5 Must-See Highlights in Salvador, Brazil

Salvador, the capital of the state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil, is one of the country’s most culturally rich and historically significant cities. Known for its Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial architecture, vibrant music, and stunning coastal scenery, Salvador offers visitors an unforgettable travel experience. If you're planning a Brazil trip, here are five unmissable highlights in Salvador:

The neighborhood of Pelourinho is the beating heart of Salvador’s colonial past and Afro-Brazilian culture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its cobblestone streets are lined with pastel-colored buildings, ornate churches, and museums.
Visitors can:

• Admire the Igreja de São Francisco, one of the most opulent baroque churches in Brazil.
• Enjoy live capoeira performances in the squares.
• Visit cultural institutions such as the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, which showcases the African roots of Bahian identity.

Pelourinho is not just a historical area - it’s alive with music, dance, and art at every corner.

The Elevador Lacerda is an iconic 19th-century elevator that connects the upper city (Cidade Alta) with the lower city (Cidade Baixa). From the top, enjoy panoramic views over the Baía de Todos os Santos.
At the base, explore Mercado Modelo, a bustling market offering local crafts, souvenirs, and Bahian delicacies. It’s an excellent place to try traditional sweets, browse artworks, and watch local artisans at work.

The Igreja de Nosso Senhor do Bonfim is a major pilgrimage site and an important symbol of Bahian spirituality. Famous for its white façade and the colorful "fitinhas do Bonfim" (ribbons tied to the church gates), it's a blend of Catholic and Afro-Brazilian religious traditions.
Don’t miss:

• The Lavagem do Bonfim festival in January, where thousands of people parade from the lower city to the church in white clothing.
• Lighting a candle or tying a ribbon with a wish – a local tradition with deep spiritual meaning.

Just outside the city center lies the serene Dique do Tororó, a lake surrounded by greenery and leisure areas. What makes it unique are the statues of the Orixás (deities from the Afro-Brazilian Candomblé religion), rising from the water and offering a powerful visual tribute to Bahia’s African heritage.
This is a perfect stop for a relaxing stroll, paddleboat ride, or a quick escape from the urban buzz.

Salvador boasts some of Brazil’s most beautiful urban beaches. Porto da Barra is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its calm waters, golden sand, and sunsets.
For more beach time:

• Visit Praia do Farol da Barra, with its lighthouse and surf-friendly waves.
• Or venture a bit farther to Praia de Itapuã, immortalized in Brazilian music and ideal for a more tranquil escape.

Salvador is a city that doesn’t just show its culture- it lives and breathes it in everyday life. From colonial heritage to vibrant African roots, from music in the streets to tranquil beaches, it offers a multifaceted experience that few other places can match.
At Aventura do Brasil, we are happy to help you integrate Salvador into your personalized Brazil vacation. Whether you want to explore the city in depth, or combine it with other stunning destinations like Chapada Diamantina or the Bahian coast, Salvador is always worth the stop.

Sources: https://guia.melhoresdestinos.com.br/salvador-bahia.html, https://guia.melhoresdestinos.com.br/passeios-salvador-16-127-p.html, https://pelourinhodiaenoite.salvador.ba.gov.br/o-centro-historico