The capital of Bahia will win you over with its rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. Discover the essential recommendations to ensure you don’t leave without trying a delicious acarajé or experiencing the laid-back atmosphere that only the people of Bahia can offer.
Text: Salvador was the capital of Brazil until 1763 and is known for its vibrant colors, diverse landscapes, ethnicities, and traditions. Visiting the city offers a unique chance to experience a rich cultural blend.
The slaves left behind capoeira, maculelê, acarajé, religion, and some of their history in Salvador. The Portuguese left their colorful and inspired constructions in Europe. When it comes to landscapes, Brazil takes the credit with its beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery, adding a golden touch to this short description of Salvador.
Are you ready to learn more about the amazing opportunities that Brazil has to offer? Then brace yourself and explore these recommendations for experiencing the city to the fullest.
In this article, you will find:
- Activities to engage in while in Salvador
- Accommodation options in Salvador.
- Where to dine in Salvador
- Best time to visit Salvador
- Accommodations for Carnival in Salvador
- How long should I stay in Salvador?
- How to reach Salvador
- Transportation in El Salvador refers to the different ways of moving people and goods within the country.
- Security Recommendations in Salvador
- Secure journey to Salvador
- Sightseeing excursions and admission passes in Salvador
- Tickets for a flight to Salvador
- Commonly Asked Questions
Activities to participate in Salvador
Salvador is rich in churches, viewpoints, beaches, historic structures, and squares, all complemented by Bahia’s vibrant and laid-back atmosphere. The region is brimming with fascinating tales, stunning sights, and distinctive cuisine, making it a place that intrigues and captivates visitors. It’s no wonder that one can’t help but wonder what makes Bahia so unique.
To begin your tour of the capital city, you can visit the Model Market, which offers a variety of souvenirs, shops, and local foods. Afterwards, you can take the iconic Lacerda Elevator to the upper part of the city. There, you will find Praça da Sé and Pelourinho, a famous area known for its colorful traditional houses. It was in Pelourinho where Michael Jackson filmed the music video for “They Don’t Care About Us.”
The churches, cathedral, and basilica in Salvador are worth visiting, regardless of your religious beliefs. The Church and Convent of San Francisco, known as the Golden Church, is particularly impressive with its walls covered in gold. The artwork throughout the building is captivating, making it a must-see attraction.
Beyond the historical and cultural tours, the capital of Bahia also offers beaches, scenic overlooks, and lighthouses, like the Barra Lighthouse, home to the Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra and the Bahia Nautical Museum, providing an opportunity to explore multiple attractions in one visit.
Here are some must-see activities to consider in Salvador:
- Modelo de Mercado
- Lacerda lift
- Church and Monastery of Saint Francis (Gilded Church)
- Barra Lighthouse
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- View Square
- Bahia’s Museum of Modern Art
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- The Black Rosary’s Lady
- Bahia’s Carnival House
Explore additional incredible tours to enhance your complete travel experience in Salvador.
Top beaches in Salvador
Salvador boasts numerous beaches, with some holding a special place in the hearts of both locals and tourists. The city offers popular choices like Barra Beach, Porto da Barra Beach, and Buracão Beach, as well as more secluded options further away from the city center, such as Stella Maris and Flamengo.
Itapuã Beach is surrounded by coconut trees, features a more tranquil sea, and is home to the renowned Itapuã Lighthouse. As Vinícius de Moraes and Toquinho put it, “Spending an afternoon in Itapuã is delightful.”
Another recommended option for enjoying a lovely day by the sea in Bahia is the beaches near the capital. Forte Beach is about an hour and a half drive away and is renowned for being among the finest in the country. It is highly recommended to make the most of your time in Salvador by visiting this beach.
To ensure you do not overlook the top beaches in Salvador, take a look at some important recommendations.
- Barra Beach
- Porto da Barra Beach
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- Itapuã Beach
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Accommodation options in Salvador
The top accommodations in Salvador include Pelourinho, Barra, Ondina, Rio Vermelho, Santo Antônio Beyond Carmo, Corredor da Vitória, and Itapuã. Salvador offers a wide range of excellent lodging options, and understanding the characteristics of each neighborhood can assist you in selecting the perfect place to stay.
Pelourinho and Santo Antônio, along with Carmo, are historic districts. Pelourinho is the most well-known, centrally located near the city’s main attractions, making it ideal for those who prefer exploring on foot. On the other hand, Santo Antônio, like Carmo, is quieter and offers more family-friendly accommodation options.
For individuals seeking lodging with ocean views, the most sought-after areas are Barra, Ondina, and Rio Vermelho. These regions not only offer proximity to iconic city landmarks but also feature a variety of restaurants, bars, and shopping options in the vicinity. This bustling area is particularly popular for nighttime excursions.
Itapuã is ideal for travelers seeking to be near the sea, while the Hall of Victory neighborhood is a prestigious area conveniently situated near the city’s historic center.
Now that you have some knowledge about the different areas, keep reading to discover suggestions for accommodations in Salvador, including hostels, hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
Accommodations in Salvador
In Salvador, there is no shortage of hotels, and to ensure you have a great time in the capital, there’s nothing better than staying in a cozy and comfortable accommodation.
To assist you in deciding where to stay, please find below some suggestions:
- Hotel Casa do Amarelindo is available for booking at a rate of R$ 499 per day, with a rating of 9.6.
- Aram Yamí Boutique Hotel offers daily rates starting at R$ 1.00, with a rating of 9.5.
- Hotel Villa Bahia is available every day starting at R$ 585, with a rating of 9.4.
- Bahiacafé Hotel offers rooms starting at R$ 332 per night, with a rating of 9.0.
View all available hotels in Salvador.
Accommodations in Salvador’s hostels
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The inns in Salvador are delightful, characterized by their cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Here are a few lodgings for your accommodation:
- Living Bahia Inn offers accommodations starting at R$ 325 per day, with a rating of 9.5.
- Inn Casa da Vitória – Rates starting at R$ 389 per night – Rating of 9.5
- Solar dos Deuses Inn – Rate starting at R$ 468 per day – Rating of 9.4
- English House is available every day for a price starting at R$ 250, with a rating of 9.4.
View all available hostels in Salvador.
Hotels in Salvador
With spacious swimming pools and recreational areas offering a variety of attractions, the resorts provide excellent choices for a more comprehensive vacation experience.
Explore some highly-rated suggestions.
- Catussaba Suites Resort offers daily rates starting from R$ 423, with a rating of 8.1.
- Text: The Gran Hotel Stella Maris Urban Resort & Conventions is available daily starting at R$ 396, with a rating of 7.9.
- Catussaba Resort Hotel offers daily rates starting from R$ 353, with a rating of 7.7.
View all available resort choices in Salvador.
Rentals for vacations in Salvador
Renting a vacation home is a budget-friendly option that offers comfortable accommodations at a lower cost. There are excellent locations available that provide both comfort and affordability.
Explore a variety of choices available in Salvador.
- Seaside apartment available for rent at Yoga House, priced at R$ 300 per day with a rating of 9.2.
- Family Residence – Available daily for R$ 350 – Rated 9.2
- Villaggio Orizzonte offers daily rates starting at R$ 252, with a rating of 8.7.
- Bora Bora Sun – Available daily starting from R$ 195 – Rated 8.7
View all vacation rental choices available in Salvador.
Text: Best places to dine in Salvador
Some of the areas in Salvador with a wide range of bars and restaurants include Pelourinho, Santo Antônio, Carmo, and Rio Vermelho, a lively neighborhood known for its many dining options.
Salvador’s cuisine is a unique draw, with Bahia’s dishes being particularly intriguing to those unfamiliar with them. Whether you’re familiar with acarajé, moqueca, cururu, lambreta, or the flavorful palm oil and Bahia pepper spice, the authentic flavors of these dishes can only be experienced in Bahia.
After trying the local cuisine, visitors also have the chance to sample various foreign or unique dishes from different regions in Brazil. The city offers a wide range of culinary options, allowing you to easily choose your favorite, whether it be a restaurant serving Bahian cuisine or international fare.
Some of the most well-liked dining establishments in the area:
- Restaurant Yemanjá – A place where you can enjoy delicious seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere by the sea.
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When is the ideal time to visit Salvador?
Salvador is a destination that is open for visitors almost all year round, except for the rainy months of April to mid-June. It is recommended to avoid visiting during July, August, and December, as these months are considered high season and are the busiest due to the various parties and events held in the city.
Paraphrased text: To steer clear of crowded periods in the city, it’s best to avoid peak seasons, particularly during Carnival, Réveillon, and religious events like the celebration of Iemanjá in February.
Alternatively, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, particularly during carnival season, feel free to visit the city at this time. Despite being busy, the city offers a vibrant ambiance with plenty of activities, and you can find excellent accommodations for Salvador’s carnival.
Accommodations for Carnival in Salvador
As previously mentioned, the carnival is an excellent opportunity to experience the lively atmosphere of Salvador. If you’re planning a visit to the city during this time, here are some recommended lodging choices:
- Big Barra Hotel – Rates start at R$ 1,900 per day – Rating of 8.4
- Hotel Porto Salvador offers daily rates starting at R$ 765 with a rating of 8.6.
- The hotel is available daily starting at R$ 1,500, with a rating of 8.1.
- BahiacaféHotel offers rooms starting at R$ 1,200 per day, with a rating of 8.9.
- ManhatãHostel offers accommodation at a rate of R$ 475 per day, with a rating of 8.9.
- Hotel Casa do Amarelindo offers daily rates starting at R$ 1,800 and has received a rating of 9.5.
View all the conveniently situated hotel choices for the Salvador Carnival.
“Duration of stay in Salvador”
It is recommended to spend a minimum of four days in Salvador, which is enough time to explore the historic center, beaches, and key attractions of the capital city.
Travelers typically spend three to seven days exploring the capital of Bahia. However, it is recommended to extend the duration of the trip for a more relaxed and leisurely experience.
How to reach Salvador
It is easy to travel to Salvador, with various transportation options available such as planes, cars, or buses. Salvador has a conveniently located international airport, as well as calm roads and affordable public transportation choices.
Determine the most suitable route to the capital by considering factors such as your preference for comfort, budget, and desired travel time. To assist you further, examine the following additional information on various transportation options.
Via airplane
Salvador boasts a well-equipped airport that serves flights from various locations. It is located a little over 24 km from Pelourinho and the Historic Centre of Salvador.
Traveling by automobile
It is also possible to reach Salvador by car safely, without encountering poorly maintained roads or inadequate signage. The main highways for travelers coming from Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, or the southeastern region are BR-101 and BR-116, which lead to Feira de Santana in Bahia.
From Salvador to Praia do Forte – From one city to another.
The beach of Praia do Forte is situated in Mata de São João, around an hour and a half from Salvador. It’s recommended to set aside some time during your trip to visit this beach, which is recognized as one of the most stunning in the country. The primary way to reach the town is via the BA-099, a journey of just over 93 km. Also, be sure to explore our Airbnb listings in Praia do Forte for top accommodation options.
It is feasible to travel from the capital to Mata de São João using a bus, transfer, taxi, or by renting a car, which is a more convenient option that allows for flexibility without depending on schedules or driver availability.
Transport in El Salvador refers to the movement of people and goods within the country.
It is feasible to travel within Salvador using various modes of transportation such as cars, public transport, tourist buses, the metro, taxis, and Uber. For those who prefer to stay within the city and utilize local amenities, using ride-sharing apps is a secure, cost-effective, and convenient option. However, for individuals looking to explore more of the city, visit nearby towns or more distant beaches, renting a car would be the most suitable choice.
The tour bus is an exciting and enjoyable way to travel around the city and visit its main attractions. For more information or to purchase tickets, you can visit the Salvador Bus website. Another option is to choose a transfer service in Salvador.
One crucial aspect to consider regarding public transportation in Salvador is the risk of robberies and thefts. It is recommended to opt for Uber or taxis and to avoid traveling through isolated areas, particularly at night.
Tips for staying safe in Salvador
Salvador is a large city and it is important to take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety while traveling. Be cautious with your belongings (refrain from wearing expensive clothing, jewelry, or luxury items in public) and if possible, consider avoiding public transportation.
It is frequent for travelers to encounter scams, like vendors approaching them at popular tourist spots to sell items such as bracelets, necklaces, photographs, and body paintings. Typically, these vendors will already be handing over a product to the person as they walk through the historic center, then pressuring them to pay for it. This can be a troubling situation as the vendors are persistent and may resort to intimidation if the person declines to make a purchase.
To prevent these scenarios, show lack of interest when someone tries to offer you something, and avoid looking like a tourist by not wearing stand-out clothing or carrying obvious cameras around your neck.
Wishing you a safe journey to Salvador.
Booking a secure journey to Salvador is a great suggestion to have a stress-free trip and alleviate worries. While not mandatory, having insurance coverage provides the reassurance needed to fully enjoy your travels and have the assurance of support if needed. Take advantage of our discount offer Promo Insurance as well. – CHECK PRICES
Excursions and Admission Passes in Salvador
Have you arranged your excursions in Salvador? Leave the house with everything planned to avoid waiting in line for tickets and pay in installments up to 12 times with no IOF fees! Check the tour prices or explore our list of top choices.
- Complimentary guided tour of Pelourinho and the historic downtown area.
- Tour of Forte and Guarajuba Beach – $132
- Guided tour of Salvador’s historic center and visit to Farol da Barra for 84 Brazilian reais.
- Sightseeing tour of Salvador with a panoramic view – R$ 148
- Guided exploration of the African cultural heritage in the historic district of Salvador – Price: R$ 167
Explore additional incredible tours to enhance your complete Salvador travel experience.
Tickets for flights to Salvador
Would you like to secure a ticket to Salvador at highly appealing rates? We utilize the Promo Go platform to discover the most cost-effective flights available. Take a look at the daily offers and be sure to watch for opportunities to save when purchasing your airfare. – VIEW PRICES
Commonly Asked Questions
Salvador offers a blend of beaches, culture, and history, with attractions such as museums, historic neighborhoods, fine dining options, churches, and stunning sandy areas to explore.
Here are some of the most popular tours in Salvador: Model Market, Lacerda Elevator, San Francisco Church and Convent (Golden Church), Barra Lighthouse, Pelourinho, and Sé Square.
Pelourinho, Barra, Ondina, Rio Vermelho, Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, Corredor da Vitória, and Itapuã are recommended areas for accommodation in Salvador. Explore further information to decide where to stay in Salvador.
Here are a few of the top-rated hotels in Salvador, Bahia: Hotel Casa do Amarelindo, Aram Yamí Boutique Hotel, Hotel Villa Bahia, and Bahiacafé Hotel. Explore additional lodging options in Salvador.
The capital of Bahia offers a variety of cozy and delightful guesthouses, including Viver Bahia Inn, Casa da Vitória Inn, Solar dos Deuses Inn, and Casa Inglesa.
For individuals looking to lease a residence in Salvador, there are attractive options available, including the Oceanfront Apartment – Yoga House and the Family-Friendly Home.
It is best to spend a minimum of four days in Salvador in order to explore the city’s main attractions.
It is feasible to reach Salvador by plane, car, or bus. The city is conveniently situated with a well-connected airport just 24 km from Pelourinho.
The ideal months to visit Salvador include: January, February, March, July, August, September, October, November, and December.
Carnival, New Year’s Eve, and religious holidays are lively and vibrant in Salvador. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s festive atmosphere and have a wonderful time.
The city of Bahia is home to numerous stunning beaches, with some of the most popular being Praia da Barra, Porto da Barra Beach, Itapuã Beach, Buracão Beach, and Stella Maris.
Salvador serves as the capital of Bahia.
Salvador offers various transportation options such as public transportation, tourist bus, metro, taxi, and Uber. Uber is the most cost-effective way to travel around the city, while renting a car is a convenient choice for those looking to explore farther destinations.
