Full-Day Discovery of Salvador's Upper and Lower City
Start at the famous Lighthouse of Barra, where you will have a splendid view of the Bay of All Saints and the Atlantic Ocean at the same time.
From Barra, take the main avenue, passing through diverse neighbourhoods such as the Corridor of Victoria, bordered by ancient trees, and a busy commercial area, before arriving at the Historical Center, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This is a must for visitors: a complete old neighbourhood called Pelourinho, in the Upper City inside the bay, full of churches and magnificent colourful mansions in typical Portuguese colonial style.
Walk through the lively squares and cobblestone streets and experience the local atmosphere and people, who will not let you remain impassive.
Do not miss the Church of São Francisco, a real jewel with its fantastic Baroque interior covered in gold leaves. There will also be time for a delicious lunch in one of the excellent typical restaurants in the Historical Center.
In the afternoon, the tour offers a different view of the third biggest capital of Brazil and takes you to the Lower City, where the principal destination is the peninsula of Itapagipe, completely surrounded by the calm waters of the bay and an oasis of peace only 8 km from the busy harbour area.
Continue to the neighbourhoods of Ribeira, with fantastic views of the Bay of All Saints and small marinas with their schooners and sailboats.
Then head to Bonfim, home to the famous Church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim, an important place of pilgrimage where the syncretism between Catholicism and Candomblé still lives strongly.
Explore Boa Viagem with the imponent Fort of Monte Serrat and Ponta de Humaitá, the most romantic spot in Salvador, especially at sunset.
Depending on your interest, visit either the biggest and swarming open market of the city, São Joaquim, or the well-known Mercado Modelo, which is more directed toward tourists with its small shops of art and handicraft.
