Centro Histórico de Salvador: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discover Brazil's colonial heart in Salvador's UNESCO-listed Centro Histórico, a vibrant mix of culture, history, and stunning architecture.
The Centro Histórico de Salvador, also known as Pelourinho, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that encapsulates Brazil's rich colonial history. As the first capital of Brazil, it showcases a blend of European, African, and Amerindian cultures through its architecture, music, and cuisine. Wander through its cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historical gem.
A brief summary to Centro Histórico de Salvador, Bahia
- Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40080-001, BR
Local tips
- Explore the area during the day to fully appreciate the colorful architecture and visit local markets.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, to prevent pickpocketing.
- Try the local street food, such as acarajé, for an authentic taste of Bahia.
- Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos to experience a Catholic mass incorporating African cultural elements.
- Consider taking a guided walking tour to gain in-depth historical insights and stories about the area.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Elevador Lacerda, which connects the lower city (Cidade Baixa) to the upper city (Cidade Alta), exit the elevator and walk into the Centro Histórico. The elevator ride costs R$0.15. Once at the top, you'll find yourself in the heart of the historical district, ready to explore its colonial architecture and cultural landmarks.
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Public Transport
From Salvador Airport (SSA), take the subway to the Acesso Norte station; the fare is R$4.10. Transfer to a bus heading to the Centro Histórico; the bus fare is R$5.20. Alternatively, bus 1001 runs directly from the airport to Praça Castro Alves in Centro, a 10-minute walk to Pelourinho, for R$5.20. The total journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Sharing
From Salvador Airport (SSA), a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber or 99) to Centro Histórico typically costs around R$50-R$140, depending on traffic and time of day. The ride takes approximately 40 minutes. There are taxi stands outside the airport terminal.
Discover more about Centro Histórico de Salvador, Bahia
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Praça Terreiro de Jesus
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Experience the vibrant heart of Salvador at Praça Terreiro de Jesus, a historic square brimming with culture, architecture, and Bahian traditions.
Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal
0.1 km
Explore Brazil's economic past through coins, medals, and historical artifacts at the Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal in Salvador's Pelourinho.
Praça da Sé - Comercio
0.1 km
Discover Praça da Sé in Salvador: a vibrant square where history, culture, and local life blend seamlessly in the heart of Bahia's capital.
Largo Pedro Arcanjo
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Salvador at Largo Pedro Arcanjo, a historic square in Pelourinho hosting music, art, and culinary delights.
Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador
0.3 km
A modern city hall in a historic square, the Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador blends contemporary design with the rich heritage of Brazil's first capital.
Escadaria Sambazete
0.4 km
Discover Salvador's vibrant art scene at Escadaria Sambazete, a colorful staircase offering stunning views and a taste of Bahian culture.
Centro Histórico
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant history and culture of Centro Histórico in Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colorful streets, rich traditions, and local flavors.
Monumento à Cidade de Salvador - BA
0.5 km
Discover Salvador's iconic landmark: a symbol of history, art, and resilience in the heart of Bahia's vibrant capital.
Praça Castro Alves
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Salvador at Praça Castro Alves, a historic square offering stunning views and a rich cultural atmosphere.
PASTEL DA BINA/Tempero do Camaleon
1.3 km
Savor authentic Brazilian pastries at PASTEL DA BINA in Salvador's Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, offering delicious flavors and stunning bay views.
Forte de São Pedro
1.9 km
Explore Salvador's Forte de São Pedro: a historic fortress with stunning ocean views, offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past.
Monumento do Dois de Julho (Caboclo)
2.2 km
A majestic sculpture in Salvador's Campo Grande, celebrating Bahia's pivotal role in Brazil's independence and rich cultural heritage.
Square Two July
2.2 km
Discover Salvador's vibrant heart at Square Two July: history, culture, and natural beauty converge in this iconic urban oasis.
Pé do Caboclo
2.2 km
Discover Pé do Caboclo in Salvador: a landmark celebrating Bahia's independence and rich cultural heritage in a vibrant, historical setting.
Casa de Oxumarê
2.5 km
Experience Afro-Brazilian spirituality at Casa de Oxumarê, a historic Candomblé temple in Salvador, Bahia. A vibrant center of culture and tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
Largo Terreiro de Jesus
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Discover the vibrant cultural scene at Largo Terreiro de Jesus in Salvador, Bahia—where history, art, and delicious cuisine come alive.
Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA
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Explore the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA in Salvador's Pelourinho: A cultural treasure trove celebrating African heritage and its impact on Brazil.
O cravinho
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Experience the authentic flavors of Bahia at O Cravinho, a legendary Pelourinho bar serving traditional infused cachaças since the 1980s.
Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia da UFBA
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Explore Brazil's diverse heritage at Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia da UFBA in Salvador's historic Pelourinho.
Bahia Experience
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Explore Largo Terreiro de Jesus in Salvador's Pelourinho: a vibrant square where history, culture, and stunning architecture converge.
Cathedral of Salvador
0.1 km
Discover Brazil's sacred art at the Cathedral Basilica of Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Pelourinho.
Pelourinho
0.1 km
Explore Pelourinho, Salvador: a vibrant UNESCO site blending colonial history with Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and art.
Casa do Carnaval da Bahia
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant history and culture of Bahia's world-famous Carnival at this interactive museum in Salvador's Pelourinho district.
Estátua Dom Pedro Fernandes Sardinha
0.1 km
Commemorating Brazil's first bishop, this statue in Pelourinho's Praça da Sé offers a glimpse into Salvador's colonial past and vibrant culture.
Museu Tempostal
0.2 km
Explore a captivating collection of postcards & photographs showcasing Salvador's history at this Pelourinho museum.
Museu Abelardo Rodrigues
0.2 km
Discover Brazilian sacred art in a historic setting at the Museu Abelardo Rodrigues, located in Salvador's vibrant Pelourinho district.
Fallen Cross Monument
0.2 km
A modern monument in Salvador's historic Pelourinho, commemorating a lost cathedral and offering stunning bay views.
Church and Convent of San Francisco
0.2 km
Discover the opulent Church and Convent of San Francisco in Salvador, a dazzling display of Brazilian Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Balé Folclórico da Bahia
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture of Bahia through captivating dance and music at the internationally acclaimed Balé Folclórico in Pelourinho.
Museum of Mercy
0.2 km
Discover Bahia's rich history and cultural heritage at the Museum of Mercy, housed in a historic 17th-century building in Salvador's Pelourinho.
Essential places to dine
Mariposa
0.1 km
Discover authentic Bahian cuisine at Mariposa in Pelourinho – a culinary journey through Salvador's rich flavors.
Odoyá
0.1 km
Experience the essence of Bahian cuisine at Odoyá, where fresh seafood meets vibrant culture in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Cuco Bistrô
0.1 km
Experience Salvador's vibrant culinary scene at Cuco Bistrô with exquisite seafood dishes, refreshing cocktails, and captivating live music.
Boteco do Pelourinho
0.1 km
Discover vibrant flavors and traditional dishes at Boteco do Pelourinho in Salvador's historic heart.
O Coliseu
0.1 km
Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at O Coliseu in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district - where every dish tells a story.
Bar and Restaurant Axego
0.1 km
Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Axego Bar and Restaurant in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Sorriso da Dadá
0.1 km
Experience authentic Bahian seafood at Sorriso da Dadá in Pelourinho – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Pelô Bistrô
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Pelô Bistrô in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district, where fresh seafood meets local tradition.
Restaurante Uauá
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Uauá in Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district—where flavor meets culture.
Donna Pimenta
0.2 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Donna Pimenta in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district – where tradition meets flavor!
Caravelas Bar e Restaurante
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant tastes of Brazil at Caravelas Bar e Restaurante – where authentic cuisine meets a lively cocktail experience in Salvador.
Restaurante Fasano Salvador
0.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurante Fasano Salvador - where authentic Italian flavors meet luxurious ambiance.
Ristorante La Cucina
1.0 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante La Cucina in Salvador's Nazaré neighborhood – where every dish tells a story.
Amado
1.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Amado in Salvador, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Poró Restaurante & Bar
1.1 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Poró Restaurante & Bar in Salvador - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shopping do Pelô
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of Bahia's artistry at Shopping do Pelô, a gift shop filled with unique local crafts and unforgettable souvenirs.
Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Salvador at Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho, where unique local crafts and friendly service await.
Viabrasilmodaearte
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant Viabrasilmodaearte in Salvador for unique fashion and art that reflects the rich Bahian culture.
Sol da Terra Artesanatos Artigos para Presente e Confe
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Bahia at Sol da Terra Artesanatos, where handcrafted gifts and local art reflect Salvador's vibrant culture.
Salvador Bahia
0.1 km
Discover the artistic treasures of Salvador Bahia's gift shops in the historic Pelourinho district, where culture comes alive.
Sal da Terra - Pelourinho
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Sal da Terra, a unique clothing store in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district, reflecting Bahia's rich culture.
Dendê
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Bahia at Dendê, your go-to souvenir store in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Coração da Bahia
0.1 km
Discover vibrant beachwear at Coração da Bahia in the heart of Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district, where local culture meets coastal fashion.
Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê
0.2 km
Explore Afro-Brazilian fashion at Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê, a cultural gem in Salvador's Pelourinho district, offering unique clothing and accessories.
Maria Mata Mouro
0.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Bahian cuisine at Maria Mata Mouro, a culinary treasure in the heart of Salvador's vibrant Pelourinho.
Boutique A Mulherada
0.2 km
Explore your creativity at Boutique A Mulherada, a vibrant art supply store in the historic Pelourinho district of Salvador, Brazil.
Shopping do Pelourinho
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant world of fabrics at Shopping do Pelourinho, where Salvador's rich culture comes alive through colorful textile creations.
O Blokão
0.3 km
Explore your artistic side at O Blokão in Salvador, where creativity meets community and a treasure trove of art supplies awaits.
Super C
0.3 km
Explore Super C in Salvador for an unforgettable shopping experience, featuring trendy clothing and unique accessories that embody Brazilian culture.
Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant beachwear and lingerie styles at Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia, a must-visit fashion destination in Salvador, Brazil.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Clube do Samba
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Discover the vibrant essence of Salvador at Clube do Samba, where music, dance, and local flavors create an unforgettable experience.
Bar Preto Velho
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Salvador at Bar Preto Velho, a lively bar in the historic Pelourinho district, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local drinks.
Sala do reboco
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salvador at Sala do Reboco, a bar that offers authentic local flavors and lively music in the heart of Pelourinho.
Bar Cravo & Canela
0.1 km
Experience Salvador's vibrant nightlife at Bar Cravo & Canela, a cozy bar in the heart of Pelourinho, serving up authentic Brazilian drinks.
Negro's Bar
0.1 km
Discover the lively spirit of Salvador at Negro's Bar, where authentic cuisine and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable memories.
Kibe & Cia
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Bahia at Kibe & Cia, a lively bar located in the heart of Salvador's Pelourinho district.
Conforto Bar e Restaurante
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and rich culture of Bahia at Conforto Bar e Restaurante in the heart of Pelourinho, Salvador.
Owl's den - Toca da coruja bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Owl's Den - Toca da Coruja Bar in Pelourinho, where culture meets unforgettable cocktails.
Bar Zulu
0.2 km
Discover the lively Bar Zulu in Salvador, where authentic Brazilian cuisine meets vibrant ambiance, perfect for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ponto Vital Santo Amaro
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant energy of Ponto Vital Santo Amaro, a cultural bar in Salvador's Pelourinho district, offering local drinks and live music.
Bar do Carmo
0.4 km
Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Salvador at Bar do Carmo, where local culture and delicious drinks await in the heart of Pelourinho.
Hidden Salvador
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salvador at Hidden Salvador, where local culture meets refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Di Janela - Gastronomia, Restô, Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Salvador at Di Janela, where culinary tradition meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Passarela Do Álcool
0.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Passarela Do Álcool, a vibrant bar in Salvador known for its cocktails and local charm, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar do Léo
0.6 km
Discover the lively spirit of Salvador at Bar do Léo, where delicious drinks and local culture come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
