3-Day Family Relaxation Journey: Undiscovered Salvador, Brazil
Salvador, Brazil
3 days
About Salvador, Brazil
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.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Beach Day at Porto da Barra Beach
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Mercado Modelo, a bustling market where you can buy local crafts, souvenirs, and try local snacks.
Lunch
Have lunch at a beachside restaurant in Porto da Barra Beach. Enjoy the fresh catch of the day while soaking in the beautiful ocean views.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the Porto da Barra Beach. Swim in the calm waters, sunbathe on the golden sands, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant that offers traditional Brazilian barbecue, known as churrasco. The variety of grilled meats is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Evening
End your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves.
Day 3
Zoo Visit and Art Appreciation at the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia
Morning
On your final day, visit the Salvador Zoo and Botanical Gardens. The kids will love seeing the variety of animals and the beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Lunch
Have lunch at a restaurant near the zoo. Opt for a light meal to keep you energized for the rest of the day.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia, which houses an impressive collection of Brazilian and international art.
Dinner
For your final dinner in Salvador, choose a restaurant that offers a panoramic view of the city. Enjoy the delicious food while reminiscing about your trip.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Lacerda Elevator, a historic elevator that offers stunning views of the city and the bay. It's a perfect way to say goodbye to Salvador.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Pelourinho
Known as the historic center of Salvador, Pelourinho is famous for its Portuguese colonial architecture, colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture.
2São Francisco Church and Convent
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.
3All Saints Bay
All Saints Bay, also known as Baía de Todos os Santos, is a beautiful bay with several beaches and islands. Boat tours are available to explore the bay.
4Mercado Modelo
A bustling market place where you can find a variety of local crafts, food, and music. It's a great place to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.
5Porto da Barra Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Salvador, known for its calm waters, beautiful sunsets, and lively atmosphere.
6Salvador Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Salvador Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular destination for families. It features a wide variety of animals and plants, educational exhibits, and beautiful gardens.
7Museum of Modern Art of Bahia
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.
8Lacerda Elevator
The Lacerda Elevator is a public urban elevator located in Salvador, Brazil. It connects the lower city to the upper city, offering a breathtaking view of the Bay of All Saints.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Acarajé
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.
Moqueca Baiana
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.
Vatapá
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.
Caruru
Caruru is a traditional dish in Salvador made from okra, dried shrimp, palm oil, and toasted nuts. It's often served with acarajé.
Bobó de Camarão
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.
Feijoada
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.
Farofa
Farofa is a toasted cassava flour mixture, often served with beans and rice. It's a common side dish in Salvador.
Pão de Queijo
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.
Cocada
Cocada is a traditional Salvador dessert made from coconut, sugar, and condensed milk. It's a sweet treat to enjoy after a meal.
Quindim
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.
Caipirinha
Caipirinha is Brazil's national cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime. It's a refreshing drink to enjoy in Salvador.
Guaraná Antarctica
Guaraná Antarctica is a popular soft drink in Salvador, made from the guaraná fruit. It's a sweet and refreshing beverage to try.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Salvador, Brazil is between September and March when the weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the city's historic sites and beautiful beaches. This period also coincides with the city's vibrant Carnival celebrations in February, providing an unforgettable cultural experience. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, it might be better to avoid the Carnival season.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 12 | Mon | Carnival Monday |
February 13 | Tue | Carnival Tuesday |
February 14 | Wed | Carnival end (until 2pm) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 21 | Sun | Tiradentes Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
September 7 | Sat | Independence Day |
October 12 | Sat | Our Lady of Aparecida / Children's Day |
October 28 | Mon | Public Service Holiday |
November 2 | Sat | All Souls' Day |
November 15 | Fri | Republic Proclamation Day |
December 24 | Tue | Christmas Eve (from 2pm) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 31 | Tue | New Year's Eve (from 2pm) |
How to get around
Air Travel
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.
Bus
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.
Taxi
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
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.
Car Rental
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.
Bicycle
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.
Ferry
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.
Foot
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.
Train
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 Taxi
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.
Important information
CurrencyR$ BRL
Time zoneFederal District
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 192 or 193 ; Fire: 193; Police: 190
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Salvador, Brazil as a first time visitor
1
Salvador is the capital of the Brazilian state of Bahia and is known for its Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and vibrant music scene.
2
Portuguese is the official language in Salvador, but English is also spoken in many tourist areas.
3
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.
4
Salvador has a tropical rainforest climate, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C) throughout the year.
5
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.
6
Public transportation is widely available in Salvador, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.
7
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.
8
Tap water is not safe to drink in Salvador. Always opt for bottled water.
9
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.
10
Salvador operates on Brasília time, which is 3 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-3).
11
The city is home to many street markets where you can buy local crafts, food, and other goods. Bargaining is common at these markets.
12
Salvador has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Rio Vermelho neighborhood is particularly known for its nightlife.
13
The city's beaches are beautiful but can be crowded, especially on weekends. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
14
It's customary to tip 10% in restaurants. However, check your bill as some establishments automatically include a service charge.
15
Public restrooms are not always readily available, so plan accordingly when out exploring the city.
16
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.
17
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.
18
Salvador has a high humidity level, which can make the heat feel more intense. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
19
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.
20
Salvador has a diverse shopping scene, from high-end malls to local markets. The Mercado Modelo is a popular spot for souvenirs.
Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Olá | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Tchau | Chow | Saying farewell |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | Making a request |
Thank you | Obrigado | O-bri-ga-do | Showing gratitude |
Yes | Sim | Seem | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Não | Nown | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Com licença | Kom li-sen-sa | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Desculpe | Dess-kool-pe | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Você fala inglês? | Vo-se fa-la in-glesh | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Eu não entendo | Ew nown en-ten-do | When you don't understand what's being said |
Where is...? | Onde fica...? | On-de fi-ca | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Banheiro | Ban-yay-ro | Looking for a restroom |
Help | Ajuda | A-ju-da | In case of emergency |
Food | Comida | Ko-mi-da | When looking for something to eat |
Water | Água | A-gwa | When you want to drink water |
Beer | Cerveja | Ser-ve-ja | When you want to order a beer |
Check, please | A conta, por favor | A kon-ta, por fa-vor | Asking for the bill |
How much does it cost? | Quanto custa? | Kwan-to cus-ta | Asking for the price |
Open | Aberto | A-ber-to | To know if a place is open |
Closed | Fechado | Fe-cha-do | To know if a place is closed |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip flops for the beach
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Reusable water bottle
Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic wipes
Prescription medications
Travel-size laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contact information
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Universal power adapter
Camera
Charger for camera
Headphones
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for travel
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel-size umbrella
Beach towel
Reusable shopping bag
Travel journal and pen
Weather Conditions
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!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 31° / 23° | 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 | 30° / 23° | February is still quite hot, but with less rainfall than January. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city. |
March | 30° / 23° | March sees a slight decrease in rainfall, with temperatures remaining high. It's a good time for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals. |
April | 29° / 22° | April is the start of the cooler season, with less rainfall. The weather is pleasant for exploring the city and its surroundings. |
May | 28° / 22° | 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 | 27° / 21° | June is the coolest month in Salvador, with minimal rainfall. It's a great time to explore the city without the intense heat. |
July | 27° / 21° | 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 | 27° / 21° | 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 | 28° / 22° | September is a transitional month, with temperatures gradually increasing. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
October | 29° / 22° | 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 | 30° / 23° | November is warm and rainy, with vibrant local festivals. It's a good time to experience the city's culture and cuisine. |
December | 30° / 23° | 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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Salvador, Brazil
Praia do Forte
A charming beach village with a vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops.
Morro de São Paulo
A car-free, laid-back island with beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
Cachoeira
A historic city known for its colonial architecture and traditional festivals.
Chapada Diamantina National Park
A vast national park known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Aracaju
A coastal city known for its beaches, crab dishes, and the Sergipe River.
Feira de Santana
The second-largest city in Bahia, known for its bustling markets and cultural festivals.
Costa do Sauipe
A luxurious resort area with beautiful beaches, golf courses, and nature reserves.
Imbassai
A tranquil beach village surrounded by natural beauty, including a river that runs parallel to the sea.
Guarajuba
A beach town known for its calm waters, coconut trees, and sea turtles.
Porto Seguro
A historic city known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and cultural heritage sites.
