Things to Do

Things to do in Salvador: museums, beaches, music and the bay

A first trip to Salvador works best when you mix three things: the historic core with context, at least one museum or cultural centre that explains Afro-Brazilian Bahia, and time by the water.

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Things to Do

A first trip to Salvador works best when you mix three things: the historic core with context, at least one museum or cultural centre that explains Afro-Brazilian Bahia, and time by the water.

Olodum percussionists performing in Salvador, with the bloco afro's iconic drums and colours.

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Music in Salvador

From samba-reggae and axé to jazz, MPB and live shows: how to hear and understand Salvador beyond Carnival week.

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Palacete das Artes in Salvador, a white historic mansion framed by trees and landscaped gardens.

Museums & Culture

A short, curated list — quality over quantity, with the context each place gives you.

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Aerial panorama of Nossa Senhora do Loreto Church on Ilha dos Frades, surrounded by tropical vegetation and the waters of All Saints Bay.

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All Saints Bay & Islands

The bay is part of Salvador's geography, history and everyday life. Start with the context, then choose the island that fits your day.

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Beaches in Salvador

Choose by tide and coastline, not by postcard: bay beaches, Atlantic reefs, family pools, islands and worthwhile day trips.

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Paddlers in an outrigger canoe moving across All Saints Bay toward Forte São Marcelo in Salvador.

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Paddle Salvador: Hawaiian canoeing on All Saints Bay

See Salvador from the water on a guided outrigger canoe paddle, from Forte São Marcelo and the Historic Center skyline to sunset and full-moon outings.

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