Salvador, Bahia: what to see and do

Founded in 1549 on the shores of the Bay of All Saints, Salvador was Brazil’s capital for more than two centuries. The city still bears the mark of that history, shaped by colonial wealth and by the heritage of enslaved Africans, whose culture today runs through every part of Bahian life.

Pelourinho, the historic heart

The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of cobblestone streets and colorful houses. Don’t miss the São Francisco church and convent, with an interior covered entirely in gilded wood, Terreiro de Jesus square, the cathedral and the Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado. In the evening, the streets come alive to the sound of drums.

The Elevador Lacerda links the upper city to the lower city, where the Mercado Modelo gathers Bahian crafts. Farther out, the Bonfim church is famous for its colorful ribbons, which you tie on while making three wishes.

Brazil Vip tip: Visit Pelourinho with a local guide: they’ll tell you the story of the city, take you to the places where capoeira and music happen, and show you spots you’d never find on your own.

Afro-Brazilian culture

Salvador is the birthplace of capoeira, of many musical rhythms and of candomblé, a religion of African origin. Watching a capoeira demonstration, a rehearsal by a percussion group like Olodum or a folk dance show is a way to get close to this living culture.

Tasting Bahian food

Bahian cuisine is one of the most flavorful in Brazil. Try acarajé, a black-eyed pea fritter fried in palm oil and filled with shrimp, made by baianas in traditional dress; moqueca, a fish stew in coconut milk; or vatapá, with cocadas for dessert.

• Pelourinho — Must-sees: the São Francisco church and the cobblestone streets — Time needed: a full day
• Lower city — Must-sees: the Elevador Lacerda, the Mercado Modelo and Bonfim — Time needed: half a day
• Barra and Rio Vermelho — Must-sees: the Barra lighthouse at sunset, the bars and restaurants — Time needed: an evening
• Culture — Must-sees: capoeira, drumming, Bahian dances — Time needed: an evening

Extending your stay

Salvador is the starting point for some wonderful side trips: the beaches of Praia do Forte and Imbassaí to the north; the islands of Morro de São Paulo and Boipeba to the south, reached by boat or small plane; or the plateaus and waterfalls of Chapada Diamantina, inland.

Plan on three nights in Salvador to see the city without rushing, then three to four nights on the coast to enjoy the beaches.

Brazil Vip tip: The Barra lighthouse at sunset is a ritual not to be missed. And if your trip coincides with a religious or popular festival, such as the Washing of Bonfim in January or the Iemanjá festival on February 2, let us know: these are unique moments.