Stand in awe at Praca da Se, home to Salvador’s iconic Cathedral of São Francisco. The striking red-and-white façade glows under the sun, while the golden interior dazzles with stained-glass light. Whether you’re here for quiet reflection or stunning photos, this sacred space leaves an unforgettable impression.




















Everything you need to know about Praca da Se
Stay at Hotel Santa Izabel, a boutique hotel just a 2-minute walk from Praça da Sé. Its colonial-era architecture blends seamlessly with modern comforts, offering rooms with direct views of the majestic façade of the Catedral Metropolitana. The hotel’s heritage ambiance and central location make it perfect for exploring Salvador’s historic heart.
Nearby, Pousada do Carmo stands out as another top choice—housed in a restored 17th-century convent, it offers authentic Bahian hospitality and rich cultural atmosphere. For transit, take a taxi from Salvador International Airport (approx. 30 minutes) or ride Bus Line 40 to the "Pelourinho" stop—both convenient and budget-friendly options.
Walk just 15 minutes from Praça da Sé to the historic Pelourinho district—passing vibrant colonial buildings and street art along the way, an immersive experience into Salvador’s cultural soul. Alternatively, take Bus Line 40 to the "Pelourinho" stop, a quick 10-minute ride.
For convenience, local taxis and electric moto-taxis (moto-táxis) are widely available and affordably priced. With most attractions within walking distance, the area boasts excellent connectivity and is ideal for independent exploration.
Near Praça da Sé, don’t miss local Brazilian music workshops hosted by resident artists—typically on weekends at nearby churches or cultural centers—featuring genres like Samba, Bossa Nova, and Afro-Brazilian percussion instruments. Daily afternoon performances include street dance shows with vibrant costumes and dynamic rhythms, showcasing Salvador’s rich musical identity.
For spiritual insight, attend special masses at the Catedral Metropolitana, where you can learn about its colonial history and religious significance. Most events are free or low-cost, offering authentic, interactive cultural immersion.
Yes, Praça da Sé is ideal for families. The area is safe, pedestrian-friendly, and close to child-friendly attractions. Just a 5-minute walk away is the Museu de Arte da Bahia, featuring interactive exhibits designed for kids.
Numerous cafés offer family spaces and children’s menus, while several hotels provide indoor play areas and swimming pools. Parents can also take children to explore the cathedral’s stained-glass windows and historical murals—an engaging blend of art and education.
With a mix of culture, safety, and convenience, this neighborhood is a top choice for family visits to Salvador.
Yes, most hotels near Praça da Sé, such as Hotel Santa Izabel and Pousada do Carmo, provide private parking with 24-hour surveillance—ideal for self-drive visitors. Some also offer airport shuttle services and luggage storage to enhance convenience.
However, due to narrow streets in the historic district, it’s recommended to book parking in advance to avoid availability issues during peak hours. For those without cars, walking or taking taxis is highly practical, as the area features clear signage and accessible pathways, ensuring smooth mobility for all guests.
See what other travelers say about Praca da Se

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.

The Fiesta Bahia Hotel exceeded my expectations in many ways—great location, friendly staff, and a very comfortable stay overall. However, the breakfast was a letdown for a 5-star property. I was expecting more variety and basic items like warm sandwiches or cheese bread, but those were completely missing. It felt disappointing considering the hotel's high rating. Still, the room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, and the service was attentive throughout. With a few improvements to the breakfast offering, this place could easily be top-tier. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for value and comfort in Salvador.

Every single day at this hotel felt like a perfect stay! From the moment we arrived, everything exceeded our expectations. The staff went above and beyond with their warm and attentive service, making us feel right at home. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed, with amazing views of the city and the sea—especially stunning at sunset. The location is unbeatable: just steps away from local attractions, restaurants, and public transport, so exploring Salvador was effortless. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers comfort, convenience, and an unforgettable experience. A true gem in Rio Vermelho—highly recommend!

Absolutely loved every single aspect of this hotel! From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel welcome with warm smiles and efficient service. The building itself is well-maintained and stylish, with a great vibe throughout. Breakfast was outstanding—freshly baked pastries, local treats, and a wide variety of options that kept me energized all day. The location is perfect for exploring Salvador; it's close to attractions and public transport, making it super convenient. With such excellent value and top-notch hospitality, I can't recommend this place enough. Would book again in a heartbeat!

Staying at Pousada Baluarte was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—right in the heart of Salvador, steps away from local shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it easy to explore the city without hassle. The property itself is beautifully designed with a warm, welcoming vibe—clean, well-organized, and thoughtfully decorated. Our room was cozy, quiet, and spotless, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. Breakfast was one of the highlights: fresh, delicious, and full of variety—from homemade pastries and local jams to aromatic coffee and tropical fruits. It felt like a true home-cooked start to the day. Zelinda, the host, went above and beyond with her kindness and attention. She made us feel right at home, always available with helpful tips and a smile. This place truly delivers on comfort, charm, and hospitality. I can’t recommend it highly enough—perfect for travelers who value authenticity and a personal touch.

Staying at Pousada Esmeralda was an absolute delight. Located just steps away from the historic center of Salvador, it's incredibly easy to explore on foot or by Uber and taxi. Nathalie and Marco, our hosts, were warm, welcoming, and went above and beyond with their hospitality—offering thoughtful recommendations and making us feel right at home. The breakfast was delicious and fresh, a perfect start to each day. Every detail, from the cozy rooms to the quiet ambiance, showed real care. This isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a genuine homely retreat in a vibrant city. I highly recommend this hidden gem!

This is our third time staying at this hotel, and it still feels like coming home. The staff are incredibly friendly and attentive—always going the extra mile to make sure we’re comfortable. The location is fantastic: just a short metro ride into the city center, with plenty of great restaurants and lively spots nearby. The rooms are clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you’d need. It’s clear the team takes pride in their service, and that shows in every detail. Great value for money, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Salvador. Booking through the platform was smooth and hassle-free—perfect experience all around.

Staying at Pousada Solar Dos Deuses was an absolute highlight of my trip to Salvador! The staff were incredibly welcoming and always ready to help—whether it was recommending local spots or sorting out travel tips, they went above and beyond. The location is perfect: just a short walk from the main attractions and public transport, making it super easy to explore the city without hassle. The atmosphere strikes the ideal balance between peaceful and vibrant, and the overall value for money is outstanding. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Salvador.

Staying at Hotel Catharina Paraguaçu was an absolute delight from start to finish. The property is beautifully designed, with a serene atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The breakfast was exceptional—fresh, delicious, and full of local flavors that truly stood out. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, making every interaction pleasant and personal. Location-wise, it's perfectly positioned for exploring Salvador’s highlights, with easy access to public transit and nearby attractions. I genuinely wished I could have stayed longer—this place has such a special charm. If you're looking for a memorable, authentic experience in Salvador, this hotel is a must-visit.

Ibis Salvador Rio Vermelho is a fantastic choice for travelers visiting Salvador! The location is unbeatable—right near the metro and just a short walk from major attractions. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a cozy bed that ensured a great night's sleep. The breakfast was excellent—fresh coffee, generous portions, and a nice variety of options. Friendly staff, reliable Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere make this hotel stand out. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the area.

Absolutely outstanding experience! The location is perfect—just a short walk from stunning natural attractions like waterfalls, lagoons, and natural hot springs. Everything we wanted to explore was within easy reach. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The rooms were spotless and comfortable, and the breakfast buffet was diverse and delicious. Dinner was equally impressive in quality and presentation. I appreciated how thoroughly they prioritized safety during the pandemic—cleanliness and hygiene were clearly a top focus. This place truly offers everything you could want in a getaway, all while feeling peaceful and close to nature. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a relaxing, authentic escape.

Canto Hotel is an excellent choice for a comfortable stay in Salvador, Brazil. The location is fantastic—everything you need, from local restaurants to shopping and public transit, is just steps away. The breakfast was outstanding, especially the coffee, which was rich and perfectly brewed. It truly made the morning better. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for families with young children, as the atmosphere is more suited for adults or solo travelers. Despite that, the overall experience was top-notch, and I’d definitely consider returning for a quiet, convenient getaway.
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