San Salvador, the capital and largest city of El Salvador, is home to around 1.6 million people in its metropolitan area. Nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, the city combines history, culture, and urban dynamism. Its historic center features colonial landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, alongside lively markets and pupusa vendors. In contrast, areas like Zona Rosa offer modern cafés, art spaces, and restaurants. Just outside the city, the San Salvador Volcano provides hiking opportunities and sweeping views of the urban sprawl and lush landscapes.
From Santa Ana to San Salvador
Traveling around El Salvador is very straightforward, with public buses connecting nearly every destination. Frequent buses run between Santa Ana and San Salvador, with the trip taking about 2 hours.
San Salvador
San Salvador can be slightly more expensive, especially if you aim to stay in upscale areas like San Benito or Zona Rosa. On booking.com, accommodations often start around $50 per night, so I opted for Airbnb, where I found several charming options for about $30 per night. Getting around the city was straightforward with Uber or InDrive, the latter seeming more popular locally. Fares were very reasonable – I usually paid around $3 for rides within the city and $10–15 for trips outside the city, even for distances up to an hour away.
Things to do in and around San Salvador
- Centro Histórico – Wander through the heart of San Salvador and visit key landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the Teatro Nacional. Don’t miss the colorful Iglesia El Rosario, with its stunning modern architecture and stained-glass windows. The area is also home to bustling markets and street vendors, offering a taste of local life.
- Day Trip to El Tunco Beach – Just an hour from San Salvador, El Tunco is one of El Salvador’s most famous surf beaches. Whether you’re a surfer or just want to relax, the laid-back vibe, black sand beach, and dramatic sunsets make it worth the trip. Affordable restaurants and bars line the coast, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood.
- Visit El Boquerón and Joya de Cerén – Combine a trip to El Boquerón National Park, where you can hike to the rim of the San Salvador Volcano and enjoy panoramic views, with a visit to Joya de Cerén (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Known as the “Pompeii of the Americas,” this archaeological site preserves an ancient Maya village buried by volcanic ash.
- Hike to La Puerta del Diablo – A short drive from the city, La Puerta del Diablo (Devil’s Door) is a rock formation offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and countryside. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, photography, and catching a refreshing breeze.
- Discover Lake Ilopango – This large volcanic lake, located about 30 minutes from San Salvador, is perfect for kayaking, swimming, or simply enjoying the tranquil waters. Local restaurants along the shore offer delicious food with a view.
- Shop and Dine in San Benito & Zona Rosa – These modern, upscale neighborhoods are home to trendy cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. It’s a great area to unwind, enjoy Salvadoran cuisine, or explore the city’s growing nightlife scene.
- Day Trip to Suchitoto – Just over an hour from San Salvador, Suchitoto is a charming colonial town overlooking Lake Suchitlán. Known for its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and vibrant art scene, it’s perfect for a peaceful day of exploring. You can also take a boat ride on the lake or visit nearby waterfalls.
San Salvador picture gallery :
