Things To Do
in Feira de Santana

Feira de Santana is a vibrant city located in the state of Bahia, Brazil, known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. It is the second-largest city in Bahia and serves as a significant commercial center for the region. The city is famous for its colorful festivals, bustling markets, and hospitable locals, making it an inviting destination for visitors.

Feira de Santana also offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions, making it a multifaceted place to explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mercado de Arte Popular, where you can browse local crafts and enjoy some traditional Bahian breakfast foods like Acarajé.

afternoon
:

Visit the Igreja Matriz de Santana, an iconic church in the city, followed by a stroll in the surrounding park to soak up the local atmosphere.

evening
:

Dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Bahian cuisine, and perhaps catch a live music performance at a nearby venue.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Museu Regional de Feira de Santana to learn about the local history and culture, then enjoy a coffee break at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Parque da Cidade, a large green space perfect for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors.

evening
:

End your day at a local bar enjoying some live forró music while sampling local drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza slice$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🛒Groceries (weekly)$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and festivals.
  • Welcoming and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited English speakers.
  • Public transport can be inconsistent.
  • Hot and humid weather during summer.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...? " - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Feira de Santana

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Santana

This stunning church features beautiful architecture and is a great backdrop for photos.

Parque da Cidade

A serene park filled with lush greenery and scenic views, perfect for nature photography.

Mercado de Arte Popular

The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of this market provide countless photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Feira de Santana

Feira de Santana offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects the rich culture of Bahia. From street food to fine dining, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Feira de Santana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Acarajé

A traditional Bahian snack made from black-eyed peas, deep-fried and filled with shrimp, vatapá, and spicy sauce.

Must-Try!

Moqueca

A flavorful fish stew cooked with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Arte Popular

A vibrant market where you can find local crafts, street food, and fresh produce.

Feira-livre

An open-air market held on weekends, featuring a variety of street food options and local goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Feira de Santana is tropical, with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season typically runs from June to November, characterized by lower humidity and ample sunshine. The wet season occurs from December to May, with higher humidity and occasional heavy rains. Average temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) to 30°C (86°F), making it warm year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone new, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Personal Space

Brazilians tend to stand closer during conversations than in many cultures, which can be surprising to newcomers.

Dress Code

While casual clothing is generally acceptable, dressing nicely is appreciated, especially in restaurants and events.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Feira de Santana is generally safe for tourists, as in any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuables and stick to well-lit areas at night. Using registered taxis or ride-sharing services is recommended for safe transport.

Tipping in Feira de Santana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10%, but not mandatory. It's less common in bars.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for street vendors and small markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures and less rain, perfect for exploring the city and its parks.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures and drier weather, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring (September to November)

Warm temperatures return with a mix of sunny and rainy days, offering a vibrant atmosphere for festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Feira de Santana at Night

Feira de Santana boasts a lively nightlife with numerous bars and clubs featuring live music, particularly forró and axé music. The atmosphere is friendly and festive, with many locals enjoying the late-night scene. Popular spots include bars that host dance competitions and those with live bands, creating an exciting environment for both dancing and socializing.

Hiking in Feira de Santana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Elefante

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, suited for moderate hikers.

Caminho da Luz

A scenic trail through lush vegetation, perfect for nature lovers looking to explore the local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Feira de Santana by plane.

Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport (SSA)

Located about 100 km from Feira de Santana, this airport serves as the main international gateway to Bahia, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Feira de Santana is moderately walkable, with many attractions concentrated in the city center. Sidewalks are generally available, but care should be taken since some areas might be uneven. Public plazas and parks are great for walking, and local markets are easily accessible on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bahian Locals

The majority of the population consists of Afro-Brazilians, who maintain a rich cultural heritage with a strong influence on music, dance, and cuisine.

Immigrants

Feira de Santana is home to a diverse immigrant community, including people from other parts of Brazil and neighboring countries, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams playing at various levels, including the Campeonato Baiano.

Capoeira

A traditional Brazilian martial art that combines dance, acrobatics, and music, widely practiced in Bahia.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Feira de Santana can be busy during peak hours, especially near commercial areas. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, with some ride-sharing options available. Walking is a viable option in the city center, but it’s advisable to be cautious of traffic when crossing streets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Feira de Santana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about preparation methods.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, fresh fruits and vegetables are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Feira de Santana includes both public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is available to residents, but private hospitals and clinics often provide quicker service and better amenities. Emergency services are accessible, and basic medical needs can be met at local pharmacies.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide