Centro Histórico de Salvador: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discover Brazil's colonial heart in Salvador's Centro Histórico, a vibrant UNESCO site blending history, culture, and Afro-Brazilian traditions.
The Centro Histórico de Salvador, also known as Pelourinho, is a vibrant UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Brazil's rich colonial past through colorful architecture, cobblestone streets, and a strong Afro-Brazilian culture. It was the first capital of Brazil, from 1549 to 1763, and has managed to preserve Renaissance buildings.
A brief summary to Centro Histórico de Salvador, Bahia
- Salvador, Centro, State of Bahia, 40080-001, BR
Local tips
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the architecture and explore the local markets.
- Try the local street food, especially acarajé, for an authentic taste of Bahia.
- Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.
- Consider taking a guided walking tour for in-depth historical insights.
Getting There
-
Walking
The Centro Histórico is best explored on foot. Start at Praça da Sé, a central point, and walk towards the historic streets. Follow signs for Centro Histórico, and don't hesitate to ask locals for directions. Be aware that some streets are steep and cobbled.
-
Public Transport
From the Barra neighborhood, take a bus towards 'Centro' or 'Praça da Sé'. From the bus station or city center, take the metro to the 'Lapa' station and transfer to a bus to 'Praça da Sé'. A one-way metro fare is R$4.10. Bus fares are around R$5.20.
-
Taxi/Rideshare
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available. Input 'Centro Histórico' as your destination. A taxi from the airport to the city center (including Centro Histórico) typically costs between R$80 and R$120. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost around R$15-20.
Discover more about Centro Histórico de Salvador, Bahia
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
São Marcelo Fort
0.9 km
Explore Salvador's iconic cylindrical sea fort, a historical landmark with panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints.
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.
Bahia Museum of Art
2.9 km
Discover 5,000+ works of art at Bahia's oldest museum, featuring Brazilian, Oriental, and European collections in a historic palace setting.
Carlos Costa Pinto Museum
3.1 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
3.2 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)
3.8 km
Explore the historical Englishmen Cemetery in Salvador, Bahia, a unique landmark reflecting British influence and heritage since the early 19th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
Centro Histórico de Salvador, Bahia
0.0 km
Explore the vibrant streets of Centro Histórico de Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, culture, and Bahian flavor.
Largo Terreiro de Jesus
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Salvador at Largo Terreiro de Jesus, where history, culture, and culinary delights come together in a stunning plaza.
Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA
0.0 km
Uncover the profound impact of African heritage on Brazil's cultural identity at the Afro-Brazilian Museum UFBA in Salvador.
Praça Terreiro de Jesus
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Salvador at Praça Terreiro de Jesus, where culture, history, and local flavors come together in a lively town square.
O cravinho
0.0 km
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
0.0 km
Explore Brazil's rich cultural heritage at the Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia da UFBA in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Bahia Experience
0.0 km
Explore Largo Terreiro de Jesus in Salvador's Pelourinho: a vibrant square where history, culture, and stunning architecture converge.
Church of Saint Peter of the Clergymen
0.0 km
Explore the exquisite Church of Saint Peter of the Clergymen in Salvador, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture rich in history and cultural significance.
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.
Igreja Ordem Terceira São Domingos Gusmão
0.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of Igreja Ordem Terceira São Domingos Gusmão in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Praça da Sé
0.1 km
Explore the historical charm of Praça da Sé, a vibrant square in Salvador, Brazil, rich in culture, architecture, and local traditions.
Casa do Carnaval da Bahia
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Bahia at Casa do Carnaval, a museum celebrating the heart of Brazilian Carnival in Salvador's historic Pelourinho district.
Cruzeiro de São Francisco
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Cruzeiro de São Francisco, a must-visit cathedral in Salvador, Brazil.
Praça Sé
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant cultural heart of Salvador at Praça Sé, a historic square surrounded by stunning architecture and lively local activities.
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
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Salvador at Clube do Samba, where music, dance, and local flavors create an unforgettable experience.
Bar Preto Velho
0.1 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.
