Centro Histórico: Salvador's Historic Heart
Explore Salvador's UNESCO-listed historic center, a vibrant tapestry of colonial architecture and Afro-Brazilian culture.
Step back in time in Salvador's Centro Histórico, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This vibrant district showcases well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful facades, and a rich Afro-Brazilian heritage. Explore historical monuments, churches, and cultural landmarks that narrate Brazil's captivating past.
A brief summary to Centro Histórico
- Salvador, Centro Histórico, State of Bahia, 40026-180, BR
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit, populated areas.
- Bargain respectfully when shopping for souvenirs.
- Try the local Bahian cuisine, a fusion of African, Portuguese, and Indigenous flavors.
- Visit during the week for a less crowded experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Praça da Sé, a central point in Salvador, walk towards the historic streets of the Centro Histórico. You'll pass landmarks like the Elevador Lacerda, which connects the lower city to the upper city, offering a scenic start to your exploration. Follow the signs for Centro Histórico, and don't hesitate to ask locals for directions. The elevator ride costs R$0.15.
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Public Transport
If starting from the Barra neighborhood, take a bus heading towards 'Centro' or 'Praça da Sé'. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From the airport, take bus 1001 to Praça da Sé in Pelourinho; the fare is R$5.20. Alternatively, take the metro from the airport to Campo da Pólvora station (R$4.10), a short distance from Pelourinho.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Use a ride-sharing app like Uber or 99 to reach Centro Histórico. Input 'Centro Histórico' or the address 'Centro Histórico, Salvador - State of Bahia, 40026-180'. A ride from the airport to Pelourinho typically costs around R$50. Taxis are also readily available.
Discover more about Centro Histórico
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prefeitura Municipal de Salvador
0.2 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.
Praça da Sé - Comercio
0.3 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.
Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal
0.6 km
Explore Brazil's economic past through coins, medals, and historical artifacts at the Museum Eugenio Teixeira Leal in Salvador's Pelourinho.
Escadaria Sambazete
0.9 km
Discover Salvador's vibrant art scene at Escadaria Sambazete, a colorful staircase offering stunning views and a taste of Bahian culture.
Forte de São Pedro
1.5 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)
1.7 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
1.7 km
Discover Salvador's vibrant heart at Square Two July: history, culture, and natural beauty converge in this iconic urban oasis.
Pé do Caboclo
1.7 km
Discover Pé do Caboclo in Salvador: a landmark celebrating Bahia's independence and rich cultural heritage in a vibrant, historical setting.
PASTEL DA BINA/Tempero do Camaleon
1.8 km
Savor authentic Brazilian pastries at PASTEL DA BINA in Salvador's Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, offering delicious flavors and stunning bay views.
Bahia Museum of Art
2.4 km
Discover 5,000+ works of art at Bahia's oldest museum, featuring Brazilian, Oriental, and European collections in a historic palace 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.
Carlos Costa Pinto Museum
2.6 km
Explore Brazilian decorative arts and immerse yourself in the opulent world of Bahia's colonial elite at this Salvador museum.
Paróquia Nossa Senhora da Vitória
2.8 km
Discover a historic Catholic church in Salvador, Bahia, with stunning architecture, religious art, and a peaceful atmosphere in a vibrant local square.
Englishmen Cemetery (British Cemetery)
3.4 km
Explore the historical Englishmen Cemetery in Salvador, Bahia, a unique landmark reflecting British influence and heritage since the early 19th century.
Carybé Arts Space - São Diogo Fort
3.6 km
Explore the art of Carybé in a historic fort with stunning ocean views. A modern tribute to Bahian culture through technology.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rio Branco Palace
0.1 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Rio Branco Palace, a key cultural attraction in Salvador, Bahia, showcasing the region's vibrant heritage.
Cultural Afro Brazilian Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Cultural Afro Brazilian Museum in Salvador, a vibrant tribute to Afro-Brazilian history, art, and identity.
Memorial of the City of Salvador
0.1 km
Explore Salvador's rich heritage at the Memorial of the City of Salvador, a captivating museum that showcases the city's historical and cultural evolution.
Praça Castro Alves
0.1 km
Explore Praça Castro Alves, a vibrant town square in Salvador, where culture, history, and local artistry converge in a stunning setting.
Monumento a Tomé de Souza
0.1 km
Discover the captivating history of Salvador at the Monumento a Tomé de Souza, a symbol of colonial heritage and a must-see landmark.
Praça Thomé De Souza
0.1 km
Explore the historic Praça Thomé De Souza, a vibrant square in Salvador filled with culture, architecture, and delicious local cuisine.
Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia
0.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia in Salvador, a stunning Catholic church rich in history and vibrant culture.
Elevador Lacerda
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and a journey through Salvador's vibrant history at the iconic Elevador Lacerda, a must-visit for all travelers.
Theater Gregório de Matos
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Salvador at Theater Gregório de Matos, where performing arts come alive in an enchanting setting.
Irmandade do Ss Sacramento e Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia
0.2 km
Discover the beauty and serenity of Irmandade do Ss Sacramento e Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia, a historical church in Salvador, Bahia, that captivates with its architecture and spirituality.
Monumento à Cidade de Salvador - BA
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Bahia at the Monument to the City of Salvador, a stunning tribute to the region's rich cultural heritage and history.
Monumento a Castro Alves
0.2 km
Discover the Monumento a Castro Alves, a cultural gem in Salvador honoring the legacy of Brazil's beloved poet and activist, set in a vibrant urban landscape.
Museu do Mercado Modelo
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Salvador's culture at Museu do Mercado Modelo, where history, art, and local craftsmanship come together in one vibrant space.
Tour by foot Salvador - Free Walking Tour
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and history of Salvador at Praça Castro Alves, a landmark square honoring the poet Castro Alves.
Praça do Mercado
0.2 km
Explore the lively Praça do Mercado in Salvador, where vibrant stalls and rich Bahian culture come together for an unforgettable marketplace experience.
Essential places to dine
Caravelas Bar e Restaurante
0.1 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
0.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at Restaurante Fasano Salvador - where authentic Italian flavors meet luxurious ambiance.
Mariposa
0.4 km
Discover authentic Bahian cuisine at Mariposa in Pelourinho – a culinary journey through Salvador's rich flavors.
Odoyá
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Bahian cuisine at Odoyá, where fresh seafood meets vibrant culture in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Boteco do Pelourinho
0.4 km
Discover vibrant flavors and traditional dishes at Boteco do Pelourinho in Salvador's historic heart.
O Coliseu
0.4 km
Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at O Coliseu in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district - where every dish tells a story.
Cuco Bistrô
0.5 km
Experience Salvador's vibrant culinary scene at Cuco Bistrô with exquisite seafood dishes, refreshing cocktails, and captivating live music.
Amado
0.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Amado in Salvador, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Bar and Restaurant Axego
0.6 km
Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Axego Bar and Restaurant in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Sorriso da Dadá
0.6 km
Experience authentic Bahian seafood at Sorriso da Dadá in Pelourinho – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Pelô Bistrô
0.6 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Pelô Bistrô in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district, where fresh seafood meets local tradition.
Restaurante Uauá
0.7 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Restaurante Uauá in Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district—where flavor meets culture.
Soho
0.7 km
Discover Soho in Salvador: A premier destination for authentic Japanese cuisine and exquisite sushi creations.
Donna Pimenta
0.7 km
Experience authentic Bahian cuisine at Donna Pimenta in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district – where tradition meets flavor!
Restaurante Lafayette
0.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining in Salvador's Comercio district at Restaurante Lafayette - where fresh flavors meet Bahian hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shopping do Pelô
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of Bahia's artistry at Shopping do Pelô, a gift shop filled with unique local crafts and unforgettable souvenirs.
Salvador Bahia
0.4 km
Discover the artistic treasures of Salvador Bahia's gift shops in the historic Pelourinho district, where culture comes alive.
Coração da Bahia
0.5 km
Discover vibrant beachwear at Coração da Bahia in the heart of Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district, where local culture meets coastal fashion.
Viabrasilmodaearte
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant Viabrasilmodaearte in Salvador for unique fashion and art that reflects the rich Bahian culture.
Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant culture of Salvador at Pierim Souvenirs - Pelourinho, where unique local crafts and friendly service await.
Maria Mata Mouro
0.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Bahian cuisine at Maria Mata Mouro, a culinary treasure in the heart of Salvador's vibrant Pelourinho.
Sol da Terra Artesanatos Artigos para Presente e Confe
0.5 km
Discover the essence of Bahia at Sol da Terra Artesanatos, where handcrafted gifts and local art reflect Salvador's vibrant culture.
Sal da Terra - Pelourinho
0.5 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.
Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê
0.5 km
Explore Afro-Brazilian fashion at Boutique Do Ilê Aiyê, a cultural gem in Salvador's Pelourinho district, offering unique clothing and accessories.
Dendê
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Bahia at Dendê, your go-to souvenir store in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
O Blokão
0.6 km
Explore your artistic side at O Blokão in Salvador, where creativity meets community and a treasure trove of art supplies awaits.
Super C
0.6 km
Explore Super C in Salvador for an unforgettable shopping experience, featuring trendy clothing and unique accessories that embody Brazilian culture.
Zunjie Shao Com Imp de Presentes
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant gift shop in Salvador, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Bahia.
Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant beachwear and lingerie styles at Atrevida Lingerie e Moda Praia, a must-visit fashion destination in Salvador, Brazil.
Boutique A Mulherada
0.7 km
Explore your creativity at Boutique A Mulherada, a vibrant art supply store in the historic Pelourinho district of Salvador, Brazil.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hidden Salvador
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salvador at Hidden Salvador, where local culture meets refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Passarela Do Álcool
0.3 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.
Conforto Bar e Restaurante
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and rich culture of Bahia at Conforto Bar e Restaurante in the heart of Pelourinho, Salvador.
Clube do Samba
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Salvador at Clube do Samba, where music, dance, and local flavors create an unforgettable experience.
Bar Preto Velho
0.4 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
0.4 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.
Negro's Bar
0.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Salvador at Negro's Bar, where authentic cuisine and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable memories.
Owl's den - Toca da coruja bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Owl's Den - Toca da Coruja Bar in Pelourinho, where culture meets unforgettable cocktails.
Bar Zulu
0.6 km
Discover the lively Bar Zulu in Salvador, where authentic Brazilian cuisine meets vibrant ambiance, perfect for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bar Cravo & Canela
0.6 km
Experience Salvador's vibrant nightlife at Bar Cravo & Canela, a cozy bar in the heart of Pelourinho, serving up authentic Brazilian drinks.
Kibe & Cia
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Bahia at Kibe & Cia, a lively bar located in the heart of Salvador's Pelourinho district.
Ponto Vital Santo Amaro
0.6 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
0.8 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.
Di Janela - Gastronomia, Restô, Bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Salvador at Di Janela, where culinary tradition meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Bar do Léo
1.0 km
Discover the lively spirit of Salvador at Bar do Léo, where delicious drinks and local culture come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
