Top reasons to visit Salvador
- Stunning Beaches: Salvador boasts beautiful beaches like Porto da Barra, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Immerse yourself in Salvador's vibrant culture through historic churches, fascinating museums, and traditional music venues.
- Capoeira Lessons: Experience Brazil's iconic martial art, capoeira, with lessons available for all skill levels.
- Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to charming pousadas, catering to every traveller's needs.
- Welcoming Locals: The friendly locals enhance your visit, making your stay in Salvador both enriching and enjoyable.
Find great hotels in Salvador
Explore a range of accommodation options in Salvador, Bahia, from luxurious hotels to charming pousadas. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway, a pet-friendly retreat, or a beachfront escape, Salvador offers diverse lodging types to suit every traveller's needs. Discover top hotels and star-rated options that promise a memorable stay in this vibrant city.
- Vila Galé Resort Marés - All Inclusive: This 4.5-star resort boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and a stunning beachfront location, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing getaway in Salvador. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, the resort provides an all-inclusive experience, featuring unlimited food and drinks, including buffet and à la carte options. Guests can enjoy various activities such as tennis and soccer, while children benefit from amenities like a shared playground and a dedicated pool. The resort's emphasis on entertainment ensures a lively atmosphere, catering to families and beach lovers alike.
- Rede Andrade Riviera Premium: A charming 3-star hotel, Rede Andrade Riviera Premium is ideal for travellers looking for a beach and pet-friendly experience in Salvador. With direct beach access, this hotel offers a welcoming environment for guests travelling with pets, subject to specific policies. Its proximity to the sandy shores allows for leisurely walks and relaxation by the sea. This accommodation is perfect for those who wish to enjoy the beach while bringing their furry friends along, ensuring a delightful stay for both pets and their owners.
- Vila Gale Salvador: Located in the heart of the city, this 4.5-star hotel combines urban convenience with beach access, offering a unique city-themed retreat. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Vila Gale Salvador presents a sophisticated atmosphere for those wanting to explore the vibrant culture of Salvador. The hotel's prime location allows for easy access to local attractions, while its amenities cater to both leisure and business travellers. Guests can unwind at the beach after a day of city exploration, making it an appealing choice for a diverse range of visitors.
Where to stay in Salvador
Salvador, a vibrant metropolis, offers an array of experiences for every traveller. Enjoy the stunning beaches of Porto da Barra, perfect for families seeking relaxation and recreation. Central Salvador boasts a rich historical atmosphere, ideal for those keen on exploring local culture. With excellent shopping venues and friendly locals, your holiday in this beautiful Brazilian city promises to be both enriching and enjoyable, blending leisure with the charm of Bahia State.
- Camaçari: Nestled close to Salvador, Camaçari is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and outdoor experiences. Visitors flock to this area year-round, with peak travel times during January, April, and July. Camaçari offers a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and fun. You can explore shopping centres and parks, while the local beaches serve as perfect spots to enjoy sunbathing and water sports. With a variety of attractions nearby, Camaçari is a great base for both adventure and leisure.
- Itapuã: Itapuã is a picturesque neighbourhood located near Salvador, famed for its beautiful coastline and cultural significance. Popular with travellers primarily from January to February and April, Itapuã is an appealing destination for families and business visitors alike. With a mix of stunning beaches and a historic lighthouse, Itapuã boasts plenty of activities, including exhibitions and shopping at local centres. The inviting atmosphere and various amenities make it an excellent place to unwind, explore, and soak up the vibrant Brazilian culture.
- Ilha dos Frades: As an enchanting island close to Salvador, Ilha dos Frades is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture. With peak visitor numbers from December to February, this island offers a unique combination of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Travellers can enjoy pristine beaches, a picturesque marina, and historic sites that showcase the island's rich heritage. Ilha dos Frades is perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.
Things to do in Salvador
Shopping
In Salvador, visit the Shopping da Bahia for a variety of shops, including fashion and electronics. For a local market experience, check out the Mercado Modelo, where you can find crafts and traditional souvenirs, reflecting the rich culture of Bahia.
Recreation
In Salvador, the Praia do Forte wellness retreat offers rejuvenating spa treatments amidst lush gardens and tranquil beaches. In the city centre, the Spa do Vento invites guests to experience traditional Brazilian therapies, including massage and aromatherapy, designed to enhance relaxation and inner peace.
Adventure
Explore the vibrant streets of Pelourinho, where colourful colonial architecture and live music create an energetic atmosphere. Take a boat tour to the nearby island of Itaparica, known for its stunning beaches. For adrenaline seekers, try surfing at Praia do Forte, where the waves offer exciting challenges.
Nightlife
In Salvador, the vibrant Pelourinho district buzzes with live music and captivating street performances. Bars like Soho and the popular Clube do Choro offer lively atmospheres, while the dazzling sunset at the Farol da Barra sets the scene for unforgettable evenings filled with local culture and rhythm.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Salvador
Salvador is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travellers, offering free access to stunning beaches like Farol da Barra and Porto da Barra. To save on accommodation, consider visiting between May to June or August, and book your stay about a month in advance for the best rates. Use Expedia to find deals, especially on Wednesdays, which are typically cheaper than Fridays. For transport, utilise the affordable bus system, and consider combining your hotel, flight, and activity bookings for significant savings. Remember to filter for eco-friendly options for sustainable stays.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Salvador are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Salvador is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Salvador is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Salvador is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most economical prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservations in Salvador with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Salvador
Salvador, Bahia, offers a delightful mix of beach, cultural, and outdoor experiences, making it ideal for various types of vacations. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, historic churches, and fascinating museums. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the sea or immersing yourself in local culture, Salvador da Bahia has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable getaway.
- Dique do Tororo: This picturesque lake offers a serene escape with its stunning scenery and romantic ambiance. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the water's edge, or relax on the beach while soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
- Farol da Barra Beach: Renowned for its vibrant beach vibes, Farol da Barra Beach is a lively spot to unwind. The golden sands and inviting waters beckon visitors to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and simply embracing the laid-back atmosphere.
- Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim: This iconic church is steeped in cultural significance, attracting visitors with its striking architecture and rich history. Experience local traditions, such as tying ribbons on the church's gates, connecting deeply with Salvador’s spiritual heritage.
Best time to go to Salvador
The best time to visit Salvador can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Salvador falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Salvador falls in August, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Salvador
Flying into Salvador, Bahia State, is convenient with the primary airport being Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhaes International Airport (SSA), situated 20.9km from the city. Recommended hotels nearby include the 4-star Casa Di Vina Boutique Hotel, located 4.8km away, and the InterCity Salvador Aeroporto, just 1.3km from the airport. For those travelling to Morro de São Paulo Airport (MXQ) and Valenca Airport (VAL), both approximately 62.8km from Salvador, nearby accommodations include Pousada Sambass and Pousada Villa dos Graffitis, respectively. Transportation services from these hotels to the airports vary, offering options such as airport shuttles and transportation fees.