11 Things To Do in the Capital City of San Salvador, El Salvador

1. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral is located in the center of the city, making it easily accessible. The cathedral is worth visiting for its religious importance as the seat of the Archdiocese of San Salvador, but also for its unique interior design decorated with brightly-colored stained glasses windows, designed by the famosu Salvadorean painter Fernando Llort.

2. Get-to-know the National Palace

Discover the architecture and history of this iconic building on Plaza Gerardo Barrios at the heart of the capital’s historic center which used to serve as the seat of government of El Salvador.

The National Palace was the headquarters of the three Powers of the State and it has 4 main rooms. The blue room that was the headquarters of the Legislative Assembly. The pink room that was the headquarters of the Supreme Court of Justice. The yellow room which was the President’s office. The red room was the President’s protocol room where he received the credentials of the ambassadors accredited to the country.

Today, it still serves as the headquarters for ‘official’ activities, but the President no longer works here. Tour the stately rooms and admire the refined architecture.

3. Experience the Theater of El Salvador

The National Theater takes center stage in front of ‘Plaza Morazán’ among the buildings defining the country’s capital. Designed by the french architect Daniel Beylard with a neoclassical facade and adorned with lavish French Renaissance interior. The performance center is as captivating as the shows it actually still produces for crowds.

Free guided tours in Spanish are offered on Wednesdays between 8:30am and 3:30pm, though you may be allowed in to see it at other times. The entry is free unless you want to experience a live show.

4. Visit Parroquía Nuestra Señora de El Rosario

Iglesia El Rosario is a captivating symbol of faith and cultural heritage. This historic parish stands as a testament to the rich religious traditions that have shaped the community. Initially, this site supported the historic Parish Church of San Salvador, whose builder was the priest and hero of independence José Matías Delgado in the 18th century. It is said that the building was made of wood but, unfortunately, it was consumed by a fire, which is why the architect and sculptor Rubén Martínez designed an innovative building in 1962. As worshippers gather within its walls, they are surrounded by vibrant stained glass windows, intricately carved altars, and sacred artifacts that tell the story of a deep-rooted Catholic tradition. Enjoy a site of great architectural and cultural importance since it continues to be a place of active worship.

5. Tour the El Salvador Art Museum 

If you are into an artistic journey, this is the place to go. This museum, officially known as the Museo de Arte de El Salvador, showcases a diverse collection of Salvadoran art, spanning from the colonial period to the contemporary era. The museum’s name, “Marte,” stands for “Museo de Arte,” emphasizing its commitment to celebrating and preserving the nation’s artistic legacy. Visitors to Museo Marte can explore an array of paintings, sculptures, and other visual arts, each piece serving as a window into the country’s history and cultural evolution. The museum not only serves as a repository of creativity but also as a dynamic space for exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs, making it a vital hub for fostering a deeper appreciation of Salvadoran art and culture.

Opening hours:

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays: from 10 a.m.  to 4 p.m.

Fee: $5.00

6. Visit the Museum of Anthropology

The David J. Guzmán Museum of Anthropology aka MUNA stands as a distinguished institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Named after the esteemed Salvadoran anthropologist, David J. Guzmán, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s diverse indigenous cultures, archaeological findings, and ethnographic treasures. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibits that span pre-Columbian civilizations, highlighting the art, customs, and daily lives of the ancient peoples who once inhabited this land. The museum’s curated collections, ranging from intricate artifacts to informative displays, provide a fascinating glimpse into El Salvador’s anthropological past. Through its commitment to education and cultural awareness, the David J. Guzmán Museum of Anthropology serves as a vital bridge connecting contemporary Salvadorans with their roots and fostering a deeper understanding of the country’s rich and complex history.

Opening hours:

Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Fee: $10.00

7. Eat at El Xolo

El Xolo restaurant – located inside the MUNA, is a culinary gem that invites you to savor the vibrant flavors of traditional Salvadoran cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. It is the first restaurant in El Salvador to classify, it placed as No. 91 in Latin America’s Best Restaurants list by The Worlds 50 Best. Known for its commitment to authenticity, El Xolo serves up a delightful array of dishes that showcase the diverse culinary heritage of the region. From pupusas, the iconic Salvadoran stuffed corn tortillas, to flavorful ceviches and hearty stews, the menu at El Xolo is a celebration of local ingredients and time-honored recipes. The restaurant’s ambiance reflects a blend of contemporary design and cultural elements, creating a welcoming space for both locals and visitors to indulge in a gastronomic journey through El Salvador’s culinary traditions.

8. Visit Cuscatlán Park

Cuscatlán Park is located in the city of San Salvador. It contains two UNESCO blue seals for the Monument to Memory and Truth and the “Salarrué” National Exhibition Hall, which is why it is considered a historical park that is also a valuable green space in the heart of the city. from the city. The area includes places of interest such as the Tin Marín Museum for kids, in addition to being a place for family recreation, different exhibitions and musical concerts take place there, especially during the capital’s patron saint festivities.

Opening hours:

Tuesday to Sunday 5:00 am to 8:00 pm

9. Visit El Boquerón

Enjoy of a cool and pleasant climate while visiting “El Boquerón National Park”. “El Boquerón” is an active volcano located in the San Salvador National Park where you can see the old volcano’s crater which last eruption was in 1917 burring under its ashes the now archeological city of Joya de Cerén in El Tazumal (on the side of the volcano). Hike and enjoy the forest around the large crater of  approximately 5 kilometers in circumference.

10. Walk in Parque Bicentenario

This park that covers the municipalities of San Salvador and Antiguo Cuscatlán. It was inaugurated on November 5, 2011, the day of the celebration of the Bicentennial of the First Independence Movement in Central America. It has an area of 91 hectares, which makes it a lung for tand the largest ecological park within a Central American capital.

The park offers various activities for visitors like: green spaces ideal for picnics, outdoor games and relaxation; cultural events, concerts, fairs and festivals offering entertainment for the whole family; games and activities for the little ones; exercise and cycling areas. There’s no entrance fee.

11. Read a Book at BINAES Library

Be part or a new reading experience at BINAES library. BINAES stands for Biblioteca Nacional de El Salvador. The modern and welcoming facilities of BINAES provide a conducive environment for reading, learning, and engaging with information. This building was just recently inaugurated on November 14th, 2023. The library is built over 7 floors that are home to more than 1 million books ranging from early age learning to the latest digital learning experience.