Salvador Da Bahia 2 Day Itinerary

Salvador da Bahia 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start your day at the famous Elevador Lacerda, a historic elevator that connects the Lower City to the Upper City. Enjoy stunning views of the city from the top.
  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Visit the Catedral Basílica de Salvador, a beautiful colonial-style cathedral with impressive architecture and ornate decorations.

Lunch:

  • Head to Restaurante Maria de São Pedro in the historic center, serving traditional Bahian cuisine like moqueca (seafood stew) and acarajé (fried dough filled with peanuts or shrimp).

Afternoon:

  • 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM: Explore the vibrant Pelourinho neighborhood, known for its colorful colonial architecture, lively streets, and Afro-Brazilian cultural influences. Visit the famous Largo do Pelourinho square.
  • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Stop by the Museu Afro-Brasileiro, dedicated to the history and culture of Afro-Brazilians.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurante O Navegador, offering a range of seafood dishes and stunning views of the Bay of All Saints.
  • Experience Salvador’s lively nightlife in the Barra neighborhood, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 2:

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Take a ferry to Ilha de Itaparica, an island located off the coast of Salvador. Relax on the beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Conceição or Praia do Forte.

Lunch:

  • Try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants on the island, like Restaurante O Farol.

Afternoon:

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the Fortaleza de São Marcelo, a historic fort with stunning views of the surrounding waters.
  • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Return to Salvador and explore the bustling Mercado Modelo, a large market selling everything from handicrafts to local food.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Restaurante Uauá, serving contemporary Bahian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • End your evening with a stroll along the Avenida Contorno, a scenic waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the bay.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Porto Bay Salvador: A luxurious hotel located in the historic center, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Pousada do Pilar: A charming guesthouse with cozy rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, situated in the heart of Pelourinho.

Things to Know:

  • Salvador is known for its Afro-Brazilian cultural influences, so be prepared to experience rich music, dance, and art.
  • The city has a tropical savanna climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Stay hydrated and wear light clothing.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to use licensed ones with a green band on the side.
  • Bus: Salvador has an extensive bus network, including buses that connect the city center to outlying neighborhoods.
  • Walking: The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a great way to explore the area.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks in the historic center.
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Bay of All Saints.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Festival de São João: A lively festival celebrating Saint John, usually held in June.
  • Carnival: Salvador’s Carnival celebration is one of the largest and most vibrant in Brazil, typically taking place in February or March.
  • Day Trips: Consider visiting nearby beaches like Porto de Sauípe or Praia do Forte, or exploring the scenic town of Cachoeira.