Known as the historic center of Salvador, Pelourinho is famous for its Portuguese colonial architecture, colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture.

Pelourinho, located in the heart of Salvador, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings, many of which have been converted into museums, galleries, restaurants, and shops. /n The neighborhood is a hub of cultural activity, with the sounds of traditional Bahian music filling the air and local artists selling their work on every corner. It's a place where the past and present coexist, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Brazil's rich history and vibrant contemporary culture.

Pelourinho is a historic neighborhood known for its colorful colonial buildings.

The City Center of Salvador is a vibrant area filled with historic buildings, churches, and squares. It's a great place to explore Bahian culture, architecture, and history. It's also home to several attractions including the São Francisco Church and Convent, and the Rio Branco Palace.

The City Center of Salvador is a bustling hub of culture, history, and architecture. It's home to numerous historical monuments, museums, and architectural wonders, making it a must-visit for any traveler. /n The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs offering a variety of entertainment options. The City Center is also a great place to experience local culture, with many events and festivals taking place throughout the year. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking to experience the local culture, the City Center of Salvador has something for everyone.

The City Center of Salvador is a bustling hub of culture, history, and architecture.

This museum is a hub of Brazilian and international contemporary art. It is located in a colonial-style building and offers a stunning view of All Saints Bay.

The Museum of Modern Art of Bahia is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, with a focus on works by Brazilian artists. /n The museum is located in a historic building, adding to its charm and appeal. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it a hub for the local art scene. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking to learn more about Brazilian culture, the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia is a must-visit.

The Museum of Modern Art of Bahia is a hub for modern and contemporary art.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Salvador, the Farol da Barra is a historic lighthouse with a museum inside.

Farol da Barra is a historic lighthouse located in Salvador, Brazil. Offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, it's a popular spot for sightseeing. /n The lighthouse is also near a popular beach, making it a great spot for relaxation after a day of exploring. The area around the lighthouse is bustling with activity, with vendors selling local food and crafts, making it a vibrant and lively place to visit. The lighthouse itself is also a museum, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history of the area.

Farol da Barra is a historic lighthouse with stunning views and a nearby beach.

A vibrant neighborhood known for its nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and music venues offering a taste of the local cuisine and culture.

Rio Vermelho is a vibrant neighborhood in Salvador, known for its nightlife and culinary scene. The neighborhood is home to a wide range of bars, restaurants, and music venues, offering everything from traditional Brazilian cuisine to international dishes. The area is particularly famous for its acarajé, a traditional Bahian street food made from black-eyed peas and shrimp. /n In addition to its culinary offerings, Rio Vermelho is also a hub of cultural activity, with a number of art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The neighborhood is also home to the Casa do Rio Vermelho, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Brazilian writers Jorge Amado and Zélia Gattai. The neighborhood is easily accessible by bus or taxi from the city center, and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Salvador.

Rio Vermelho is a vibrant neighborhood in Salvador, known for its nightlife and culinary scene.

Largo do Pelourinho is a historic neighborhood in Salvador, known for its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively festivals. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Brazil's African heritage.

Largo do Pelourinho is one of the most iconic places in Salvador. This historic square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its beautifully preserved colonial buildings. The buildings are painted in bright colors, giving the square a vibrant and cheerful look. /n The square is always bustling with activity. Street performers, musicians, and artists can often be seen here, adding to the lively atmosphere. The square is also home to several restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. The architecture of the buildings is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. A visit to Largo do Pelourinho is a must for anyone visiting Salvador.

Largo do Pelourinho is a historic square in Salvador, known for its colorful colonial buildings.

Experience the vibrant culture of Salvador, Brazil, a city steeped in Afro-Brazilian history and colonial architecture. As the country's third-largest city, Salvador offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, lively festivals, and rich cultural heritage. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pelourinho, the city's historic heart, with its colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. Enjoy the rhythmic beats of samba and axé music, and savor the flavors of traditional Bahian cuisine. Explore the city's numerous museums and churches, including the opulent São Francisco Church. Don't miss the chance to relax on the beautiful beaches of Porto da Barra and Farol da Barra. Salvador is a city that truly embodies the spirit of Brazil.

Pelourinho

City Center

Museum of Modern Art of Bahia

Farol da Barra

Rio Vermelho

Largo do Pelourinho

Start your day in the historic district of Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant local markets. Don't miss the chance to try the traditional Bahian breakfast, which includes a variety of local fruits, bread, and coffee.

For lunch, head to a local restaurant in the City Center. Salvador is known for its seafood, so be sure to try a dish like Moqueca, a traditional Bahian fish stew. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the City Center, where you can find a variety of shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.

In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia, where you can explore a variety of contemporary and modern art exhibits. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the beautiful Farol da Barra beach, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and food scene, with many restaurants offering traditional Bahian cuisine. Try Acarajé, a popular street food made from black-eyed peas and fried in palm oil.

End your day with a visit to the Largo do Pelourinho, a square in the heart of the historic district. Here, you can enjoy live music performances, street artists, and the lively atmosphere of Salvador's nightlife. It's the perfect place to relax and soak in the local culture after a busy day of exploring.

Exploring the Historic and Cultural Highlights of Salvador

Federal District

Salvador's main airport is Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport, which is well-connected with major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a rideshare to get to your destination in the city.

Salvador has an extensive bus system that covers most of the city. Buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around, but they can be crowded during peak hours. Most buses have a fixed fare, regardless of the distance traveled.

Taxis are a convenient way to get around Salvador. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Most taxis are metered, but it's also common to negotiate a fare before starting the journey.

Rideshare services like Uber and 99 are widely available in Salvador. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

If you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental companies in Salvador. However, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in the city center. It's recommended to have a good map or GPS.

Salvador has a growing network of bicycle lanes and bike-sharing stations. Cycling can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, but be aware that Salvador's hilly terrain can make it a challenging option.

Ferries are a great way to explore Salvador's beautiful coastline and islands. The main ferry terminal is located in the Comércio district, and there are regular services to various destinations.

Many of Salvador's attractions are located close together, making walking a viable option. However, be aware that the city is hilly and can be hot, so wear comfortable shoes and carry water.

Salvador has a small suburban train system that connects the city center with the suburbs. The trains are not as frequent or extensive as the bus system, but they can be a good option for certain routes.

Motorcycle taxis are a fast and efficient way to get around Salvador, especially during peak traffic hours. However, they can be more dangerous than other forms of transport, so they're not recommended for everyone.

A popular street food in Salvador, Acarajé is a deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea dough filled with vatapá, caruru, tomato salad, and shrimp.

Acarajé

Moqueca Baiana is a traditional seafood stew made with fish, onions, garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, and coconut milk. It's a must-try dish in Salvador.

Moqueca Baiana

Vatapá is a creamy dish made from bread, shrimp, coconut milk, finely ground nuts and palm oil mashed into a creamy paste. It's a staple in Salvador's cuisine.

Vatapá

Caruru is a traditional dish in Salvador made from okra, dried shrimp, palm oil, and toasted nuts. It's often served with acarajé.

Caruru

Bobó de Camarão is a rich and creamy shrimp stew made with cassava, coconut milk, and palm oil. It's a popular dish in Salvador.

Bobó de Camarão

Feijoada is a hearty black bean stew with pork, served with rice, collard greens, farofa, and vinaigrette sauce. It's a traditional Brazilian dish enjoyed in Salvador.

Feijoada

Farofa is a toasted cassava flour mixture, often served with beans and rice. It's a common side dish in Salvador.

Farofa

Pão de Queijo, or cheese bread, is a popular snack in Salvador. These small, baked cheese rolls are crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside.

Pão de Queijo

Cocada is a traditional Salvador dessert made from coconut, sugar, and condensed milk. It's a sweet treat to enjoy after a meal.

Cocada

Quindim is a popular dessert in Salvador made from sugar, egg yolks, and ground coconut. It's a sweet and rich custard with a bright yellow color.

Quindim

Caipirinha is Brazil's national cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime. It's a refreshing drink to enjoy in Salvador.

Caipirinha

Guaraná Antarctica is a popular soft drink in Salvador, made from the guaraná fruit. It's a sweet and refreshing beverage to try.

Guaraná Antarctica

New Year's Day

Carnival Monday

Carnival Tuesday

Carnival end (until 2pm)

Good Friday

Tiradentes Day

Labor Day / May Day

Corpus Christi

Independence Day

Our Lady of Aparecida / Children's Day

Public Service Holiday

All Souls' Day

Republic Proclamation Day

Christmas Eve (from 2pm)

Christmas Day

New Year's Eve (from 2pm)

A charming beach village with a vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops.

Praia do Forte

A car-free, laid-back island with beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.

Morro de São Paulo

A historic city known for its colonial architecture and traditional festivals.

Cachoeira

A vast national park known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Chapada Diamantina National Park

A coastal city known for its beaches, crab dishes, and the Sergipe River.

Aracaju

The second-largest city in Bahia, known for its bustling markets and cultural festivals.

Feira de Santana

A luxurious resort area with beautiful beaches, golf courses, and nature reserves.

Costa do Sauipe

A tranquil beach village surrounded by natural beauty, including a river that runs parallel to the sea.

Imbassai

A beach town known for its calm waters, coconut trees, and sea turtles.

Guarajuba

A historic city known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and cultural heritage sites.

Porto Seguro

Iguazu Falls

Lencois Maranhenses National Park

Manaus

Rio de Janeiro

Sao Paulo

Saints statues standing on the lake's surface

Colorful houses amphitheatrically built over the sea

A display of berimbau, the instrument used in capoeira

View of the fort of Saint Marcelo and the Modelo market

Salvador is the capital of the Brazilian state of Bahia and is known for its Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and vibrant music scene.

Portuguese is the official language in Salvador, but English is also spoken in many tourist areas.

The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

Salvador has a tropical rainforest climate, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C) throughout the year.

The city is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid less populated areas at night.

Public transportation is widely available in Salvador, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.

The local cuisine is heavily influenced by African, Portuguese, and indigenous traditions. Try local dishes like acarajé, a deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea dough filled with vatapá and shrimp.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Salvador. Always opt for bottled water.

The city is known for its lively festivals, the most famous of which is the Salvador Carnival, one of the largest street parties in the world.

Salvador operates on Brasília time, which is 3 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-3).

The city is home to many street markets where you can buy local crafts, food, and other goods. Bargaining is common at these markets.

Salvador has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Rio Vermelho neighborhood is particularly known for its nightlife.

The city's beaches are beautiful but can be crowded, especially on weekends. Always keep an eye on your belongings.

It's customary to tip 10% in restaurants. However, check your bill as some establishments automatically include a service charge.

Public restrooms are not always readily available, so plan accordingly when out exploring the city.

Salvador has a significant Afro-Brazilian population, and the city is a center for Candomblé, a religion with African roots. Respect for local customs and traditions is appreciated.

The city is located in a tropical zone and is prone to heavy rainfall, especially from April to July. Always check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.

Salvador has a high humidity level, which can make the heat feel more intense. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

The city is known for its capoeira schools. This Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music is a must-see.

Salvador has a diverse shopping scene, from high-end malls to local markets. The Mercado Modelo is a popular spot for souvenirs.

January is one of the hottest months in Salvador, perfect for beach activities. However, it's also the rainiest month, so pack an umbrella.

February is still quite hot, but with less rainfall than January. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

March sees a slight decrease in rainfall, with temperatures remaining high. It's a good time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.

April is the start of the cooler season, with less rainfall. The weather is pleasant for exploring the city and its surroundings.

May is relatively cool and dry, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing. The city's vibrant culture is on full display with various events.

June is the coolest month in Salvador, with minimal rainfall. It's a great time to explore the city without the intense heat.

July is similar to June, with cool temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the local culture.

August marks the end of the cooler season, with temperatures starting to rise. It's a good time for beach activities and enjoying the local cuisine.

September is a transitional month, with temperatures gradually increasing. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

October sees a rise in temperatures, making it a good time for beach activities. However, it's also the start of the rainy season, so pack accordingly.

November is warm and rainy, with vibrant local festivals. It's a good time to experience the city's culture and cuisine.

December is hot and rainy, perfect for indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history. It's also a festive time with Christmas celebrations.

Salvador, Brazil, is known for its tropical rainforest climate, which means it's warm throughout the year. Average temperatures typically range between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C). However, it's important to note that Salvador can be quite humid, which can make the heat feel more intense.

The city experiences a rainy season from April to July. During this time, you can expect heavy showers, usually in the afternoon or evening. If you're planning to visit during these months, it's advisable to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, so light, breathable clothing is recommended.

The driest months are from August to March, making this period ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. Sunscreen is a must, as the sun can be quite strong. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Enjoy your visit to Salvador, Brazil!

Cookie consent

1-Day Local Family Food, Wine & Shopping Experience in Salvador

About Salvador, Brazil