The upper-middle-range Hotel Casa do Amarelindo is a beautifully restored boutique gem in the historic center of Salvador, set amid colorful colonial buildings. This charming three-and-a-half-pearl property looks out over All Saints Bay, and its small rooftop pool is a rarity in Pelourinho. Other notable features include a traditional restaurant serving up home-style fare and a tropical garden bar. The 10 rooms are simple and stylish, with African-colonial decor and amenities like air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and Nespresso machines. The French owners live on-site, making things feel even more familial. This is a hotel for tourist couples and solo travelers; children under 14 aren't permitted. Downsides? The hotel can be tricky to find and there’s no parking. For a similar experience, travelers could check out the six-room Aram Yami Hotel.

Given Salvador’s dearth of high-end hotels, the Aram Yami is small but comfortable, rustic but bright and classy, replete with a refreshing pool and fresh breakfasts of warm baked goods and tropical fruit. The property is also within a 15-minute walk of the main square in Bahia's historic center and offers sweeping views of the harbor. Though lacking an on-site restaurant and spa, this boutique venue is one of the loveliest hotel options in the city, particularly for couples wanting to explore the area and have a romantic retreat.

The 66-room Hit Hotel is a budget option located across the street from popular Porto da Barra Beach. There are a number of restaurants, bars, and shops in the area, and the Da Barra Lighthouse is a 10-minute walk away. Rooms are simple and bright, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges, and some look out to lovely sea views. Some of the bathrooms could use a refresh, but they're mostly clean and functional. A breakfast buffet is included in room rates, but that's about it for features. Most guests are here to spend their days at the beach or exploring the neighborhood. Travelers who'd prefer a property with a few more features could check out the nearby Grande Hotel Da Barra, which adds a restaurant, bar, and pool.  

The 67-room Pestana Convento do Carmo is an upscale option located in the heart of downtown Salvador. It sits at the edge of the Pelourinho historic district, and there are many restaurants, shops, and bars in the area. The hotel is housed in a former 16th-century convent, so it is filled with historic charm, including in the spacious rooms and suites, which offer modern conveniences such as flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, minibars, and espresso machines. The restaurant and bar have indoor and outdoor seating, though food gets mixed reviews. An outdoor pool is a relaxing place to cool off, and there's also a small spa and fitness center. A similarly priced alternative in this area is the Hotel Casa do Amarelindo, which offers views of the bay from its rooftop pool.