Getting to the City from the Airport
The Deputado Luis Eduardo Magalhães International Airport serves as a major gateway for international and domestic travelers. There are several ways to reach the city center from the airport terminal:
- Subway: A free shuttle bus connects the airport terminal to a nearby subway station. The subway is considered an efficient way to reach the city, providing direct access to the central area and the main long-distance bus terminal (Estação Rodoviária).
- Executive Minibuses: Air-conditioned executive minibuses run every 20 minutes from the airport toward Praça da Sé. These buses travel along the coast and stop at popular locations including several beaches, the Barra district, and a large shopping mall.
- Taxis: Two types of taxis are available at the airport. "Executive" taxis operate on a pre-paid table of prices rather than a meter, while standard taxis use a meter.
- Shuttle Services: Specific shuttle services are available for travelers heading directly to certain hotels throughout the city.
Public Transit: Metro and Rail
Salvador features a metro system consisting of two lines that connect the city center with various suburbs, the airport, and the main bus terminal. To navigate this network, visitors can use a "Cartão Integração" or a "Salvador Card," both of which can be purchased at any station, including those at the airport.
The metro system is integrated with the local transit network; a single fare includes a transfer to city buses. For specific destinations, the metro serves as a primary link: for example, it connects travelers to the Lapa Station for access to the Barra and Campo Grande areas, or to the Campo da Pólvora Station near the Pelourinho district.
Buses and Local Transport
The city is served by an extensive network of urban buses. While these routes can be complex, they offer a common way to move across different neighborhoods. For those seeking more comfort, air-conditioned executive buses are available for a higher fare.
Key transit hubs include the Lapa terminal (located near a shopping center), Estação Iguatemi, and Estação Mussurunga. When taking an urban bus, it is advisable to confirm your destination with the driver before boarding. While generally safe at night on frequented coastal routes, service typically concludes around midnight.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are a faster alternative to buses but can be more expensive, particularly for long distances. There are two distinct categories:
- City Taxis: These use meters to calculate the fare.
- Executive Taxis: Identified by their white and blue colors, these do not use meters but instead offer a set price from a table. They are typically found at major hubs like malls, hotels, and the airport.
Walking and Local Connectivity
The historic old city center is well-suited for exploration on foot. However, to move between the upper and lower sections of the city, travelers can use the Elevador Lacerda or a cable car. It is important to note that the streets directly connecting these two levels are considered unsafe for pedestrians; therefore, using the elevator or cable car is the recommended way to transition between them.
Cycling
Cycling is generally not recommended as a primary mode of transport in Salvador due to limited infrastructure and heavy traffic. An exception is a specific cycleway along the east coast between Amaralina and Piatã beaches, though this path is frequently shared with pedestrians.