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Salvador, Brazil

Destination Guide

Salvador

Brazil

Best things to do in Salvador

32 curated attractions in Salvador, Brazil. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

September - November

Average temp

26°C/79°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Generally safe

About Salvador

Salvador is Brazil's cultural capital and a large coastal city known for its strong Afro-Brazilian heritage. The historic Pelourinho district showcases colonial architecture and street life, while music fills the air from every corner, with rhythms that can make anyone tap their feet. The city's rich history is reflected in various sites, such as the Museu de Arte Sacra and the Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra. The coastal area is home to beautiful beaches like Praia de Stella Maris, where locals and tourists alike go to soak up the sun. Salvador's public transport is quite good, making it easier to navigate through this colorful city. Visitors typically come for the lively atmosphere, diverse culinary offerings, and the chance to experience traditional music and dance, all of which are at the heart of Salvador's identity.

Who it's for

Those who enjoy music, dance, and cultural experiences will find many delights. The crowds can be overwhelming for those seeking a quiet retreat, and the high-energy environment might be too much for anyone looking for a more subdued atmosphere. If you're not fond of spicy food, you might be disappointed by the local cuisine.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • Most attractions in Pelourinho are within walking distance, though the steep streets can be a workout
  • Public buses and taxis are available for longer distances, including to the beaches
  • The Elevador Lacerda is a quick and scenic way to move between the lower and upper city
  • Expect travel times to vary, especially during peak hours
El Tunco

El Tunco

Beach
Mercado Modelo

Mercado Modelo

Landmarks and Monuments
Praia de Stella Maris

Praia de Stella Maris

Beaches
Santa Teresa Hot Springs.

Santa Teresa Hot Springs.

Nature
Parque Recreativo Los Chorros

Parque Recreativo Los Chorros

Nature
Parque Zoobotânico Getúlio Vargas

Parque Zoobotânico Getúlio Vargas

Zoos
Pelourinho

Pelourinho

Old towns & historic quarters
Largo do Boi Tolo

Largo do Boi Tolo

Squares & plazas
Largo do Pelourinho

Largo do Pelourinho

Squares & plazas
Parque Metropolitano de Pituaçu

Parque Metropolitano de Pituaçu

City parks
Igreja do Bonfim

Igreja do Bonfim

Churches & cathedrals
Museu de Arte Sacra

Museu de Arte Sacra

Art museums & galleries
Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra

Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra

Forts & citadels
Farol da Barra

Farol da Barra

Monuments & memorials
Museu Carlos Costa Pinto

Museu Carlos Costa Pinto

History museums
Teatro Castro Alves

Teatro Castro Alves

Theatres & opera houses
Praia do Flamengo

Praia do Flamengo

Beaches
Solar do Unhão

Solar do Unhão

Art museums & galleries
Dique do Tororó

Dique do Tororó

Lakes
Largo da Mariquita

Largo da Mariquita

Squares & plazas
Arena Fonte Nova

Arena Fonte Nova

Stadiums & sports venues
Museu de Arte Moderna

Museu de Arte Moderna

Art museums & galleries
Praia de Jaguaribe

Praia de Jaguaribe

Beaches
Parque da Cidade

Parque da Cidade

City parks
Elevador Lacerda

Elevador Lacerda

Modern architecture & skyscrapers
Igreja de São Francisco

Igreja de São Francisco

Churches & cathedrals
Praia de Itapuã

Praia de Itapuã

Beaches
Largo de Santana

Largo de Santana

Squares & plazas
Museu de Ciência e Tecnologia da Bahia

Museu de Ciência e Tecnologia da Bahia

Science & natural history museums
Praia de Piatã

Praia de Piatã

Beaches
Largo da Dinha

Largo da Dinha

Squares & plazas
Parque São Bartolomeu.

Parque São Bartolomeu.

City parks

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