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.

One of the most important baroque complexes in Brazil, the São Francisco Church and Convent is known for its intricate woodwork and gold leaf detailing.

The São Francisco Church and Convent in Salvador, Brazil, is a stunning example of Portuguese colonial architecture. The church's interior is covered in gold leaf, with intricate carvings and paintings adorning the walls and ceiling. /n The convent, now a museum, houses a collection of sacred art and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the cloisters, chapel, and library, all of which offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of Salvador.

São Francisco Church and Convent is a stunning example of Portuguese colonial architecture.

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.

One of the most popular beaches in Salvador, known for its calm waters, beautiful sunsets, and lively atmosphere.

Porto da Barra Beach is one of Salvador's most popular beaches, and for good reason. Its calm waters make it a favorite spot for swimming, and its location offers stunning views of the sunset. The beach is also surrounded by a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend the day. /n In addition to its natural beauty, Porto da Barra Beach is also steeped in history. It was here that the first Europeans landed in Brazil, and the area is home to several historic buildings, including a fort and a church. Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, or just looking for a place to relax, Porto da Barra Beach has something for everyone.

One of the most popular beaches in Salvador, known for its calm waters and stunning sunsets.

A traditional Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. It was developed in Brazil at the beginning of the 16th century and is known for its quick and complex maneuvers, predominantly using power, speed, and leverage across a wide variety of kicks, spins, and other techniques.

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art form that originated in the 16th century. It was developed by enslaved Africans in Brazil as a means of self-defense and cultural expression. Today, it's recognized as a symbol of Brazilian culture and heritage. /n A Capoeira Performance in Salvador is a unique cultural experience. The performance combines elements of dance, music, and acrobatics. It's a vibrant and energetic display of Brazilian culture and tradition. The performers move in a rhythmic, flowing manner, accompanied by traditional Brazilian music. The performance is not just about the physical movements, but also about the spirit and energy of the performers. It's a captivating and exhilarating experience that leaves audiences in awe. Whether you're a fan of martial arts, dance, or music, a Capoeira Performance is a must-see when in Salvador.

A Capoeira Performance in Salvador is a unique cultural experience, combining martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics.

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

São Francisco Church and Convent

Start your day with a visit to the historic district of Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, absorbing the vibrant culture and history of Salvador.

Enjoy a traditional Bahian lunch in a local restaurant. Try the region's signature dish, Moqueca, a delicious seafood stew.

After lunch, take a guided tour of the São Francisco Church and Convent, a stunning example of Portuguese colonial architecture and gold leaf decoration.

For dinner, head to a local eatery and try Acarajé, a deep-fried ball of dough filled with shrimp, vatapá, and salad.

In the evening, enjoy a live performance of Capoeira, a unique Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music.

Exploring the Historic Pelourinho

Farol da Barra

Porto da Barra Beach

Start your second day with a visit to the Farol da Barra, one of the oldest lighthouses in South America. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the fresh seafood and the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Spend the afternoon at Porto da Barra Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. Swim, sunbathe, or participate in beach sports with your friends.

Dine at a local restaurant, trying out traditional Brazilian barbecue, known as Churrasco.

End your day with a stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool breeze and the sound of the waves.

Beach Day at Farol da Barra and Porto da Barra

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

View of the fort of Saint Marcelo and the Modelo market

A display of berimbau, the instrument used in capoeira

Saints statues standing on the lake's surface

Colorful houses amphitheatrically built over the sea

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

2-Day Salvador, Brazil Adventure Itinerary for Friends

About Salvador, Brazil