Mercado Modelo - An aerial view of a city with boats in the water
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Mercado Modelo

4.4
·61k reviews·, Brazil

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoons

Golden hour for views

CrowdMedium
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Mercado Modelo - An aerial view of a city with boats in the water

Mercado Modelo

Best Time

Late afternoons

Golden hour for views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(61k reviews)

"Beautiful view of the port and sunset from the second floor restaurant/bar - makes it worth the trip."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bay Views from the Upper Floor

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.

Reddit
Souvenir Shopping Galore

Souvenir Shopping Galore

Over 250 shops

Browse through a massive selection of gifts and souvenirs from Bahia, from trinkets to larger items.

Reddit
Historic Building Architecture

Historic Building Architecture

Exterior and interior

Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic port building, a landmark in Salvador.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Mercado Modelo

This bustling market offers a vast array of souvenirs and local crafts. Be prepared for vendors who can be quite persistent in their sales pitches. While many visitors feel safe, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Reddit

Best Views and Bites

The second floor boasts restaurants with stunning views of the bay and sunset, making it a prime spot for a meal or a drink. Reddit While the market is great for souvenirs, some reviewers suggest seeking out other local shops for more authentic artisanal handicrafts. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Dicas de passeios

🎯 Haggle Politely

Vendors can be pushy, but a polite negotiation can sometimes yield a better price. Reddit :moneybag:

🌅 Sunset Dining

Head to the second-floor restaurants for incredible sunset views over the bay. Reddit :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Histórias de turismo desagradável em Salvador. Você tem alguma?

reddit.com

To indo pra Salvador daqui a pouco - dicas

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware

While generally safe, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Reddit :shield:

🛍️ Authentic Finds

For unique artisanal crafts, explore beyond the main market stalls. Reddit :shopping_bags:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Haggle Politely

Vendors can be pushy, but a polite negotiation can sometimes yield a better price. Reddit :moneybag:

🌅 Sunset Dining

Head to the second-floor restaurants for incredible sunset views over the bay. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware

While generally safe, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Reddit :shield:

🛍️ Authentic Finds

For unique artisanal crafts, explore beyond the main market stalls. Reddit :shopping_bags:

⬆️ Elevator Access

The large elevator nearby offers convenient access to the Lower City. :elevator:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(61k reviews)

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

Beautiful bay views
Vast souvenir selection
Historic building

What People Dislike

Pushy vendors

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Mercado Modelo can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. Visiting on weekday mornings can offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You'll find a vast array of souvenirs, including handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, local art, and items related to Bahian culture. Reddit

Yes, prices for many items are negotiable. Vendors are often open to bargaining, so don't hesitate to politely offer a lower price. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market offers a variety of dining options, from casual canteens and cafeterias to restaurants serving traditional Bahian cuisine. Reddit

Absolutely! The second-floor restaurants are renowned for their beautiful views of the Bay of All Saints, especially during sunset. Reddit

Look for dishes like Moqueca (fish stew), Acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters), and Vatapá (creamy shrimp and bread dish). Reddit

Prices can vary. Casual eateries might be more affordable, while restaurants with prime bay views might be on the higher end. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask the vendor before taking extensive photos of their merchandise. Reddit

There are usually no major restrictions on photography for personal use, but professional shoots might require permission. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mercado Modelo can be an engaging experience for families, offering a wide array of colorful souvenirs that children might enjoy. The sheer variety of items can keep younger visitors entertained as they browse. Reddit The presence of security also adds a layer of reassurance for families navigating the bustling environment. Reddit

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. Reddit While the vendors can be persistent, keeping children close and focusing on the items of interest can help manage the experience.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Mercado Modelo offers opportunities for affordable souvenir shopping if you're willing to negotiate prices. Reddit While some items can be pricey, many smaller trinkets and crafts are available at reasonable costs, especially if you engage in polite bargaining. Reddit

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. Reddit Consider using the nearby elevator for access instead of relying solely on taxis, which can add up.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find plenty of visual appeal at Mercado Modelo. The historic architecture of the building itself provides a striking backdrop, both inside and out. Reddit The vibrant colors of the crafts and the lively atmosphere offer dynamic street photography opportunities. Reddit

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. Reddit Remember to be respectful when photographing vendors and their merchandise, and always ask permission if you plan to take close-ups. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Mercado Modelo is more than just a market; it's a historical landmark in Salvador. Originally conceived as a supply center for the Lower City, it was inaugurated on February 2, 1912. The building itself, constructed in 1860, served as a bustling commercial hub where a diverse range of goods, from produce and grains to cigars and Candomblé articles, were traded. Its location by the port meant it was easily accessible by schooners crossing the Bay of All Saints. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Navigating the Shopping Experience

The Mercado Modelo is renowned for its extensive selection of souvenirs and local crafts, spread across over 250 shops. Visitors can find everything from small trinkets and jewelry to clothing and decorative items, all representing the vibrant culture of Bahia. Reddit Many reviewers highlight the sheer variety available, making it a popular spot for picking up gifts for family and friends. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Culinary Delights with a View

The second floor of the Mercado Modelo is a culinary hotspot, featuring several restaurants and bars that offer more than just food – they provide spectacular views of the Bay of All Saints. This elevated vantage point makes it an ideal location to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset paint the sky. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit