5 Best Hotels in Salvador, Salvador and the Bahia Coast

Name: Casa da Vitoria
Address: Aloísio De Carvalho 95, Salvador, Bahia, 40081–300, Brazil
Telephone: 071-3013–2016
Price range: $$
Location: Vitória

The Centro Histórico and the nearby neighborhood of Santo Antonio offer a good selection of places to stay, many of which combine a unique atmosphere with immediate access to the colonial charms of the Pelourinho. Heading south into the Vitória neighborhood along Avenida 7 de Setembro are a number of inexpensive establishments convenient to beaches and sights. In the fashionable Barra neighborhood, many hotels are within walking distance of the beach, while Rio Vermelho is the favored choice of most Brazilians and where the city’s best bars, restaurants, and nightclubs can be found, although it is a 20-minute taxi ride from downtown. High seasons are from December to March and the month of July. For Carnival, reservations must be made months in advance, and prices are substantially higher.

Casa da Vitoria

$$ | Aloísio De Carvalho 95, Salvador, 40081–300, Brazil

This excellent value option on a tranquil side street of residential Campo Grande offers an intimate B&B experience, with owner Augusta going out of her way to ensure guests feel right at home. Eight immaculate rooms combine sleek wooden floorboards with high ceilings and comfy beds, while the master suite comes with private balconies and can fit an extra bed. The open-plan public areas include a library, fresh flowers, and a long communal table, where a daily changing breakfast is served, with specialities such as banana tapioca pancakes and passion-fruit mousse.

Casa do Amarelindo

$$$ | Rua das Portas do Carmo 6, Salvador, 40026–290, Brazil

While the bright Aztec-inspired colors may not be to everyone’s taste, this small, centrally located boutique hotel ticks all the boxes, with king-size beds, in-room Nespresso machines, delicious food, and a rooftop bar that’s one of the city’s best spots to watch the sunset over Bahia dos Santos. Informative staff can help you plan creative day trips around Salvador, and the French owners' well-thought-out menu means you can return after a long day exploring the city to plates of tapas by the pool. Opt for a room with an ocean view and private terrace.

Hotel Catharina Paraguaçu

$ | Rua João Gomes 128, Salvador, 41950–640, Brazil

A long-standing favorite in the Rio Vermelho district, this quirky 19th-century mansion is full of character, offering friendly service, delicious breakfasts, and small but comfortable rooms. If you're looking for space, ask for one of the six split-level suites. Extra attention is devoted to the decor, which includes pottery and embroidery from local artisans, although certain details, such as the air-conditioning units and mattresses, could do with an update. There is one wheelchair-accessible room for guests with disabilities, unusual for a small hotel.

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Pousada do Boqueirão

$ | Rua Direita de Santo Antonio 48, Salvador, 40301–280, Brazil

From Brazilian actresses to professors, the list of returning customers to this charming, Italian-style pensione is as varied as the legendary breakfast, served amongst tropical plants on the sun-drenched veranda to spectacular views over the bay. The property opened more than 20 years ago, and while some areas could do with a lick of paint, the pousada's heart and soul shines through, with local art lining the walls. Simple rooms, divided between two colonial houses, are eclectic in character. The veranda in No. 11 proved romantic enough even for Ricky Martin, who filmed a music video here. For fabulous sea views, request No. 1. All rooms except one come with a private bathroom.

Pousada Estrela do Mar

$ | Rua Afonso Celso 119, Salvador, 40140–080, Brazil

This pleasant B&B a few steps from Barra Beach wins over independent travelers, couples, and families alike with its competitive prices and Mediterranean-style design. While the breakfasts are on the basic side, rooms come equipped with comfortable beds, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Light sleepers should avoid rooms closest to the kitchen, while groups will find the best value in the master suite, complete with two bedrooms and a private terrace. Charming Irish owner Sean and his small team of English-speaking staff are on hand to provide local tips and advice on how best to navigate the bus system.

Salvador and the Bahia Coast

Salvador and the Bahia Coast

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