Introducing Salvador, Brazil

It’s often overlooked in favor of iconic Brazilian destinations like Rio de Janeiro or the Amazon Jungle, but the city of Salvador is a must-visit for any traveler navigating Brazil. A port city located on the Northeast Coast, Salvador was Brazil’s first colonial capital, and today remains a hub for Afro-Brazilian culture. While 24 hours certainly isn’t long enough to fully explore the “capital of happiness,” it will give you a snapshot of this dynamic city that dances to its own beat.

Explore The Pelourinho

The colorful streets of the Pelourinho

Begin your tour of Salvador in the Pelourinho, otherwise known as the Historic Center. The neighborhood was the city center during Portuguese colonialism; navigating the quaint cobblestone streets and pastel colored buildings make it easy to feel as though you’ve traveled back in time.

Restoration of the neighborhood in the 1990s has resulted in a number of lovely shops, restaurants and cafes, along with cultural centers and arts schools. Don’t be surprised if you hear the pulsating beats of samba reggae as you walk past some of the oldest architecture in Brazil. Finally, don’t miss the Ingreja e Convento Sao Fransisco, often considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in all of Brazil.

Watch Capoeira

Capoeira practice in Salvador

Capoeira is a martial art that combines dance, acrobatics and music. The impressive movements are accompanied by the clapping of hands and a berimbau, a one-string musical instrument. Developed by Afro-Brazilian slaves, you’ll still find locals practicing Capoeira in the street (though do be prepared to leave a tip if you watch for too long). Salvador hosts capoeira performances throughout the year — it’s best to ask the locals where to go to watch a show or join a “roda” to practice for yourself!

Listen to Olodum

After you’ve tired of practicing capoeira, relax into the night by swaying to the beats of samba reggae. Olodum is an Afro-Brazilian cultural group that has become famous for its unique beats; the group gained international fame in Michael Jackson’s "They Don’t Care About Us." Stop by Casa do Olodum to see if there are any concerts during your visit to Salvador, or just hope you get lucky by stumbling upon a street performance in the Pelourinho.

See the Barra Lighthouse

The Barra Lighthouse at sunset

As the sun begins to set, be sure to head to the Barra Lighthouse — one of the only places in Brazil where the sun actually sets behind the water. Not only will you be gifted with a gorgeous sky of pinks and red, you’ll also have the opportunity to see the oldest lighthouse in South America. The nearby beach, Praia do Farol da Barra, makes a nice place to relax if you arrive a bit too early.

Eat Your Heart Out

Seafood Stew

Now that it’s time for dinner, indulge in some of the delightfully delicious dishes that Salvador is known for. Recipes typically feature coconut milk, palm oil, pepper, and seafood. Don’t miss acaraje (bean and shrimp critters deep-fried in palm oil) and moqueca (a rich fish or shrimp stew with coconut milk, tomatoes, spices and palm oil). Street stands are popular in Rio Vermelho. If you’re looking for more specific recommendations, Brazilian chef Edinho Engel offers up some tasty advice in his interview.

Sip A Caipirinha

Photo by Christian Benseler via Flickr

You can’t miss an opportunity to sip on Brazil’s signature cocktail: a caipirinha. The drink is a mixture of cachaca, lime, sugar and ice—and sometimes fruit like strawberries, passionfruit or watermelon. You’ll find a caipirinha just about anywhere alcohol is sold, but the Bohemian Coffee Shop Cafelier always receives great reviews.

Sleep

If you’re looking for a unique place to lay your head at night, you can’t go wrong with the boutique hotel Aram Yami, conveniently located in the historical center. With only six rooms, it feels more like a home-away-from-home. The friendly staff and beautiful bay views make this a no-brainer.

If you do have extra time to devote to Salvador, be sure to explore the surrounding beaches, or even take a short jaunt to the nearby island paradise Isla de Sao Morro. But more than anything else, be sure to let loose and enjoy your time in the Capital of Happiness!