Mercado Modelo is a two-level market in Salvador’s lower city, beside the Lacerda Elevator and facing the Bay of All Saints. Set inside a historic neoclassical building that began as a customs house, it has stalls selling Bahian crafts, artwork, musical instruments and souvenirs. Look up at the stone arches and explore the brick tunnels, then head to the curved balcony for a bay view. Restaurants upstairs serve Bahian food, and capoeira performances take place outside. Browse for the atmosphere as much as for shopping; prices can vary, so compare before buying.
A market in a former customs house
Mercado Modelo occupies a historic yellow building in Salvador’s lower city. It was built as a customs house in 1861 and later became a market. Its neoclassical exterior gives way to stone arches inside, where passages lead between the stalls. Brick tunnels lie beneath the building.
The market has two levels of shops selling crafts, gifts and souvenirs from Bahia. You can find artwork, jewellery, clothing and musical instruments among the goods. Some stalls focus on locally made items, while others sell more standard tourist souvenirs, so take time to look around before choosing.
Balcony views and Bahian food
At the north end of the building, a large curved balcony looks out over the Bay of All Saints. Umbrellas cover the balcony, and the market’s restaurants are another reason to head upstairs. They serve Bahian food, including dishes such as moqueca and acarajé.
Outside the market, capoeira circles add another element to a visit. Mercado Modelo is close to the Lacerda Elevator and the historic centre, so it fits naturally into a walk between Salvador’s lower and upper city. If you plan to shop, compare prices across stalls; bargaining may help, and sellers can be persistent.
FAQ
Where is Mercado Modelo in Salvador?
It is in Salvador’s lower city, beside the Lacerda Elevator and facing the Bay of All Saints.
What can you buy at Mercado Modelo?
Stalls sell Bahian crafts, artwork, jewellery, clothing, musical instruments and souvenirs.
Can you eat at Mercado Modelo?
Yes. Restaurants upstairs serve Bahian food, including dishes such as moqueca and acarajé.
What can you see at Mercado Modelo besides the shops?
The historic building has stone arches and brick tunnels, with a curved balcony overlooking the bay. Capoeira performances take place outside.
