Things To Do
in Santo Tomás
Santo Tomás is a vibrant town located in El Salvador, known for its rich cultural heritage and friendly locals. Nestled in the San Salvador department, it serves as a gateway to various natural attractions and historical sites. The town features picturesque landscapes, lively markets, and a blend of traditional and modern influences.
Visitors can enjoy an authentic Salvadoran experience while exploring the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this charming town.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh fruits and local breakfast dishes. Visit the nearby Church of Santo Tomás to appreciate its architecture.
Take a guided tour to explore the nearby historical sites, including old colonial buildings and monuments. Enjoy lunch at a local café.
Dine at a traditional Salvadoran restaurant and enjoy live music. End your evening with a stroll through the town square to experience the local nightlife.
Head to the nearby hiking trails for a morning trek, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and flora. Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint.
Visit local artisan shops to buy handmade crafts and souvenirs. Experience a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the sunset. Participate in a local cultural event or festival if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $5-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🌮Street food (pupusa) | $1 |
| 🚌Bus fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Limited English-speaking locals may pose a communication barrier.
- Public transportation can be less reliable.
- Some areas may have safety concerns, especially at night.
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Santo Tomás
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere surrounding this historic church.
The colorful stalls and lively interactions make for vibrant street photography opportunities.
Hiking trails provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Santo Tomás
Santo Tomás Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or chicharrón, served with a side of curtido (slaw) and salsa.
Must-Try!
Fried cassava served with a spicy dipping sauce, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods.
Various vendors throughout the town selling pupusas, yuca frita, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or a smile is common when meeting someone new.
Show respect to older individuals, often referred to as 'Don' or 'Doña'.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Tomás
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% for good service in restaurants and bars.
Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm, sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Be prepared for heavy rains and occasional storms, but this season brings lush greenery.
Experience vibrant local festivals with cultural events and traditional foods.
The town is beautifully decorated, and various celebrations take place, showcasing local traditions.
Santo Tomás at Night
Hiking in Santo Tomás
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring multiple trails, offering breathtaking views of volcanoes and lush landscapes.
Home to the San Salvador Volcano, this park offers scenic hikes with panoramic views of the crater and surrounding areas.
Airports
How to reach Santo Tomás by plane.
Located about 40 km from Santo Tomás, this international airport serves as the main gateway to El Salvador, offering flights to numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, Mestizos are a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry, forming the cultural backbone of the region.
Several Indigenous groups, including the Nahua and Pipil, contribute to the cultural diversity and heritage of El Salvador.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in El Salvador, and local matches can often be seen in parks or community fields.
With beautiful coastlines nearby, surfing is a popular activity, especially among younger locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Tomás.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, such as pupusas filled with cheese and beans.
Corn-based dishes like pupusas are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe choice.