THINGS TO DO IN SALVADOR: 7 MUST-VISIT TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
After Rio de Janeiro, the favorite Brazilian destination of international tourists is Salvador de Bahia. A quick glance at its historic center, street food stalls, and beaches quickly explains why. The city is also known for having a large population of African descent, descendants of slaves, making it particularly interesting from a cultural and historical perspective. In this guide, I share with you 7 things to do in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil.
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SALVADOR DE BAHIA IN A FEW WORDS
Nestled along Brazil’s northeastern coast, Salvador de Bahia is one of the country’s most culturally rich cities. It is also the capital of the state of Bahia.
Founded in 1549, the city was also the largest slave port in all of America during the colonial era. This legacy shaped its demographics: nearly 80% of Salvador’s population is of African descent.
Salvador’s culture is a vibrant blend of African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences, which makes this destination so fascinating.
SALVADOR DE BAHIA GUIDE: 4 MUST-SEE tours
THINGS TO DO IN SALVADOR DE BAHIA
I’ve had the chance to travel to Salvador three times, and I can assure you that history, culture, gastronomy, and beaches are the defining elements of any stay in this beautiful city.
You can imagine that if I’ve returned so many times, it’s because there’s an abundance of places to visit and experiences to enjoy in this vibrant city.
But if you’re short on time, I’ve selected 7 things to do in Salvador de Bahia that you won’t want to miss on your first visit.
1. Visit Pelourinho
Pelourinho is Salvador’s historic center, named after the ‘small pillory’ once standing in the main square, to which slaves were tied to be beaten.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Pelourinho is filled with colorful houses and breathtaking churches, creating a lively atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Stroll the charming streets, explore craft shops, and enjoy local restaurants along the way.
For a deeper understanding, I recommend this private tour, which will reveal the best highlights and the hidden gems of the city.
Also Read: The Best Tours in Salvador de Bahia
2. GO TO RÍO VERMELHO
Rio Vermelho is known for its beautiful beach, but it’s also one of Salvador de Bahia’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods, celebrated for its bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife.
For me, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink while listening to Brazilian music and mingling with both locals and tourists.
Here, you’ll find iconic acarajé stands where you can savor the city’s beloved street food. The oceanfront setting of Rio Vermelho adds to its charm, with especially stunning views at sunset.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Salvador in February, you’ll have the chance to see locals gather in Rio Vermelho for the Lavagem de Yemanjá, a festival honoring the sea goddess Yemanjá.
3. Visit la Casa do Carnaval
Carnival in Salvador, Brazil, is one of the country’s grandest events, with a fascinating history behind it. To dive deeper into this story, head to Casa do Carnaval.
Located near the historic Pelourinho district, this museum invites visitors to explore the evolution of Salvador’s iconic festival, from its Afro-Brazilian roots to its world-renowned celebrations today.
Through multimedia exhibits, costumes, instruments, and immersive displays, you’ll discover everything there is to know about this incredible event!
4. MARVEL AT THE CATHEDRAL OF SAN SALVADOR
There are many churches to visit in Salvador de Bahia, but the most beautiful, in my opinion, is the city’s cathedral. The mother of all Brazilian Catholic churches took 18 years to build.
Today, its 30 reliquary busts, paintings by various 17th-century authors, and various sacred objects in gold and silver leave visitors speechless.
If you enjoy visiting churches, here are a few to add to your itinerary and that you will love:
- Igreja de São Francisco: Known for its intricate gold leaf interior.
- Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Bonfim: This church is a significant pilgrimage site for locals.
- Igreja de Santa Teresa: It offers breathtaking views of the Bay of All Saints.
5. TAKE THE LACERDA LIFT
Salvador is divided into two parts: the upper city and the lower city. To go down and get to the famous Mercado Modelo, most tourists choose to take the Lacerda Elevator.
A true symbol of the city, it was inaugurated in 1873. The second tower arrived many years later, in 1930.
6. TASTE LOCAL CUISINE
Bahia is one of the best regions in Brazil for food, and Salvador’s gastronomy is characterized by the rich flavors of spices and vibrant colors of its ingredients.
The influences of African, Indigenous, and Portuguese cultures are clearly present in local dishes.
Here are some you must try: moqueca, acarajé, vatapá, and bolinho de estudante.
You can savor this amazing cuisine in popular restaurants, but I recommend visiting less crowded neighborhoods to experience the most authentic dishes. Ask the locals; they always have great recommendations.
Additionally, staying in Salvador is the perfect opportunity to take a cooking class that includes making moqueca, farofa, and brigadeiro.
7. ENJOY THE SUNSET AT FAROL DA BARRA
Farol da Barra is one of Salvador de Bahia’s most iconic landmarks and the home to the Nautical Museum.
Built in 1698, this historic lighthouse not only guides ships safely into the bay but also serves as a symbol of the city’s maritime heritage.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Fort of São Diogo, where the museum is.
The area around Farol da Barra is lively, with vibrant beach life, restaurants, and a picturesque promenade, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax and admire the sunset against the backdrop of Brazilian music.
THINGS TO DO IN SALVADOR DE BAHIA, BRAZIL: ALL PRACTICAL INFO
HOW TO GET TO SALVADOR DE BAHIA?
If you arrive from Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, the easiest way to reach Salvador is by plane.
The main airport is Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA), located about 28 kilometers from the city center. Major Brazilian airlines, such as LATAM, Gol, and Azul, offer frequent flights. There are also direct international flights from North America.
However, if you are already in a nearby city, the bus will be a great option. The main bus terminal is Terminal Rodoviário de Salvador, located in the city center.
Several companies also operate long-distance buses to Salvador from other major Brazilian cities, but the ride will be long, very long.
If you prefer the freedom of renting your own car, major highways such as BR-101 and BR-324 will lead you to Salvador.
HOW TO GET AROUND IN SALVADOR DE BAHIA?
Even though the main sights are quite concentrated, it can be interesting to explore more of the city to visit spots off the beaten path and gain a better understanding of its reality. Here, I’ll share how to get around the city.
By metro
Salvador has only 2 metro lines, one of which passes through the airport. The system is very effective and fast.
By bus
The entire city is served by buses. If it’s your first time in Brazil, getting around by bus can be a bit challenging.
BY Uber
By car or motorcycle, Uber will take you anywhere in the city. Be prepared for your rides to be canceled several times before a driver agrees to pick you up. This happens frequently in Brazil. You can also use the 99 app instead of Uber.
Walking
Of course, you can walk around in Salvador. However, plan your route well in advance. It’s better to avoid wandering aimlessly and inadvertently ending up in a dangerous neighborhood. Avoid walking at night at all costs.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR GETTING AROUND IN SALVADOR DE BAHIA:
- Never use your phone on the street to check if you’re going in the right direction. If you need to do so, enter a store.
- Keep your belongings out of sight.
- Avoid empty and poorly lit streets.
- Learn a few words in Portuguese to communicate with locals.
WHEN TO VISIT SALVADOR DE BAHIA?
The weather is pleasant year-round in Salvador de Bahia. The dry season, from September to February, is ideal if you’re looking to enjoy plenty of sunshine.
Remember that February or early March is the ideal moment to enjoy Carnaval!
You will want to avoid the months from April to June, as it tends to rain quite a bit during this period. Nevertheless, this season can be a great time for travelers seeking a quieter experience and fewer crowds.
In addition to Carnival, there are other unique celebrations throughout the year:
- Lavagem do Bonfim (January): An annual festival where locals participate in a colorful procession to the Church of Bonfim to wash its steps, followed by a joyful street party.
- Yemanjá Festival (February 2): A tribute to the sea goddess Yemanjá, where thousands gather at Rio Vermelho beach to offer flowers and gifts to the ocean.
Where to Stay in Salvador?
Regarding the neighborhoods, I recommend staying in Pelourinho if you enjoy being in the midst of the tourist area and want to explore the historic center deeply. However, I don’t think it is a safe neighborhood; it is only my perception.
Barra would be a great option close to the beach if you prefer a safer and calmer environment. It also combines residential streets with bars, restaurants, supermarkets, and shopping centers.
Rio Vermelho is an excellent spot to experience the slower pace of Brazilian life, but keep in mind that the area is becoming a bit gentrified, so choose your hotel or Airbnb, as well as restaurants and cafés, wisely.
Finally, Vitória is the most peaceful neighborhood in the city. Its charm lies in the privileged view it offers of the Baía de Todos os Santos!
My Favorite Hotels
Casa do Amarelindo: Located in a 19th-century colonial mansion in Pelourinho, overlooking the Bay of All Saints, it offers luxurious accommodations. It is an excellent option for couples looking to enjoy a peaceful stay while being in the heart of the historic center.
Hostel Torre Bahia: It is a great option for solo travelers on a budget. Close to the Lacerda Lift, it has a perfect location for exploring the city. There is also a common living room where you can relax and meet fellow travelers.
Grande Hotel da Barra: This hotel in Barra would be perfect, especially if you are traveling with your family, as the rooms are spacious and there is a swimming pool along with a kids’ club.
Canto Hotel: A great choice for couples who enjoy comfort. The hotel, in Rio Vermelho, features an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and offers massage services for a truly relaxing stay.
Hotel Bahia do Sol: With spacious and bright rooms, this hotel situated in the peaceful neighborhood of Vitória is a perfect option for couples!
ALSO READ: Where to Stay in Salvador de Bahía ?
IS IT DANGEROUS TO VISIT SALVADOR DE BAHIA?
It’s difficult for me to speak about safety in Salvador objectively. Indeed, my phone was stolen, and my nose was broken. I was in the tourist center, I took out my phone to quickly take a photo of a church, but apparently not quickly enough.
Following this incident, I met many locals who told me that their phones had also been stolen several times.
For me, and again, it’s hard to be objective, Salvador de Bahia is not a safe city. However, there is no reason for anything to happen to you.
Avoid taking out your phone, take photos during guided tours or when you’re with others who can surround you, don’t walk at night, avoid being alone in the streets…
BEING A DIGITAL NOMAD IN SALVADOR, BRAZIL
Salvador de Bahia is not really a destination favored by digital nomads seeking a community, impeccable Wi-Fi, and cafes to work with their computers.
For everyone else, Salvador is a good destination if you want to enjoy the beach and an extremely rich culture. Just ensure that the Wi-Fi in your accommodation is good enough to work without problems.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL IN SALVADOR DE BAHIA
As with anywhere else, traveling responsibly in Salvador, Brazil is important. There are many small actions you can take to travel better. Here are some:
- Choose businesses run by locals.
- Support businesses Black-owned, as the Black population still faces the most difficulty accessing a stable economy.
- Stay with locals for an authentic experience while financially supporting your hosts.
- Bring a reusable tote bag for shopping and avoid plastic bags.
- Use eco-friendly sunscreen if you plan to swim.
- Learn about local issues related to social, environmental, and economic aspects.
Salvador de Bahia is a must-visit destination if you are in Brazil. History, culture, gastronomy, architecture, and beach – there is something for everyone.
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