Things To Do
in Alexandria

Alexandria is a small coastal municipality in Bahia, Brazil, perched along tidal rivers and open Atlantic waters. The town blends Afro-Brazilian rhythms with colorful markets, seafood traditions, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. Visitors can wander colonial streets, watch fishermen at work, and savor fresh seafood with coconut milk and dendê oil.

With year-round warmth and humidity, Alexandria invites easy strolls along the waterfront, sunset views, and outdoor adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Alexandria
morning
:

Arrive in Alexandria, Brazil, where you will be greeted by the warm sunshine and friendly locals. After settling into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café that offers traditional Brazilian pastries. Take a stroll through the town to familiarize yourself with the charming streets and vibrant culture.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the lively atmosphere and sample some fresh fruits and local delicacies. Engage with artisans and shop for handmade crafts that reflect the artistry of the region. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant offering a taste of regional cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy bar or lounge to unwind and enjoy some local music. Sample Brazil's famous caipirinhas while mingling with locals and other travelers. End your day by taking a reflective walk along the scenic waterfront.

day 2
Exploring Historical Landmarks
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner before embarking on a historical tour of Alexandria. Visit the city's iconic churches, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history. Take your time to appreciate the significance of each landmark and capture photos for your travel album.

afternoon
:

Head to the local museum that highlights Alexandria's heritage and cultural significance within Brazil. Enjoy a guided tour that provides insights into the town's past, including artifacts and exhibitions. Have lunch in the museum café, where you can reflect on the history you've just learned.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned local restaurant known for its traditional fare. Engage with local diners and perhaps learn a few words of Portuguese. Conclude your day with a stroll through the main square, where you might encounter live performances or art displays.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
Coffee/tea$1-3
🚕Taxi or ride-share (in town)$2-5
💧Bottled water (1.5L)$0.80-1.50
🏖️Beach chair/umbrella rental$3-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm hospitality
  • Great seafood and culture
  • Relaxed pace of life
  • Affordability for regional Bahia travel
  • Limited public transit outside the city center
  • Smaller selection of international dining options
  • Seasonal weather can bring heavy rain and humidity
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "Eu não entendi" - I didn't understand
  • "Saúde" - Cheers / Bless you

Places to Visit in Alexandria

Visit one of these nice places.

Centro Histórico de Alexandria

Colorful colonial facades, lively streets, and market vitality provide endless candid and architectural shots.

Ponte do Rio

Sunrise over the river with silhouettes of fishing boats and early-morning light.

Praia do Pontal

Expansive sandy shore and palm-lined horizon ideal for wide landscape and sunset photography.

Mirante do Morro

Elevated viewpoint offering panoramas of the town, coast, and surrounding mangroves.

Mercado Municipal Building

Architectural details and daily market life perfect for street and detail shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alexandria

Bahian cuisine centers on seafood, coconut milk, dendê oil, and vibrant flavors that reflect African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences. Expect fresh fish, peppers, and abundant tropical fruits in every meal.

Alexandria Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca Baiana

A coconut-milk, dendê oil fish stew served with rice and farofa.

Must-Try!

Acarajé

Crispy black-eyed pea fritters split open and filled with vatapá and caruru.

Bobó de Camarão

Shrimp in a creamy cassava milk sauce with cilantro and lime.

Caruru

Okra stew with dendê oil, shrimp, and toasted peanuts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Alexandria

Historic market with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, cassava, and Bahian snack stalls.

Acarajé stalls by the Riverfront

Street vendors offering traditional fritters with vatapá and caruru.

Climate Guide

Weather

A tropical coastal climate with warm temperatures year-round. The wet season runs roughly April to July, while the rest of the year tends to be drier but still humid; sea breezes keep evenings pleasant along the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde'; shake hands or hug among friends, and maintain friendly eye contact.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice standard travel safety: keep valuables secure, use reputable taxis or rideshares, avoid deserted areas at night, and stay hydrated in the heat. Water safety is advised on boats and at unfamiliar beaches.

Tipping in Alexandria

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

At restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; 10% is common for good service. Cash tips are gracious, but many places accept cards or Pix for digital tips.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and seek shade or a breeze near the water.

Autumn

Warm days with gradually lower humidity; comfortable for outdoor exploring and coastal walks.

Winter

Milder evenings by the coast; cool nights can be breezy, so bring a light layer.

Spring

Rising humidity and balmy days; ideal for outdoor markets, beaches, and hiking.

Nightlife Guide

Alexandria at Night

The nightlife centers on laid-back bars with live Bahian music, including forró, samba, and pagode. Expect casual venues along the waterfront where locals linger after sunset, and seasonal weekend events with dancing and street food.

Hiking in Alexandria

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Reserva da Serra do Leste Trails

Forest trails with birdlife and viewpoints about a short drive from town.

Costa Verde Coastal Trail

Coastal path along cliffs and beaches with sea panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Alexandria by plane.

Salvador International (SSA)

Major gateway to Bahia with domestic and international flights; typically a 2–3 hour drive by road to Alexandria.

Ilhéus Jorge Amado (IOS)

Regional airport with domestic connections; longer transfer to Alexandria.

Porto Seguro (BPS)

Popular domestic gateway with seasonal international flights; convenient for coastal trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

The historic center is fairly walkable with narrow streets and sidewalks; some areas have uneven pavement and steep climbs, so be prepared for hills.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Afro-Brazilian communities

A strong influence on music, food, and religious life.

Pardo and mixed-heritage communities

Diverse, family-oriented population common in coastal Bahia.

Young professionals and families

Growing local businesses and tourism-related work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport with local leagues and informal games on weekends.

Beach Volleyball

Common on the sand with locals and visitors of all ages.

Capoeira

A traditional martial art performed in public spaces and cultural centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually light to moderate; the waterfront area can get congested in evenings and weekends. Public buses run, but schedules may be irregular outside core routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alexandria.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Bahian dishes can be adapted to vegetarian diets; request plant-based options such as mandioca, rice, beans, and grilled vegetables, and ask for dendê-free preparations when necessary.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is available through SUS, but waits can be long for non-emergencies. Private clinics and hospitals offer faster service; pharmacies are widespread.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide