Salvador sights every visitor should see

Farol da Barra

The oldest lighthouse in the Americas sits inside the Santo Antônio fort, exactly where the Bay of All Saints meets the Atlantic. Today it houses the Bahia Nautical Museum.

Tip: go in the late afternoon — it is the city's most popular sunset spot.

Itapuã Lighthouse

Striped red and white on the rocks, it was immortalised by Dorival Caymmi and is still surrounded by coconut palms and a quieter seafront.

Tip: combine it with Itapuã beach and the Abaeté Lagoon.

Pelourinho

Cobbled hills, colourful mansions and baroque churches form the largest colonial ensemble in the Americas — a World Heritage Site since 1985. It is also where the city makes the most music, all day long.

Tip: wander unhurried through Terreiro de Jesus and Largo do Pelourinho, where most street performances happen.

Lacerda Elevator

Opened in 1873, it is Brazil's oldest urban elevator and links the Upper and Lower City in seconds, with views of the bay and the Mercado Modelo.

Tip: the fare is a few cents — it is worth it as a ride, not just transport.

Bonfim Church

The iron railings covered in coloured ribbons are one of Brazil's most famous images. In January, the Washing of Bonfim draws thousands.

Tip: buy your ribbons from the vendors at the entrance — it is part of the tradition.

More highlights

• Mercado Modelo: Bahian crafts and restaurants overlooking the bay.
• Porto da Barra: calm water and a guaranteed sunset.
• São Francisco Church: an interior covered in gilded carving, a baroque gem.
• Dique do Tororó: giant orixá sculptures rising from the lagoon.