Elevador Lacerda, Central West Region Travel Guide

4.5 (53198)

Experience a ride through history on Salvador's iconic Elevador Lacerda, connecting two cities with breathtaking views of the Bahia de Todos os Santos.

The Elevador Lacerda, an iconic elevator in Salvador, Brazil, connects the Cidade Baixa (lower city) and Cidade Alta (upper city). Built in 1873, it's one of the world's first urban elevators and a major landmark, offering stunning views of the historic center and All Saints Bay.

A brief summary to Elevador Lacerda

Praça Tomé de Souza, S/N, Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40020-000, BR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Elevador Lacerda.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer crowds.
Combine your visit with a trip to the Mercado Modelo in the lower city for local crafts and souvenirs.
Explore the historic Pelourinho neighborhood, easily accessible from the upper city exit of the elevator.

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Explore Elevador Lacerda on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Elevador Lacerda, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Mercado Modelo, walk towards the main street and head to Praça da Sé. Continue to Praça Tomé de Souza, where the Elevador Lacerda is located. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
Public Transport

Take a bus heading towards the city center of Salvador. Look for buses that pass through the Centro area and get off at the stop closest to Praça Tomé de Souza. The bus fare is typically around R$3.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Use a taxi or ride-sharing app like Uber and input 'Elevador Lacerda' or 'Praça Tomé de Souza' as the destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting location, but expect to pay between R$20 to R$50 for a ride within Salvador. Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the time of day and availability.

Discover more about Elevador Lacerda

The Elevador Lacerda is more than just a means of transportation; it's a historical and cultural symbol of Salvador. Connecting the lower city (Cidade Baixa) to the upper city (Cidade Alta), this 72-meter elevator offers a quick and scenic ride.Inaugurated on December 8, 1873, the Elevador Lacerda was initially called the Elevador da Conceição. It was designed by Antônio de Lacerda to solve the challenge of traversing the steep escarpment that divides Salvador. Originally operated by a hydraulic system, it was electrified in 1906. The elevator's Art Deco facade, a result of a 1930 renovation, has become its trademark.The elevator has four lifts, each capable of carrying around 32 passengers. The ride takes about 30 seconds and provides panoramic views of the Bahia de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay), Mercado Modelo, and Forte de São Marcelo. At the top, visitors arrive at the Praça Tomé de Souza in the upper city, surrounded by historical buildings and cultural attractions.The Elevador Lacerda is a must-visit attraction, offering not only a unique mode of transport but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Salvador's rich history and culture.