Salvador, Brazil is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in South America. Located on the northeast coast of Brazil, Salvador is the capital of the state of Bahia and is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and amazing nightlife. With its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the Bay of All Saints, Salvador is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil. From its bustling downtown to its colorful beaches, there are plenty of things to do and see in Salvador. Here are the top 20 places to see in Salvador, Brazil.
1. Pelourinho
Pelourinho is the historic center of Salvador and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. Here you can find many churches, museums, restaurants, and shops. Pelourinho is also the home of many Afro-Brazilian cultural events, such as the Festival de Música de Salvador, which is a music and dance festival held annually in February.
2. Elevador Lacerda
Elevador Lacerda is a landmark in Salvador and is one of the oldest elevators in the world. It was built in 1873 and connects the lower and upper parts of the city. The elevator is 72 meters high and offers stunning views of the bay.
3. Mercado Modelo
Mercado Modelo is a large market in Salvador and is a great place to buy souvenirs. Here you can find handmade crafts, art, jewelry, and clothes. The market is also home to many restaurants, bars, and cafes.
4. Praia do Forte
Praia do Forte is a stunning beach located about an hour north of Salvador. The beach is known for its crystal clear waters and white sand. It is also home to the Praia do Forte Eco-Resort, which offers a variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.
5. Farol da Barra
Farol da Barra is a lighthouse located at the entrance of the Bay of All Saints. It was built in 1531 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Brazil. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the bay and the city of Salvador.
6. Cidade Alta
Cidade Alta is a neighborhood located in the hills of Salvador. It is known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the bay. Here you can find many restaurants, bars, and shops.
7. Igreja de Nosso Senhor do Bonfim
Igreja de Nosso Senhor do Bonfim is a church located in the historic center of Salvador. It is known for its stunning baroque architecture and is one of the most popular churches in the city.
8. Mercado do Peixe
Mercado do Peixe is a fish market located in the historic center of Salvador. Here you can find a variety of fresh seafood, as well as restaurants and cafes.
9. Praça da Sé
Praça da Sé is a square located in the historic center of Salvador. It is known for its colonial architecture and is home to the Catedral da Sé, which is the oldest cathedral in Brazil.
10. Itapuã Beach
Itapuã Beach is a stunning beach located about an hour south of Salvador. The beach is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. It is also home to the Itapuã Eco-Resort, which offers a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.
11. Parque da Cidade
Parque da Cidade is a large park located in the hills of Salvador. It is known for its stunning views of the bay and the city. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
12. Mercado Modelo
Mercado Modelo is a large market located in the historic center of Salvador. Here you can find a variety of souvenirs, such as handmade crafts, art, jewelry, and clothes.
13. Igreja do Senhor do Bonfim
Igreja do Senhor do Bonfim is a church located in the historic center of Salvador. It is known for its stunning baroque architecture and is one of the most popular churches in the city.
14. Farol de Itapuã
Farol de Itapuã is a lighthouse located about an hour south of Salvador. It was built in 1876 and offers stunning views of the bay and the city.
15. Praça Municipal
Praça Municipal is a large square located in the historic center of Salvador. It is known for its colonial architecture and is home to the Catedral da Sé, which is the oldest cathedral in Brazil.
16. Praia de Stella Maris
Praia de Stella Maris is a stunning beach located about an hour north of Salvador. The beach is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. It is also home to the Stella Maris Eco-Resort, which offers a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.
17. Museu Afro-Brasileiro
Museu Afro-Brasileiro is a museum located in the historic center of Salvador. It is dedicated to the history and culture of Afro-Brazilians. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including traditional clothing, musical instruments, and artifacts.
18. Praça Castro Alves
Praça Castro Alves is a square located in the historic center of Salvador. It is known for its colonial architecture and is home to the Teatro Castro Alves, which is one of the most popular theaters in the city.
19. Praia de Porto da Barra
Praia de Porto da Barra is a stunning beach located about an hour south of Salvador. The beach is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. It is also home to the Porto da Barra Eco-Resort, which offers a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.
20. Farol de Barra
Farol de Barra is a lighthouse located at the entrance of the Bay of All Saints. It was built in 1531 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Brazil. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the bay and the city of Salvador.