Elevador Lacerda, Salvador Travel Guide

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Experience Salvador from Above: Ride the historic Elevador Lacerda for breathtaking views and a unique journey between two cities.

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Elevador Lacerda

The Elevador Lacerda is one of Salvador's most iconic landmarks, connecting the Cidade Baixa (lower city) and Cidade Alta (upper city) with a swift, 30-second ride. This historic elevator offers stunning panoramic views of the Baía de Todos os Santos (All Saints Bay) and the Mercado Modelo.

A brief summary to Elevador Lacerda

Praça Tomé de Souza, S/N, Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40020-000, BR
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Monday 6 am-11 pm
Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
Thursday 6 am-11 pm
Friday 6 am-11 pm
Saturday 7 am-10 pm
Sunday 7 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during sunset for stunning views of the city and the bay.
Bring your camera—photo opportunities are abundant, especially at the top.
Check the elevator's operational hours in advance.
Explore the surrounding Praça Tomé de Souza for local shops and eateries.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Buraco da Sereia

Marco de Fundação da Cidade do Salvador

Joventino Silva City Park

City Museum

Balé Folclórico da Bahia

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Getting There

Walking

From Praça Tomé de Souza (Cidade Alta), the entrance to Elevador Lacerda is directly accessible. After visiting the Palácio Rio Branco or Câmara Municipal, walk towards the edge of the square overlooking the bay; the elevator entrance is clearly visible. No costs involved.
Public Transport

From the Mercado Modelo (Cidade Baixa), the base of the Elevador Lacerda is a short walk across Praça Cairu. Upon exiting the market, the elevator tower is visible. The elevator ride itself costs R$0.15. Several bus lines stop near the Mercado Modelo, including 1230, 1372, 1627 and others. Bus fares typically around R$3.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services (such as Uber) are readily available throughout Salvador. A short trip from Barra or Ondina to Elevador Lacerda (Praça Tomé de Souza) typically costs between R$20 and R$50, depending on traffic and time of day. This is a convenient option, especially with luggage.

Discover more about Elevador Lacerda

The Elevador Lacerda, inaugurated in 1873, stands as the first urban elevator in the world, revolutionizing urban mobility in Salvador. Conceived by Antônio de Lacerda, it addresses the geographical challenge of Salvador's division into two levels.Originally called the Elevador da Conceição, it was strategically located near the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia. The elevator's construction was a family affair, with Antônio Francisco de Lacerda, his father, playing a key role, along with his brother Augusto Frederico de Lacerda. In 1896, it was renamed Elevador Lacerda, honoring its creator.In 1906, the elevator adopted an electric system, and in 1930, it received its Art Deco facade. Today, the 72-meter-tall structure has four cabins that transport passengers between the Praça Tomé de Souza in the upper city and the Praça Cairu in the lower city. Each cabin can carry up to 32 passengers.The Elevador Lacerda is more than just a mode of transport; it's a historical and cultural symbol of Salvador. A ride on the elevator provides an immersive experience into the city's history and culture, offering a unique perspective of Salvador.