Salvador Mercado Modelo

The basics

Many of the city's sightseeing tours include a visit to the Mercado Modelo. Browse the stalls for souvenirs, which include handmade jewelry and accessories, traditional handicrafts, herbs and spices, local foods and candies, and artworks. After shopping, head upstairs to sample typical Bahian cuisine or enjoy a drink at one of the cafés. Visiting with a guide also reveals the building’s history—the Customs House was used to house enslaved people during the 19th century, and the remains of its catacombs can still be seen in the basement.

Things to know before you go

*The Mercado Modelo is a must for shoppers and a popular place to purchase souvenirs.

*The second floor of the Mercado Modelo has a number of cafés and restaurants with views across the bay.

*Bring cash, as most stalls don’t accept cards, and be ready to haggle for the best price.

*Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times.

*The market is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

The Mercado Modelo is located in the Lower City (Cidade Baixa), right by the harbor. To get there from the Upper City (Cidade Alta), ride the Lacerda Elevator, which will drop you right by the marketplace. Most buses marked "Comércio" or "Elevador Lacerda" stop close to the market. Alternatively, you can see the market as part of a tour, or take a taxi—as with most Brazilian cities, it’s not recommended to walk outside of the main tourist areas.

When to get there

The market is open Monday to Saturday from morning to early evening, and Sunday from morning to mid-afternoon. Make an early start to avoid the biggest crowds, or time your visit to enjoy lunch at the upstairs food hall.

A walking tour of Salvador’s Upper City

The Mercado Modelo is conveniently located by the Lacerda Elevator, which links Salvador's Upper and Lower Cities. After browsing the market stalls, ride the elevator up to the Upper City and explore the atmospheric Pelourinho neighborhood on foot. The UNESCO World Heritage–listed district is known for its colorful buildings and colonial architecture, as well as its many small shops, cafés, and art galleries. Be sure to visit San Francisco Church, the Cathedral of Salvador, the Afro-Brazilian Museum, and the Largo do Pelourinho square, where you might be lucky enough to see some live music or capoeira performances.