Bahia brings together, within a single state, a historic capital, one of Brazil’s longest coastlines, mountain ranges with waterfalls, and a distinctive Afro-Brazilian culture reflected in its music, dance and cuisine.
This Bahia travel guide organises the destinations by region so you can choose where to go and plan your itinerary according to the time you have available and your travel style.
Salvador, the state capital, was Brazil’s first capital and is home to the Pelourinho, churches, museums, forts, beaches and one of the country’s best-known carnivals. Near the capital are Lauro de Freitas and Baía de Todos os Santos, with islands ideal for day trips.
To the north of Salvador, the Costa dos Coqueiros is home to destinations such as Praia do Forte, the Costa do Sauípe and Mangue Seco, on the border with Sergipe, known for its dunes and the point where the river meets the sea.
To the south of Salvador, the Costa do Dendê is home to Morro de São Paulo, the Island of Boipeba and the Maraú Peninsula. Further south, the Costa do Cacau combines the cocoa culture of Ilhéus with the beaches and waterfalls of Itacaré.
The Costa do Descobrimento comprises Porto Seguro, Arraial d’Ajuda and Trancoso, with a colonial history and beaches to suit all tastes. In the far south, the Whale Coast and the Abrolhos Archipelago are renowned for humpback whale watching between July and November.
In the centre of the state, the Chapada Diamantina is a destination for hiking trails, waterfalls, caves and rivers.& Lençóis is the main gateway, and its history linked to the diamond industry helps to explain the region. For those interested in gemstones, it’s well worth visiting Pindobaçu, the capital of emeralds, and the caves of Campo Formoso. Meanwhile, the São Francisco Valley showcases the Bahian sertão, on the banks of the river.
Bahia is a large state, and the distances between its regions are considerable. For this reason, it is best to choose one or two regions per trip. To help you decide, take a look at the map of tourist regions, the tourist areas of the state, the list of Bahia’s best beaches and the main tourist attractions in Bahia.
The most popular destinations are Salvador, Porto Seguro, Trancoso, Arraial d’Ajuda, Morro de São Paulo, Itacaré, Praia do Forte and the Chapada Diamantina. Each region has its own distinct character, and the full list can be found under tourist attractions in Bahia.
It depends on the destination. The coast welcomes tourists all year round, with the highest numbers during the summer and at Carnival. Humpback whale watching on the Costa das Baleias and in Abrolhos takes place between July and November. For hiking in the Chapada Diamantina, it is worth checking the weather forecast, as rain can affect rivers and trails.
Generally speaking, three to four days are enough to visit the Pelourinho, the churches, the museums, the forts and a few beaches. Take a look at the Salvador guide to plan your itinerary.
Bahia has beaches all along its coastline, from the North Coast to the southernmost tip. Take a look at the list of the best beaches in Bahia, featuring destinations for families, couples and those looking for quieter beaches.
These include Todos os Santos Bay, the Costa dos Coqueiros, the Costa do Dendê, the Costa do Cacau, the Costa do Descobrimento, the Costa das Baleias, the Chapada Diamantina and the São Francisco Valley. See the map of tourist regions.
The Whale Coast and the Abrolhos Archipelago, at the southernmost tip of the state, are the best-known spots for spotting humpback whales between July and November. Find out more in the guide to the Whale Coast.
The most common activities are hiking, swimming in waterfalls, visiting caves and day trips from Lençóis. Read the Chapada Diamantina guide to choose your excursions.
Yes. Salvador was Brazil’s first capital, from 1549 to 1763, and as such it boasts one of the country’s most important collections of colonial architecture, as illustrated by the history of the Bay of All Saints.
The Rio Vermelho neighbourhood is Salvador’s main hub for bohemian life and dining, bringing together bars, restaurants, acarajé stalls, small stretches of beach and a vibrant cultural scene by the sea. Ideal for those looking for good food, live music and a memorable sunset. Why visit Rio Vermelho combines tradition […]
The history of Lençóis, in Bahia, begins with diamond mining. The origins of the town are linked to the discoveries made in 1844 in Mucugê and to the rush of prospectors who, the following year, climbed the mountains and founded the settlement. The Diamond Cycle brought wealth to the town, and the heritage that remains from […]
Ponta de Humaitá is one of the most charming spots in Salvador, situated near Monte Serrat Fort on the Itapagipe peninsula. With a stunning view of Todos os Santos Bay, the spot is particularly renowned for its unforgettable sunsets. In the courtyard that juts out over the sea, there is […]
A practical guide to things to do in Pelourinho: Baroque churches, museums, squares, a suggested itinerary and tips for making the most of Salvador’s Historic Centre. Why visit — Pelourinho: what to do Looking for “Things to do in Pelourinho”? The neighbourhood is home to colourful streets, Baroque churches, themed […]
The beaches of Salvador, Bahia, offer 50 km of coastline with something for everyone: beaches with calm waters perfect for families, reefs that form natural pools, and stretches with waves ideal for surfing. As well as swimming, the coastline combines history, culture and cuisine — from lighthouses and forts to kiosks […]
Arembepe is a charming village on the north coast of Bahia, around 42 km from Salvador. Known for its historic Hippie Village, the Tamar Project site and beaches with natural pools, Arembepe is ideal for those seeking contact with nature, alternative culture and peaceful beach life. Videos about the village […]
Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is a vibrant city where history, Afro-Brazilian culture, music and beaches come together — the perfect setting for a 7-day itinerary in Salvador and the surrounding area that combines the historic centre, the city’s waterfront, the islands and the northern coast. With its colourful historic […]
Bahia Maritime Museum: what you need to know before visiting Housed within the iconic Barra Lighthouse, the Bahia Maritime Museum is one of Salvador’s most traditional tourist attractions. As well as preserving centuries of maritime history, the site offers one of the most beautiful views of Baía de Todos-os-Santos and […]
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 […]
A listed neoclassical building in Ilhéus, a symbol of the heyday of the cocoa industry. Find out when it was built, what to see and how to organise your visit. Quick summary Style: Neoclassical Foundation stone: 20 January 1898 Opening: 22 December 1907 Current use: Town Hall / Museum (check opening times before […]
São Jorge Parish Church in Ilhéus (BA): a heritage site of historical, Jesuit and religious art significance The Parish Church of São Jorge is one of the most important historical monuments in Ilhéus, Bahia. Built in the late 17th century, according to IPAC, it displays Jesuit influences and houses a […]
The Convent and Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade: a neo-Gothic heritage site and religious symbol of Ilhéus (BA) The Church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade in Ilhéus (Bahia) is a prime example of the Neo-Gothic style in the cocoa-growing region. It was built between 1927 and 1929 based on […]
The São Sebastião Cathedral, in the historic centre of Ilhéus (formerly São Jorge dos Ilhéus), is a religious and cultural landmark of the city. Designed by Salomão da Silveira in an eclectic style, its construction began in 1931 and the cathedral was consecrated on 21 September 1967. Its vault is […]
Following the expulsion of the Jesuits, the church of the former College of the Society of Jesus became the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador, replacing the old cathedral that was at risk of collapse. (1) The Jesuits were expelled by the Royal Charter of 28 August 1759. On 26 October 1765, […]
The Cathedral Basilica of Salvador is located in the heart of Pelourinho and is one of the most important sacred buildings in colonial Brazil. As well as bearing witness to the country’s history and Catholicism, the temple houses 17^(th)-century paintings, rosewood furniture and sacred gold and silver objects. history and […]
A selection of the 15 most famous beaches and coastal destinations in Bahia, bringing together essential information about characteristics (swimming, surfing, natural pools, cliffs), infrastructure (kiosks, inns, nightlife), access and practical tips on getting around during high season — ideal for choosing between tourist, rustic or ecotourism options. 1. Porto […]
Accommodation options in Salvador, Bahia When planning your stay in Salvador, choosing the right neighbourhood makes all the difference in getting the most out of the city. In this quick guide, you will discover which neighbourhoods are best suited to those seeking beaches, cultural immersion or nightlife — and you […]
Bahia boasts some of Brazil’s most stunning coastal scenery: beaches where colourful cliffs meet white sands, reefs form natural pools of crystal-clear water, and rivers flow into the sea between coconut groves and wild trails. From secluded coves with little infrastructure to stretches of sand perfect for snorkelling and contemplation, […]
Summary of the History of the Church and Convent of Nossa Senhora da Palma Origins and foundation: construction began in the 17th century; there is controversy regarding dates and founders (1630, 1670 or 1693). Accounts, especially those of Friar Agostinho de Santa Maria, link the devotion to the Cruz Arrais […]
Updated guide featuring visitor tips, addresses, suggested images and FAQs. Ideal for religious and cultural tourism in Salvador (BA). The 5 most visited churches in Salvador Basilica and Sanctuary of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Sanctuary of Santa Dulce dos Pobres (Sister Dulce) Church and Convent of São Francisco Primatial Cathedral […]
The Rio Vermelho neighbourhood is Salvador’s main hub for bohemian life and dining, bringing together bars, restaurants, acarajé stalls, small
The history of Lençóis, in Bahia, begins with diamond mining. The origins of the town are linked to the discoveries made in 1844 in Mucugê and
Ponta de Humaitá is one of the most charming spots in Salvador, situated near Monte Serrat Fort on the Itapagipe peninsula. With a stunning view of
A practical guide to things to do in Pelourinho: Baroque churches, museums, squares, a suggested itinerary and tips for making the most of
The beaches of Salvador, Bahia, offer 50 km of coastline with something for everyone: beaches with calm waters perfect for families, reefs that form
Arembepe is a charming village on the north coast of Bahia, around 42 km from Salvador. Known for its historic Hippie Village, the Tamar Project site
Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is a vibrant city where history, Afro-Brazilian culture, music and beaches come together — the perfect setting for
Bahia Maritime Museum: what you need to know before visiting Housed within the iconic Barra Lighthouse, the Bahia Maritime Museum is one of
