Mercure Salvador Rio Vermelho

This hotel is a great selection. If you are looking for scenic ocean views and a pool to die for….this is your place! The pictures don’t do the views justice. If you can, get a sea view room it will add to your experience immensely. The hotel is also well located 10 minutes walk from numerous restaurants and bars. The historic center is a $5 uber ride away. I highly recommend!!

More than for its quiet location, this Mercure branch in so-called 'bohemian' district Rio Vermelho is a wise choice for those visiting Salvador on business, for fun or congresses or only to unplug themselves. Taxi from the airport costs some 120 reais and one should count on about an hour to get to the hotel, depending on traffic. The lobby is broad and welcoming, ready for groups, with well-trained receptionists and a gift shop to the right. By the way, purchasing there helps artisans directly and it's often cheaper than in Modelo Market or Pelourinho, for example. The hotel is ageing and that's undeniable, renovation is needed urgently; nevertheless, the many flaws are compensated by caring and attentive staff in all departments. This time I was granted with what they call a suite, which is a larger and indeed more comfortable room, yet it technically should not be sold as a suite itself, for it doesn't have three separate/individual chambers. Breakfast is, in my view, one of the best in town and even more plentiful than in some 5* hotels. I always look forward to my first meal of the day there in every stay. Salvador's first infinite pool is one of the best assets of the hotel, perfect for relaxation and for superb photos. One should give a chance to their restaurant, Casarão, for a fancy dinner, the place deserves more publicity for its high quality. All in all, aware of the structural undeniable problems related to ageing and proximity to the ocean, this Mercure remains my home outside home. Being greeted by name and with a smile from staff is most rewarding, I look forward to my return.