Salvador Da Bahia 2 Day Itinerary

Salvador da Bahia 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning

  • 9:00 am - 10:30 am: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café São Jorge, located in the historic center of Salvador. Try their famous acarajé (fried dough filled with shrimp or peanuts) and a strong Brazilian coffee.
  • 11:00 am - 12:30 pm: Visit the Elevador Lacerda, a historic elevator that connects the lower city to the upper city. Enjoy stunning views of the bay and take some great photos.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Head to Praça da Sé, the main square in Salvador’s historic center, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings. Visit the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador and explore the nearby streets filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Take a stroll along the Waterfront (Orla), where you can enjoy the ocean views, street food, and local vendors selling handicrafts.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Experience the Afro-Brazilian culture by watching a Capoeira show at Centro Cultural Solar do Unhão. Capoeira is a traditional Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music.
  • 10:00 pm - late: End your day with dinner and drinks at Barra, a popular neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife.

Day 2:

Morning

  • 9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Visit the Museum of Afro-Brazilian Culture (MAFRO), which showcases the history and culture of African descendants in Brazil.
  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Take a break for lunch at Restaurante Maria de São Pedro, serving traditional Bahian cuisine.

Afternoon

  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Explore the Pelourinho neighborhood, known for its colorful colonial houses, charming streets, and lively atmosphere. Visit the Jorge Amado House Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the famous Brazilian writer.
  • 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Relax at Praia do Porto da Barra, a popular beach with calm waters, perfect for a sunset swim or stroll.

Where to Stay

Consider staying in the historic center or nearby neighborhoods like Barra or Vitória, which offer a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Porto Bay Salvador: A 5-star hotel with stunning ocean views.
  • Pousada do Pilar: A charming guesthouse in the historic center.

Things to Know

  • Salvador is known for its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • The city has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. Stay hydrated and wear light, comfortable clothing.
  • Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.

Transportation

  • Taxis: widely available, but make sure to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like 99Taxis or Uber.
  • Bus: an affordable option, with routes covering most areas of the city. You can buy tickets at newsstands or use a rechargeable card.
  • Walking: Salvador’s historic center is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a great way to explore the neighborhood.

Tips

  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like bus stations or markets.
  • Try to learn some basic Portuguese phrases to show respect for the local culture.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water instead.

Other Things of Interest

  • Carnival: If you’re traveling during Carnaval season (February-March), be prepared for parades, street parties, and non-stop music and dancing.
  • Day Trips: Consider taking a day trip to nearby islands like Itaparica or Frades, which offer stunning beaches and scenic views.

Enjoy your time in Salvador da Bahia!