Things To Do
in San Salvador
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, sits in a fertile valley framed by volcanic peaks and a skyline that blends colonial architecture with modern high-rises. The city buzzes with markets, street food, museums, and plazas that invite exploration on foot. Its resilient culture shines through vibrant neighborhoods, artisan crafts, and sweeping views from hillside lookouts.
While many areas are welcoming to visitors, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and arrange reputable transport after dark.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Catedral Metropolitana, where you'll admire its stunning architecture and historical significance. Afterward, stroll through the Plaza Barrios, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and watching locals go about their day. Don't forget to grab a traditional pupusa from a nearby vendor for a true taste of El Salvador.
Visit the National Palace, where you can explore the impressive murals and learn about the country's political history. Spend some time at the Museo de Arte de El Salvador, which showcases a fantastic collection of Salvadoran art from the 20th century. As the afternoon winds down, take a leisurely walk through the bustling streets, stopping at local shops for souvenirs.
Dinner at a local restaurant offers the chance to sample more Salvadoran cuisine, such as yuca frita or tamales. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar where you can enjoy live music and mingle with friendly locals. End your evening with a peaceful walk through the illuminated Plaza Mayor, taking in the beauty of the historic buildings.
Begin your day at the bustling Mercado Central, where you can explore the array of local goods, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors, learning about their products while sampling fresh fruits and traditional snacks. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for photography.
Head to the nearby Mercado de Artesanías, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs to take home. Spend time chatting with artisans, many of whom are eager to share their stories and techniques. Don't miss the chance to try some street food, like empanadas or fresh ceviche, as you explore.
Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its artisanal dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll through the nearby Parque Cuscatlán, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. As night falls, consider visiting a cultural event or local theater performance to immerse yourself in Salvadoran arts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚎One-way public transport ticket | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $12-25 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly essentials) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culture and friendly people
- Excellent street food and markets
- Compact, walkable downtown core with safety-conscious exploration
- Traffic can be heavy and sidewalks uneven
- Safety can vary by neighborhood; nighttime travel requires caution
- Less English widely spoken outside tourist areas
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¡Qué deliciosa está la comida!" - The food is delicious!
Places to Visit in San Salvador
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-inspired facade, domed towers, and dramatic interiors; best early morning or golden hour for exterior shots.
Iconic obelisk on Plaza Salvador del Mundo with city views and sunset backdrops.
Impressive neoclassical exterior and ornate interior spaces ideal for architectural photography.
Historic plazas, color-washed buildings, and street life—great for candid photography.
Green spaces with sculptures, fountains, and shaded paths for relaxed photography.
Food in San Salvador
San Salvador Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork, served with curtido and salsa. Commonly found in pupuserías and markets; try Pupusería La Unica.
Must-Try!
Boiled cassava served with fried pork, curtido, and a tangy salsa; popular at markets and casual eateries.
Sweet corn tamales enjoyed as a snack or light meal, often sold by street vendors or at markets.
Rolled tortillas topped with sauce, cheese, and sometimes beans or eggs; a traditional market staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can taste pupusas, tamales, fresh juice, and local snacks alongside stalls selling crafts.
Line of vendors offering quick bites: pupusas, elotes, tamales, yuca frita, and fresh fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or brief hug is common among friends; use polite greetings like buen día. In formal settings, use usted.
Dress modestly in churches and older neighborhoods; avoid displaying wealth in crowded areas.
Ask about family and health; politics can be sensitive—avoid heated debates in informal settings.
Safety
Tipping in San Salvador
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10% is common if service is not included. Street vendors rarely expect tips; rounding up is appreciated.
Cash is widely used, especially at markets. Credit/debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops; carry small bills for market purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days and low rainfall; ideal for city tours, viewpoints, and outdoor hikes. Bring sun protection and water.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings are often dry with occasional showers. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
San Salvador at Night
Hiking in San Salvador
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Crater hike with views back to the city; a popular day trip from the capital.
Crater area with scenic lookouts and short hikes for views of the lake.
Hillside trails and terraces with coffee farms and sweeping city views.
Airports
How to reach San Salvador by plane.
Main international gateway to El Salvador; easy taxi or rideshare connection to San Salvador, about 50-60 minutes away depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily a mix of mestizo and urban migrants; diverse socioeconomic backgrounds concentrated in the capital.
A sizable young population and student communities contribute to a lively street scene and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect fellow fans and local games to be a social highlight.
Excellent Pacific coast surf spots near La Libertad and El Tunco; a part of regional beach culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Salvador.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes rely on maize, beans, and vegetables; ask for cheese or avocado fillings in pupusas, request no chicharrón, and look for soups labeled vegetariano or with vegetables. At sit-down restaurants, request vegetarian options like ensaladas or vegetable-forward plates.