Salvador

Brazil, South America

Salvador, the vibrant capital of Bahia, is renowned for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, colorful colonial architecture, and lively music scene. Visitors can explore the historic Pelourinho district, enjoy mouthwatering Bahian cuisine, and experience the electrifying Carnival festival. The stunning beaches along the coast, such as Porto da Barra, offer relaxation and water activities. Salvador's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an unforgettable destination for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Salvador

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Salvador

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Pelourinho's colorful streets

Wander through vibrant colonial architecture and cultural history.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the São Salvador Cathedral

Admire the stunning baroque architecture of this historic cathedral.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Enjoy a Candomblé ceremony

Experience Afro-Brazilian spirituality and vibrant traditions.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Porto da Barra Beach

Soak up the sun at one of Salvador's best beaches.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Bahian food at a local restaurant

Savor traditional dishes like moqueca and acarajé.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Mercado Modelo

Shop for local crafts and souvenirs in a historic market.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Museu de Arte da Bahia

Explore a rich collection of Brazilian art and history.

No booking required
8

Est. 8 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Experience the Carnival Festival

Join the world's largest street party full of music.

Booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour of the Baía de Todos os Santos

Discover beautiful islands and stunning coastal views.

No booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Lighthouse of Barra

Visit one of Salvador's iconic landmarks with great views.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bonfim Church

Experience the beautiful architecture and local traditions.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Dique do Tororó

Stroll through the park featuring iconic Orixás sculptures.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museu de Jorge Amado

Learn about Brazil's famous author and his works.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Brazilian Real

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Portuguese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Feijoada

Black bean stew with pork and beef. (National dish)

Churrasco

Brazilian barbecue with various meats.

Moqueca

Fish stew with coconut milk and spices.

Coxinha

Chicken-filled dough ball, deep-fried.

Acarajé

Black-eyed pea fritters with shrimp filling.

Phrases to learn

English

Portuguese

Hello

Olá

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Sim / Nao

(Seem / Nowm)

Thank you

Obrigado

(Oh-bree-gah-doh)

Excuse me

Desculpe

(Deh-skul-peh)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-too)