Mercado Modelo
A historic market with 250+ shops offering Bahian arts, crafts, and souvenirs, plus restaurants with stunning bay views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for views
Mercado Modelo
Best Time
Golden hour for views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic market with 250+ shops offering Bahian arts, crafts, and souvenirs, plus restaurants with stunning bay views.
"Beautiful view of the port and sunset from the second floor restaurant/bar - makes it worth the trip."
🎯 Haggle Politely
Vendors can be pushy, but a polite negotiation can sometimes yield a better price. :moneybag:
🌅 Sunset Dining
Head to the second-floor restaurants for incredible sunset views over the bay. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bay Views from the Upper Floor
Second-floor restaurants/bars
Savor delicious food and drinks with a breathtaking panoramic view of the bay and sunset.

Souvenir Shopping Galore
Over 250 shops
Browse through a massive selection of gifts and souvenirs from Bahia, from trinkets to larger items.

Historic Building Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic port building, a landmark in Salvador.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Mercado Modelo
Best Views and Bites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dicas de passeios
🎯 Haggle Politely
Vendors can be pushy, but a polite negotiation can sometimes yield a better price.
:moneybag:🌅 Sunset Dining
Head to the second-floor restaurants for incredible sunset views over the bay.
:camerawithflash:Histórias de turismo desagradável em Salvador. Você tem alguma?
To indo pra Salvador daqui a pouco - dicas
🚶♀️ Stay Aware
While generally safe, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
:shield:🛍️ Authentic Finds
For unique artisanal crafts, explore beyond the main market stalls.
:shopping_bags:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggle Politely
Vendors can be pushy, but a polite negotiation can sometimes yield a better price.
:moneybag:🌅 Sunset Dining
Head to the second-floor restaurants for incredible sunset views over the bay.
:camerawithflash:🚶♀️ Stay Aware
While generally safe, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
:shield:🛍️ Authentic Finds
For unique artisanal crafts, explore beyond the main market stalls.
:shopping_bags:⬆️ Elevator Access
The large elevator nearby offers convenient access to the Lower City. :elevator:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mercado Modelo is a popular spot for souvenir shopping and enjoying bay views, with a wide variety of goods available. While some find the vendors overly pushy, many appreciate the lively atmosphere, the historical building, and the stunning sunset vistas from the second-floor restaurants. Security is noted as being present, contributing to a generally safe feeling for visitors.
"Great tourist spot. Lots of little shops for souvenirs and food. There is a bigger restaurant overlooking the ocean. In the area are a few museums to visit. The large elevator is steps away. We came back here several times because there are so many things to do. We felt safe and they kept the area clean."
Roy Mosure
"Traditional port in Salvador. Lots of little shops to buy useless memorabilia for your house, family and friends.
Beautiful view of the port and sunset from the second floor restaurant/bar - makes it worth the trip."
Henry Graham
"Beautiful building and market by the marina. It’s worth a visit to browse through some souvenirs, however, little to no local and artisanal handicrafts. Also the vendors are quite pushy which ruined the shopping experience a little. In my opinion, there are other local vendors and artisanal shops around the city that offer better and unique handicrafts."
Randall Rodricks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mercado Modelo is located in the Lower City of Salvador, near the port. You can easily reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors also utilize the large elevator nearby, which connects the Upper and Lower Cities, making access convenient.
Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's often recommended to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Depending on your starting point in the Lower City, it might be walkable. If you are in the Upper City, the elevator is a popular and efficient way to descend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Mercado Modelo itself is generally free. You only pay for the items you purchase inside the shops or for food and drinks at the restaurants.
The market typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can vary.
Mercado Modelo can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. Visiting on weekday mornings can offer a more relaxed experience.
There are no specific entrance fees for the restaurants, but you will need to purchase food or drinks to dine there. The views from these restaurants are a significant draw.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a vast array of souvenirs, including handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, local art, and items related to Bahian culture.
Yes, prices for many items are negotiable. Vendors are often open to bargaining, so don't hesitate to politely offer a lower price.
While there are many souvenir shops, some visitors suggest that truly authentic and unique artisanal handicrafts might be found in smaller, independent shops elsewhere in the city.
Most vendors accept cash, and many also accept credit or debit cards. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market offers a variety of dining options, from casual canteens and cafeterias to restaurants serving traditional Bahian cuisine.
Absolutely! The second-floor restaurants are renowned for their beautiful views of the Bay of All Saints, especially during sunset.
Look for dishes like Moqueca (fish stew), Acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters), and Vatapá (creamy shrimp and bread dish).
Prices can vary. Casual eateries might be more affordable, while restaurants with prime bay views might be on the higher end.
📸 📸 Photography
The second-floor restaurants offer stunning panoramic views of the bay and the city skyline, perfect for sunset shots. The building's architecture itself is also very photogenic.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask the vendor before taking extensive photos of their merchandise.
There are usually no major restrictions on photography for personal use, but professional shoots might require permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to make the experience more manageable with children. The restaurants on the second floor offer a great opportunity for a family meal with a view, providing a pleasant break from shopping. While the vendors can be persistent, keeping children close and focusing on the items of interest can help manage the experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food, opt for the canteens or cafeterias rather than the upscale restaurants with bay views. You can still enjoy the atmosphere and find tasty local snacks without breaking the bank. Consider using the nearby elevator for access instead of relying solely on taxis, which can add up.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The absolute must-visit for photographers is the second floor, especially during the late afternoon. The panoramic views of the Bay of All Saints at sunset are breathtaking and offer incredible opportunities for landscape and cityscape shots. Remember to be respectful when photographing vendors and their merchandise, and always ask permission if you plan to take close-ups.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, the Mercado Modelo continues this legacy as a vibrant center for commerce, albeit with a focus on arts, crafts, and souvenirs. While the types of goods have evolved, the spirit of a lively marketplace remains. Visitors can still feel the historical significance of the building and its role in Salvador's economic past.
Exploring the Mercado Modelo offers a chance to connect with Salvador's rich history and its enduring commercial traditions. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering a unique cultural experience for every visitor.
Navigating the Shopping Experience
However, it's important to be prepared for the sales tactics employed by some vendors. Several travelers mention that vendors can be quite persistent and pushy, which can sometimes detract from the shopping experience. While this is common in many markets, some visitors suggest that for more unique and authentic artisanal handicrafts, exploring smaller, independent shops around Salvador might yield better results.
Despite the assertive sales approach, many visitors still find the Mercado Modelo a worthwhile destination due to the sheer volume of choices and the opportunity to find unique mementos. Polite negotiation is often part of the process, and many visitors report friendly interactions overall, with ample security present.
Culinary Delights with a View
Visitors can indulge in a variety of Bahian specialties, from the iconic Moqueca to other local delicacies. The dining experience here is often described as a highlight, combining delicious food with memorable scenery. While some restaurants might be priced higher due to their prime location, many feel the panoramic views and the quality of the food make it a worthwhile splurge.
Beyond the sit-down restaurants, the market also hosts canteens and cafeterias offering quicker bites and refreshments. This ensures that whether you're looking for a full dining experience or a quick snack, the Mercado Modelo caters to various preferences, all within a lively and historic setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit