bar Do Barriga
Safety
Accessibility
A large number of vehicles in Adrianópolis makes life difficult for residents at certain moments of the day. The exits from the neighborhood can be completely jammed, although the access to the main avenues of the city is very close.
3. Aleixo
Aleixo is a district located in the Center-South Zone of Manaus and the overall architecture is pretty contrasting. On one side, it is possible to notice a large development with modern buildings and condominiums, and on the other, brick houses inhabited by families and old residents of the region.
It is considered one of the best neighborhoods to live in Manaus in terms of location, as it has easy access to several important regions of Manaus, and is also close to large commercial centers.
Leisure
- Parque Lagoa do Japiim
Although not exactly located in the Aleixo district, the Park . The park is the main open area in the neighborhood and it is located at Rodrigo Otávio Avenue, open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8 AM to 6 PM.
At the park, you will be able to contemplate nature and some of the local animals such as turtles, chameleons and birds There are big trees that offer shade to those who use the walking trail, and to those to want to maybe have a picnic in the grass area.
Built in an area of 41 thousand square meters (the equivalent of four soccer fields), the Lagoa do Japiim Park was named after the japiim, a bird frequently found in the region. - Parque Cidade da Criança
The Cidade da Criança Park is a free ludic space dedicated for children. The park often hosts special programs and activities on commemorative dates and on the weekends, and it is a great place to bring your kids while on vacation in the city.
The Park is very well-kept, having amongst its many attractions, outdoor playgrounds, an air-conditioned playroom for the younger ones, an air-conditioned library, children’s theater shows and even a labyrinth. On special occasions, they bring out zip lines, trampolines, and there is always a popcorn vendor around, as well as a snack bar.
The Cidade da Criança Park also houses the first inclusive playground in Manaus for children with special needs, which features seesaws and swings, amongst other toys adapted for wheelchair users. It also has access and security ramps, so everything is accessible for all children.
Gastronomy
You can find everything within the Aleixo neighborhood in Manaus, from all kinds of restaurants to the best bars and pubs. Here are some of the recommendations by Google and Trip Advisor:
Asian Restaurants
- Sarangche
- Shangai Restaurante Chinês
- Umê Bar N Food
- Kin Sushi Bar
- Duo Restaurante e Sushi Bar
Seafood Restaurants
- Estória de Pescador
- Fish Maria
- Peixaria E Espetinho Tio Joca
Traditional Brazilian Food
- Tambagrill V8
- Moquém do Banzeiro
- Restaurante Rei Do Baiao
- Black Bull
Pizza Parlors
- Paolo e Guiseppe Pizza House
- Morada do Sol Pizzas
- Di Caputti Pizza Bar
- Pizzaria Morada Do Sol
- Amazon Pizza
Miscellaneous Restaurants
- Sorverita Gelateria – especializes in ice cream and desserts
- Picanha na Pedra – especializes in traditional Brazilian stone barbecue
- Brunch Diner & Coffee – especializes in traditional brunch options
- Coa.do – coffee house that especializes in sweets and desserts
- Taberna 88 – especializes in burgers and other types of sandwiches
- La Bodeguita Empanadas – especializes in empanadas, a traditional Spanish snack
- Rota da Sopa – specializes in all kinds of soups
Best Bars in Aleixo
- All Night Pub
- Rota 78 Pub
- Caritó Bar e Restaurante
- Bar E Restaurante Caranguejo
- Oi Bar
- La Casa Pub
- Boteco do Lenno
- Bar do Betinho
- Axerito Bar
- Bar Do Pirikitão
Safety
The region is in constant development, but it still suffers from the presence of the local drug traffic gangs and crews. In 2017, according to research made by the Secretary of Public Defense (SSP-AM) and the Amazonas State University, the Aleixo district ranked at number 3 in the top neighborhoods with the most deaths caused by the war against local drugs trafficking.
In other words, pay attention to your surroundings while walking around the neighborhood just in case, especially at night in the more deserted areas.
Accessibility
As we mentioned earlier, the Aleixo neighborhood has a very good location, with easy access to all parts of the city. So if you want to stay in a place where you can quickly get to your other points of interest around Manaus, then maybe Aleixo is the best place for you to accommodate yourself.
4. Nossa Senhora das Graças
Credit: WikiCommons | Madison
Located in the South Zone of Manaus, the Nossa Senhora das Graças neighborhood is composed of several complexes and communities, such as Vieiralves, Manauense, and Vila Amazonas. Over time, it became an upper-middle-class region, with many convenient business and commercial establishments at its disposal (the Nossa Senhora das Graças district is actually one of the largest commercial areas in the region).
The fact that the real state in this region of Manaus has only just recently started to get more valued, makes it a very good choice in terms of budget, as you will be able to find excellent accommodation options for a much better and fair price than in other spots in the city.
Leisure
Gastronomy
Having the largest and biggest commercial center in Manaus of course also translates into the Nossa Senhora das Graças neighborhood having some of the best restaurants and bars around the city. Here are some of the top-rated places according to Google and Trip Advisor:
Self Service and Buffet Restaurants
- Restaurante Murupii
- Kilo Mix
- Restaurante da Rosa
- Quitutes Refeições
- Lo de Maria
Burger Restaurants
- Eighty’s Burguer & Beer
- WTF Burguer Chef
- Santa Monica Californian Food
- Premium Burguer
- Artesanal the Best Burger
Asian Restaurants
- Ichiban Sushibar
- T – Mak & Sushi
- Restaurante Shin Suzuran
- Enjoy Mais Que Temaki
Miscellaneous Restaurants
- Armazen 296 – especializes in Indian cuisine and other products
- Arepa & Companhia – especializes in Peruvian and Latin cuisine
- Lulu Pães & Doces – especializes in sweets, pastries and desserts
- Soli Gelato e Café – coffee house that also has artisanal ice cream
- Player Food – restaurant and bar that also has videogames for the customers
- Belle Époque – especializes in French cuisine
- Portucale Restaurante – especializes in Portuguese cuisine
- Quintal Gastronômico – restaurant that features live music
- Habanero Mexican Taquería Vieiralves – especializes in Mexican cuisine
Pizza Parlors
- Pizza à Bessa
- Na Oca Restaurante
- Mangiare Pizzaria
- Coliseu Pizzaria
- Marinara Pizzaria & Restaurante
Best Bars in Nossa Senhora das Graças
- Gastro Bar La Pimenta
- Casa 105 Adega e Wine Bar
- Cent Beer
- Choperia N1 Manaus
- Metropole Bar
- D Cuba
- Espetinho e Chopp Vieiralves
- Seu Sujinho
Safety
Accessibility
5. Ponta Negra
Credit: WikiCommons | Youtube
This Ponta Negra neighborhood is considered by many residents as the best district in Manaus, especially for balancing good quality of life with the ease of having a great variety in regards to commerce and general services.
Considered a noble region, Ponta Negra was recently revitalized, with the emergence of new residential and commercial developments, which brings many tourists to the region. There are many benefits to accommodating yourself in Ponta Negra, but the proximity to nature is certainly one of the most attractive.
Leisure
The Ponta Negra shoreline is one of the main tourist attractions in Manaus. On the banks of the Rio Negro river (located on the Ponta Negra boardwalk), it is possible to practice sports, go hiking, play with the kids and watch the most beautiful sunset in Manaus.
Here are some of the things you will be able to do in the district:
- Praia Dourada (Dourada Beach)
Located about 2,5 miles from Avenida do Turismo (the road that gives access to the beach), the Praia Dourada shoreline is still very well preserved, and there are still many animals of the Brazilian fauna hanging around. The general landscape and flora suffered few impacts, and you will still be able to observe the exuberance of nature around.
Although located a bit distand, the road that gives access to the beach is excellent, with paving and it is an excellent opportunity to get to get a little taste of the Amazon. - Praia da Ponta Negra (Ponta Negra River Beach)
The urbanization and landfill of Praia da Ponta Negra made the area a very nice place to visit even if you are not planning on sunbathing. The shoreline houses various facilities, such as a large sidewalk, gardens, a gazebo, an amphitheater and an observatory for you to take some amazing pictures as souvenirs.
There is even a branch of the locally famous ice cream brand Glacial, which features a lot of typical flavors from the Amazon, like Guaraná and Açaí. - Joshua’s Amazon Expeditions
Joshua’s Amazon Expeditions is a tourism agency that has been on the market for over 15 years, and that specializes in ecotourism tours in the Amazon. They have daily tours that departure from Manaus to different regions in the Amzon, where you could stay at jungle hotels, go on river trips in regional boats, and enjoy with activities such as:
– forest trails
– fishing
– alligator spotting
– staying overnight in the forest
– visit the local indigenous communities
– visit the local riverside communities
– go swimming with the dolphins
– visit the local waters sources and more
The nightlife in the neighborhood is very busy, excellent news for those who like clubs, bars, cultural events, and restaurants! This brings us to our next topic!
Gastronomy
Having the Praia Negra beach as one of the most famous spots in the neighborhood is enough for you to know that the quality of the restaurants and local bars follow suit to the expectations of being in such a touristic place. Here are some of the best recommended places to go have a drink or some food in Ponta Negra:
Self Service Restaurants
- O Lenhador
- Alambique Restaurante
- Bar Do Mineirinho Buffet
- Cantina Nobre
Asian Restaurants
- Sushi Ponta Negra
- Waku Sese
- Tokai Express
- Sushi Lounge
- Un Ba Sushi Bar
Pizza Parlors
- Temperine Pizzerie
- Splash Pizza Ponta Negra
- Congresso da Pizza
- Villa Vassallo Pizzas
- Pizzaria Moria
Bakeries and Cafes
- Pao & Cia
- Casa Do Pao de Queijo
- Arab Café
- Padaria Pao de Lo
Miscellaneous Restaurants
- Cachaçaria do Dedé e Empório – especializes in cachaça, a traditional Brazilian alcoholic beverage
- Flutuante Uarini – floating exotic restaurant that offers a new experience in having lunch in the Amazon
- Fiori Di Latte – especializes in gelattos and other types of ice cream
- Mandió Tapiocaria – especializes in tapiocas, a traditional Brazilian snack made with cassava flour
- Emporio Arabe – especializes in traditional Arab cuisine
- Aiii Caramba – especializes in traditional Mexican cuisine
Best Bars in Ponta Negra
- Toc Toc Delicias e Chopp
- Restaurante E Bar Cadeirada
- Vilas Country
Safety
Although we weren’t able to find accurate information on the safety in the neighborhood, we found that the Ponta Negra district enjoys one of the best life quality indexes in the city of Manaus, with an HDI (Human Development Index) of 0.930 This indicates that the neighborhood has a quality of life similar to that of Switzerland and Australia, for example.
Accessibility
There is no doubt that those who choose to stay or live in Ponta Negra have many advantages when it comes to mobility. This is because the neighborhood’s avenues are wide, which facilitates the circulation of vehicles and pedestrians. The main streets of the place provide easy access to other areas of Manaus.
6. Parque 10 de Novembro
Credit: WikiCommons | ManausOntemHojeSempre
Also simply known as Parque 10 by residents, the Parque 10 de Novembro neighborhood offers a large concentration of businesses that live harmoniously with high-end residential areas. In other words, living in this region means having the total guarantee of being able to count on a complete infrastructure, with close-by shopping malls, markets, bars, restaurants, and leisure areas.
On Rua do Comércio, located in the Castelo Branco complex, you will be able to find most services and stores in the neighborhood, such as pharmacies, restaurants, gyms, supermarkets, as well as leisure options, like bars, restaurants, and even concert venues.
Leisure
Centro Social Urbano (Urban Social Center – CSU)
There is no way to talk about Parque 10 de Novembro without mentioning the famous “CSU do Parque 10”, located at Perimetral Avenue, n° 22.
It has a vast area for sports, recreation, gymnastics, workouts, kiosks and one of the most traditional festivals in the city of Manaus, the famous “Arraial do CSU”, which has various attractions and food typical of June festivals in Brazil.
Festival Folclórico do CSU do Parque 10
This very traditional Folkloric Festival is now in its 43rd edition (2024) and is a major event that takes place from June to July at the CSU do Parque 10 with several attractions.
The event promotes income generation for dozens of families, in addition to attracting thousands of people looking for quality entertainment. Its structure consists of two environments for themed dances, such as square dances and musical performances.
If you’re visiting the area during that period, make sure you don’t miss it.
Mirage Park
In 2006, the city of Manaus gained a reference in entertainment for young people and families!
The park brings fun with attractions aimed at all ages, in the Children’s, Family and Extreme categories! So either if you’re just in for the easy rides or want to go a little more radical with it, this Park will surely got your back.
Gastronomy
Housing many commercial centers and offices, Parque 10 de Novembro also brings it when it comes to restaurants and places to grab a drink or a snack. Here’s a few of what we could gather:
Bars
- Cachaçaria do Dedé
- Cantina Ponto 10
Grills
- Frango do Mindu
- Frango Mineiro
- Brasas Churrascaria
- Churrascaria House Grill
- Restaurante Assadão Macuxi
Fish
- Restaurante Vorita
- O Remador
- Chef Cunhantã
- Ichiban
- Toca do Pirarucu
Safety
Local residents think of Parque 10 as a safe place to live, hence it always topping the lists of most searched neighborhoods in Manaus when they’re looking for rentals.
Accessibility
There are 3 bus lines that connect Parque 10 to other neighborhoods, such as Cidade Nova (next on our list). If you’re driving, you’ll find traffic pretty mild and easy to drive around.
7. Cidade Nova
Credit: WikiCommons | Portal da Copa
Created in 1981, the Cidade Nova district is the most populous neighborhood in Manaus, being inhabited by 146,730 people, according to the IBGE (2019). Initially planned as a housing complex to welcome immigrants, the region now houses residential condominiums, commercial establishments, leisure areas, in addition to countless companies and large green spaces.
The Cidade Nova is district is divided into:
Cidade Nova 1 – is a subdivision of the neighborhood. With a population exceeding 50,000 inhabitants, it has a large part of the commerce and main schools in the neighborhood, in addition to bank branches, and the Integration Terminal of Cidade Nova and neighborhoods Renato Sousa Pinto, Mundo Novo, Manoa.
Cidade Nova 2 – is another subdivision of the Cidade Nova neighborhood. It extends from the border with the Parque 10 neighborhood to the border with the East Zone, with a population of approximately 60,000 inhabitants.
In Cidade Nova 2 we find the garage of Viação Nova Integração, the largest transport company in the city, the Sumaúma State Park, the Sumaúma Park Shopping and the Padre Pedro Vignola Family Community Center.
Leisure
In Cidade Nova, nature is highly valued, being fundamental for the quality of life of the residents. In this sense, the neighborhood has the Sumaúma State Park, the first Manaus State Conservation Unit, which develops actions to benefit the community and whose main objective is the preservation of regional biodiversity.
The neighborhood offers a good network of goods and services. It is full of bars, restaurants, snack bars, banks, churches, shops and art fairs on the weekends. Commerce is quite diverse, as it ranges from refined shopping centers to more popular stores. It is one of the largest shopping centers in Manaus, with a wide variety of stores and services.
Gastronomy
As stated earlier, there is a good variety of bars and restaurants so you can choose from. Here’s a few of what we could gather:
Accessibility
The neighborhood is one of the largest in Manaus in terms of territorial area. Therefore, it is limited to several neighborhoods in the city. Its limits are with the neighborhoods of Flores, Parque 10 de Novembro and Novo Aleixo to the south; to the east with Jorge Teixeira, Novo Aleixo and Cidade de Deus; to the north with the neighborhoods of Nova Cidade and Monte das Oliveiras; to the west with Colônia Santo Antônio; and to the northwest with Colônia Terra Nova.
So, what did you think about these neighborhoods? Manaus is full of nice places to stay either if you’re just passing by as a traveller or looking for a new home as a resident!
While you’re here, I think we may interest you with these:
Is Living In Brazil Safe? (With Data and Videos) – planning to taking a trip to Brazil but unsure of the safety aspects? Rest easy and take a look at what we have for you!
Kayaking in Brazil? You Need to Visit These Top 8 Places – are you a fan of kayaking? Then you must take a look at these places!
Brazil trip costs: all you need to know – if you want to really plan your trip so no money mishaps, then take a look at our complete guide.
Cover picture: the Amazon theatre in Manaus – credit: wikicommons / Rafael Zart