A Bohemian Guide to Rio Vermelho, Salvador

Rio Vermelho, Salvador / © Clarissa Pacheco / Flickr

Salvador is a hub of activity and well known for having outrageously exciting parties, particularly during Carnaval. But don’t overlook Salvador’s favorite bohemian neighborhood of Rio Vermelho. It’s the perfect place to spend a day seeing another side of the city. Here are our top spots to check out in this trendy neighborhood.

Morning

Dive right into the boho vibe by heading to LáLá, a cultural multi-space that is part market, art gallery and music venue. The space is well known as a hub for art and cultural within Salvador, and here you can discover some of the city’s local and regional artists. Also check out their goods for sale, from natural and vegan soaps and beauty products to artisan crafts. Consider checking back in later in the evening to catch a show.

LáLá, Rua da Paciência, 329, Rio Vermelho, Salvador

LáLá / © Blog do Rio Vermelho

Afternoon

Head down to the shore to check out Largo de Santana, where some of the best acarajé in all of Bahia can be found. Acarajé is a staple of the cuisine in Bahia and is a relatively simple dish. It’s a mix of black eyed peas, shrimp, onion, salt and pepper all mixed together, then fried in palm oil. Largo de Santana has some of the most famous acarajé around, so be sure to get your fill here, and don’t forget the ice cold beer to accompany this treat. If acarajé doesn’t sound appetizing, then try another local food option like tapioca, which comes in sweet and savory versions. For a heavier meal, check out the seafood stew moqueca, which is another well known dish of Bahia.

Largo de Santana, Rio Vermelho, Salvador

Largo de Santana / © Rita Barreto

Evening

Enjoy a pre-dinner toast at Blue Praia Bar, where caipirinhas with fresh fruit or a simple chilled coconut water awaits. This beach front bar is perfect for relaxing and taking in the view, before a night of partying. After drinks, it’s off to dinner. Dining options abound in Rio Vermelho, but for some true Bahia food, head to Dona Mariquita, located down a small street not far from Larqo Marquita. The cozy, charming place has a wide selection of food and is well known for its seafood plates.

Blue Praia Bar, R. Barro Vermelho, 310 – Rio Vermelho, Salvador

Dona Mariquita, R. do Meio, 178 – Rio Vermelho, Salvador

Night

Rio Vermelho has a ton of nightlife options, from dance clubs to English-style pubs. One of the area’s top clubs, San Sebastian, has a host of music genres to enjoy including electronica, samba, axé, electropop, funk and Brazilian popular music. With one of the best quality sound systems around and three floors of gorgeous architecture, there’s no reason not to check out San Sebastian while in Salvador. If you’re looking for something a little more down to earth, it doesn’t get much better than Borracharia, which is a tire shop during the day and a pulsing club at night! This simple, even rustic space, isn’t made for comfort, but the exotic appeal of partying here at night has brought Borracharia a great following. Check it out on Friday nights to experience the party in full swing, and enjoy various music styles from blues and funk to reggae and samba rock.

San Sebastian, R. da Paciência, 88 – Rio Vermelho, Salvador

Borracharia, Rua Conselheiro Pedro Luiz, 101 A, Rio Vermelho, Salvador