How to get to Salvador

When planning a trip to Salvador, you are setting off for one of the most vibrant and historically significant cities located in the north-eastern region of the state of Bahia in Brazil. This major metropolis, once the country's first capital, is renowned for its unique Afro-Brazilian culture, colonial architecture, and endless beaches. Getting to Salvador is straightforward: the city boasts a developed transport infrastructure, welcoming guests by plane via the international airport, as well as by bus and car via federal highways.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is by air. Flights land at Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA), which is one of the region's key aviation hubs with a passenger flow of over 7.3 million people per year. The airport is modern and well-connected to the main districts of the city.

Alternatively, if direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to nearby cities such as Feira de Santana or Cairu, located less than 100 km away. However, given the size and status of Salvador, a direct flight to its main airport remains the most rational choice for tourists.

Currently, there is no operating railway station for long-distance passenger trains within the city of Salvador itself. Rail transport in this region of Brazil is poorly developed and is used primarily for cargo transportation.

The nearest points connected to the railway network are in neighbouring cities, such as Alagoinhas and Feira de Santana, located approximately 90-100 km away. Nevertheless, tourists are not advised to rely on the train as a main method of reaching the coast, as bus services and air travel are much more efficient and accessible here.

Bus travel is a popular and budget-friendly way to reach the coast of Bahia state. One of the most in-demand routes runs from the city of Feira de Santana: comfortable buses cover the distance of 124 km in approximately 2.4 hours. This is an excellent option for those travelling within the region.

There is also a regular service connecting with the city of Alagoinhas. The journey, spanning about 125 km, takes slightly longer — around 3.7 hours, allowing you to enjoy views of the Brazilian countryside on the way to Salvador.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to see the picturesque landscapes of Bahia state. The fastest route leads from the city of Feira de Santana: the 115 km road takes just about 1.6 hours in the absence of traffic. The route from Alagoinhas is also convenient, from where you can drive to the state capital in 2 hours (123 km).

For those driving from the coast, for example, from the city of Cairu, the journey will be longer. You will have to cover about 176 km, which will take approximately 3.9 hours. Taxis for such distances can be costly, so many tourists prefer to rent a car.

Salvador is a city of bright colours, music, and eternal summer, but for a comfortable holiday, there are several local features to consider. Here is a list of practical recommendations to help make your trip safe and pleasant.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is tropical and humid year-round. Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones of the historic centre, and, of course, modest swimwear for the beach. Do not forget sunscreen with high SPF.
2. Transport: For moving around the city, it is safest and most convenient to use official taxis or apps like Uber. Public buses can be overcrowded and difficult to navigate without knowledge of the language.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is better to carry some cash in small denominations for buying street food or souvenirs.
4. Health and Safety: Try to stay within tourist zones (for example, the Pelourinho district), especially in the evening. Do not display expensive phones or jewellery on the street. Drink only bottled water.
5. Communication: The main language is Portuguese. English is not understood everywhere, even in the tourism sector, so download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases.
6. Local Etiquette: Bahians are very friendly and relaxed. Greetings are often accompanied by a handshake or a kiss on the cheek. Do not be surprised by the concept of "Bahia time" — no one is in a rush here.
7. What to Avoid: Avoid visiting favelas without being accompanied by a certified guide and do not leave belongings unattended on the beach.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to try acarajé — a local dish made from beans, fried in palm oil, sold by colourful women in traditional white dresses.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Salvador, its rhythms of samba and capoeira, while avoiding unnecessary hassles.