Rio Branco Palace: A Window into Bahia's History
Explore centuries of Brazilian history at the Rio Branco Palace, a landmark in Salvador's UNESCO-listed historic center.
The Rio Branco Palace, dating back to 1549, stands as a powerful symbol of Salvador's rich history. Once the seat of the Portuguese government, it has witnessed centuries of Brazilian history and now houses the Bahia State Secretariat of Culture and the Memorial of the Governors. Visitors can explore its opulent interiors and enjoy stunning views of the Bay of All Saints.
A brief summary to Rio Branco Palace
- Praça Tomé de Souza, S/N, Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40020-000, BR
- +55713116-6928
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Take your time exploring the Memorial of the Governors to fully appreciate the historical artifacts on display.
- Don't miss the panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints from the palace's ground floor.
Getting There
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Walking
The Rio Branco Palace is located in the heart of Salvador's historic center, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From the Lacerda Elevator, it's a short walk across the Praça Tomé de Souza. As you exit the elevator, the palace will be on your right.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, take a bus or the metro to a stop in the city center. From the Campo da Pólvora metro station, it's a 15-20 minute walk to the palace. Alternatively, bus 1001 from the airport goes to Praça da Sé in Pelourinho, which is close to the palace. A single metro ticket costs around R$4.10, and a bus ticket is approximately R$5.20.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available in Salvador. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Rio Branco Palace will typically cost between R$10 and R$20, depending on traffic. An Uber from the airport to Pelourinho (near the palace) costs around R$50. Be sure to confirm the fare or meter usage before starting your trip.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador
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Praça da Sé - Comercio
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Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal
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Escadaria Sambazete
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Forte de São Pedro
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PASTEL DA BINA/Tempero do Camaleon
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Monumento do Dois de Julho (Caboclo)
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Square Two July
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Pé do Caboclo
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Bahia Museum of Art
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Casa de Oxumarê
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Carlos Costa Pinto Museum
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Paróquia Nossa Senhora da Vitória
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Englishmen Cemetery (British Cemetery)
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Carybé Arts Space - São Diogo Fort
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Unmissable attractions to see
Praça Thomé De Souza
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Monumento a Tomé de Souza
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Elevador Lacerda
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Memorial of the City of Salvador
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Centro Histórico
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Cultural Afro Brazilian Museum
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Museu do Mercado Modelo
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Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia
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Monumento à Cidade de Salvador - BA
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Museum of Mercy
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Praça do Mercado
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Memorial das Baianas
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Cidade da Música da Bahia
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Museum of Brazilian Music
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Praça Castro Alves
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Essential places to dine
Caravelas Bar e Restaurante
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Restaurante Fasano Salvador
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Mariposa
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Odoyá
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Boteco do Pelourinho
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O Coliseu
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Cuco Bistrô
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Bar and Restaurant Axego
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Sorriso da Dadá
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Restaurante Pelô Bistrô
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Restaurante Uauá
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Donna Pimenta
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Amado
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Soho
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Restaurante Lafayette
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shopping do Pelô
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Salvador Bahia
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Coração da Bahia
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Viabrasilmodaearte
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Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho
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Sol da Terra Artesanatos Artigos para Presente e Confe
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Sal da Terra - Pelourinho
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Dendê
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Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê
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O Blokão
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Super C
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Shopping do Pelourinho
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Boutique A Mulherada
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Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hidden Salvador
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Clube do Samba
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Conforto Bar e Restaurante
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Bar Preto Velho
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Sala do reboco
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Passarela Do Álcool
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Negro's Bar
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Owl's den - Toca da coruja bar
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Bar Cravo & Canela
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Kibe & Cia
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Bar Zulu
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Ponto Vital Santo Amaro
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Bar do Carmo
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Di Janela - Gastronomia, Restô, Bar
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Bar do Léo
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