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Salvador is a fascinating city with millions of residents and very distinct neighborhoods. Some are beachy, others historic, lively, or quiet — so there’s something for every travel style and budget.
If you’re looking for the Best Places to Stay in Salvador Brazil, you’re in the right place. I’m sharing my personal tips, based on what I’ve seen and on the experience of many other travelers. Let’s go!
Check out this complete guide to Salvador, with tips on the best time to visit, how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and much more!
The main tourist-friendly areas in Salvador are Barra, Pelourinho and the Historic Center, Rio Vermelho, Santo Antônio Além do Carmo, Ondina, Itapuã, and Corredor da Vitória.
Best Areas to Stay in Salvador
1. Barra
Barra is one of Salvador’s most touristic and lively neighborhoods. In the opinion of many travelers — it’s one of the best areas to stay, especially if you want to enjoy the beach near your hotel and get around on foot.
The area is home to two of the most popular beaches in the city: Porto da Barra and Farol da Barra, and also features famous landmarks like the Barra Lighthouse and the forts of Santa Maria and São Diogo.
The neighborhood also offers great infrastructure: shopping centers, stores, cafés, bars, restaurants, nightlife, parks, and public transport to other parts of the city.
It’s generally considered one of the safest areas in Salvador, with good police presence and constant movement.
The beachfront promenade is one of the favorite places to take a relaxing walk. You’ll find people jogging, biking, rollerblading, or just sitting by the sea.
From Barra, you can reach Salvador’s main attractions like the Historic Center and Rio Vermelho in about 15 to 25 minutes by car or app-based transport.
Buses and the new metro system also offer affordable connections, but for comfort and safety, Uber is usually the best option for visitors.
Barra doesn’t have as many luxury, modern or boutique hotels as other upscale neighborhoods, but it’s still one of the best places to stay in Salvador thanks to its convenient location.
Best Hotels in Barra
📌 Best Overall Hotel in Barra
Monte Pascoal Praia Hotel Salvador – Located directly on Farol da Barra Beach, this hotel offers spacious, bright rooms (many with ocean views), an outdoor pool, gym, and full beach service with chairs, umbrellas, and towels. Guests praise the location, cleanliness, friendly staff, and generous breakfast with a sea view.
💰 From R$ 803 | ⭐ 4.6 Google | 9.0 Booking | 9.0 Hoteis.com |
