Barra blends historic charm with coastal beauty, making it Salvador's premier beachfront destination. The iconic Barra Lighthouse stands guard over Porto da Barra beach, where golden sands meet clear waters. Nearby, the colonial Santo Antônio da Barra Fort offers glimpses into the area's rich past. Stroll the lively waterfront promenade to discover beachfront cafés and impromptu capoeira performances. The area balances tourism with local culture through traditional music and Bahian seafood specialities. Most attractions sit within walking distance, creating an accessible tropical getaway.
Rio Vermelho buzzes with authentic Bahian culture along Salvador's Atlantic coast. Catch the rhythm of live music spilling from colourful colonial buildings around Largo de Santana square. Sample golden acarajé fritters from local vendors while ocean breezes cool the lively streets. The area truly shines at night when bars and restaurants come alive. Devotees offer white flowers at Casa de Yemanjá shrine, honouring the sea goddess. Paciencia Beach and Buracao Beach provide perfect spots for swimming or watching the sun set over the water.
Ondina charms visitors with its golden Atlantic beaches and scenic coastal walkways. Luxury hotels and high-end condominiums line the shore, creating a sophisticated beachfront atmosphere. The Federal University of Bahia adds intellectual energy to this upscale Salvador area. Travellers can enjoy the calm waters at Ondina Beach or visit nearby Salvador Zoo. The palm-lined promenade offers perfect sunset strolls after a day of swimming. Resort-style amenities and fresh seafood restaurants complete the relaxed beachside experience.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Salvador
Farol da Barra Beach
9.0/10 (511 reviews)
This golden-sand beach sits at the foot of Salvador's historic lighthouse. Swim in natural tide pools, then linger for Brazil's most spectacular sunset views over the bay.
Praia do Forte Beach
9.0/10 (126 reviews)
This pristine beach features natural pools formed by coral reefs and hosts the Tamar Project for sea turtle conservation. Stroll the village's charming pedestrian streets lined with cafes after a morning swim.
Salvador Shopping Mall
9.0/10 (339 reviews)
Salvador Shopping features 420+ stores with international and Brazilian brands in a modern setting. Browse high-end boutiques, enjoy Bahian cuisine, or watch a film at the theatres.
Porto da Barra Beach
8.8/10 (417 reviews)
Porto da Barra Beach offers calm, warm waters and spectacular westward-facing sunsets where Brazil's first governor-general landed in 1549. Swim in the gentle bay while sampling local treats from vendors.
Guarajuba Beach
8.6/10 (53 reviews)
Guarajuba Beach dazzles with pristine white sands and natural pools formed by coral reefs. Swim in turquoise waters or sample authentic Bahian seafood at beachfront restaurants under swaying coconut trees.
Flamengo Beach
8.8/10 (273 reviews)
Flamengo Beach offers pristine golden sands and turquoise waters away from Salvador's busier shores. Enjoy tranquil swimming and surfing while sampling authentic Brazilian cuisine at beachside eateries.
Arena Fonte Nova
8.4/10 (80 reviews)
This modern stadium hosted the 2014 FIFA World Cup and offers panoramic views of the Dique do Tororó lagoon. Take a guided tour or experience Brazilian football passion during a match.
Salvador Convention Center
10.0/10 (4 reviews)
This sleek, oceanfront convention centre hosts major events while offering stunning Bahia coastline views. Explore its eight multi-purpose halls and outdoor spaces before enjoying nearby beaches after your meeting.
"Loved loved loved this hotel! The rooftop pool is definitely the biggest perk, especially for watching the sunset, and the bartenders (ask for Cristiano!) make amazing drinks. The breakfast buffet is excellent, the restaurant overlooking the ocean. And the car service up and down the hill is a great touch. The neighborhood is amazing and the staff is increíble. 10/10 would recommend!"
"This is a really nice hotel near the center of town (although not near any tourist sites). The rooms are great, the staff is friendly and helpful. It's near the Metro. The usually-included breakfast has a good variety of Brazilian and other western dishes, although during "rush hour" they are not replaced as often when emptied, and the fruit "juices" are not actual pressed fruit, but oversweet processed varieties. Also, one of the 3 elevators was out of order for some of my stay, which...
"Loved this hotel. Beautiful lobby and restaurant as well as rooftop bar and pool. Staff was super friendly and helpful. Great location, walking distance to lots of restaurants and museums. Would go back!"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Why should I book my Salvador holiday with Expedia?
Expedia has your back for all aspects of your Salvador getaway. You'll always get the best deals around, but when you bundle your accommodation, flights and/or hire car into a holiday package, you'll score even more savings. Keen to really make the most of your stay? Add a few fun tours and activities to your customised package. Expedia offers flexible cancellation policies on almost all bookings, so there's no need to worry if your plans change. Visit our Customer Service Portal link to find out more.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Salvador?
Salvador is at its busiest in July, October and November. If you want a more relaxed getaway, head there in January, March and April. To give you an idea of the type of weather to expect, the average daytime temperature in July, the coolest month in Salvador, is 24ºC. The warmest time here is January, when temperatures hit an average of 27ºC.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Salvador?
If you love bargains, bundle your bookings into a Salvador holiday. Whether you're searching for hotels, flights, tours or hire cars, you can browse and book them all in one place. You'll have endless choice at your fingertips as well. Expedia has more than 400 airlines and 321,000 properties throughout the world to choose from. Fly with who you prefer, check in where you like and save precious pounds — now that's the ideal getaway! Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you combine your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What are the best neighbourhoods to stay in when on holiday in Salvador?
There are many places to book a hotel in Salvador, but one of the best is Dois de Julho. There's plenty here to get out and see, like Museum of Modern Art of Bahia. Alternatively, make Nazaré your base. Fonte Nova Stadium is among this neighbourhood's top attractions.
Do I need a visa for my Salvador holiday?
Research the latest rules on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for business, study or leisure will determine if you'll require a visa for Salvador. Familiarise yourself with the application process, including the required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Start your application well in advance to allow sufficient processing time. Some visas may take many weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country and time of year.
What should I wear on my Salvador holiday?
Do some research into the types of things people in Salvador wear, and maybe even check out style blogs for some fashion tips. You'll want to create a versatile travel wardrobe full of pieces that work for your destination and show off your unique style. Take a look at the local weather forecast so you can pack your bags accordingly. The warmest month in Salvador is January, with average daytime temperatures of 27ºC. If you're visiting in the coolest month of July, the mercury averages 24ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Salvador holiday include?
With Expedia, you can choose a combination of car hires, flights and hotels to create your ideal Salvador travel package. Once you've made your booking, simply add on the fun stuff like day tours and activities. Don't forget — the more you bundle, the more you stand to save! Explore a large range of property types and pick one that suits the size of your group. The most popular holiday rentals here are private holiday homes and apartments. With Expedia, it's a breeze to design your Salvador escape however you like.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Salvador holidays?
We certainly do. Expedia has joined forces with online lender Klarna to help you easily pay for your trip in manageable instalments. Simply click on the payment plan that suits you best during checkout and take away the stress of budgeting for your trip. Be sure to bundle your accommodation, car hire and flights with Expedia to get the biggest bang for your buck. Take a look at our flexible payment options below:
Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers convenient monthly payment plans that suit all budgets, so you can jet away on that well-deserved holiday sooner.
No-deposit holidays: Hitting the "book now" button is easier with this plan. With no deposit required for your getaway, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start working on your travel plans.
Can I choose my airline with a Salvador Expedia holiday?
Yes — and it's easy too. Expedia has access to more than 400 partner airlines worldwide. Our packages give you the freedom to take your pick of available flights, hotels and activities that fit your needs.
Salvador offers a vibrant mix of beach and city-themed activities perfect for your holiday. Enjoy the local shopping centres and malls, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere during the famous Carnival. Don't miss out on guided tours showcasing the city's rich culture and energetic celebrations, including the delightful Rainbow Tours. Whether for business or leisure, Salvador promises an unforgettable experience.
Shopping
At Mercado Modelo, immerse yourself in local culture while browsing artisanal crafts and souvenirs. For a more contemporary experience, Salvador Shopping Mall offers a variety of shops and family-friendly entertainment. Alternatively, Cidade Shopping is perfect for a local shopping spree with a vibrant atmosphere.
Recreation
Arena Fonte Nova offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts seeking active leisure. The Castro Alves Theater presents a blend of culture and romance, ideal for those wanting an entertaining evening. For a touch of luxury, the Bahia Iate Club provides a serene retreat with stunning views and exclusive amenities.
Adventure
At Klaus Peters Municipal Natural Park, immerse yourself in lush greenery and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Experience the thrill of the Plano Inclinado Gonçalves funicular, offering stunning views as you ascend, perfect for family adventures and creating lasting memories in Salvador.
Nightlife
Salvador's nightlife is vibrant and lively, with music spilling from the streets. Visit the iconic Pelourinho for live samba, or enjoy a cocktail at the elegant Yatch Club da Bahia. For a more local vibe, check out the bars in Rio Vermelho, bustling with energy and flavour.
Find the best attractions in Salvador
Salvador, Bahia, is perfect for beach, business, and city-themed holidays. Visitors can explore a rich array of attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic churches, and captivating museums. The diverse points of interest cater to those seeking cultural experiences, seaside relaxation, and vibrant city life, ensuring a memorable stay for every traveller.
Flamengo Beach: Flamengo Beach is a picturesque destination featuring golden sands and inviting blue waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. The beach exudes a laid-back vibe, ideal for soaking up the sun, enjoying water sports, or simply strolling along the shoreline while enjoying the tropical scenery.
Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim: This iconic church is a cultural landmark, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, admire the beautiful interior, and participate in the unique practice of tying colourful ribbons to the church's gates, each representing a wish or prayer.
Praça Municipal: A vibrant square that serves as the heart of Salvador's cultural scene, Praça Municipal is surrounded by historic buildings and lively street performances. It's an excellent spot to experience local art, music, and cuisine, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic urban experience.
Best time to go to Salvador
The best time to visit Salvador is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Salvador
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Salvador.
Consider traveling to Salvador during the low season (May to June and August) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.