Salvador, Brazil 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Pelourinho

  • Morning: Arrive at Dep. Luis Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA) and transfer to your accommodation. Recommended places to stay: Casa do Amarelindo or Pousada Teresa Maria.

  • Afternoon: Settle in and head out to explore Pelourinho, Salvador’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Church of São Francisco with its Baroque interior and Ladeira da Oliveira street known for its colorful houses and artisan shops.

  • Evening: Dine at Restaurante Casa do Forte, offering traditional Bahian cuisine in a charming setting. Don’t miss their moqueca (seafood stew).

Day 2: African-Bahian Museum & Mercado Modelo

  • Morning: Visit the Museu Afro-Brasileiro (African-Brazilian Museum) to learn about the rich African cultural influence in Bahia.

  • Afternoon: Explore Mercado Modelo, a large market selling everything from local crafts and food to traditional clothing.

  • Evening: Dine at Restaurante Solar da Barriguda, known for its acarajé (a fritter made of beans and manioc flour) and other Bahian specialties.

Day 3: Igreja do Bonfim & Barra Lighthouse

  • Morning: Visit the Igreja do Bonfim, famous for its traditional hand-knotted yarn offerings, and take part in a short tour to learn about its history.

  • Afternoon: Head to the Barra Lighthouse (Farol da Barra) and enjoy panoramic views of All Saints Bay and the city. You can also relax on Praia do Porto da Barra, one of Salvador’s most popular beaches.

  • Evening: Dine at Restaurante Garô dos Todos Santos, located near the Igreja do Bonfim, offering a variety of Bahian dishes.

Day 4: Costa do Sauípe & Departure

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Costa do Sauípe, a beautiful beach resort with crystal-clear waters and numerous activities like kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the sand.

  • Afternoon: Return to Salvador and prepare for your departure. Have lunch at Restaurante Vagabundos, located in Barra, known for its unique atmosphere and tasty food options.

  • Evening: Transfer to Dep. Luis Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA) for your flight home.

Things to Know:

  • Salvador’s weather is tropical, with high temperatures year-round, so pack lightweight clothing and sunscreen.
  • Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak Brazilian Portuguese, which can be different from European Portuguese.
  • Taxi scams are common in Salvador. Use reputable companies like Yakuza Táxi or Top Taxi.
  • Bahia’s state capital has a vibrant nightlife with many samba and forró clubs; consider joining a favela walking tour to experience this culture safely.
  • Tip generously, as it is customary in Brazilian culture.