Exploring Salvador
Here is our personal list of must-do experiences in and around Salvador. Many websites linked here are in portuguese (the english materials lack depth), therefore please use the browser translate function in your browser to read in your preferred language. Scroll all the way down for a few multi-day itineraries with additional insights that we also recommend.
Barra
​Barra is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Salvador, and perfectly captures its energy.
The highlight of the area is the Farol da Barra, a historic lighthouse that houses the Nautical Museum, offering insight into the region's maritime history. The surrounding area provides a perfect spot to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and you will find daily visitors, having a picnic or just enjoying a drink on the greens around the lighthouse.
The neighborhood is also home to beautiful beaches such as Porto da Barra, celebrated for its crystal-clear, calm waters, and Praia do Farol da Barra, which is ideal for leisure walks and water sports.
Venture to the recently revitalized Barra waterfront for walking, cycling, or indulging in local cuisine at the many restaurants and kiosks along the way. You'll find many street vendors offering fresh coconuts, freshly pressed sugar cane juice (caldo de cana) or other delicious snacks.
Rio Vermelho
Rio Vermelho is one of Salvador's liveliest neighborhoods, known for its bohemian vibe, vibrant nightlife, and artistic atmosphere. This seaside area is home to several cultural landmarks, including the Casa de Iemanjá, a small shrine dedicated to the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea, where locals and visitors gather for spiritual reflection. The neighborhood also features picturesque coastal views, with spots like Largo da Mariquita offering a tranquil ambiance amidst the buzzing streets.
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The area boasts a dynamic culinary scene, with a mix of fine dining restaurants and street food vendors serving some of the best acarajé in Salvador. By night, Rio Vermelho transforms into a hotspot for live music, bars, and dance clubs, attracting people from all over the city. With its unique blend of cultural traditions, creative energy, and seaside charm, Rio Vermelho offers an authentic and unforgettable Salvadorian experience. ​
Pelourinho
Pelourinho, the historic heart of Salvador, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture and colonial architecture. Its colorful streets are lined with 17th and 18th-century buildings, baroque churches like the iconic Igreja de São Francisco, and lively squares buzzing with music and performances. As a cultural hub, Pelourinho offers museums, art galleries, and traditional Bahian cuisine, making it a must-visit destination that blends history, art, and the energy of Salvador's people.​​
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This is also where Michael Jackson and Paul Simon recorded their music videos for "They don't really care about us" and "Obvious Child" with the famous music group Olodum in the Largo de Pelourinho (pictured) which is where the slaves used to be punished (pelourinho = whipping post).
Pelourinho is also the birthplace of Olodum and Capoeira and you are likely to stumble across Olodum drumming or Capoeira Rodas while strolling through this neighborhood. Visit the Escola de Olodum or Mestre Bimba Foundation to learn more.​
Igreja do Bonfim
Igreja do Senhor do Bonfim is one of Salvador's most significant religious landmarks and a symbol of faith and devotion in Bahia. Known for its striking neoclassical architecture and sacred atmosphere, the church attracts countless pilgrims, especially during the traditional Lavagem do Bonfim festival (in January) - a candomblé ceremony in honour of Oxalá.
Visitors are often captivated by the colorful ribbons, or "fitinhas", tied to its gates, each representing prayers and wishes from people around the world.​ While they are especially available here, they will be offered to you whenever you are in a touristy spot all over the city.
If you are in the area, also check out Ponta de Humaitá, located along the waterfront, as it is a peaceful neighborhood with stunning sunsets over the Bay of All Saints. The Ponta de Humaitá is a favorite spot for visitors and locals, offering panoramic views, charming colonial-style buildings, and a serene environment.
Mercado Modelo
​​Mercado Modelo, located in the historic Comércio district of Salvador, is a bustling marketplace and cultural landmark that reflects the city’s vibrant Afro-Brazilian heritage.
It was founded as the commercial center of Salvador in 1912 and was completely rebuilt after a fire in 1984. Today this iconic building is still a popular marketplace and offers a variety of traditional crafts, souvenirs, and handmade goods honouring the rich African heritage in Salvador.
The market also provides a taste of Salvador’s famous Bahian cuisine, with local dishes like moqueca and acarajé served in its lively restaurants. You will also be able to taste and buy many local treats and we recommend that you time your visit with an upcoming meal.
Just next to it - also pictured - is the Lacerda Elevator, the first urban elevator in the world. When it was inaugurated in 1873, it was also the highest, with 63 meters. It connects the Comércio District to the Upper City, in a course of approx. 20 seconds(!).
Praia do Forte
Praia do Forte, located just outside of Salvador, is a charming coastal village often referred to as the "Brazilian Polynesia" for its pristine beaches and lush surroundings.
One of its main highlights is the Tamar Project, a conservation initiative dedicated to protecting sea turtles, where visitors can learn about marine life and even witness hatchlings being released into the ocean.
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Another highlight for animal lovers is the whale watching season between July and October. Passages on boats can be booked to responsibly observe whales around this area.
The area's natural beauty is complemented by natural pools and coral reefs, which make it a popular destination for snorkeling and exploring underwater life.​
The village itself has a laid-back atmosphere with cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants serving delicious Bahian cuisine.
Another must-see is the Garcia d’Ávila Castle ruins, a historic site with stunning panoramic views of the region.
Morro do Sao Paulo
Morro de São Paulo is a stunning island getaway located just south of Salvador.
As the village is car-free and very hilly, be prepared to be greeted by dozens of wheel-barrow carriers offering their services to carry your luggage, children (or the elderly(!)) to your pousada for a fee (remember to haggle).
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Known for its idyllic beaches with turquoise waters and golden sands, it is a paradise for those seeking relaxation and adventure. The "first" and "second" beaches (yes, the beaches are numbered here) are particularly popular (and usually busier), offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying lively beach bars. We were there in Aug 24 and found that the usually "busy" beaches were not crowded at all.​
2nd Beach in Aug 24, drinking a cocoa cocktail
The wheelbarrow express on our way back to the ferry
For anyone looking for an even more peaceful experience, the third and fourth beaches are the way to go and for the most adventurous, check out the hardest to reach fifth beach. ​​
The village itself has a charming, Ibiza-like atmosphere with cobbled streets, boutiques and a relaxed vibe. The nightlife in Morro de São Paulo is vibrant, with beachfront parties and live music creating a festive environment.
Cachoeira
Festa da Boa Morte
- Aug 15th -
Cachoeira, about 120km west of Salvador, is a historic town steeped in colonial charm and Afro-Brazilian culture. Its cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and brightly colored buildings are a testament to its rich history as a major hub for sugar and tobacco production and the transatlantic slave trade. It's also the town where Hugo's mum was born and raised.
Today, Cachoeira is celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene and strong connection to Afro-Brazilian traditions, with landmarks like the São Francisco de Assis Church and the Rio Paraguaçu.
The Festa da Boa Morte is one of Cachoeira's most prominent events, bringing together spiritual devotion and cultural heritage. Organized by the Irmandade da Boa Morte, a sisterhood of Afro-Brazilian women, the festival takes place from Aug 13 -17 (with it's main events on Aug 15th), honors "Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte" or Our Lady of the Good Death and reflects the syncretism of Catholic and Candomblé traditions.
The celebrations include religious rituals, vibrant samba de roda performances, and communal feasts, creating an atmosphere of unity and reverence. As an expression of resilience, liberation, and cultural pride, the Festa da Boa Morte draws visitors from around the world and serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty of Afro-Brazilian culture.
Check out the following itineraries for additional inspiration, since this shortlist is definitely not exhaustive.
2 days in Salvador: This 1-day itinerary (I don't know how anyone would get all this done in 24 hours 😅) and 3-day itinerary (day 1 is only check in and sleep) are two great options.
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4 days in Salvador: This 4-day-itinerary could be done quicker, but allows for rest and leisure, too!
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1-2 weeks in Salvador: Here are some good itineraries that also cover out-of-town options. These two 7-day and 10-day itineraries could easily be extended (add Cachoeira to the route!) and allow for a comprehensive immersion, without rushing from sight to sight.