Why should you stay at a pousada?

Most pousadas tend to be privately owned, providing guests with an exclusive, personalized travel experience, complete with tips about the best cantinas and barbecue restaurants around. Some are managed by chains, taking it up a notch with plush rooms that burst with azulejo tiles, not to mention pools, gardens and cabins that are perfect for those evenings sipping cold caipirinhas as the Atlantic waves roll in.

Where can you find a pousada?

You can find pousadas everywhere, from big buzzing cities to small towns, and they are a cozy alternative to those who want to feel the homey atmosphere while out on a trip. It should hardly come as a surprise that there are so many pousadas in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil's sprawling, seething, sleepless seaside hub is a metropolis that you simply must see. If you want the full Rio de Janeiro experience, choosing an authentic accommodation like a pousada as opposed to a luxury hotel might be the best option for you.

How much does staying at a pousada typically cost?

Without a standard star rating, pousadas can cross all sorts of luxury levels, ranging from the simple and affordable to the swish and stylish. Along the wave-bashed beaches of Bahia, for instance, you can find many pousadas in Salvador. Such accommodations, nestled between the age-stained colonial buildings and cobbled streets, are a short walk from the city's main local attractions. Pousada Beija Flor is a perfect example of that, complete with tiled exteriors and cozy rooms filled with Latin art.

How can you book a pousada?

Booking a pousada at Expedia is very easy: all you have to do is search the desired dates and destinations. On the results, simply check the Pousada box in the Property Type filter to see all available options for the selected dates. To save even more, you can choose a pousada as an accommodation option when booking a package. Additionally, with the Add On Advantage program, when you book a car, a flight or a package with Expedia, you get exclusive discounts on pousadas or any other type of accommodation to use until the date of your trip.

What services can a pousada offer?

Services vary according to the type of pousada, which may range from simple to fancy. Usually, they offer amenities such as breakfast, swimming pool and complimentary Wi-Fi, all in a cozy atmosphere. Some pousadas also offer a poolside bar, assistance with tours and tickets, and easy access to local attractions.

For example, the pousadas in Fortaleza are the perfect starting point to explore Ceará's biggest metropolis. Just outside the door, you are likely to find thumping beach parties erupting along sizzling Praia de Iracema.

Pousada versus hotel

What is the difference between a pousada and a hotel? Travelers ask this question quite often. Usually, pousadas are set in small houses or buildings, cabins or cottages, whereas hotels are typically in large buildings with many floors and rooms. Pousadas have a warmer, intimate feel to them, while hotels tend to be more formal. Finally, some pousadas are only open during high season, whereas hotels are open all year round.

Find a pousada

Planning a Brazilian adventure? Can't wait to explore the busy São Paulo streets or the beautiful Rio de Janeiro promenades? Are you keen to explore the lively colonial squares in Salvador? Is it in your plans to visit Espírito Santo's vivacious cantinas, perhaps? No matter where you are headed, Expedia has tons of options of pousadas with affordable prices.