This is the guide to tourism in Salvador, in Bahia: history, the Historic Centre, churches, museums, forts, beaches, neighbourhoods, carnival and tips for planning your trip. All the articles provide everything you need to choose what to visit and how to organise your time in the city.
Salvador was founded in 1549 by Tomé de Sousa and served as the seat of the royal administration of Brazil until 1763, when power was transferred to Rio de Janeiro.
This history can be found in the streets of the Historic Centre, in the Baroque churches, in the forts and in the museums, and is interwoven with Afro-Brazilian culture, which is evident in the music, the festivals and neighbourhood life.
If this is your first visit, start with the guide reasons to holiday in Salvador, the interesting places in Salvador and the 7-day itinerary for Salvador and the surrounding area. To decide where to stay, see where to stay in Salvador.
For an overview of the state, see also the tourist attractions in Bahia.
The most popular attractions are Pelourinho and the Historic Centre, the Lacerda Lift, the churches, the museums, the forts and the Barra Lighthouse, as well as the city’s beaches. The guides in this category provide details on each of them.
It depends on what you want to see. For the Historic Centre and the main attractions, even a short stay is enough for a good itinerary. If you’re thinking of including beaches, neighbourhoods and islands, the 7-day itinerary on the website offers a comprehensive suggestion.
Salvador was founded in 1549 by Tomé de Sousa and served as the seat of the royal administration until 1763, when the capital was moved to Rio de Janeiro. That is why the city has so many colonial monuments.
It is the best-known part of Salvador’s Historic Centre, with its colourful mansions, Baroque churches and museums. The Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city has dozens of beaches, each with its own character, ranging from urban to more peaceful. The guide to Salvador’s 23 beaches compares the options, and there is a separate article on beaches near the city.
The best area depends on your itinerary: near the Historic Centre, along the waterfront or in livelier neighbourhoods. The website’s accommodation guide provides essential tips.
Carnival is one of the city’s best-known festivals, featuring street parades and floats with live music. The website’s guide explains how to celebrate and what to expect.
Yes, the bay has several islands, each with their own beaches, history and culture. The guide to the main islands sets out the options and how to visit them. Check timetables and ferry crossings before you go.
Bahia Art Museum: Salvador’s Oldest Museum The Bahia Art Museum (MAB) is the oldest art museum in the State of Bahia, located in Salvador, in the Vitória district, at Avenida Sete de Setembro, 2340, in the Corredor da Vitória. Founded in 1918, the museum is housed in the historic building […]
The beaches near Salvador offer much more than just warm waters and coconut groves: they combine history, natural pools, surfing, ecotourism and good facilities for families and travellers. Below is a selection of easily accessible beaches, with their approximate distance from Salvador, main attractions and practical tips. Recommended beaches (from […]
The Lacerda Elevator, an icon of Salvador that connects the Upper City to the Lower City, was inaugurated on 8 December 1873 as the “Conceição Hydraulic Elevator”, conceived by Antônio Francisco de Lacerda and built by the engineer Augusto Frederico de Lacerda. At the time of its opening, the structure […]
History of the Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat — origins, renovations and historical facts History of the Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat: The Fort of Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat, originally known as Castelo de São Felipe, is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of […]
Although commonly known as the ‘Barra Lighthouse’, the site is actually the Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra — an older fortification (16th–17th centuries) which houses the Barra Lighthouse, built in the late 17th century, and the Bahia Maritime Museum. Historical overview Origin: the first earth and timber structures dating […]
The history of São Marcelo Fort spans centuries of defence, occupations and transformations. Situated in Todos os Santos Bay, it is a historic landmark and tourist attraction in Salvador. Video – History of São Marcelo Fort The history of São Marcelo Fort dates back to the early 17th century. Built […]
The Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares, also known as the Church of Nossa Senhora dos Mares and São Pedro Nolasco, is one of the most striking examples of Neo-Gothic architecture in Salvador. Situated in Largo dos Mares (Calçada neighbourhood), it stands out for its slender tower, colourful stained-glass windows […]
A striking example of Baroque architecture in Salvador, the Church of the Third Order of St Francis, in Largo do Pelourinho, is notable for its sandstone-carved façade, gilded interiors, Portuguese tile panels and valuable works of religious art. Video – History and Architecture of the Church of the Third Order […]
Tourism in Salvador: A unique experience A visit to Salvador, the capital of Bahia, offers a unique experience that combines history, culture, nature and a rich Afro-Brazilian heritage. A living museum Salvador is a true living museum, reflecting Brazil’s rich history and cultural diversity. A symbol of the mixing of […]
Churches of Salvador, Bahia: Architectural and Historical Treasures The churches of Salvador, Bahia are architectural and historical treasures that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the city, which was the first capital of Brazil and an important centre of Catholicism during the colonial period. With architectural styles ranging from Baroque […]
Discover Salvador’s most important churches: architectural styles, history, religious syncretism and practical tips for visiting these monuments, ranging from the colonial period to contemporary works. Churches in Salvador (BA): architectural and historical treasures Salvador, Brazil’s first capital, boasts an impressive religious heritage — some 160 churches — which reflect the […]
Salvador’s museums offer a rich variety of cultural and educational experiences, reflecting the diversity and history of Bahia. Main Highlights of Salvador’s Museums Historical Collections: Exhibitions detailing the history of the city, from colonial times to the present day, including artefacts, documents and historical objects. Art and Culture: Collections of […]
Enjoy Salvador’s parks and squares. Discover the rich variety of green spaces and enjoy moments of leisure, culture and relaxation. Green areas and open spaces are a good alternative to exploring the city’s parks to enjoy the surroundings and make the most of your leisure time, as well as enjoying […]
1. History of the Forts of Salvador, Bahia The city of Salvador was founded with defence in mind: the Portuguese colonisers’ aim was to secure sovereignty over the territory. For this reason, the forts became the central elements of the colonial capital’s defensive system. Trenches, bastions and towers, positioned at […]
Discover the Must-See Places in Salvador: A Complete Guide to the Capital of Bahia History and culture Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is rich in history, culture and natural beauty, making it a destination brimming with interesting places to visit. Stunning beaches Salvador boasts stunning beaches, such as Praia do […]
Salvador combines history, culture and nature in activities that are perfect for families. We have selected attractions that combine fun and learning, with practical information to help you plan outings with children and teenagers. Tourist attractions for children and families 1. Monteiro Lobato Children’s Library — reading and workshops A […]
Salvador Carnival: Brazil’s largest popular festival Celebrating Carnival in Salvador is a unique experience. The Salvador Carnival is one of the biggest popular festivals in Brazil, very well organised and attracting more than 2.5 million revellers to the streets of Salvador. The joy of Bahia “Ah! Imagine, what a crazy […]
Salvador, one of Brazil’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities, offers a wide range of experiences and practices related to prostitution, sex, massage parlours, bars and nightclubs. This landscape is shaped by the city’s diversity and the interaction between its different urban, cultural and social environments. General context Prostitution in […]
Church and Convent of São Francisco — History, features and the beauty of the Baroque style in Salvador The Church and Convent of São Francisco, begun in the 17th century and completed in the 18th, are one of the finest examples of Portuguese Baroque architecture in Brazil and the most […]
The Pelourinho is a traditional neighbourhood in Salvador, the capital of Bahia, located in the heart of the Historic Centre of Salvador. Renowned worldwide for its colonial architecture in the Portuguese Baroque style, Pelourinho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in […]
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
