A quick cultural guide to Salvador’s most popular museums, with practical tips on how to make the most of each visit.
Salvador is a cultural hub where art, history and music come together. If you’re looking for a cultural itinerary in the city, be sure to visit the four most popular museums: the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia (MAM), the Museum of Art of Bahia (MAB), the Casa das Histórias de Salvador and the Cidade da Música da Bahia.
Videos about the museums in Salvador
Museu de Arte Moderna da Bahia (MAM)00:42
Museu de Arte da Bahia (MAB)26:01
Casa das Histórias de Salvador02:46
Casa da Música da Bahia02:36
Discover Salvador’s 39 museums too.
1. Museum of Modern Art of Bahia (MAM)
Overlooking Todos-os-Santos Bay, the MAM is a leading venue for contemporary exhibitions and cultural events. Visit the permanent galleries and temporary exhibitions. Tip: the sunset makes for some incredible photos.
- What to see: contemporary exhibitions, workshops and cultural activities
- Top tip: combine it with a stroll along the seafront
- Address: Av. Contorno, no. — Solar do Unhão
2. Bahia Art Museum (MAB)
- What to see: permanent collection, temporary exhibitions
- Top tip: visit on a free admission day, where available
- Address: Praça da Sé, s/n — Pelourinho
3. Salvador Story House
A space dedicated to the memory and history of Salvador, featuring exhibitions that trace the city’s social and urban development — ideal for families and anyone exploring the Historic Centre.
- What to see: exhibitions on local history
- Top tip: combine it with a stroll through Pelourinho
- Address: Rua da Bélgica, 2 — Retail
4. City of Music, Bahia
A cultural venue dedicated to the Bahian music scene — it organises concerts, workshops and exhibitions related to music. The perfect place to experience local rhythms such as axé and samba-reggae.
- What to see: performances, workshops, music exhibitions
- Handy tip: check out the schedule for concerts and special events
- Address: Praça Visconde de Cayru, 19 – Comércio
Practical tips for visitors
- Plan your visit by neighbourhood: many museums are located in the Historic Centre and can be visited on foot.
- Please check opening times and whether booking is required on each museum’s official website.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring some water — Salvador has steep hills and strong sunshine.
- Make use of guides and audio guides where available to gain a better understanding of the context.
Publicações Relacionadas
Tourist attractions for children in Salvador: fun and learning
Find out how to celebrate Carnival in Salvador, Bahia
Ponta de Humaitá: A Gem in Salvador Bahia
Bahia Maritime Museum: History of Navigation at the Barra Lighthouse
History of the Senhor do Bonfim Ribbons — Origin, Meaning and Traditions
Solar do Unhão and the Museum of Modern Art in Salvador BA
Church of the Third Order of St Francis History
Convent and Church of Santa Teresa and its History
Discover the reasons for a holiday in Salvador, Bahia
Prostitution, sex, massage parlours and nightclubs in Salvador
History of the forts and lighthouses of Salvador, Bahia
Rio Vermelho Neighbourhood in Salvador's Nightlife
Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora da Palma in Salvador, Bahia
The most visited churches in Salvador — itinerary and tips
7-day itinerary in Salvador and the surrounding area: Pelourinho, the islands and Praia do Forte
39 Museums in Salvador: Discover the history and culture of Bahia
Churches of Salvador: Architectural and Historical Treasures
Attractions in the Historic Centre of Salvador, Bahia
Basílica de Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia: História
Discover the Magnificence of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat Fort
Features and History of the Church and Convent of São Francisco
History of the Founding of Salvador, Bahia - History of Brazil
Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra and Its Rich History
Nossa Senhora dos Mares Church: Gothic Architecture
History of the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador
History of the Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos in Salvador
History of the São Marcelo Fort or Forte do Mar in Salvador
Where to Stay in Salvador for Your Best Experience
Palaces in Salvador to visit and learn about Brazil's history
Cathedral Basilica of Salvador — History, Sacred Art and Collection
Secret History of Salvador, Bahia - History of Brazil
Pelourinho (Salvador) — Historical Guide, Architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Pelourinho: what to do in Salvador’s Historic Centre
Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat History
Parks and Squares in Salvador for Leisure Activities
Bahia Art Museum (MAB): Learn about its history and collection
This post is also on:
Português 
English 
Deutsch 
Español 
Français
