What are the Best Tourist Attractions in Salvador, Brazil?

Salvador, the capital city of the Brazilian state of Bahia, is one of the country’s most historic and culturally diverse cities. With its beautiful beaches, colonial-era architecture, thriving nightlife and colorful street festivals, it’s an essential stop on any trip to Brazil.

One of the city’s most iconic sights is Pelourinho, Salvador’s UNESCO-listed colonial district. Here, some of the city’s most impressive churches, including the Baroque-style São Francisco Church, are built upon the foundations of a slave market that dates back hundreds of years. One of the district’s most popular attractions is the Elevador Lacerde, an old-fashioned wooden elevator that takes visitors up to the higher reaches of Pelourinho.

A great place to get a feel for Salvador’s culture is at Largo do Pelorhino, a lively square lined with cafes and shops offering traditional handicrafts. Located at the heart of Pelourinho, its cobbled streets are filled with colorful displays of dance and music during carnival season, the city’s most vibrant celebration.

For beach-goers, Salvador is home to some of the country’s best urban retreats. The highest concentration of beaches sits at the southern end of the city, overlooking All Saints Bay. The main sand-and-sea attraction is Barra Beach. Here, it’s easy to soak up a tan, grab a refreshingly tropical drink from one of the beach bars and take in a few waves while learning to surf.

Travelers looking for something off-the-beaten-path should definitely explore some of Salvador’s smaller islands. The city’s beaches sit right off the Ilheus archipelago, a chain of three pristine little paradises. Further afield lies Boipeba Island, which contains no roads or cars and is backed by untouched Atlantic rainforest.

Salvador is also justifiably famous for its lively nightlife. During festivities such as carnival, the streets of Pelourinho come alive with passionate music and dancing emanating from local bars. For an unforgettable night out, those looking for something a bit more highbrow should visit the Pituba neighbourhood for its elegant lounges and sophisticated bars.

For travelers looking for great food, Salvador is an ideal destination. From small market stalls offering local dishes such as tapioca crepes and shrimp stew, to traditional Afro-Brazilian eateries like Axego do Acarajé serving classic Bahia street food, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.

In short, Salvador is packed to the brim with amazing attractions for tourists to explore – from landmarks steeped in history and bustling nightlife scenes to idyllic islands and delicious food. As such, it’s not surprising that it’s one of Brazil’s most sought-after destinations. To discover more about what awaits all in Salvador, we recommend visiting aarp.org/travel/destinations, which provides an overview of some of the top attractions in this captivating destination.

The Insider’s Guide to Salvador, Brazil

Salvador, the capital of the Brazilian state of Bahia, is known for its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, stunning colonial architecture, and bustling streets. This city is a perfect example of the amalgamation of the city’s African, European, and indigenous histories. Visitors to this city will be astounded by the vibrant street life, the peaceful beaches, the rich history, and the delicious cuisine. In this insider’s guide to Salvador, Brazil, we will explore the top things to do, see, eat, experience, and discover in this charming Brazilian city.

Top Tourist Attractions in Salvador, Brazil

1. Pelourinho: This historic neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Salvador. The streets of Pelourinho are lined with brightly colored colonial-era buildings, churches, museums, and art galleries. Visitors can wander around the streets, enjoy the beautiful architecture, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

2. Elevator Lacerda: Built in the late 19th century, this elevator connects the higher and lower parts of Salvador and offers stunning views of the bay and the city. The ride is short, but it is a unique and exciting experience.

3. Farol da Barra Beach: This beautiful beach is located in the Barra neighborhood and is one of Salvador’s most popular beach destinations. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

Dining in Salvador, Brazil

The cuisine of Salvador is a fusion of flavors from Africa, Europe, and Asia that make it stand out from other Brazilian cities. Visitors to Salvador should indulge in traditional foods like acarajé, moqueca, and vatapá. Here are some of the best places to eat in Salvador:

1. Casa de Tereza: This restaurant serves traditional Bahian cuisine, and the dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and served in a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

2. Amado: This elegant restaurant is located in the Solar do Unhão Museum and offers panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints. The menu is diverse and includes seafood, local Bahian dishes, and vegetarian options.

3. Boteco do França: This is a great place to try some traditional Brazilian finger food, including empanadas and coxinhas. The bar is lively and always buzzing.

Cultural Experiences in Salvador, Brazil

Salvador is known for its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, and there’s no shortage of cultural experiences to explore. Here are a few cultural experiences to include on your itinerary:

1. Capoeira: Capoeira is a martial art that originated in Salvador, Brazil, and is a mix of dance, music, and acrobatics. Visitors can experience Capoeira by taking a class or watching a performance.

2. Olodum: Olodum is a cultural group that plays live music, dances, and showcases the culture of Bahia. They perform at various venues and on the streets of Salvador.

Local History in Salvador, Brazil

Salvador has a rich history that began with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. The city was a major hub for the African slave trade and played an important role in Brazil’s fight for independence. Here are a few places to visit to learn more about Salvador’s history:

1. Museu Afro-Brasileiro: This museum showcases the contributions of African culture to Brazil, including artifacts, art, and history.

2. Mercado Modelo: Located in the lower part of Salvador, this market was one of the hubs of the African slave trade. Visitors can browse souvenirs, crafts, and traditional Bahian foods.

Off-The-Beaten-Path in Salvador, Brazil

For those who want to get off the beaten path, here are some lesser-known but noteworthy attractions to check out in Salvador:

1. Morro de São Paulo: Located on the nearby island of Tinhare, Morro de São Paulo is a paradise for beach lovers, with beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

2. Projeto Tamar: This conservation project is dedicated to protecting sea turtles and offers visitors the chance to see them up close.

Salvador, Brazil, is a city of colors, flavors, and traditions. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be fully armed to explore, discover, and experience the best this vibrant city has to offer.