Elevador Lacerda
Ride Salvador's iconic art deco elevator, connecting historic upper and lower cities with stunning bay views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views & safer feel
Elevador Lacerda
Best Time
Clearer views & safer feel

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride Salvador's iconic art deco elevator, connecting historic upper and lower cities with stunning bay views.
"Great views friendly staff a must to go to in Salvador"
Be Aware of Surroundings
Some visitors mention feeling unsafe in the lower city area. Stay alert and keep valuables secure. :shield:
Enjoy the Quick Ride
It's a fast, functional elevator, not a long attraction. Enjoy the short, scenic trip! :rocket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Bay Views
Top of the elevator
Breathtaking vistas of the Bay of All Saints and Salvador's historic skyline. A photographer's dream!

Historic Art Deco Structure
The elevator itself
Ride a piece of history! This iconic 1873 elevator is an engineering marvel and a Salvador landmark.

Connecting Upper and Lower Cities
The elevator ride
Experience the practical charm of this functional elevator, a vital link between Salvador's historic districts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Salvador's Heights
Quick & Scenic Transit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Histórias de turismo desagradável em Salvador. Você tem alguma?
Be Aware of Surroundings
Some visitors mention feeling unsafe in the lower city area. Stay alert and keep valuables secure. :shield:
Enjoy the Quick Ride
It's a fast, functional elevator, not a long attraction. Enjoy the short, scenic trip! :rocket:
Dicas de passeios
World's oldest public elevator: Elevador Lacerda, built 1871, still going strong. Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Souvenir Shopping Nearby
Prices for souvenirs in the upper city can be cheaper than Mercado Modelo. :moneybag:
Delicious Ice Cream Stop
Don't miss the small shop next to the elevator for delicious and affordable ice cream! :ice_cream:
Tips
from all over the internet
Be Aware of Surroundings
Some visitors mention feeling unsafe in the lower city area. Stay alert and keep valuables secure. :shield:
Enjoy the Quick Ride
It's a fast, functional elevator, not a long attraction. Enjoy the short, scenic trip! :rocket:
Souvenir Shopping Nearby
Prices for souvenirs in the upper city can be cheaper than Mercado Modelo. :moneybag:
Delicious Ice Cream Stop
Don't miss the small shop next to the elevator for delicious and affordable ice cream! :ice_cream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Elevador Lacerda is a historic and functional landmark offering breathtaking views of Salvador's bay. Visitors appreciate its affordability, quick ride, and the convenience of connecting the upper and lower cities. Some caution is advised regarding safety in the surrounding lower city areas, but the elevator experience itself is generally positive and memorable.
"The City around the elevator is dangerous. The elevator looks good, but it's not spectacular to use."
Matheus Zimmerman
"It's a small pastry and ice cream shop situated right next to the elevator. I have to admit that the ice creams are delicious, generously served, and really cheap. You may choose to get them in a cone or a cup. The 'Pave' flavor is amazing! Pave is a Brazilian cake-like dessert."
Arkadiusz Jędrzejewski
"A tourist attraction with a lot of history.
⭐ The elevator is very fast and takes you to the upper city in a few seconds
⭐ We did not pay an entrance fee and did not have to wait in a queue
⭐ Nothing else to say or to do. Very straightforward. It is an elevator after all. But fun nonetheless!
Also, prices for souvenirs in the upper city are cheaper than at Mercado Modelo!"
B. Jisoon n
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elevador Lacerda is centrally located in Salvador, connecting the Cidade Alta (Upper City) and Cidade Baixa (Lower City). You can reach the upper station via public transport or taxi/ride-sharing services. From the lower station, you'll be near the Mercado Modelo and the waterfront.
Yes, Elevador Lacerda is a prominent landmark and easily visible from many parts of the city. Its distinctive art deco towers make it hard to miss.
If you are in the historic Pelourinho area, you can walk to the upper station of Elevador Lacerda. Be prepared for some uphill walking in the historic center.
Elevador Lacerda is the most direct and iconic way to travel between the upper and lower cities. It's a quick ride that offers great views.
Parking can be challenging in the historic center. It's often recommended to use ride-sharing services or public transport to reach the vicinity of Elevador Lacerda.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Riding Elevador Lacerda is very affordable. The current fee is a nominal amount, often less than a dollar, making it a budget-friendly experience.
No, tickets are typically purchased on-site at the elevator stations. There's usually no need to book in advance, and queues are generally short.
Elevador Lacerda generally operates daily from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check the most current operating hours before your visit, as they can sometimes vary.
The ride on Elevador Lacerda itself is what you pay for. There isn't a separate entrance fee for the observation areas at the top, which offer fantastic views.
Information on tourist passes can vary. However, given the low cost of the elevator ride, it's usually more economical to pay the small fare directly.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The top of Elevador Lacerda offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints, the historic city, and the port. The ride itself also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, sunset from Elevador Lacerda can be spectacular, with the sky casting beautiful colors over the bay and city. Be mindful of crowds during peak sunset times.
Absolutely! The windows offer great views during the short ascent or descent. Just be quick and mindful of other passengers.
From the lower city, you get a great perspective looking up at the imposing art deco structure of Elevador Lacerda, with the bay in the background.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. Professional photography or drone usage might require special permits, but for personal snaps, you should be fine.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several options. A popular spot right next to the elevator offers delicious and affordable ice cream. You'll also find restaurants and snack bars in the upper city and near the Mercado Modelo in the lower city.
You can find a variety of local snacks, including the famous 'Pave' flavor ice cream, as well as more substantial meals in the surrounding areas. Seafood is also a popular choice in Salvador.
Many visitors rave about the ice cream shop next to the elevator, praising its delicious flavors, generous portions, and cheap prices. The 'Pave' flavor is a standout.
Yes, the ice cream shop is very budget-friendly. You can also find more local eateries and street food vendors in the lower city area that offer affordable options.
Some restaurants in the upper city offer views of the bay, though they might be pricier. For a quick, affordable treat with a view, the ice cream shop is a great choice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the ice cream shop located right next to the elevator – it's a hit with kids (and adults!) for its delicious flavors and generous portions at a good price. While the surrounding areas in the lower city might require extra vigilance, the elevator itself and the upper city are generally safe and engaging for families during the day.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding areas. The ice cream shop nearby offers a cheap and tasty treat. While the Mercado Modelo in the lower city is known for souvenirs, remember that prices can be higher; exploring other local markets or shops in the upper city might yield better deals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Elevador Lacerda
Its construction was crucial for the city's development, connecting commercial and residential areas more efficiently. The elevator's presence significantly impacted the daily lives of Salvador's residents and the flow of commerce. Today, it continues to serve its original purpose while also being a major tourist attraction, offering a tangible link to Salvador's rich past.
Experiencing the Views and Surroundings
Upon exiting the elevator in the upper city, you're in the heart of Salvador's historic center, close to other attractions like the Pelourinho. In the lower city, you'll find yourself near the Mercado Modelo, a popular market for souvenirs and local crafts. While the elevator ride is quick, the surrounding areas offer plenty to explore. However, it's important to be mindful of your surroundings, as some travelers have reported feeling uneasy in the lower city areas, particularly after dark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit