The Lacerda Elevator is a 72-meter public elevator linking Salvador's Upper City (Cidade Alta) with the port-side Lower City (Cidade Baixa), and it was the world's first urban elevator when it opened in 1873. Its Art Deco towers (from a 1930 remodel) and the sweeping view over the Bay of All Saints make it the city's signature landmark, listed as national heritage by IPHAN in 2006. After a roughly 10-month overhaul it reopened in February 2025 and is fully operational in 2026, making a quick ~30-second ride an easy add-on to a walking tour of the Pelourinho World Heritage historic center.
The panorama from the upper platform (by Praça Tomé de Souza) over the Bay of All Saints, the Lower City and Mercado Modelo—best around sunset
The tall Art Deco exterior towers from the 1930s, with facade tones and side balconies restored in the recent renovation
Its history as the world's first urban elevator (opened 1873; originally 63 m, now 72 m)
A genuine working-transit experience: four cabins rising and descending in about 30 seconds, carrying roughly 20,000 riders a day
The seamless walking link from the upper plaza into the Pelourinho historic district and city-hall square
Good to know
SafetyThe Lower City (Comércio) and the area around the lower station empty out and feel unsafe after dusk. Visit in daylight and head back up before dark.
CautionCrowded cabins and queues are prime spots for pickpockets. Keep your phone and wallet in a front pocket or inner pocket, and don't wave around an expensive camera.
RulesPay the fare in cash at the kiosk before the turnstile. It was long R$0.15, but a price rise was announced after the 2025 reopening (the free period has ended), and SalvadorCard holders ride free. Fares and hours change—verify the latest right before you go.
SeasonDuring Carnival (Feb–Mar) crowds are intense and hours are extended (partly 24h), but it's also chaotic and rowdy. Salvador's rainier months run roughly April–July, so prepare for rain, humidity and heat.
MannersThis is both a tourist icon and a real commuter service locals use daily. Queue, board and exit without dawdling, and be considerate in the tight cabin.
Practical info
The elevator connects the upper Praça Tomé de Souza (city hall) with the lower Comércio district near Mercado Modelo, reached on foot from Pelourinho. It generally runs from about 6:00–7:00 a.m. until roughly 9:30–11:00 p.m., but hours vary by day and season and the fare structure has been revised, so confirm opening times and tickets with the latest official information.
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