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Salvador, Brazil’s first capital, is a city marked by its rich history, vibrant culture and impressive architecture.

Salvador’s sights and architectural heritage reflect the diversity of influences that have shaped the city over the centuries, from Portuguese colonisation to Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Salvador has countless sights, an architectural heritage, attractions such as beaches, historical sites, music and religiosity.

Salvador is one of the most beautiful and visited cities in Brazil.

Salvador has countless attractions and sights to suit all tastes: beaches and natural beauty, historical sites dating back to the beginning of Brazilian colonisation, lots of music, typical gastronomy, religiosity, capoeira, as well as having the biggest carnival in the world.

It’s impossible to think of Salvador and not immediately think of places like the Lacerda Elevator, Farol da Barra, Mercado Modelo, Pelourinho and Igreja do Senhor do Bonfim.

It’s no wonder that Salvador is known as the capital of joy, as it is very hospitable to all who visit it, welcoming visitors from all over the world with lots of smiles and offering the best and most surprising routes.

The mixture of races, creeds and colours has formed a unique culture in Salvador, which is present in all parts of the city, all year round, and can be appreciated in its most diverse manifestations, such as capoeira, candomblé, percussion, dances and carnival.

Salvador is among the sunniest cities in the world, the ideal climate for its 50 kilometres of beaches, spread between the upper and lower city, bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Bay of All Saints.

Salvador therefore offers the opportunity for a deep immersion in time and its historical events.

Salvador’s tourist attractions and architectural heritage

Discover the tourist attractions of Salvador de Bahia. Discover beaches, historical sites, music, religiosity and much more.

1. Historic Centre of Salvador – Cidade Alta

1.1. Pelourinho

• Church of the Third Order of St Francis
• Church of St Francis
• Church of the Rosary of the Blacks
• Passo Church
• Salvador Basilica Cathedral
• Church of St Peter of the Clerics
• Carmo Convent and the Church of Our Lady of Carmo
• Lacerda Lift

1.2. Tomé de Souza Square

• Tomé de Souza Palace
• Rio Branco Palace
• Salvador City Council
• Lacerda lift

1.3. Bars in Santo Antônio Além do Carmo

2. Lower town

1. Igreja Nosso Senhor do Bonfim (Our Lord of Bonfim Church)
2. Modelo Market
3. Fort of Our Lady of Monte Serrat
4. Humaitá Point
5. Museum of Sacred Art
6. Fort of São Marcelo or Fort of the Sea
7. Bahia Marina
8. Solar do Unhão
9. Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia Church
10. Beach of the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia – MAM
11. Sea bathing at Porto da Barra Beach
12. Barra Lighthouse
13. Our Lord of Bonfim Church
14. Bohemian Rio Vermelho
15. Gamboa neighbourhood
16. Basilica of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia
17. Church of Our Lady of the Seas
18. Churches in Salvador da Bahia – History and Architecture
19. Tourist attractions for families with children
20. Discover the 23 marvellous beaches of Salvador de Bahia
21. History and Culture of Bahia: Salvador’s 39 Museums
22. Itapuã Lighthouse
23. Santa Maria Fort

[Box style=”rounded”]1. Historic Centre of Salvador – Cidade Alta[/box]

The Historic Centre of Salvador is one of the richest in tourist attractions and architectural heritage in Brazil.

Main highlights of Salvador’s Historic Centre

1.1. Pelourinho – Tourist attractions and architectural heritage

The heart of the Historic Centre, known for its cobbled streets and colourful colonial buildings. It is an important cultural centre with many events and attractions. Pelourinho’s attractions include churches, museums, craft shops and restaurants.

In Pelourinho, located in the Historic Centre of Salvador, some of the main squares that stand out are:

1. Largo do Pelourinho (José de Alencar Square): The area’s most iconic centre, famous for its cluster of colourful colonial buildings and baroque churches. It’s a vibrant tourist spot, surrounded by museums, galleries and restaurants.
2. Terreiro de Jesus (Praça 15 de Novembro): One of the busiest squares in the Historic Centre, surrounded by several churches, including the Catedral Basílica de Salvador and the Igreja de São Pedro dos Clérigos. It is a place for cultural events and religious manifestations, with street vendors and capoeira performances.
3. Largo do Carmo: Located next to the Carmo Convent and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo, it is a quiet square that mixes baroque architecture with a more serene and historic atmosphere.
4. Largo do Cruzeiro de São Francisco: Famous for the presence of the Church and Convent of São Francisco, this square is home to one of the greatest jewels of the Brazilian Baroque. The stone cross in the centre of the square is a symbol of local religiosity.

Baroque churches in Pelourinho

• Church of the Third Order of St Francis: The Church of the Third Order of St Francis was built by the Franciscan lay order, also in the Baroque style, but with rococo influences. It stands out for its sculpted sandstone façade, considered one of the most beautiful in Latin America.
• Church of St Francis: The Church of St Francis is famous for its richly decorated gold interior and is one of the best examples of Brazilian Baroque. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century and its artistic and historical richness makes it one of Salvador’s greatest tourist attractions.
• Igreja do Rosário dos Pretos: An important symbol of Afro-Brazilian culture, built by slaves.
• Igreja do Passo: Another beautiful baroque church, located around the square.
• Catedral Basílica de Salvador: Formerly known as the Church of the College of Priests, it was an important religious and educational centre, where the poet Gregório de Matos studied and where Father Antônio Vieira preached.
• Church of São Pedro dos Clérigos: The church is an example of Baroque architecture, with ornamental features typical of the Brazilian colonial period.
• Convento do Carmo and Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo: The construction of the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo began at the beginning of the 17th century, more precisely in 1586, together with the Convento do Carmo. The church was built by the Carmelite Order, one of the most influential religious orders of the time.

Some buildings in Pelourinho, such as Solar do Ferão, house some of the city’s most important museums, such as the Abelardo Rodrigues Museum, the Jorge Amado House Foundation, the City Museum, the Portas do Carmo Museum and the Tempostal Museum.

1.2. Tomé de Souza Square

The Tomé de Souza Square is one of Brazil’s most emblematic in terms of history. Located in the Historic Centre of Salvador, the square is considered to be the cradle of Brazilian civilisation because it was the first to bring together all the public buildings in the then capital of the country.

Today, Praça Tomé de Souza is an unmissable stop-off point, notable for its imposing statue of Tomé de Souza and its breathtaking view of Todos os Santos Bay.

In the square, you’ll find important buildings and landmarks, including:

• Tomé de Souza Palace: Currently the seat of Salvador’s City Hall, it is one of the city’s main administrative buildings.
• Rio Branco Palace: Former seat of the Bahia government, now used for cultural events and exhibitions.
• Salvador Chamber of Councillors: The building where the city’s legislative activity takes place.
• Lacerda Lift: One of Salvador’s icons, linking the Upper Town to the Lower Town, offering a panoramic view of the city and the bay.

In addition to these landmarks, Praça Tomé de Souza is strategically positioned in front of the upper part of the Lacerda Elevator, consolidating its position as the nerve centre of public administration and an important tourist attraction in the city.

See Palaces in Salvador to visit and learn about Brazil’s history

1.3. Bars in Santo Antônio Além do Carmo

Located in the heart of Salvador’s historic centre, 500 metres from Pelourinho, Santo Antônio Além do Carmo is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the bohemian side of the city. As well as the old mansions and the cultural options, what stands out here are the bars.

As it is a popular neighbourhood, tourists can find well-prepared dishes at more affordable prices.

The neighbourhood also offers beautiful panoramic views of the bay, is home to the Church of Santo Antônio and has vintage shops, pastel-coloured houses and cafés. The whole artistic aura of the place adds to the charm of the walk.

[Box style=”rounded”]2. Cidade Baixa – Sights and architectural heritage[/box]

Salvador’s Lower City offers several tourist attractions that combine history, culture and beautiful landscapes.

The main points to visit

2.1. Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Church

The Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Church is one of the most famous churches in Brazil, dedicated to Senhor do Bonfim, the patron saint of Bahians.

The traditional festival of washing the steps, the colourful ribbons and the interior of the church with ex-votos offer a strong link between the sacred and the popular.

2.2. Mercado Modelo

The Mercado Modelo is one of Salvador’s best-known markets, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs and typical food. As well as shopping, the Mercado Modelo offers an excellent view of the Bay of All Saints and is close to the Lacerda Lift.

2.3. Forte de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat

The Forte de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat is one of the best preserved forts in Salvador, with colonial architecture that mixes Portuguese military elements. Strategically located at Ponta de Humaitá, it offers impressive views of the sunset over the bay.

2.4. Ponta de Humaitá

• Humaitá Lighthouse: The small lighthouse is one of the icons of Ponta de Humaitá, providing a beautiful photogenic landscape and being a landmark of tranquillity by the sea.
• Igreja de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat: The church was built in the 17th century and is part of the complex that includes the Forte de Nossa Senhora de Monte Serrat. It is one of the religious and architectural landmarks of the colonial era.

2.5. Sacred Art Museum

The UFBA Museum of Sacred Art was born as the first university museum in Bahia, exhibiting a rare and precious collection of Christian sacred art housed in one of Brazil’s most outstanding 17th century architectural complexes: the former Santa Teresa Convent.

In addition to the collection, some areas of the complex are used for recitals and music concerts. Furthermore, from the 146 windows of the Museum of Sacred Art you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bay of All Saints.

History of the Church of Santa Teresa or Museum of Sacred Art UFBa

2.6. Forte de São Marcelo or Forte do Mar

Forte de São Marcelo, also known as ‘Forte do Mar’, is situated on a small island in Todos os Santos Bay.

The circular fort is accessible by boat and offers a historical tour and spectacular views of the city.

2.7. Bahia Marina

Bahia Marina is a marina complex where boats from all over the world arrive, with bars, restaurants and a beautiful view. It’s a great place to relax, dine and enjoy the scenery along Todos os Santos Bay.

2.8. Solar do Unhão

Solar do Unhão is a historic architectural complex that houses the Bahia Museum of Modern Art (MAM). In addition to the museum and exhibitions, Solar do Unhão is known for its cultural events and its panoramic view of the bay.

2.9. Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia Church

The third church built on the same site in honour of the saint of devotion of the city’s founder, Tomé de Souza, was begun in 1736.

The current construction of the Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia Church, with its neoclassical façade and interior decoration inspired by the Joanine Baroque, was completed in 1849. The stones that make up the church’s façade were brought from Lioz in Portugal.

The towers, arranged diagonally, give the temple its original monumentality.

2.10. Bahia Museum of Modern Art beach – MAM

Prainha do MAM is a cove with calm crystal-clear waters, and is a privileged spot from which to observe Todos os Santos Bay. The place is next to the Sculpture Park, which adds even more charm to both the walk and the route to the beach.

Access to the beach is free. It is recommended that tourists arrive early and bring what they are going to eat. There are street vendors selling drinks and food, and chairs and parasols for hire.

2.11. Sea bathing at Porto da Barra Beach

Porto da Barra is one of the most beautiful beaches in Salvador and was voted the 3rd best beach in the world by The Guardian!

Porto da Barra is located between the Forts of São Diogo and Santa Maria and is very popular for swimming, as its waters are very calm and blue.

Porto da Barra is popular for water sports such as windsurfing, diving and stand up paddle, for example.

In the surrounding area, beautiful historic buildings enrich the view and the walk, such as the Forts of Santa Maria and São Diogo. The Barra Lighthouse is also close by. The beach is also a great location for watching the sunset.

2.12. Barra Lighthouse

The Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra, the real name of the Barra Lighthouse, is also one of the best-known tourist attractions that tourists need to see up close.

With a 22 metre high tower, this construction was the first to be built in Brazil, in 1534, and it also houses the Bahia Nautical Museum.

From the top of the tower, you can have an incredible panoramic view of Praia da Barra, which, as well as being beautiful, makes it an extremely photogenic spot.

2.13. Nossa Senhor do Bonfim Church

The Nosso Senhor do Bonfim Church took 20 years to build, between the middle and end of the 18th century.

It is one of Salvador’s postcards, whether because of its faith, its neoclassical architecture or its collection of paintings by José Teófilo, a famous 18th century Bahian painter. This is where the famous Bonfim ribbons, a typical Salvadoran amulet, are distributed.

2.14. Bohemian Rio Vermelho

If you’re looking for a lively nightlife, the Rio Vermelho neighbourhood is the place to be. Considered Salvador’s most famous entertainment centre, it’s where the main restaurants, bars, clubs and parties are located.

If you want to experience the atmosphere on the streets, try going to Largo de Santana or Largo da Mariquita, where you can sit at tables on the pavement to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

2.15. Gamboa neighbourhood

The Gamboa neighbourhood is characterised by the coastal community, secularly inhabited by fishermen, located at the south-western entrance to Todos os Santos Bay, close to the centre of Salvador.

Gamboa – which is home to the communities of Solar do Unhão and Gamboa de Cima e de Baixo – is bordered by Avenida Contorno and embraced by Todos os Santos Bay. No, that’s not an exaggeration.

2.16. Basílica de Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia

The Basílica Santuário Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia, also known as the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia, is located in the Lower City of Salvador, Bahia. It is just a few metres from the Lacerda Elevator and the Mercado Modelo.

The Basilica has a special feature that deserves to be emphasised: it was prefabricated in Portugal. The numbered parts were transported by caravel across the Atlantic Ocean and finally assembled in Brazil.

2.17. Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Mares

Nossa Senhora dos Mares Church is the only church in Bahia built in the neo-Gothic style, characterised by its verticality and pointed towers.

2.18. Churches in Salvador da Bahia – History and Architecture

Salvador da Bahia has 160 churches scattered around the city, true monuments from the 17th and 18th centuries that illustrate the power of Catholicism at the time.

See Churches in Salvador da Bahia – History and Architecture

2.19. Tourist attractions for families with children

Salvador has great tourist attractions that delight parents and children, such as the Monteiro Lobato Children’s Library, the zoo and the city park.

2.20. Discover the 23 marvellous beaches of Salvador de Bahia

Salvador’s beaches are much more than coconut palms, shade and warm waters, they are a bath in history, fun and leisure.

2.22. History and Culture of Bahia: Salvador’s 39 Museums

The city of Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is one of Brazil’s greatest cultural centres, rich in history, traditions and artistic expressions. Its 39 museums offer a deep dive into the cultural diversity of the region, with collections ranging from sacred and colonial art, through Afro-Brazilian culture to contemporary art.

Each museum in Salvador is a window into the city’s history, from colonisation to the modern period, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Bahian culture.

Discover the History and Culture of Bahia in Salvador’s 39 Museums

2.23. Itapuã Lighthouse

The Itapuã Lighthouse is one of Salvador’s most iconic landmarks, located in the Itapuã neighbourhood, famous for its beaches. Built in 1873, the lighthouse stands in the middle of one of the city’s most breathtaking landscapes, with white sands, crystal-clear waters and coconut trees that complete the typical Salvador scenery.

The surrounding area is ideal for relaxing, strolling along the waterfront and enjoying the rich cultural life of the neighbourhood, which is also known for its references in Brazilian popular music, such as in the famous song ‘Tarde em Itapuã’ by Vinícius de Moraes and Toquinho.

2.24. Fort of Santa Maria

The Fort of Santa Maria, located on Porto da Barra beach in Salvador, is one of the historic fortifications that form part of the defensive system of the Bay of All Saints. Built at the beginning of the 17th century, the fort was designed to protect the city from attacks by invaders, especially the French and Dutch. Its strategic position on the coast affords a privileged view of Todos os Santos Bay.

The fort has a simple and robust architecture, typical of the military fortifications of the time, and has undergone several renovations over the years. The Fort of Santa Maria currently houses the Pierre Verger Space for Bahian Photography, a permanent exhibition dedicated to the famous photographer and ethnologist Pierre Verger, with images that portray the culture and daily life of the Bahian people.

In addition to its historical and cultural importance, the fort is an excellent stop for tourists visiting Porto da Barra beach, one of the most popular in the city, famous for its calm waters and spectacular sunsets.

Tourist attractions and architectural heritage in Salvador de Bahia