Deputado Lus Eduardo Magalhes International Airport (SSA) is the main international airport in Salvador, and it is the sixth busiest in the country. It offers some direct flights from Miami, as well as from cities in Europe. Built in 1925, the airport was modernized during the Second World War, and while its current name dates to 1998, many locals still refer to it as the “Dois de Julho,” which can lead to a bit of confusion.

Renovated in 2000, the airport is one of the most modern in the State of Brazil today. Leaving the airport, passing under a thick bower of bamboo, makes for a pleasant introduction to the city. The road along the orla (seashore)  from the airport is quite scenic, passing all the city beaches, so as soon as you land you’ll feel like you’ve truly arrived in paradise!

Shuttle buses, taxicabs and rental cars are available outside the arrival area of the terminal. Most of the major car rental companies provide service counters in the area as well.

You have 3 choices going from the airport to Barra or Pelourinho (the main tourist areas):
1) Take the executive bus : This is highly recommended.  The bus stop is located just outside of the airport exit,  on the right side of the acaraje stand (as you come out of the airport), and the bus runs from 7am until 10pm. It costs about R$5.  It is air conditioned and the driver has a large compartment for your luggage and  will help you store it.  It runs down the orla (Seafront) to Barra and then to end of the line in outside Pelourinho.
2) Take a taxi -.The taxi drivers charge you R$60-70.
3) Rent a car - You can get a 4-door compact car with  air conditioning for about R$90 with insurance and no limit on the mileage.   Renting a car from the company recommended by the hotel you stay at is another option.  Ask the hotel that you booked for their company's rates. Note: The roads are confusing and parking is difficult, so this option is not recommended.

Getting to Salvador by other means than flying or bus is difficult, as Brazil’s Federal Railroad System still doesn’t connect all the major cities. Likewise driving from other points in Brazil probably isn’t ideal, especially for American tourists, as many Brazilians don’t speak English and amenities like gas stations can be far and few between outside the major cities.

Bus transportation from other major cities arrives and departs from the rodoviaria (main bus station) across from the Shopping Iguatemi mall, where you can get a taxi, or the executivo or common bus to Barra or Pelourinho.

When departing by bus, a good tip is to ask your hotel concierge to call and book your bus ticket. Have it delivered to the hotel / pousada / hostel for a small extra charge (R$3) while you see the tourist sights or relax on the beach. booking about a day in advance usually suffices, unless there is a holiday.