The Museu do Saneamento Embasa holds the pulse of Salvador’s urban evolution—where century-old pipes and vintage water towers tell the story of how water shaped a city. Step inside and you’re flipping through a living history book; watch sunlight dance on antique valves, and suddenly realize: the flow we take for granted was once revolutionary.













Everything you need to know about Museu do Saneamento Embasa
Hotel Solar da Barra is a top recommendation, located just 1.5 km from Museu do Saneamento Embasa in historic downtown Salvador. This boutique hotel blends colonial architecture with modern comforts, offering free Wi-Fi, private balconies, and authentic Bahian cuisine.
The property provides guided tours that delve into the region’s water sanitation history and community development—perfect for cultural immersion. Guests can easily reach the museum on foot or by electric bike, making it ideal for exploring nearby landmarks like Igreja de São Francisco and Plaza da Sé.
Its central location also grants access to vibrant street markets and live music venues, enhancing the overall Salvador experience.
The most convenient option is renting an electric scooter or HopeGoo an Uber, taking about 10 minutes from downtown Salvador. For public transit, take the BRT Metrobus to the "Barra" station and walk approximately 15 minutes to the museum.
Some tour buses also pass through the area, ideal for day-trippers. The museum has a dedicated parking lot, but non-drivers are encouraged to use eco-friendly transport.
On weekends, the museum offers guided shuttle services led by knowledgeable staff, providing insights into Bahia’s public sanitation evolution and innovative infrastructure projects.
The museum features immersive interactive exhibits using touchscreens and virtual reality (VR) to simulate water supply and wastewater treatment across Bahia state. Don’t miss the "Journey of Water" guided tour, where experts lead visitors through scaled models of underground pipelines and purification plants, revealing how Salvador combats seasonal droughts and urbanization pressures.
Monthly community workshops invite locals to participate in sustainable water design challenges, showcasing student innovations. Visitors can even build their own mini water filter as a keepsake.
These hands-on activities blend education with engagement, fostering public awareness and appreciation for critical infrastructure.
Just a short walk away lies Barra da Tijuca Beach, known for its clean sands and seaside pavilions—perfect for relaxation and photography. A 15-minute stroll leads to Catedral de São José, a striking Neo-Gothic cathedral adorned with colorful stained glass.
Nearby, Mercado Modelo is a vibrant traditional market selling local crafts, spices, and fresh tropical fruits. Visit in the afternoon to combine a museum afternoon tour with a pop-up food festival at the market.
This combination offers a rich taste of Salvador’s daily life, culture, and community spirit.
Stay at Hotel Avenida, a boutique hotel just a 5-minute walk from Museu do Saneamento Embasa. It offers modern amenities, sea-view rooms overlooking the Bay of Salvador, and excellent service. Located in the city center, it’s ideal for exploring nearby cultural sites like Pelourinho and provides easy access to public transport and dining options. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and free Wi-Fi, making it a top choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
After visiting Museu do Saneamento Embasa, stroll to Pelourinho Historic District, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial-era architecture and vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture. Enjoy a hands-on samba workshop, sample authentic street food like acarajé, or admire public art installations that highlight the city’s water infrastructure evolution. These immersive experiences blend history, art, and local life, offering a rich understanding of Salvador’s identity.
Take bus lines 120 or 145 to the Cidade Baixa stop—just a 8-minute walk from Museu do Saneamento Embasa. Alternatively, use Uber or Buzios Taxi for a 10-minute ride (~15 BRL). The museum is centrally located with ample parking and pedestrian access, ensuring easy and convenient transportation for independent travelers exploring the city.
Yes, visit Parque da Cidade, a short 10-minute walk away, featuring playgrounds, shaded walking paths, and outdoor performance stages hosting children’s events. Nearby, the Igreja de São Francisco boasts stunning Baroque interiors perfect for kids’ curiosity. The museum itself offers guided tours and interactive exhibits, making it an engaging educational stop for families interested in water resource management and sustainable urban development.
Head to Mercado Modelo, just 1.2 km away, one of Salvador’s most iconic markets. Try Vatapá (coconut-based mashed dish), Moqueca de Peixe (fish stew), and fresh mango juice from local stalls. For sit-down dining, Restaurante Ouro Verde serves creative Brazilian cuisine, including their famous Feijoada com farofa (black bean stew with toasted cassava). All dishes use locally sourced ingredients, delivering authentic flavors at affordable prices.
Museu do Saneamento Embasa is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays. Admission is free, though guided tours are recommended and available upon reservation. The museum features touch-screen exhibits, historical film screenings, and a gift shop. Multilingual brochures in English and Portuguese are provided, making it an excellent destination for visitors interested in Brazil’s public health and infrastructure history.
See what other travelers say about Museu do Saneamento Embasa

I was truly impressed by this pousada. It's incredibly convenient, just a short walk from top attractions like Pelourinho—perfect for exploring on foot. The staff went above and beyond with their warm welcome and excellent service. The lobby is spotless, well-organized, and welcoming. I was genuinely taken care of—I even got helpful suggestions for local sights and activities. The attention to detail and hospitality made my stay feel personal and memorable. Definitely a standout choice in Salvador.

My stay at Bahiacafé Hotel was absolutely wonderful. The property was immaculate and beautifully maintained, with a breakfast spread that exceeded expectations—especially the fresh ciabatta made by Josi, which was simply divine. Patricia, the host, is such a kind and attentive person; her warmth made the entire experience feel personal and welcoming. The service at check-in was flawless—10/10 in every way. Located just steps from the metro, it's incredibly convenient for exploring Salvador. I couldn’t recommend this place more highly. I’m already planning my return visit!

Absolutely loved staying at Hotel Bahia do Sol! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the beach and all the local attractions. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and had a cozy, welcoming vibe. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and attentive service—always ready to help with recommendations or any request. It’s clear they take pride in providing a comfortable experience. For anyone visiting Salvador, this hotel is a top choice. Highly recommend it!

The location is fantastic—super convenient and safe, with easy access by public transit. The room was spotless and impeccably clean, making the stay very comfortable. The staff were incredibly friendly and always attentive, going above and beyond to help with anything we needed. Everything about this place felt perfect—from the ambiance to the service. It's a true gem in Salvador, and I’d definitely come back again.

I traveled to Salvador last December for work, and all the hotels I usually stay at were fully booked. Thankfully, my company managed to secure a lovely stay at Pousada Beija Flor in the Santo Antônio neighborhood. I was doubly impressed—by both the area and the experience, which felt like it came straight out of a Jorge Amado novel. The neighborhood is full of character: colorful streets, local vibes, and an authentic Bahian atmosphere. The hotel itself is charming, clean, and well-maintained, with friendly staff who made me feel welcome from the moment I arrived. It’s just a short walk or quick transit ride to downtown, making it easy to explore the city. The overall experience exceeded expectations—perfect for travelers who want a mix of culture, comfort, and charm. I’d definitely choose this place again on my next visit to Salvador.

The atmosphere at this hostel is incredibly welcoming, and the staff are genuinely friendly and helpful. The included breakfast is generous and delicious—perfect for starting the day right. Located right in the heart of Pelourinho, it’s steps away from historic sights, local shops, restaurants, and vibrant street life. What really stands out is the daily WhatsApp updates with curated recommendations for tours, dining spots, and city events—super convenient and thoughtful. Everything you need for an authentic Salvador experience is just outside your door. This place feels like a home away from home, and I’d absolutely stay here again.

I had an amazing stay at this hostel! Even though I don’t speak Portuguese, the staff went above and beyond to help me plan my trip around Salvador. They gave great tips and made everything so easy. The breakfast was delicious—fresh and filling. Best of all, the location is perfect: just a short walk to Pelourinho, where you can easily catch an Uber or taxi. The atmosphere is welcoming, clean, and vibrant. It’s clear they care about guests’ experience. I’d definitely come back here on my next visit to Salvador.

We stayed at Pousada do Pilar with a group during our trip to Brazil, and it was an unforgettable experience. The place has a unique charm with its wooden staircases and simple yet clean rooms. What truly stood out was the warm hospitality of the owners—they made us feel right at home. The highlight was definitely the breakfast on the rooftop, where we enjoyed a panoramic view of the ocean. Everything was prepared by hand—from delicious fruit cakes to freshly squeezed juices—each bite full of care and flavor. It’s not just a stay; it’s a genuine taste of Brazilian warmth and authenticity. A must-visit for anyone looking for something special.

Staying at Aquarena Hotel in Salvador was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the city center and easily accessible by public transit. The hotel itself is spotless, with brand-new facilities and cozy, well-designed rooms that feel both modern and welcoming. Every detail, from the comfortable beds to the thoughtful touches in the decor, makes for a relaxing stay. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere felt warm and inviting. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Salvador—whether for business or leisure. It’s a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and value. Definitely a top pick.

Staying at Hotel Porto Da Barra was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and easily accessible by public transit. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, always maintaining a safe, clean environment with proper distancing and mask usage. Our room was spotless, fresh-smelling, and well-maintained throughout our stay. We didn’t have breakfast since we left early in the morning, but even without that, the value for money was outstanding. For comfort, cleanliness, and convenience, this hotel truly delivers on every level—highly recommend it to anyone visiting Salvador.

This hotel doesn’t actually exist—there’s nothing but construction barriers blocking the entire property. I booked through the platform, only to find out it’s completely closed and abandoned. It’s really misleading that this listing is still active. I’d strongly recommend travelers and locals alike to leave feedback to warn others—don’t get caught like I did. The lack of updates and transparency is disappointing, especially when you’re relying on accurate info for your trip. This place should be taken down from the site.

I absolutely loved my stay at Suites do Meson in Salvador! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the metro and surrounded by great local restaurants and shops. The room was spotless, cozy, and very well-appointed with everything I needed. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service—always smiling, helpful, and attentive. Breakfast was an absolute highlight: fresh, diverse, and full of local flavors. I didn’t have to leave the hotel to enjoy a delicious morning meal. It’s rare to find such a reliable, comfortable, and welcoming place, especially at this price point. I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip to Salvador—and I’ve already recommended it to friends.
Explore more amazing destinations