Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is a city that reflects Brazil's Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial past, and coastal geography. Founded in 1549, it served as Brazil's first capital and remains a key cultural and historical center. The city's architecture includes well-preserved colonial buildings, historic churches, and public squares, many of which are part of the UNESCO-listed Pelourinho district. Salvador is known for its Afro-Brazilian cultural practices, including capoeira, samba, and Candomblé, as well as its cuisine, which blends African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences.
The city is situated on the Bay of All Saints, providing access to beaches, waterfront attractions, and maritime activities. Its festivals, such as Carnival and the Festa de Yemanjá, draw international visitors, while its markets and neighborhoods offer opportunities to engage with local traditions and craftsmanship.
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Here are the 10 best things to see & do in Salvador
This guide will show you the top attractions in Salvador, offering a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and guaranteed unforgettable experiences.
1. Pelourinho – Salvador’s Historic Center
Location: Centro Histórico
Pelourinho is the crown jewel of Salvador’s cultural and historical legacy. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts cobblestone streets, pastel-colored colonial buildings, and a lively atmosphere filled with music, art, and local traditions. At its heart is the São Francisco Church, famous for its breathtaking gilded interiors. Visit the Largo do Pelourinho square, where historical significance meets vibrant street life, with live capoeira performances, samba music, and bustling artisanal markets.
Just a short walk away, the Elevador Lacerda, an iconic art deco structure, connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The elevator offers panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints and provides easy access to the Mercado Modelo, a popular spot for Bahian crafts and street food. It is possible to explore the area independently, or take a tour.
2. Igreja do Bonfim (Church of Bonfim)
Location:Â Bonfim District
Igreja do Bonfim is a sacred symbol of Salvador, known for its deep spiritual significance and cultural traditions. The church is most famous for the "Fitas do Senhor do Bonfim," colorful ribbons tied to its gates by visitors while making a wish. Inside, the church’s baroque architecture and religious artifacts offer a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Visit during January for the Lavagem do Bonfim, a vibrant festival where locals celebrate with music, dance, and a ceremonial washing of the church steps.
3. Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse)
Location:Â Barra District
Standing at the entrance of the Bay of All Saints, Farol da Barra is one of Salvador's most iconic landmarks. This historic lighthouse offers stunning coastal views and houses a maritime museum with fascinating exhibits on Brazil's naval history. At sunset, the area comes alive with live music and a small crowd gathering to enjoy the breathtaking view.
Located near the lighthouse is Porto da Barra, one of Salvador's most popular beaches, perfect for swimming and soaking up the local vibe.
4. Mercado Modelo
Location: Comércio District
Located near the Elevador Lacerda, the Mercado Modelo is a bustling marketplace showcasing Salvador's cultural diversity and culinary excellence. Browse through its many stalls offering Bahian crafts, handmade jewelry, and souvenirs. Food lovers will delight in the array of traditional dishes, including acarajé and moqueca. Adding to the lively ambiance are regular performances of samba and forró, ensuring your visit is filled with music and movement.
5. Capoeira Class with Mestre Bimba’s Academy
Location:Â Pelourinho District
Dive into Salvador's Afro-Brazilian heritage with a beginner’s capoeira class at the first capoeira school in Brazil, founded by Mestre Bimba in 1937. Designed for those with no prior experience, the class teaches the basics of this Afro-Brazilian martial art, blending fight, dance, music, and acrobatics. Learn not only the movements but also the cultural and historical importance of capoeira, guided by instructors with over 80 years of teaching experience. The class is conducted in English, ensuring an engaging and informative session for all participants. Book your capoeira class at Mestre Bimba's school today.
6. Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado
Location: Largo do Pelourinho, Centro Histórico
The Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado is a cultural center dedicated to the life and work of one of Brazil's most celebrated writers, Jorge Amado. Situated in a beautifully restored colonial building in Pelourinho, this institution offers visitors a glimpse into the literary and cultural legacy of the Bahian author whose novels, such as Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon and Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands, have captivated readers worldwide.
The foundation showcases a collection of photographs, manuscripts, personal belongings, and first editions of Jorge Amado’s works. Visitors can also explore exhibits highlighting the themes of his stories, such as Bahia’s culture, Afro-Brazilian traditions, and the struggles of marginalized communities. The building itself is a work of art, adorned with vibrant colors and traditional Bahian architectural details. In addition to the exhibits, the foundation hosts cultural events, book launches, and lectures.6.
7. Dique do Tororó
Location: Tororó District
Dique do Tororó is a freshwater lake located in Salvador, surrounded by green spaces and notable for its large sculptures representing the Orixás, deities of the Afro-Brazilian religion of Candomblé. The lake features walking paths and opportunities for boating, providing visitors with a chance to explore the cultural significance of the Orixás while engaging in outdoor activities. As a site deeply tied to Afro-Brazilian spirituality, the Dique offers a tangible connection to Candomblé practices and serves as a symbol of Salvador's African heritage.
One way to deepen your understanding of Salvador's African heritage is through guided tours that explore historical and cultural landmarks. These tours, led by local guides, provide a comprehensive look at Salvador's Afro-Brazilian roots.
Two tour opportunities include
A walking tour beginning at the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador with stops at Terreiro de Jesus to discuss colonial history and contributions of African leaders, the Cross of São Francisco to learn about liberation movements and cultural expressions like samba and capoeira, and finally the Escola do Olodum, a center for Afro-Brazilian music and education > learn more about this tour
A six-hour tour that starts at the Rio Vermelho waterfront to see a sacred altar dedicated to Yemayá, an African deity. The tour includes stops at Dique do Tororó to view the Orixá sculptures, the São Joaquim Fair, and a sacred Candomblé temple to learn about the religion's practices. The experience concludes with a visit to a seaside favela > learn more about this tourÂ
8. Solar do Unhão Communityand MAM (Museum of Modern Art)
Location: Solar do Unhão
Solar do Unhão is an area combining historic charm with modern creativity. This restored colonial complex houses the Museum of Modern Art (MAM), where contemporary art exhibitions are displayed. Outside, enjoy stunning views of the Bay of All Saints, particularly during sunset, when the jazz performances at the museum create a fun ambiance.
For a unique afternoon, take a rowboat ride from Gamboa Beach, located 5 minutes walk from MAM, to Bar da Monica, a seaside bar offering drinks and incredible shrimp pastels (fried pastries). You can jump directly from the bar's terrace into the ocean.
Nearby, Restaurante Dona Suzana, made famous on the Netflix Series Street Food: Latin America is famous for its moqueca (fish stew), making the area a must-visit for food lovers. Take care walking through the community - it is best to enter down the main street from the MAM, and leave before dark.
9. Rio Vermelho Neighborhood
Location:Â Rio Vermelho District
Rio Vermelho is a district in Salvador known for its nightlife, street food, and cultural events. It features a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues that attract both locals and visitors. The area is famous for its street vendors, who serve traditional Bahian snacks like acarajé and abará. It is also home to the Yemanjá Festival, held annually in February, where participants gather to honor the sea goddess with offerings and processions. The district’s coastline is a central location for the festival and other community gatherings throughout the year.
10. Praia do Flamengo
Location:Â Flamengo District
Praia do Flamengo is a beach located in the Flamengo District, about 30 minutes from Salvador’s city center and close to the airport. It features fine white sand and clear waters, making it suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is lined with kiosks and restaurants offering seafood dishes like grilled fish and shrimp, as well as drinks like caipirinhas. Its location relatively further away from the city center makes it a quieter alternative to the more central beaches of Salvador. Praia do Flamengo is a popular choice for families, surfers alike.
Why Visit Salvador?
Salvador is unique from any other city in Brazil - it's charm lies in its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and deep connection to its Afro-Brazilian heritage. Whether wandering the historic streets of Pelourinho, learning capoeira, enjoying live music at the Barra Lighthouse, or savoring Bahia’s world-renowned cuisine, Salvador offers an experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Salvador? Let me know in the comments below!