🌆 El Salvador Travel Guide

📍 City Introduction

Salvador, Brazil's first capital, boasts over 400 years of history. As a major cultural heritage site for African slaves, the city is rich in a fusion of African and Portuguese influences, with a strong Afro-Brazilian flavor evident in everything from architecture and music (such as samba and capoeira) to cuisine.

---

🏛 Must-see attractions

1. Pelourinho Historic Center

• UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.
• The colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets are perfect for taking photos.
• There are often music and dance performances on the streets, and the atmosphere is very lively.

2. Elevador Lacerda

• One of the oldest urban elevators in the world, it connects the Upper Town (Cidade Alta) and the Lower Town (Cidade Baixa).
• Once you get there, you can enjoy the panoramic views, especially of the Todos os Santos Bay.

3. Church of São Francisco

• A masterpiece of Baroque style, the interior decoration is magnificent.
• It is known as one of the most magnificent churches in Brazil.

4. Model Market (Mercado Modelo)

• The most famous traditional market in El Salvador.
• You can buy handicrafts, musical instruments and souvenirs, and it is also a good place to experience local culture.

5. Barra Lighthouse

• The most iconic lighthouse in El Salvador.
• Next to the beach, the sunset view is beautiful and it is a romantic viewing point.

6. Itaparica Island

• It's accessible by ferry from Salvador.
• Known for its tranquil beaches and resort atmosphere, it's perfect for a day trip.

---

🍴 Must-try local delicacies

Salvadoran cuisine is deeply influenced by Africa, with ingredients such as coconut milk, palm oil (Dendê) and chili peppers, giving it a rich flavor.

1. Acarajé (fried bean cake)

   • Fried balls made from black-eyed peas, filled with shrimp or spicy sauce.
   • It is the most representative street food in El Salvador.

2. Moqueca Baiana (Bahian Seafood Stew)

   • A rich and appetizing stew of fish, shrimp, coconut milk, palm oil and spices.

3. Vatapá

   • A thick sauce made with shrimp, peanuts, coconut milk and bread, served with rice or bean cakes.

4. Bobó de Camarão (shrimp stew)

   • It is stewed with mashed tapioca and shrimp and has a smooth texture.

5. Cocada (coconut dessert)

   • Sweet coconut candies, commonly found in local snack shops.

---

🚍 Transportation Tips

✈️ How to get there

• Salvador de Pres International Airport (SSA) : approximately 28 km from the city center, with domestic and international flights.

🚇 City transportation

• Bus : There are many routes, but the system is complex and difficult for tourists to use.
• Metro (Metrô de Salvador) : There are currently two lines connecting the airport, bus station and part of the city.
• Uber/99 : The most convenient and safe way.

⛴ Travel to outlying islands

• From the port you can take a ferry to Itaparica or other nearby islands.

---

💡 A friendly reminder from the editor

• Best time to visit : December to March is summer, with hot weather and carnivals; August to November is dry and pleasant.
• Safety Tip : Pelourinho is safe and lively during the day, but it is recommended to avoid going alone at night.
• Cultural highlights : Salvador is the birthplace of Capoeira, and you must watch a live performance if you have the chance.
• Festival experience : The "Salvador Carnival" in February every year is different from Rio, it is closer to the streets and the atmosphere is super crazy!

---

📌Summary :
Salvador is a city brimming with color, rhythm, and African charm . During the day, admire the colonial architecture and ocean views, and at night, immerse yourself in the music and dance. The street food is a must-try, allowing you to truly experience the passion and soul of Northeastern Brazil.