Private Salvador City Tour - Driving & Walking

Salvador da Bahia , Brazil

Private Salvador City Tour - Driving & Walking

Active

(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Old City of Salvador is an intriguing cultural mix of local Indigenous & African People and European heritage. I feel ready to make your trip the most enjoyable experience.

Available options

Private Salvador City Tour - Driving & Walking

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Tour guide service

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will start our tour at the Farol da Barra, where we will enjoy the spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean and the entrance to the bay. This neighborhood was the first Portuguese settlement in America.

Stop 2

Pelourinho, the old city of Salvador, was built in the Cidade Alta (upper city), as an acropolis. We will discover the extraordinary history and architecture of Salvador, as well as the rich mix of cultures that makes it such a unique city in all of Brazil. You will be taken on an in-depth adventure through its historical center, with its pastel colored houses and streets paved in cobllestones, home of the first capital of Brazil.

Formerly, the chapel of the largest Jesuit seminary outside Rome, the Basilica Cathedral is currently considered one of the most beautiful churches of Brazil decorated in baroque & mannerist styles. Its sacristy is considered the largest in South America.

Stop 4

The first church & Monastary built by the Franciscans in South America is one of the most stunning decorated baroque style churches in Brazil. The opulent interior features ceder woodcarvings, covered in gold leaf. This church houses the largest collection of Portuguese tiles outside of Portugal.

What's not included

Lunch

personal expenses

Tickets to Basilica Cathedral

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Salvador da Bahia

Salvador da Bahia, often simply called Salvador, is a vibrant coastal city in northeastern Brazil. Known for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and lively Carnival celebrations, Salvador is a city that captivates visitors with its unique blend of history, music, and natural beauty. The historic Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past, while the lively neighborhoods of Barra and Rio Vermelho provide a taste of its modern, cultural vibrancy.

Top Attractions

Pelourinho

The historic heart of Salvador, Pelourinho is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. It's home to numerous churches, museums, and art galleries, as well as lively bars and restaurants.

Historical Half day to full day Free to enter the area, individual attractions may have fees

Elevador Lacerda

This iconic Art Deco elevator connects the upper and lower parts of Salvador, offering stunning views of the city and the bay. It's a symbol of Salvador and a must-visit attraction.

Architecture 15-30 minutes Free to ride

Farol da Barra

This historic lighthouse is one of the oldest in Brazil and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding park is a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Mercado Modelo

This large market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, crafts, and local products. It's located in the historic center and is easily accessible from the Lacerda Elevator.

Shopping 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary

Praia do Farol da Barra

This beautiful beach is located near the Farol da Barra lighthouse and offers a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean. It's one of the most popular beaches in Salvador and is known for its clear waters and golden sand.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Pelourinho Square

This iconic square is the heart of the Pelourinho district and is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, churches, and museums. It's a great place to soak up the history and culture of Salvador.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moqueca

A traditional Bahian seafood stew made with fish, shrimp, and spices, cooked in coconut milk and palm oil. It's typically served with rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and pirão (a thick sauce made from cassava flour and broth).

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy (coconut milk).

Acarajé

Deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters stuffed with spicy shrimp paste, vatapá (a creamy paste made from bread, shrimp, and spices), and sometimes other fillings like heart of palm or caruru (a leafy green vegetable).

Snack Vegetarian if ordered without the shrimp paste filling.

Bobó de Camarão

A creamy coconut sauce made with shrimp, cassava flour, and spices. It's typically served with rice and farofa.

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy (coconut milk).

Coxinha

A popular Brazilian snack made from shredded chicken, cream cheese, and spices, rolled in dough and deep-fried. It's typically served with a side of tomato sauce.

Snack Contains chicken and dairy (cream cheese).

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Surfing Kayaking Zip-lining Beach lounging Sunbathing Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season in Salvador, with warm temperatures and high humidity. It's the best time to experience the city's famous Carnival and enjoy the beaches. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

28°C to 32°C 82°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

UTC-3 (Brasília Time, BRT)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Salvador is a vibrant and exciting city, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, can also occur, especially at night and in isolated areas. It's important to be cautious and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Cabify.

Getting there

By air

Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal Rodoviário de Salvador

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Salvador is the primary mode of public transportation. It's affordable and covers most of the city, including the historic center and beach areas. However, buses can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option for tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: 99 Taxis, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pelourinho Barra Rio Vermelho Comércio Itaigara

Day trips

Praia do Forte

85 km (53 miles) from Salvador • Full day

This beautiful beach is located about an hour's drive from Salvador and is known for its clear waters, golden sand, and stunning coastline. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean, as well as explore the nearby TAMAR Project, which is dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles.

Morro de São Paulo

150 km (93 miles) from Salvador • Overnight

This beautiful island is located about 3 hours from Salvador and is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and laid-back vibe. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the ocean, as well as explore the island's historic sites and natural beauty.

Cachoeira

120 km (75 miles) from Salvador • Full day

This historic town is located about 2 hours from Salvador and is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. It's a great place to explore the region's history and culture, as well as enjoy the town's laid-back vibe and delicious local cuisine.

Festivals

Carnival • February or March (depending on the date of Easter) Lavagem do Bonfim • January Yemanjá Festival • February 2nd

Pro tips

Visit the historic Pelourinho district in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try some local street food, such as acarajé and coxinha, for a taste of Bahian cuisine.
Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and culture from a local expert.
Explore the city's many beaches, such as Praia do Farol da Barra and Praia do Forte, for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Attend a traditional Capoeira performance or candomblé ceremony to experience the city's rich Afro-Brazilian heritage.