Salvador Da Bahia-5-day-itinerary
5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Salvador da Bahia
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Historic Center
- Morning: Arrive at Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA) and take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation in the historic center.
- Accommodation: Stay at Pousada do Porto or similar, which offers comfortable rooms and a great location.
- Breakfast: Head to Café da Praça, a cozy spot serving delicious coffee and pastries.
- 9:00 AM: Visit the iconic Elevador Lacerda, which connects the lower city to the upper city. Enjoy stunning views of the bay.
- 10:30 AM: Explore the historic center, including the Praça Municipal, Catedral Basílica, and Palácio da Aclamação.
- Lunch: Try some traditional Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Maria de São Pedro or similar.
- Afternoon: Visit the Afro-Brazilian Museum (Museu Afro-Brasileiro) to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Salvador.
- Evening: Enjoy live music and street food at the lively Praça da Sé.
Day 2: Beaches and Coastal Views
- Morning: Take a bus or taxi to the coastal neighborhood of Barra (approximately 30 minutes).
- Beach Time: Relax on the stunning Porto da Barra beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque views.
- Lunch: Grab some fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants, like Restaurante Ostra or similar.
- Afternoon: Visit the iconic Farol da Barra lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Evening: Return to the historic center and enjoy dinner at a local institution, Restaurante Carneiro.
Day 3: Afro-Brazilian Culture and Nightlife
- Morning: Visit the famous Salvador street market, Feira de São Joaquim (Monday and Saturday only).
- Lunch: Try some traditional Bahian snacks at a street food stall or a local eatery like Café do Mercado.
- Afternoon: Explore the Afro-Brazilian cultural center, Casa de Yemanjá, which offers workshops, exhibitions, and performances.
- Evening: Experience Salvador’s vibrant nightlife in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood, where you’ll find bars, clubs, and live music venues like Bar Onde É Que É.
Day 4: Island Hopping and Water Sports
- Morning: Take a ferry to the nearby island of Itaparica (approximately 1 hour).
- Beach Time: Relax on one of the island’s stunning beaches, such as Praia da Conceição or Praia de São Lourenço.
- Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant like Restaurante Ilha Bella or similar.
- Afternoon: Try your hand at water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, or even surfing lessons.
- Evening: Return to Salvador and enjoy dinner at a local favorite, Restaurante Dois de Fevereiro.
Day 5: Colonial Architecture and Departure
- Morning: Visit the colonial neighborhood of Santo Antônio, known for its picturesque streets and colorful buildings.
- Lunch: Grab some lunch at a local bakery or café in the area.
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful São Francisco Church and Convent, a stunning example of Baroque architecture.
- Departure: Head back to the airport (approximately 30 minutes) for your departure flight.
Things to Know
- Salvador is known for its Carnival celebrations, which take place in February or March. If you’re planning to visit during this time, book accommodations and activities well in advance.
- The city has a complex history of slavery and colonialism. Be respectful of the local culture and traditions, and consider visiting museums and cultural centers to learn more about the city’s rich heritage.
Transportation
- Taxis: widely available, but be sure to negotiate prices beforehand.
- Uber: operates in Salvador, offering a convenient and affordable option.
- Bus: an efficient way to get around the city, with many routes covering popular areas.
- Ferry: connects Salvador to nearby islands like Itaparica.
Tips
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to help you navigate the city.
- Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and take necessary precautions.
- Try to avoid traveling during peak hour (7-9 am) when possible, as traffic can be intense.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Other Things of Interest
- Visit the famous Bonfim Church, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful views.
- Take a day trip to the nearby town of Cachoeira, which offers a glimpse into rural Bahian life.
- Explore Salvador’s vibrant street art scene, with many colorful murals adorning building walls throughout the city.
Enjoy your time in Salvador da Bahia!