Highlights of Salvador

Discover the many faces of Salvador da Bahia during your excursion. Get a glimpse of the city’s intriguing cultural mix of African and European heritage. During your tour you will get to see the historic part as well as the modern section.

From the pier, proceed to the Praça Municipal in the historic center, where Brazil’s best-preserved colonial architecture is located. Leave your coach at the square and proceed on a walk tour of this fascinating and colorful locale, passing by the City Hall, Lacerda Elevators, Palacio Rio Branco and Castro Alves Square to see outside of the Cathedral of Salvador.

Facing Terreiro de Jesus Square is the Catedral. It was formerly the chapel of the largest Jesuit seminary outside Rome. The plain exterior masks one of the most beautiful churches in the city. The stunning interior includes a paneled ceiling of carved and glided wood which gives the church a light airy feel, contrasting sharply to the overwrought Rococo altar and side chapels.

At the end of the recently renovated square stands the church of São Francisco. The opulent interior features cedar woodcarvings, covered in gold leaf that took 28 years to complete. Also note the beautiful white and blue tiled walls and the spectacular painted ceiling. Following the visit, follow your guide to the Pelourinho square.

A slight downhill walk will take you to one of the city’s oldest squares. Formerly the site of the slave market, a pillory still marks the spot where slaves once were publicly punished. The square’s appearance hasn’t changed much since the 18th century. However many of the buildings lining the cobbled streets now house art galleries, jewelry and souvenir shops.

Following your visits, you will re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier. En route, a stop will be made at the Mercado Modelo to disembark those who are interested in browsing through stalls displaying an extensive selection of traditional Bahian handicrafts. The return to the pier will be on foot as you pleased.