True to most costal Brazilian towns, Salvador has a diverse range of attractions which complement the fine beaches well. Most beaches go beyond Ondina neighbourhood and have fluffy sand and warm, inviting waters. As for city attractions, head for the beach neighbourhood of Barra and Pelourinho old town.

Barra
Barra is Salvador’s most popular area for many visitors; a neighbourhood close to town and beach, and loaded with hotels, shops, bars and restaurants. It is just south of the town centre, where the shoreline juts out to the east, and features loads of sights. Of these, the Barra Lighthouse (Farol da Barra) and Forte Santa Maria are the star attractions at sunset.

Igreja do Nosso Senhor do Bonfim
The sugar barons of Salvador smothered this beautiful Baroque church with gold in the early 1700s and it is truly is an impressive sight. The inside glitters with gold and as a result, golden hues shine out from the church of a night when the doors are opened. Be sure to check out the Room of Miracles and the hanging body parts. 
Phone: +55 71 3321 6968.

Lower City
Cidade Baixa is Salvador’s commercial heart, lying beneath the more affluent Pelourinho, and is suitable for a wander to take in the mishmash of narrow alleys and craft fairs during the day. Elevator Lacerda provides access to Comercio from the upper town, although you could traipse through the steep alleys to get here. Be vigilant around the streets of the elevator, even during the day.

Museu de Arte Sacra
Museu de Arte Sacra is one of Salvador’s most interesting museums; a small, attractive building with a fine collection of Catholic art. The galleries are loaded with oil paintings, carvings and statues, and enclose a pretty green cloister. The back of the building contains cruder, more modern works, while the building itself—the Convent of Saint Teresa of Avila—is worth a look on its own merit. 
Phone: +55 71 243 6310.

Pelourinho Old Town
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, Pelourinho, or Pelo as it is locally known, has the city’s best collection of historic buildings and monuments. The Praca Tome de Souza sits at the top of the cliff, along with the classical Palacio Rio Branco and the Elevador Lacerda. This ancient elevator was built in 1872 and had an Art Deco makeover during its hydraulics fit in 1930.

Salvador Beaches
Salvador has a fine collection of beaches that start from the Ondina neighbourhood. Beaches to check out include: Rio Vermelho, Praia de Piata, Praia dos Artistas, Praia de Itapua, and Praia do Flamengo. Most beaches have water sports activities on offer and are fronted by flashy neighbourhoods with modern shops and restaurants.

Solar do Unhao
Solar is an old sugar mill that features many well-preserved heritage buildings flanking a stone courtyard. It is situated on the waterfront, making strolling pleasant. An interesting sight worth checking out here is the modern art museum, with works by Portinari and Di Cavalcanti. The sculpture garden is near the main building. 
Phone: +55 71 3329 0660.