Salvador

Brazil

Saturday, September 20, 2025

Sunrise

5:23 AM

Sunset

5:30 PM

About

Salvador, the vibrant capital of Bahia in Brazil, enchants visitors with its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, stunning coastline, and lively atmosphere. The city's historic center, Pelourinho, is a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively squares where music and dance fill the air. Salvador's beautiful beaches, such as Porto da Barra and Praia do Flamengo, invite visitors to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The city's lively festivals, including the world-famous Carnival, showcase the exuberance of Bahian culture. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and a perfect blend of history and modernity, Salvador invites visitors to immerse themselves in its vibrant energy and embrace the unique spirit of Brazil's northeastern coast.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Pelourinho

Known for its vibrant colonial architecture and history, this historic district in Salvador offers visitors endless cultural attractions, such as the Afro-Brazilian Museum, art galleries, and churches.
2. Farol da Barra Beach

This beautiful beach is located at the entrance of Salvador's bay and boasts crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning views of the Barra Lighthouse.
3. Elevador Lacerda

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Salvador, this unique Art Deco elevator takes visitors on a breathtaking ride to the top of the Upper City, offering panoramic views of the city below.
4. Mercado Modelo

A must-visit for any traveler to Salvador, this bustling marketplace features local crafts, souvenirs, and keepsakes.
5. São Francisco Church and Convent

This grand Baroque church and convent dates back to the 17th century and is known for its ornate gold decoration and stunning blue and white tiles.
6. Dique do Tororó

This picturesque lake is home to nine giant statues of orixás, deities of the Afro-Brazilian religion, and is a symbol of Salvador's rich Afro-Brazilian heritage.
7. Fonte Nova Stadium

Home to two of Salvador's most popular soccer teams, the stadium is a mecca for soccer fans from around the world.
8. Forte de Santo Antônio da Barra

Built in the 17th century to defend the bay of All Saints, this fortress is now a museum where visitors can learn about Salvador's rich military history.
9. Museu de Arte Moderna da Bahia

With a collection of over 1,000 works of art, this museum is a hub for contemporary art in Salvador and features exhibitions from local and international artists.
10. Praia do Flamengo

This stunning beach is located outside Salvador, offering visitors a chance to escape the city and soak up some sun on miles of white sand and turquoise waters.
11. Casa do Rio Vermelho

This charming museum is the former home of Brazilian authors Jorge Amado and Zélia Gattai, which has now been transformed into a space of artistic experiences.
12. Porto da Barra Beach

Popular with locals and visitors alike, this beautiful beach is a great spot to spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming, and watching the sunset.
13. Memorial of Sister Dulce

A beautiful tribute to "the mother of the poor," this museum and chapel honor the life and work of Sister Dulce, a nun who dedicated her life to helping the poor and sick in Salvador.
14. Museu de Arte da Bahia

Housed in a beautiful 19th-century palatial building, the museum features a collection of fine art from Brazil and Europe, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt and Frans Post.
15. Parque das Dunas

This beautiful nature reserve is a great place to explore Salvador's natural beauty, with miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city and coastline.
16. Praia de Itapuã

This popular beach is famous for its clear waters, traditional fishermen's boats, and its connection to Brazilian music legend Vinicius de Moraes and his song "Tarde em Itapuã."
17. Elevador Lacerda Market

Located at the base of the Elevador Lacerda, this bustling street market offers a wide variety of local food, souvenirs, and crafts.
18. Ilha dos Frades

This small island off the coast of Salvador is a popular destination for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the pristine beaches and natural beauty of the area.
19. Igreja da Nossa Senhora do Bonfim

This famous church is home to one of Salvador's greatest religious festivals, the Festa do Bonfim, where thousands of people gather to celebrate and pay homage to the patron saint of Salvador.
20. Acarajé

This iconic street food, made from black-eyed peas and fried in palm oil, is a must-try when visiting Salvador, especially at the famous São Joaquim market.
21. Museu Afro-Brasileiro

Dedicated to the celebration and preservation of Afro-Brazilian culture, this museum features a collection of traditional African art, contemporary art, and artifacts from the colonial era.
22. Praça da Sé

This historic square in the heart of the city is surrounded by colonial architecture and is a common gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
23. Solar do Unhão

This beautiful 17th-century mansion is now a cultural center, featuring a contemporary art museum, theater, and music venue, all located in a stunning waterfront location.
24. Pôr do Sol da Armação

This popular beach is a great spot to watch the sunset over the bay of All Saints, with stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline.
25. Candomblé

This Afro-Brazilian religion is an integral part of Salvadorian culture and can be experienced through various ceremonies and festivals throughout the year.
26. Praia de Ondina

This beautiful beach is popular with swimmers and surfers alike, with crystal-clear waters and great waves year-round.
27. Christmas Light Show

Every year in December, Salvador hosts an impressive interactive light show in the historic Pelourinho district, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
28. Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado

This museum honors the life and work of one of Brazil's most famous authors, Jorge Amado, and features a collection of his personal belongings and manuscripts.
29. Salvador Carnival

Known as the largest street party in the world, Salvador's Carnival is a spectacle of music, dancing, and costumes, which takes place annually in February or March.
30. Forte de Santa Maria

This picturesque fortress offers sweeping views of the bay of All Saints and is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore Salvador's rich military history.