Salvador Da Bahia

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Salvador da Bahia

Welcome to Salvador da Bahia, the cultural and spiritual heart of Brazil! This vibrant city is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, music, art, and delicious food. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat, stay, and tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Places to Visit

  1. Historic Centre (Pelourinho): The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most colourful and vibrant areas in Brazil. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings, churches, and museums.
  2. Elevador Lacerda: This iconic elevator connects the upper city to the lower city and offers stunning views of the Bay of All Saints.
  3. Forte de Santa Maria: Visit this 18th-century fort for breathtaking views of the bay and the chance to learn about Salvador’s history as a major trading port.
  4. Igreja da Sé (Salvador Cathedral): This beautiful cathedral is one of the oldest in Brazil, built in 1595, and features stunning Baroque architecture.
  5. Mercado Modelo: Explore this bustling marketplace for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional food.

Activities

  1. Candomblé Ceremony: Experience the rich Afro-Brazilian culture by attending a Candomblé ceremony, where you can witness the spiritual and musical traditions of Salvador.
  2. Capoeira Classes: Learn the history and movements of this unique martial art that combines dance, acrobatics, and music.
  3. Street Art Tour: Discover the vibrant street art scene in Salvador’s historic centre with a guided tour.
  4. Surfing or Bodyboarding: Enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Bay of All Saints and take a lesson from one of the many local surf schools.
  5. Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Bahian dishes like acarajé, moqueca, and farofa with a cooking class.

Where to Eat

  1. Acarajé da Cebola: Try this iconic street food stand in the Mercado Modelo for delicious fried dough balls filled with shrimp or fish.
  2. O Papel do Povo: Enjoy traditional Bahian cuisine like feijoada and moqueca at this popular restaurant.
  3. Restaurante Irmãos da Lua: This upscale restaurant serves modern Brazilian cuisine using local ingredients.
  4. Bistrô da Catedral: Savor international cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, just steps away from the Salvador Cathedral.
  5. Bar do Mineiro: Visit this casual bar for a taste of authentic Bahian street food.

Where to Stay

  1. Pousada do Sol: Relax in this charming pousada with comfortable rooms and a lovely garden in the historic centre.
  2. Hotel Vila Galé Salvador: Enjoy modern amenities and stunning views of the bay from this upscale hotel.
  3. Hostel Casa de Ora: Experience hostel living in a beautiful, colonial-style house with shared rooms and a lively atmosphere.
  4. Airbnb: Choose from a wide range of apartments and houses for rent throughout the city.

Things to Know

  1. Safety: Salvador can be a challenging city, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  2. Weather: Salvador has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
  3. Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  4. Currency: The Brazilian Real (R$) is the local currency, although some places accept credit cards.

Transportation

  1. Taxis: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
  2. Uber: Uber operates in Salvador, but be aware that traffic congestion can lead to longer journey times.
  3. Metro: The Salvador Metro is a convenient way to travel between different parts of the city.
  4. Bus: Public buses (ônibus) are an affordable option for shorter journeys within the city.

Tips

  1. Learn some Portuguese: Show respect by learning basic phrases like “obrigado” (thank you) and “por favor” (please).
  2. Bring sunscreen: Protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
  3. Respect local customs: Salvador is a conservative city; dress modestly when visiting churches or attending cultural events.
  4. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay refreshed in the humid climate.

Other Things to Do

  1. Visit the nearby beaches: Enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Bay of All Saints, such as Porto da Barra and Farol da Barra.
  2. Explore the surrounding region: Visit the historic city of Cachoeira (35km north) or the scenic town of Lauro de Freitas (20km south).
  3. Attend a festival: Salvador hosts various festivals throughout the year, like the Salvador Carnival and the Festival do Iemanjá.
  4. Take a day trip to the nearby islands: Visit the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters on islands like Itaparica or Fernando de Noronha.

Conclusion

Salvador da Bahia is a vibrant city that offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in this incredible destination. Whether you’re interested in history, music, art, or adventure, Salvador will capture your heart and leave you wanting more.