Horrific history, but I found the market setup comfortable. Here is my take:
You should go. Yes, about 5 vagabonds roam the exterior collecting bottles, etc. but keep your wits about you like always. Although several of the market's stores/stalls sell some of the same items, some have fixed pricing while others try to take advantage.
If you want WOMEN'S DRESSES, SCARVES, etc. start at Loja 17 with Jefferson. I arrived on a Sunday after the market closed. I looked wild and crazy after a wild and crazy motorcycle ride from Itapua. Jefferson was calculating his books and ready to go home for the day, but treated me with dignity and kindness. He had the patience of Job.
If you want PAINTINGS, ask for artist Markus Nascimiento in the Art Gallery (Quadra W box 04 & 05). He was an angel in disguise who safely escorted me from the teleferico, and gave me wise counsel about staying on the main roads when walking on weekends since most of the businesses were closed, the streets deserted, and the side streets dangerous.
Take caution with the lady in the stall across from Loja 17 (Jefferson). She tried to sell me a shirt for R$350 that cost only R$60 in Loja 61! When I gestured 'no way' the price lowered to $175. I guess I looked like I had money to burn in her eyes 🤷🏽♀️.
Inspect thoroughly before you buy. I purchased a dress in packaging from one of the corner stalls. Turned out, it has a huge stain on front that's been impossible to wash out.
Bathrooms on 2nd level. Most stores accept credit cards,...
Read moreThis is indeed one of the greatest and most know trademarks for anyone visiting Salvador for the first time. Currently, the market is passing by a renovation so its split in two different sections. But both have basically the same kind of products available. At first, I've thought this would be similar to São Paulo's Municipal Market; however, here you will find just two or three options of restaurants with most of the other places taken by souvenirs stores. It can be a great place if you're looking for this type of store but be attentive of the prices - you can similar items for huge price variance. Tip: things here are cheaper than most of the stores of Pelourinho. Extra tip: though the market itself may not be what you're expecting take the opportunity to visit the marine located a few steps of it. The view is stunning and a good place for...
Read morePopular market featuring 250+ shops selling a variety of arts, crafts & souvenirs, plus restaurants.
Mercado Modelo has bars, cafeterias and canteens. With 8,410 square meters and two floors, with gifts and souvenirs from Bahia
The Mercado Modelo arose out of the need for a supply center in the Lower City of Salvador. Between the old Customs House building and Largo da Conceição, it was a commercial center where it was possible to acquire items as varied as fruit and vegetables, cereals, animals, cigars, cachaças, and Candomblé articles. Thus, the market was inaugurated on February 2, 1912[1] in a building next to the old Customs House building, which had been built in 1860 and inaugurated in 1861.[3] The market's supply was served by the ramp that bears its name, former port of the schooners that crossed the Bay...
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