Things to do in El Salvador

Where to go in El Salvador, when to visit, and what a trip costs.

Places to visit in El Salvador

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

San Salvador: The cheapest flights to San Salvador fall in September through November (the tail end of rainy season) and again in late January through March, with savings of roughly 25-35% compared to Christmas/New Year and July-August peak periods. Flying midweek, Tuesday or Wednesday departures, typically shaves another $30-60 off round-trip fares.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Barrio Antiguo street art walk The revitalized Zona Rosa and Colonia Escalón walls are covered in world-class murals by local and international artists.
Plaza Gerardo Barrios (Historic Center) Watch locals gather around the equestrian statue and explore the grand Catedral Metropolitana at no charge.
Parque Balboa hilltop stroll Ride city buses to this breezy hilltop park with sweeping valley views and weekend marimba bands.
Mercado Central people-watching Dive into the chaotic sensory overload of the central market, colors, smells, and street vendors performing daily life.
El Rosario Church interior This brutalist concrete church hides a kaleidoscopic stained-glass interior that is one of Central America's great architectural surprises.

El Sopón Típico, Sopa de pata (cow foot soup) with tortillas Plates $2-4
Restaurante Las Cofradías, Pupusas de loroco y queso with curtido Plates $1-3
Mercado Ex-Cuartel food stalls, Yuca frita con chicharrón or tamales Plates $1-3