Salvador Da Bahia 3 Day Itinerary

September 7, 2024

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Vibrant Soul of Salvador

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the historical charm, cultural immersion, and vibrant atmosphere of Salvador da Bahia. It’s a starting point – you can customize it based on your interests!

Day 1: Historical Charm & Colonial Delights

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Pelourinho, the historic heart of Salvador. Explore its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant squares.
- Things to do:
  - Stroll through the Rua Pelourinho and admire the beautifully preserved Portuguese architecture.
  - Visit the Church of São Francisco, a stunning example of Baroque architecture with intricate gold carvings.
  - Explore the Mercado Modelo, a vibrant market for souvenirs, crafts, and local treats.
  - Immerse yourself in the history of the city at the Pelourinho Museum or Afro-Brazilian Museum.
- Where to eat:
  - Lunch: Enjoy traditional Bahian food with a modern twist at Casa do Chocolate, savoring their delicious chocolate dishes and drinks.
  - Dinner: Savor the flavors of Salvador’s African and Brazilian heritage with a meal at Odoyá in the Pelourinho, known for its excellent seafood and live music.
Where to stay: For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in the historic center of Pelourinho itself. This will put you within walking distance of many attractions and allow you to soak up the ambiance of this vibrant neighborhood.**
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the cobblestone streets.
- Carry a small amount of cash for street vendors and smaller restaurants, as not all places accept credit cards.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables in public.

Day 2: Beaches, History & Culture

Morning: Relax on the pristine sands of Praia do Farol da Barra, a beautiful beach with stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Afternoon: Enjoy the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a dip in the sea or try out some water sports like surfing, kitesurfing, or stand-up paddleboarding.
- Lunch: Grab a casual lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants in Barra, enjoying fresh seafood and local Bahian cuisine with a seaside ambiance.
Things to see:
- Sao Salvador Church: Explore the history and architecture of this iconic landmark, a testament to Brazil’s colonial past.
- Elevador Lacerda: Take a ride on this historic elevator that connects the upper and lower cities of Salvador.
- Pelourinho: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and explore more of the charming streets of Pelourinho.
Tip: Visit the Mercado de São Joaquim for a taste of local life and delicious Bahian snacks.
Things to do:
- Relax on the beach: Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at Itapuã Beach known for its beautiful sunsets and relaxed vibe.
  - Afternoon: Take a walk along the Farol da Barra, the historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the ocean and the city.

Evening:

* Enjoy a traditional **Bahian dinner** in the Pelourinho district.
* Immerse yourself in **live music** at one of the many bars and restaurants.
* **Tip:** The **Mercado Modelo** hosts lively music events in the evenings.

Day 3: Historical Sites & Local Experiences

Morning: Explore the Church of Our Lady of Bonfim, known for its vibrant murals and religious significance.
Afternoon: Visit the Igreja de São Francisco and experience the beauty and history of this iconic church.
- Things to do:
  - Take a tour of the Pelourinho and learn about its colonial past, vibrant culture, and role in Brazilian history.
  - Enjoy a delicious acarajé for lunch from a street vendor in Omotos (a neighborhood with a strong connection to Afro-Brazilian culture)

Evening:

* Enjoy a traditional **Bahian dinner** at **Casa de Tereza**, renowned for its authentic dishes and charming atmosphere.
* Visit **the Pelourinho Museum** for an evening performance or take a cooking class to learn how to make these delicious dishes yourself.

Things to consider for your trip:

Accommodation:
- Budget: Stay in the Barra district for a vibrant, hostel-friendly experience.
- Mid-range: Explore the charming guesthouses and pousadas (smaller inns) in the historic Pelourinho area.
- Luxury: Indulge in a stay at one of the many boutique hotels in the Pelourinho.

Day 3: Day Trip Options

Visit Itaparica Island: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the island and experience local life.
Explore the beaches of Ilha de Itamaracá: This island is accessible by ferry from Itapuã and offers stunning beaches for relaxation and exploration.
Food & Drinks:
- Bahian Cuisine: Be sure to try delicious Bahian dishes like Moqueca (fish stew), acarajé (deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters), and vatapá (shrimp and fish stew) at the restaurants and bars in the historic districts.
Things to consider for your accommodation:
- Book in advance: This is especially important during peak season, as hotels can fill up quickly.
- Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and practice common sense safety measures.
- Budget: Consider staying in a guesthouse or hostel in the Pelourinho to save money.

Tip: Explore Salvador’s beaches beyond the Pelouriro:

Visit Praia do Forte: A beautiful beach with a nature reserve, perfect for nature lovers and those who want to see sea turtles up close.
Learn about local culture at the Museu de Arte Moderna da Bahia (MAM):

Enjoy the historical charm:

Things to consider:
- Budget:
  - Transportation: The historic districts are easily walkable, but taxis and Uber are available for convenience.
Local Transport: Salvador offers a variety of transportation options within the city.
Public Transportation: Buses and “ônibus” (bus) are the most common and affordable modes.
Taxis: Safe and reliable, but negotiate fares beforehand.

Taxis & “Ônibus” (Buses):

Taxi/Ride-hailing services: Be sure to use official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps.
Use caution on public transportation: Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of pickpockets.
Things to consider:
- Safety first: Use common sense, avoid crowded buses, and travel during daylight hours if possible.**
“Opa” (Taxi/Ride-hailing) -

Use a taxi app or ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi service. Taxis are readily available on the street or through apps like Uber and 99.

For those who want to stay in the historical area:

Explore the Pelourinho: This vibrant neighborhood is a must-see for anyone visiting Salvador, with its colorful colonial buildings, charming streets, and lively atmosphere.
Experience the Elevador Lacerda: Take this iconic elevator to enjoy the beautiful views of the city and the bay.**

Things to do:

Enjoy traditional Bahian food: Explore the culinary delights of the region like acarajé, vatapá, moqueca (try the “Praça da Sé” for a taste of local flavors).
Visit local markets: For authentic experiences and souvenirs, explore the vibrant street markets.
Relax on the beach:
- Enjoy the beaches: Barra’s beaches are a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.

Tip:

Explore the Pelourdo market for a variety of local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.
Visit the historic Mercado de São Joaquim, where you can find delicious traditional food and drinks in addition to “Iemanjá” offerings.

Things to see:

Explore the Mercado de São Joaquim:
Enjoy the beaches:
- The Pelourinho is a great place to enjoy local life, with its vibrant markets, street vendors, and delicious food stalls.
Visit the historic churches:
- Try the “Icarajé”, a traditional Brazilian dish made from ground black-eyed peas and often served in the “Pelourinho” as a snack.
Enjoy the nightlife: The Pelourinho comes alive at night with live music, bars, and restaurants.

Important note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be tailored to your interests and timeframe. Remember to research specific attractions, opening hours, and transportation options before your trip.