Top Things to do in Salvador
What to do and see in Salvador, State of Bahia (BA): The Best Specialty Museums
Brazil's former capital is renowned for its African-influenced cuisine, music and architecture. Known as "the Capital of Joy," because of its exuberant week-long Carnaval celebrations, Salvador brims with contemporary music and art amid architecture that has gone untouched since the 17th century.
Restaurants in Salvador
1. Casa do Rio Vermelho
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,209 reviews
Reviewed By MelBr75 - Curitiba, Brazil
This used to be the house of Jorge Amado and Zelia Gatai, both great and world known writers. It’s very well preserved and it’s collection is beautifully displayed. It’s a must see!
2. Fundacao Casa de Jorge Amado
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,663 reviews
Reviewed By LuizDutraNeto - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Jorge Amado is one of the most acclaimed Brazilian authors. His books reflect the culture of his home State of Bahia and its people. The "Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado" is located at the very heart of Pelourinho, the historical quarter of Salvador - and Pelourinho is indeed one of Jorge Amado's characters. And a very important one! The "Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado" aims to preserve his legacy and the local culture. As of June 2019, the "Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado" was closed for renovations. Please check before going. Enjoy!
3. MAM Museu de Arte Moderna
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,110 reviews
Reviewed By LuizDutraNeto - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Visiting Salvador's "Museu de Arte Moderna" is absolutely a must! Located at historical "Solar do Unhão", the museum follows a modern concept of museology, including permanent and temporary exhibitions, film sessions, art classes, a sculptures park and jazz sessions on special days. A café and awesome sunsets over "Baía de Todos os Santos" complete the scene. "Solar do Unhão" dates from the 17th century and has been restored over the years. Acclaimed Italian architect Lina Bo Bardi undertook the task to restore, back in 1959, the old manor house. A monumental staircase located right inside of the main exhibition hall was designed by her. Its wood fittings follow the same techniques used on the manufacturing of ancient ox carts. Amazing! Try to visit - if it is opened - the lovely chapel at the museum's entrace: "Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceição". Before going, call and check opening hours. Use taxis at all times and do your best to be there for sunset. You won't regret! Enjoy!
4. Santo Antonio da Barra Fort and Nautic Museum of Bahia
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,001 reviews
Housed in Fort Santo Antonio da Barra, a fine exemple of 16thcentury portuguese military architecture, that is the site of Santo Antônio Lighthouse, better known as the "Farol da Barra", the first beacon for shipping in the Americas, the Museu Náutico da Bahia (Maritime Museum of Bahia) contains a rich collection that reflects Brazil's seafaring history, particularly of colonial period. Housed in the Museum you will find a significant numbers of archeological treasures retrieved from the undersea site of the Portuguese Galleon "Santíssimo Sacramento", sank off the coast of the city of Salvador in 1668. Open Tue-Sun 9.00am-6pm (all days in January and July).
Reviewed By LuizDutraNeto - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Right on the ground floor of the iconic "Forte de Santo Antônio" and its "Farol da Barra" lighthouse, you will find a small and nice museum - the "Museu Náutico da Bahia". Administered by the Brazilian Navy, it displays a valuable collection of maritime items, including archaeological findings, nautic instruments and several miniatures. The fort and its lighthouse are really beautiful and were officially appointed, in 1938, as Brazilian National Heritage Monuments. You will certainly love your visit to these iconic postcards of Salvador! Enjoy!
5. Instituto Feminino da Bahia foundation
6. Sister Dulce memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 861 reviews
Reviewed By nelsoncerqueira1 - Salvador, Brazil
Sister Dulce, today Saint Dulce of the Poor, canonized by Pope Francis, is a real case of miracles delivered by a fragile small woman who spent the life helping and curing dispossessed people. From scratch, she built a tremendous health center and hospital. If you come to Salvador, pay her a visit. Really emotional.
7. Sao Bento monastery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 187 reviews
Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
Reviewed By angeladH2788OE
Saint Benedict Basilica is a beautiful neoclassic church in Salvador’s central area, beautifully kept, where the old city gates used to be. It currently holds baroque and neoclassical art restoration courses as well as a beautiful choir.
