Sightseeing in Salvador - what to see. Complete travel guide

The museum city of Salvador is the capital of Bahia state. it is considered the most "African" city of Brazil and is one of the most densely populated cities in the country. Founded in 1549, Salvador was the capital of Brazil until the middle of the 18th century. Currently, its main treasure is the preserved monuments of colonial times. Salvador is an invaluable well of historical sites.

Cultural symbols of the city include the martial art of "Capoeira ". It is believed that Salvador is one of the cities where it originated. Capoeira is a cross between classical martial arts and Brazilian dances. Performances of capoeira masters are extremely popular among visitors to the city. It is believed that capoeira is much more popular than football in Salvador. Residents of other Brazilian cities can hardly boast such a passion for a particular sport. Walking through the city streets, attentive tourists notice that capoeira schools are located literally at every step.

The city lies on the slope of the picturesque Bay of All Saints. Conventionally, the area of the modern city is divided into two parts - the Upper and Lower, connected by Lacerda Elevator (Elevador Lacerda ). Both areas are equally interesting for travelers. The Lower Town is considered to be more modern, now its large part is occupied by colorful markets and shops. Here you can buy a lot of interesting things, including coconut sweets - one of the most popular national treats. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Upper Town accommodating many outstanding monuments of colonial times is of particular tourist interest. It is noteworthy that spectacular historical buildings are not vacant - most of them house government offices, business and cultural centers. Numerous tourists in Salvador are attracted not only by historical sights, but also by wonderful beaches whose number is more than twenty in the city. Salvador can offer a rich entertainment program. Its enchanting annual carnival is regularly attended by more than 4 million foreign guests.

Experienced travelers note that the carnival in Salvador is wildly different from festive events that usually take place in Rio. The local carnival has preserved much more original traditions, it is distinguished by a more measured and harmonious atmosphere saturated with national charm. Salvador is ready to offer its guests a lot of interesting and diverse leisure options. Exploring architectural sights, walking through interesting museums and galleries, relaxing on beautiful beaches and tasting traditional delicacies at local restaurants are just some of the popular entertainment available to the guests of the most African city in Brazil.

Cidade baixa remains the most interesting district of Salvador from the historical point of view. Its territory still has an ancient chain of protective fortifications. It is a wonderful place to see buildings that were created yet during the medieval times. The historical quarter offers a fabulous panoramic view of the city center and the coast. This district is also the location of the wonderful Rio Branco Palace that is widely recognized as the most luxurious building in the whole city.

Fans of active recreation and walking excursions will enjoy their visit to the district of Costa Azul. The park with the same name is considered the main landmark of this district. Costa Azul Park is the largest in the city and it has the necessary infrastructure for active recreation and entertainment in comfort. The territory of the park includes a football field, special roads for cyclists and roller skating. Moreover, there is a theater for up to 600 visitors. Many come to the park to visit popular restaurants and bars. The magnificent park is located on the bank of the Camurujipe River. Not many years ago, a bridge over this river appeared in the city. The length of the bridge is 35 meters.

There is one more picturesque place perfect for outdoor recreation nearby – Salvador Garden. This park is calmer and less crowded than the one mentioned above. It is a great place to enjoy sports entertainment or visit one of the local restaurants. The city is also rich in interesting museums, with Afro Brazilian Museum being the most frequently visited one. The exhibition of the museum throws the light upon the peculiarities of culture and national traditions of indigenous people. In the museum, visitors will find a rich collection of ethnographic exhibits and artworks. Unique archaeological findings that were discovered during excavations in the city and its outskirts can be found in another place, the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography. Besides that, there is a very interesting museum dedicated to numismatics in Salvador.