Things To Do
in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios

Nossa Senhora dos Remédios is a historic hilltop neighborhood perched above Bahia's coast, known for its colonial charm, vibrant stairways, and sweeping views of the sea. The area centers around the iconic Church of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios and a maze of creaky tiled steps that connect the upper city with the bustling waterfront. Visitors wander past pastel-colored houses, market stalls, and street musicians that echo Bahian rhythms.

It's a place where history, culture, and panoramas converge for a quintessential tropical Brazilian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios
morning
:

Arrive at the local airport and transfer to your charming accommodations in the heart of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. After settling in, enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast featuring fresh fruits and pastries at a local café. Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque town to familiarize yourself with the area’s quaint architecture and friendly locals.

afternoon
:

Visit the Igreja Matriz, an iconic church that showcases beautiful colonial architecture and offers a glimpse into the town's rich religious history. Spend some time exploring the surrounding markets where you can purchase handmade crafts and local delicacies. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, enriching your cultural experience.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, where you can savor dishes like feijoada and tapioca. Celebrate your first evening by enjoying live music or dance performances that reflect the vibrant culture of the region. Reflect on your day under the stars while sipping on a refreshing caipirinha.

day 2
Exploring Nature
morning
:

Head out early for a guided hike in the nearby Serra da Mantiqueira, where lush landscapes and breathtaking views await. As you trek through the rolling hills, encounter exotic birds and local wildlife, making for an unforgettable nature experience. Pause for a mid-morning snack, enjoying the sounds of nature around you.

afternoon
:

Continue your journey through the mountains, arriving at a stunning waterfall where you can cool off in the crystal-clear waters. Find a scenic spot for a picnic lunch while surrounded by the beauty of the natural world. Spend the afternoon snapping photos and simply basking in the tranquility of this serene location.

evening
:

Return to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios and unwind at your accommodations. Treat yourself to a relaxing evening with a visit to the local spa for some much-needed pampering and rejuvenation. Wrap up the day by sharing stories with fellow travelers over dinner at a cozy eatery.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or snack$2-4
🚌Public transport fare (one-way)$0.75-1.50
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$50-120
🍷Beer or local drink$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and Bahian hospitality
  • Stunning coastal views and historic architecture
  • Delicious Bahian cuisine and vibrant markets
  • Walkable historic center with plenty of photo opportunities
  • Hilly streets can be steep and tiring
  • Touristy areas can be crowded at peak times
  • Seasonal heat and occasional rain may affect outdoor plans
  • Some services may be more expensive near attractions
  • "Bom dia" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica…?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios – façade & balcony

Historic church with a grand facade overlooking the city and sea, ideal for golden hour photography.

Elevador Lacerda viewpoint

Historic elevator area offering dramatic views of the lower and upper city and the bay.

Pelourinho cobblestone lanes

Colorful colonial buildings, musician-filled streets, and stairways perfect for candid and architectural shots.

Porto da Barra sunset coast

Iconic sunset shots along the harbor with boats and skyline silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios

Bahian cuisine emphasizes seafood, coconut milk, and dendê oil, with flavors that blend African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences. Expect rich stews, grilled fish, and vibrant street foods that light up the streets after sunset.

Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca Baiana

A fragrant fish or seafood stew made with dendê oil, coconut milk, peppers, and cilantro; commonly found at coastal restaurants and in market eateries.

Must-Try!

Acarajé

Black-eyed pea fritters fried in palm oil, split and served with vatapá and caruru; a quintessential Bahian street snack found at markets and stalls.

Vatapá

Creamy paste of bread, coconut milk, peanuts, and dendê oil, often served with shrimp on the side.

Bobó de Camarão

Creamy shrimp puree cooked with coconut milk and manioc flour, typically served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira de São Joaquim

A bustling market in Salvador where you can sample fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and ready-to-eat Bahian specialties.

Mercado Modelo

Historic marketplace offering crafts, souvenirs, and stalls selling local bites and drinks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. High humidity and warm temperatures year-round; the coastal breeze eases heat. Rainfall peaks in the wet season, while the dry season brings more predictable sunshine.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Polite greetings like bom dia/boa tarde are appreciated; address elders with respect.

Church and sacred spaces

Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and remove hats when indoors.

Photography

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate settings; be respectful of local norms.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist hotspots. Use reputable taxis or rideshares at night, keep valuables secure, and avoid flaunting expensive gear. Travel with a copy of important documents and stay in well-lit areas after dark.

Tipping in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, 5-10% is common if service is not included; in casual spots a small tip is fine.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash (Brazilian real) is handy for markets; mobile payment apps and Pix are increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or after sunset.

Autumn

Warm days with lower humidity; pleasant evenings ideal for walking tours and street performances.

Winter

Mild temperatures, cooler nights; rain is less common but possible in some years, great for city sightseeing.

Spring

Pleasant weather with blooming flora; good time for outdoor markets and coastal hikes.

Nightlife Guide

Nossa Senhora dos Remédios at Night

Nightlife centers on Pelourinho and the harborfront, with live Bahian music, open-air bars, and samba-reggae rhythms. Street performances, jazz-infused clubs, and traditional capoeira showcases create a lively atmosphere late into the evening; expect crowds around weekends and events.

Hiking in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Ridge Trail near Porto da Barra

Easy-to-moderate coastal hike with sea views, ideal for sunset photography.

Morro do Cristo Urban Trail

Urban hillside trail offering city panoramas and shaded stairs through historic neighborhoods.

Airports

How to reach Nossa Senhora dos Remédios by plane.

SSA - Deputado Luís Eduardo Magalhães International Airport

Major international airport serving Salvador; taxi or rideshare to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios takes about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Porto Seguro Airport (BPS)

A regional airport farther from the city; useful for connecting to coastal Bahian towns and beaches; may require a longer drive.

Getting Around

Walkability

The historic hilltop area is highly walkable with compact streets and scenic stairs, but many routes involve uphill climbs. Expect steep slopes and uneven pavement; comfortable footwear is essential. Some farther spots require short rides or public transit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Afro-Brazilian communities

A strong cultural presence in Bahia with rich traditions in music, dance, and religious practices.

European-descended populations

Historical influences from Portuguese settlers shape architecture and cuisine.

Tourists and expatriates

A rotating community of visitors drawn to the coastline, history, and music scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The national pastime; local matches and casual kickabouts on beaches and public spaces are common.

Beach volleyball

Popular on the city beaches and waterfront promenades, with informal games and occasional tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested during morning and evening rush hours, especially near the waterfront and historic center. Public buses cover major routes; rideshares and taxis are plentiful but can be slower at peak times. Navigate narrow streets on foot or by local transit when exploring Pelourinho.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nossa Senhora dos Remédios.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Bahian dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable stews, grilled vegetables, rice and beans, and veggie moquecas without shrimp; ask for coconut milk alternatives if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Salvador include private clinics and hospitals with international standard options; public SUS facilities are available but may have longer wait times. Carry basic prescription information and travel insurance for emergencies.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide