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Where you stay in Olinda comes down to one choice: a colonial pousada on the hill, or a modern beachfront hotel at the bottom of it. The historic center has the character and the Carnival action, while Bairro Novo and Casa Caiada have pools and sea views. This guide splits the best places to stay by area, with three hotels per zone across luxury, mid-range, and budget. See our Olinda guide for more. See our events and festivals in Olinda guide for more.
Where to Stay in Olinda: Cidade Alta (Historic Center)
The Cidade Alta puts the churches, viewpoints, and Carnival blocos on your doorstep. The trade-off is noise during festivals and steep streets. It is the right choice for a first visit. See our Olinda weather by month guide for more. See our Olinda neighborhoods guide for more.
Suggested Hotels in Cidade Alta
Hotel 7 Colinas
A four-star hotel set in parkland beside the Convento de São Francisco, with a large pool, sauna, fitness room, and an on-site colonial museum. Best for couples and families who want resort amenities inside the old town. Check rates and availability See our Olinda travel tips guide for more.
Pousada dos Quatro Cantos
A 19th-century mansion in the heart of the historic center with an outdoor pool and terrace, rated 8.9 by guests. Best for travelers who want a classic colonial stay within walking distance of every sight. Check rates and availability
Pousada Convento da Conceição
An Alto da Sé guesthouse in a former convent building with dorm beds and private suites, rated 9.0. Best for solo travelers and backpackers who want the historic center on a budget. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Olinda: Carmo and Amparo
This lower, arts-focused end of the historic center is where the galleries and live-music bars cluster along Rua do Amparo. It is calmer than the Cidade Alta at night outside Carnival. See our best time to visit Olinda guide for more.
Suggested Hotels in Carmo and Amparo
Pousada do Amparo
A boutique pousada spread across two centuries-old buildings on Rua do Amparo, with a restaurant, garden pool, and rooms with balconies. Best for couples who want a romantic, art-filled base. Check rates and availability
Pousada Alto Astral
A colorful guesthouse with an outdoor pool and garden, rated 8.4 and about 800 metres from the beach. Best for budget travelers who still want a pool and a central location. Check rates and availability
Casa de Temporada das Mangueiras
A self-catering apartment near Praça do Rosário with kitchen, family rooms, and bicycle rental. Best for families and longer stays who want to cook rather than eat every meal out. Check rates and availability
Where to Stay in Olinda: Bairro Novo and the Beachfront
Staying at the base of the hill trades colonial charm for sea views, pools, and modern air-conditioned rooms. The historic center is a 10 to 15 minute walk uphill or a short taxi ride. See our things to do in Olinda guide for more.
Suggested Hotels in Bairro Novo and the Beachfront
Hotel 5 Sóis
A beachfront hotel facing Casa Caiada Beach with adult and children’s pools, a restaurant, and free parking, 2 km from the historic center. Best for families who want to step straight onto the sand. Check rates and availability
Hotel Pousada São Francisco
A welcoming pousada about 100 metres from the beach with air-conditioned rooms and breakfast included. Best for couples and beachgoers who want the sand a one-minute walk away. Check rates and availability
Pousada Baobá e SPA
A garden pousada with a pool and spa, an 8-minute walk from Bairro Novo Beach and close to the historic center. Best for travelers who want spa facilities without the beachfront price tag. Check rates and availability
