Salvador de Bahía : Comprehensive Travel Guide

Why Salvador Should Be Your Next Brazilian Destination

While Rio de Janeiro has its iconic Christ the Redeemer and São Paulo has its cosmopolitan bustle, Salvador offers something profoundly different. It is Brazil’s first capital, a city where history is not confined to museums but is lived on the streets. It’s a destination that engages all the senses, from the scent of dendê oil in the air to the constant, infectious rhythm of samba-reggae drums. If you seek a journey that is as much about cultural immersion as it is about beautiful scenery, Salvador is waiting.

The Heartbeat of Afro-Brazilian Culture

Salvador is widely regarded as the soul of Brazil, and for good reason. It is the city with the largest population of African descent outside of Africa, a legacy of its history as a primary port during the transatlantic slave trade. This painful past has given rise to a uniquely resilient and vibrant culture that permeates every aspect of life. Here, African heritage is not just a historical footnote; it is the living, breathing core of the city’s identity. From the spiritual practices of Candomblé to the dance-like martial art of Capoeira and the powerful drumming of Olodum, Salvador offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the roots of Afro-Brazilian culture.

A City of History, Music, and Joy (Alegria)

There is an energy in Salvador that is palpable—a quality the locals call alegria, or joy. It’s a city that celebrates life with an infectious enthusiasm. History echoes from the cobblestones of the Pelourinho, music spills out from doorways and public squares, and spontaneous gatherings can turn a quiet evening into a memorable street party. This is a place where every corner tells a story, every meal is a ritual, and every day holds the potential for discovery. The city’s spirit is defined by its ability to embrace both its complex history and its capacity for immense joy.

Stunning Colonial Architecture Meets a Tropical Coastline

Salvador’s physical landscape is as captivating as its culture. The city is dramatically split between the Cidade Alta (Upper City) and Cidade Baixa (Lower City), connected by the iconic Lacerda Elevator. In the upper city, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, a labyrinth of steep, winding streets lined with brilliantly colored colonial buildings and opulent baroque churches. Just a short distance away, the city unfolds onto the All Saints Bay (Baía de Todos os Santos), offering miles of stunning coastline. This unique juxtaposition means you can spend your morning exploring 17th-century architecture and your afternoon swimming in the calm, warm waters of a tropical beach.

Planning Your Trip to Salvador

Thoughtful planning is the first step toward an unforgettable journey. Salvador’s tropical allure is present year-round, but understanding the nuances of its seasons, travel logistics, and essential preparations will help you craft the perfect Bahian experience.

Best Times to Visit

Salvador enjoys a warm, tropical climate, making it a viable destination any time of year. However, the experience can change significantly depending on the season, balancing weather, crowds, and cost.

High Season (December – March)

This is Salvador at its most vibrant and sun-drenched. The weather is consistently hot and sunny, perfect for beach days. This period culminates in the world-famous Carnival (usually in February), a spectacular but intense city-wide party. Expect the largest crowds and highest prices for flights and accommodation, so book well in advance.

Shoulder Season (April – June & September – November)

For many, this is the ideal time to visit. You’ll find a pleasant balance of good weather, with warm days and fewer rain showers than in the low season. The city is less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of its sights. This is also a great time to find better deals on hotels and flights.

Low Season (July – August)

These are the coolest months in Salvador, though “cool” is relative and still pleasantly warm for most visitors. This period sees a higher chance of rainfall, but showers are often brief and followed by sunshine. It’s the quietest time of year, offering the lowest prices and a more local feel.

How Long to Stay

The depth of your immersion into Salvador’s culture will depend on the length of your stay. While a short trip can offer a wonderful taste, a longer visit allows the city’s rhythm to truly sink in.

The Quick Trip (3-4 Days)

With a long weekend, you can cover the essentials. Dedicate time to wandering the cobblestone streets of the Pelourinho, witness a spectacular sunset at Farol da Barra, enjoy a couple of key beaches, and sample the holy trinity of Bahian food: moqueca, acarajé, and a caipirinha.

The Ideal Visit (5-7 Days)

A week gives you the freedom to explore beyond the main tourist circuit. You can delve into different neighborhoods like the bohemian Rio Vermelho and the charming Santo Antônio. This timeframe allows for a day trip, perhaps to the tranquil islands of the Baía de Todos os Santos, and provides enough time to take a cooking class or a percussion workshop without feeling rushed.

Getting to Salvador

By Air

The primary gateway to the city is Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA), which receives direct flights from several cities in Europe and the Americas, as well as numerous domestic connections. From the airport, you can reach the city center via pre-paid taxis, ride-sharing apps like Uber, or the airport bus service, which is a cost-effective option connecting to major areas like Barra and the historic center.

By Bus

For those traveling within Brazil, Salvador has a large central bus terminal (Rodoviária) with connections to major cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Recife. While journeys can be long, it’s an economical way to see the country, and the buses are generally comfortable for overnight trips.

Key Pre-Travel Checklist

A few final checks will ensure your trip begins smoothly.

• Visa Requirements: Entry requirements for Brazil vary significantly by nationality. Some citizens can enter visa-free for tourism, while others may need to apply for a visa in advance. It is essential to check the latest official information from the Brazilian consulate or embassy in your home country before booking your travel.
• Vaccinations: Health recommendations can change, so it is highly advisable to consult a travel doctor or your national health authority 4-6 weeks before your departure. The Yellow Fever vaccine is often recommended for travel to Brazil, including Bahia. Ensure all your routine vaccinations are up to date and inquire about others like Hepatitis A and Typhoid based on official medical advice.

Navigating the City: Getting Around Salvador

Salvador is a city of distinct elevations and sprawling neighborhoods, each with its own character. While some areas are perfect for walking, you’ll need to use a mix of transport to see the best of what the city has to offer. Here’s how to navigate Salvador with confidence.

On Foot in the Historic Center

The best way to absorb the vibrant energy of Salvador’s historic heart is on foot. The cobblestone streets of the Pelourinho and the adjacent bohemian neighborhood of Santo Antônio Além do Carmo are made for wandering. Strolling allows you to discover hidden courtyards, pop into small artisan shops, and appreciate the intricate details of the colonial architecture at your own pace. Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets are hilly and uneven, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Ride-Sharing Apps and Taxis

For traveling between neighborhoods, at night, or when you prefer a direct route, ride-sharing apps are a reliable and widely used option. Uber is common, but the Brazilian app 99 is often more popular with local drivers and can sometimes offer better availability and prices. You can also use registered white city taxis, which are readily available. For safety, it’s always best to book through an app or have your hotel call a trusted service.

• Verify your ride: Always match the car model and license plate with the information in the app before getting in.
• Share your trip: Use the in-app feature to share your ride details with a friend or family member.
• Confirm the driver: Politely confirm the driver’s name and your destination to ensure you’re in the right car.

Local Buses (Ônibus)

For the budget-conscious traveler looking for an authentic local experience, Salvador’s extensive bus network (ônibus) is the way to go. It’s the primary mode of transport for Soteropolitanos (Salvador residents) and can connect you to nearly every corner of the city, from the historic center to the far-flung beaches of Itapuã. While navigating the routes can seem daunting at first, using a mapping app can greatly simplify the process. Keep small change handy for the fare, which is typically paid to a conductor (cobrador) seated near the front.

The Lacerda Elevator

More than just a means of transport, the Elevador Lacerda is a historic landmark and an essential Salvador experience. This impressive Art Deco elevator provides a quick and dramatic link between the Upper City (Cidade Alta), where the Pelourinho is located, and the Lower City (Cidade Baixa), home to the Mercado Modelo and the ferry terminal. For a very small fee, you can ride between the two levels in seconds while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints. It’s both a practical shortcut and a perfect photo opportunity.

Must-See Attractions and Experiences

Salvador is a city that engages all the senses. From the cobblestone streets of its historic heart to the sun-drenched shores of its urban beaches, every corner offers a new discovery. Here is a guide to the essential sights and activities that define the Soteropolitano experience.

Exploring the Pelourinho: The UNESCO World Heritage Heart

The soul of Salvador resides in the Pelourinho, a neighborhood of steep, winding streets lined with vibrant colonial architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living museum, where history, art, and music converge. Allow yourself to get lost in its alleys, discovering hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and the persistent rhythm of drums.

Largo do Pelourinho

This is the most famous square in the historic center, instantly recognizable by its pastel-hued buildings. Once the site of a slave auction and whipping post (pelourinho), it has been reclaimed as a center for art, music, and celebration. It’s the perfect starting point for your exploration, surrounded by churches, museums, and restaurants.

Igreja e Convento de São Francisco

Often called the “Golden Church,” this is one of Brazil’s most spectacular examples of Baroque architecture. Step inside, and you’ll understand why. Nearly every surface is covered in intricate, gold-leafed carvings, creating an overwhelming and awe-inspiring display of devotion and artistry. The adjoining convent features beautiful Portuguese tilework (azulejos) depicting moral scenes.

Fundação Casa de Jorge Amado

Housed in a striking blue mansion overlooking the Largo do Pelourinho, this cultural center is dedicated to Bahia’s most celebrated author, Jorge Amado. His novels vividly captured the spirit, struggles, and sensuality of Bahian life. The foundation preserves his legacy through exhibits, a library, and a café, offering deep insight into the culture that shaped his work.

Olodum Rehearsals

The percussive force of Olodum is synonymous with Salvador. Hearing their powerful samba-reggae rhythms echo through the Pelourinho is an unforgettable experience. The group often holds public rehearsals in the evenings. Traveler’s Tip: Rehearsal schedules can be irregular, especially outside of the Carnival season. Be sure to check their official social media channels or ask locally for the latest information on dates and times.

Key Landmarks Beyond the Historic Center

While the Pelourinho is the historic core, Salvador’s identity is spread across its diverse landscape. These key landmarks are essential stops for understanding the city’s broader geography and culture.

Farol da Barra (Barra Lighthouse)

Standing guard where the Bay of All Saints meets the Atlantic Ocean, the Barra Lighthouse is one of Salvador’s most iconic symbols. Housed within a 16th-century fort, it also contains the excellent Nautical Museum of Bahia. The main draw, however, is the breathtaking panoramic view from the top, which makes it the city’s premier spot for watching the sunset.

Mercado Modelo

Located in the Lower City (Cidade Baixa) just across from the Lacerda Elevator, the Mercado Modelo is the city’s largest artisan market. While geared towards tourists, it’s a convenient one-stop shop for souvenirs, from lacework and woodcarvings to musical instruments and cachaça. The building itself is historic, and the basement holds a mysterious, often-flooded network of tunnels.

Dique do Tororó

This tranquil urban lake offers a unique and powerful visual: eight monumental sculptures of Candomblé Orixás (deities) appear to dance upon the water’s surface. Created by artist Tatti Moreno, the installation is a public tribute to the Afro-Brazilian faith that is so integral to Salvador’s identity. It’s a peaceful place for a stroll and a powerful photo opportunity.

Bonfim Church (Igreja do Bonfim)

Perhaps the most important Catholic church in Salvador, Bonfim is a site of immense faith and syncretism, where Catholicism and Candomblé traditions merge. It is famous for its “Room of Miracles” and the colorful wish ribbons, or fitas do Bonfim, tied to its gates. Tradition holds that you tie a ribbon with three knots, making a wish for each one. When the ribbon falls off naturally, your wishes are said to come true.

Salvador’s Best Beaches (Praias)

Salvador is blessed with a stunning coastline that caters to every type of beachgoer. From calm bay waters to rolling Atlantic waves, here are some of the best praias to visit.

• Porto da Barra: Considered one of the world’s best beaches, its location within the bay means the water is exceptionally calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. It gets lively and crowded, especially on weekends.
• Farol da Barra: Adjacent to the lighthouse, this beach is more dynamic. At low tide, natural pools form among the rocks, creating perfect little swimming holes. It’s a popular spot with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of beachside vendors.
• Rio Vermelho: While not the best for swimming, this beach is the heart of a bohemian neighborhood. It’s known for the Casa de Iemanjá, a shrine to the sea goddess, and its evening scene, when the waterfront fills with people gathering at the acarajé stalls and bars.
• Itapuã and Stella Maris: Located further from the city center near the airport, these beaches offer a more classic tropical vibe with coconut palms, golden sand, and stronger waves. They are popular with locals and home to resort-style hotels and beach clubs (barracas).

Immersive Cultural Activities

To truly understand Salvador, you must actively participate in its living culture. These immersive experiences offer a deeper connection to the city’s artistic and spiritual soul.

Watch a Capoeira Roda

Capoeira is a mesmerizing blend of martial art, dance, and acrobatics, set to the rhythmic pulse of the berimbau. You can often find spontaneous rodas (circles) forming in public squares like the Terreiro de Jesus in the Pelourinho. For a more structured experience, many capoeira schools welcome respectful observers.

Take a Bahian Cooking Class

The flavors of Bahia are unique and unforgettable. Taking a cooking class is a fantastic way to understand the ingredients—like dendê oil, coconut milk, and fresh seafood—that define the cuisine. You’ll learn to prepare iconic dishes like Moqueca (seafood stew) or form and fry your own Acarajé.

Experience a Candomblé Ceremony

Candomblé is the Afro-Brazilian religion at the spiritual heart of Salvador. Attending a ceremony can be a profound experience, but it requires the utmost respect. This is a sacred religious practice, not a tourist performance. You should only attend with a trusted local guide who has a relationship with the religious house (terreiro). Dress modestly in white, maintain silence, and never take photos unless given explicit permission.

Join a Percussion Workshop

Feel the city’s pulse by learning its rhythms firsthand. Several cultural projects and music schools in the Pelourinho offer percussion workshops for visitors. It’s a fun, high-energy way to connect with the traditions of groups like Olodum and Ilê Aiyê and appreciate the complexity behind the beats you hear all over the city.

Where to Stay: A Guide to Salvador’s Neighborhoods

Choosing where to stay in Salvador can significantly shape your experience. The city’s neighborhoods, or bairros, each possess a distinct character and rhythm. Whether you envision waking up to the sound of drumming in a historic square or the gentle waves of the Atlantic, there is a perfect home base for your Bahian adventure.

Pelourinho & Santo Antônio Além do Carmo

Staying in the heart of Salvador’s UNESCO World Heritage site is an immersion in living history. The Pelourinho is the vibrant, bustling core, with its iconic colorful colonial buildings, churches, museums, and capoeira circles. Just a short, charming walk away, Santo Antônio Além do Carmo offers a slightly quieter, more bohemian version of the same historic atmosphere, with stunning bay views, art galleries, and quaint cafes. Waking up here means stepping out your door directly into the cultural soul of the city.

• Vibe: Historic, charming, and deeply atmospheric.
• Best for: Culture lovers, photographers, and first-time visitors who want to be at the center of it all.
• Accommodation: The area is known for its beautiful boutique hotels and historic pousadas (guesthouses) set within restored colonial mansions.

Barra

For those who want to balance cultural exploration with sun and sea, Barra is an ideal choice. This coastal neighborhood is famed for its lighthouse, the Farol da Barra, and two of the city’s best urban beaches: Porto da Barra and Farol da Barra beach. A long, modern boardwalk is perfect for evening strolls, and the area is well-equipped with restaurants, shops, and services, making it a convenient and popular option for a wide range of travelers.

• Vibe: Beach-centric, convenient, and family-friendly.
• Best for: Beach lovers, families, and travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and easy access to the city’s attractions.
• Accommodation: Expect a wide selection of mid-range to upscale hotels, many with pools and ocean views, as well as plentiful rental apartments.

Rio Vermelho

Known as Salvador’s most bohemian neighborhood, Rio Vermelho is the undisputed hub of the city’s nightlife and culinary scene. By day, it’s a relaxed residential area, but by night, its squares and streets come alive with the sizzle of acarajé stands, the murmur of crowded bars, and the sounds of live music. It’s where Soteropolitanos (locals from Salvador) go to eat, drink, and socialize, offering a more authentic, less tourist-focused experience after dark.

• Vibe: Bohemian, artistic, and the center of nightlife.
• Best for: Night owls, foodies, and younger travelers looking for a vibrant social scene.
• Accommodation: Options are diverse, ranging from social hostels and affordable guesthouses to stylish modern hotels.

The Flavors of Bahia: What to Eat and Drink

To visit Salvador is to embark on a culinary journey. Bahian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences, distinguished by its use of fresh seafood, coconut milk, and the unmistakable, fragrant dendê (palm oil). Prepare your palate for a truly unique and flavorful experience.

Must-Try Dishes

The streets and restaurants of Salvador are filled with aromas and tastes you won’t find anywhere else. These are the essential dishes that define the local gastronomy.

• Acarajé: This is the soul of Bahian street food. It’s a fritter made from a purée of black-eyed peas, onions, and salt, deep-fried in dendê oil until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It’s then split open and filled with vatapá, caruru, fresh salad, and dried shrimp. Ask for it “quente” (hot) if you want a generous dash of chili oil, or “frio” (cold) for a milder version.
• Moqueca Baiana: A dish that embodies the spirit of Bahia, moqueca is a slow-cooked seafood stew that is rich, fragrant, and deeply satisfying. Unlike other Brazilian versions, the Bahian moqueca is defined by its generous use of dendê oil and coconut milk, which create a luscious, vibrant orange sauce. Typically made with fish, shrimp, or a mix of seafood, it’s simmered with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and peppers, and traditionally served in a clay pot with rice, farofa (toasted manioc flour), and pirão (a fish-broth porridge).
• Vatapá & Caruru: Often found inside acarajé, these are also standalone dishes. Vatapá is a rich and creamy paste made from bread, shrimp, coconut milk, finely ground peanuts, and dendê oil. Caruru is a flavorful okra gumbo, cooked with dried shrimp, onions, and toasted nuts. They are classic examples of the African influence on local food.
• Abará: A close relative of acarajé, abará uses a similar black-eyed pea dough but is steamed in banana leaves instead of fried. This results in a softer, denser texture, similar to a tamale. It is also often served with vatapá and caruru.

Where to Eat

From bustling street corners to refined dining rooms, Salvador offers a setting for every meal and mood.

• Baianas de Acarajé: You cannot truly experience Salvador without eating at the stand of a Baiana de Acarajé. These women, traditionally dressed in their white turbans and flowing dresses, are the guardians of the city’s most iconic snack. You’ll find their stands (tabuleiros) in prominent squares and street corners, especially in Rio Vermelho and Barra. Cira, Regina, and Dinha are some of the most famous names.
• Restaurants in Pelourinho: The historic center is home to many excellent restaurants offering traditional Bahian cuisine in beautiful, colonial settings. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely sit-down meal to try a well-prepared moqueca or other regional specialties.
• Seafood Stalls in Rio Vermelho: As the sun sets, the Largo da Mariquita and Largo de Santana in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood come alive. Here, you’ll find a lively cluster of restaurants and stalls serving fresh seafood, ice-cold beer, and, of course, acarajé. The atmosphere is informal, vibrant, and quintessentially soteropolitano (the name for Salvador’s locals).

Essential Drinks to Sample

Complement your meals and cool down from the tropical heat with these signature Bahian beverages.

• Caipirinha: Brazil’s national cocktail is a must. Made with cachaça (a spirit distilled from sugarcane juice), fresh lime, and sugar, it’s simple, potent, and refreshing. You can also find versions made with other tropical fruits like passion fruit (maracujá) or cashew fruit (caju).
• Cravinho: A specialty found almost exclusively in a famous bar of the same name in the Pelourinho, Cravinho is a powerful infusion of cachaça, cloves, honey, and spices. It’s a strong, aromatic drink that is part of the local experience.
• Fresh Fruit Juices (Sucos): Brazil’s biodiversity is on full display at its juice bars. Skip the soda and try juices made from exotic native fruits you may have never heard of. Ask for a suco of cajá (a sweet and tangy yellow fruit), caju (cashew fruit), mangaba, or cupuaçu for a true taste of the tropics.

Festivals and Culture: The Soul of the City

To visit Salvador is to be immersed in a culture that is vibrant, audible, and deeply spiritual. The city’s soul is not confined to museums or galleries; it spills onto the streets in the form of powerful drumbeats, sacred ceremonies, and the world’s most immense public celebration. Understanding these cultural touchstones is key to experiencing the true essence of Bahia.

Salvador Carnival: The World’s Largest Street Party

Forget what you know about other Carnivals. Salvador’s celebration is a raw, participatory, and electrifying street festival. For nearly a week leading up to Ash Wednesday, the city transforms into a massive open-air party powered by music and collective energy. It is less a parade to be watched and more a wave of humanity to join. The experience can be understood through its three main components:

• Blocos Afros: These are the percussive and spiritual heart of Salvador’s Carnival. More than just drumming groups, organizations like Olodum, Ilê Aiyê, and Filhos de Gandhy are powerful Afro-Brazilian cultural movements. Their performances are a mesmerizing display of samba-reggae rhythms that resonate with history and identity.
• Trios Elétricos: These are gargantuan trucks equipped with powerful sound systems, carrying Brazilian music superstars who perform live as the vehicle inches its way through the packed streets. Following a trio is a core Carnival experience, where you become part of a moving, singing, and dancing crowd of thousands.
• Camarotes: For those seeking a more structured experience, camarotes are large, ticketed party spaces set up along the parade circuits. These offer food, drinks, live DJs, and an elevated view of the blocos and trios passing by, providing a comfortable base amidst the joyful chaos.

Festa de Iemanjá (February 2)

Every year on February 2nd, the neighborhood of Rio Vermelho turns white and blue for one of Salvador’s most beautiful and significant festivals. The Festa de Iemanjá is a massive tribute to the Candomblé Orixá (deity) of the sea. Thousands of devotees and admirers gather from before dawn to leave offerings—flowers, perfumes, mirrors, and letters—in large baskets on the beach. The day culminates in a procession of hundreds of boats that take the main offerings far out to sea, a moving spectacle of faith and tradition that is open and welcoming to all respectful observers.

The Living Traditions of Candomblé

You cannot understand Salvador without acknowledging the profound influence of Candomblé. This Afro-Brazilian religion has its roots in the spiritual traditions of the Yoruba and other West African peoples who were brought to Brazil. Through a process of syncretism, where African deities (Orixás) were associated with Catholic saints, the religion survived and flourished. Today, its influence is woven into the very fabric of the city. The famous Bahian dish acarajé is not just a snack but also a sacred food of the Orixá Iansã. The powerful rhythms of the blocos afros are directly descended from the percussive traditions of Candomblé ceremonies. The ubiquitous colorful wish ribbons (fitas) from the Bonfim Church are tied to the Orixá Oxalá. Candomblé is the spiritual bedrock that informs Salvador’s music, food, and the city’s unique worldview.

Practical Tips for Your Salvador Adventure

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your trip to Salvador is smooth and memorable. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the city with confidence, from staying safe to handling money and communicating with locals.

Safety and Awareness

Salvador is a large, vibrant city, and like any major urban center, it requires a degree of awareness. By following common-sense precautions, you can enjoy its incredible atmosphere without worry. The warmth of the Bahian people is genuine, but it’s wise to remain mindful of your surroundings.

• Practice General City Smarts: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets or bus stations. Avoid wearing expensive, flashy jewelry or openly displaying large amounts of cash or high-end electronics. A cross-body bag kept in front of you is generally more secure than a backpack.
• Navigating at Night: The Pelourinho is enchanting after dark, but it’s best to stick to the main, well-lit streets where there are plenty of people. Avoid wandering down dark, empty alleyways. After an evening out, taking a taxi or ride-share back to your accommodation is often the most prudent choice.
• Transportation Safety: When using ride-sharing apps like Uber or 99, always verify the license plate and driver’s name before entering the vehicle. Registered city taxis are also a reliable option. Avoid accepting rides from unofficial or unmarked cars.

Money, Tipping, and Costs

Understanding the local currency and customs will make your daily transactions much easier. Salvador can be an affordable destination, but costs can vary depending on your travel style.

• Currency: The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL), often symbolized as R$. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand upon arrival for immediate expenses like a taxi or a snack.
• Payments: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, established restaurants, and larger stores. However, carrying a moderate amount of cash is essential for paying for street food (like the unmissable acarajé), shopping at smaller craft stalls, and riding local buses. Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues with your cards.
• Tipping Customs: In most restaurants, a 10% service charge (taxa de serviço) is automatically added to the bill. This is considered the tip, and no additional amount is required. If it’s not included, leaving around 10% is customary for good service. Tipping is not expected for taxi drivers, but it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest real.

Essential Portuguese Phrases

While you can find English speakers in tourist-heavy areas, locals will greatly appreciate any attempt to speak Portuguese. Learning a few key phrases will not only help you navigate but also enrich your interactions.

• Olá / Oi – Hello (Olá is slightly more formal than Oi).
• Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite – Good morning / Good afternoon / Good night.
• Por favor – Please.
• Obrigado / Obrigada – Thank you. Use Obrigado if you identify as male and Obrigada if you identify as female.
• Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
• Com licença – Excuse me (to get past someone).
• A conta, por favor – The check, please.