Things To Do
in San Salvador
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a vibrant city nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanoes. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and a lively arts scene. The city boasts a mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both past and present.
With its warm climate and friendly locals, San Salvador is an inviting destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Plaza Barrios, where you can admire the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace.
Visit the Museum of Art of El Salvador (MARTE) to explore contemporary Salvadoran art and then enjoy lunch at a local pupuseria.
Stroll through the historic district and have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city skyline.
Take a trip to Parque Nacional El Boquerón, hike to the crater of the San Salvador volcano, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Head back to the city and visit the artisan market at Mercado de Artesanías La Laguna for unique local crafts and souvenirs.
Experience the nightlife in the Zona Rosa, where you can find bars and clubs to enjoy live music and dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi ride in the city | $3-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30-50 |
| 🚌Bus fare | $0.25-0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical experiences.
- Lively and diverse culinary scene.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Safety concerns in certain areas.
- Public transportation may be limited.
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in San Salvador
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic monument is a symbol of the city and offers a stunning backdrop for photos.
The breathtaking views from the volcano's crater make for spectacular landscape photography.
The beautiful architecture of this historic theater provides an elegant setting for pictures.
Food in San Salvador
San Salvador Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat, often served with a side of pickled cabbage.
Must-Try!
Fried cassava served with a garlic dipping sauce, a popular street food snack.
Corn dough filled with meats or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample local dishes and fresh produce.
A street lined with food stalls offering various Salvadoran street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake and a friendly smile are common when meeting someone.
El Salvadorans may stand closer during conversations than some cultures are accustomed to.
Casual yet respectful attire is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in San Salvador
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants, generally around 10% of the bill.
Most establishments accept cash (USD) and credit cards; however, it's recommended to carry cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.
Be prepared for heavy rainfall, particularly in the afternoons; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant.
Experience vibrant Christmas celebrations with colorful decorations and local traditions.
Temperatures cool down slightly, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing.
San Salvador at Night
Hiking in San Salvador
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring hiking trails with stunning views of volcanoes and lush landscapes.
A popular trail that offers scenic views of San Salvador and the surrounding area, perfect for a day hike.
Airports
How to reach San Salvador by plane.
Located approximately 50 minutes from downtown San Salvador, this airport serves as the main international gateway to El Salvador.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, Mestizos are individuals of mixed Indigenous and European descent, making up over 90% of the population.
Various Indigenous groups, including the Nahua and Lenca, maintain their cultural heritage and languages, contributing to the country's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in El Salvador, with passionate fans supporting local teams.
El Salvador's Pacific coast is famous for its excellent surfing spots, attracting surfers from around the world.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Salvador.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, such as pupusas with cheese and beans.
Pupusas and many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free.