About
Salvador is a city on the coast of Brazil, in South America, and the capital of the state of Bahia. The facts available describe it as the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture, and a visit here is largely a visit to that culture: its music, its colourful colonial streets and its daily life on the water's edge.
What the city offers
- Colonial streets: The historic centre is made up of colourful colonial buildings, and the city as a whole is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Beaches: The coastline is one of the city's main attractions, offering a change of pace from the old town.
- Music: Salvador is known for its rich musical traditions, so listening is as much a part of a visit as looking.
Planning a visit
Salvador suits travellers interested in history, heritage and music, and those who want to combine city walks with time by the sea. The old town and the beaches are both within reach of one another, so a single trip can cover both. The city also serves as the gateway to the wider state of Bahia, which shares its name and its strong Afro-Brazilian roots.
Travellers may also find the city is known by its fuller name, Salvador da Bahia, or simply as Bahia, so it is worth checking these names when looking for information about a trip.