Best 15 Places To Visit In El Salvador - Updated 2024

1. Santa Tecla

Make the most of your road trip adventure in El Salvador by swinging by the gorgeous town of Santa Tecla in La Libertad. From its Catholic heritage, Santa Tecla got its name from the revered Saint Thecla. This town is where culture and nature converge. It has almost paradise-like places that will surely take your breathe away–El Boqueron National Park, San Salvador Volcano, and Plan de Laguna Botanical Garden, to name a few. Plus, it has a vibrant nightlife–the bustling Paseo El Carmen is a testament to that. I think this makes it a great place for a short holiday with friends!

Good to know:

• If you want to do some quick shopping, head to Plaza Merliot in the city center.

• For more information about the city, check out the tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Budget: Casa Serena B&B

2. San Miguel

After a fulfilling adventure in the lovely town of Santa Tecla and immersing yourself in the town’s offerings, drive to the eastern side of El Salvador, and discover another gorgeous city, named San Miguel. If you are traveling with your family, it is best that you come over the city in November as it hosts a fun-filled festival that is one for the books - the San Miguel Carnival. This captivating festival is full of lights, colors, fantastic rides, and delicious eats. Also, you might want to stop by Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Paz, and say a few prayers of thanks and well wishes, while marveling at the beauty of its red steepled aesthetics.

Good to know:

• The city is known for its textiles and leather goods, and I’d love to get some of these as souvenirs.

• Check out the tourism board page if you need more information.

Stay here:

• Hotel Florencia

• Budget: Hotel Caleta

3. Santa Ana

Are you a big coffee drinker? If so, you might want to explore the city with the biggest coffee industry in the country - Santa Ana. Just like most of the cities and towns of this list, Santa Ana boasts a rich cultural heritage, has stunning landmarks, and is a paradise of breathtaking natural wonders. While in the city, after visiting coffee plantations and sampling local brews, don’t forget to swing by Cathedral of Santa Ana and be captivated by this majestic Gothic structure. I wouldn’t mind taking a few photos here! If you like nature adventures and physical activities, prepare to be left in awe by the beauty of the scenic views in Lago de Coatepeque.

Good to know:

• Make sure to do a tour of the city’s Historical Complex, comprised of The Palace of the City Council, the National Theater, and the Barracks of Santa Ana to not miss out on the city’s architectural beauty.

• You can learn more about the city on the tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Hostal Casa Verde

• Budget: Hostal Las Puertas

4. Juayua

Another astonishing town in El Salvador that will captivate your heart is Juayua. Perched atop on the mountainous area of the country, expect picturesque views and the cool breeze of the countryside while in Juayua. Not only that, but the town offers a plethora of natural attractions. Swing by the enchanting Juayua waterfalls and reconnect with nature while swimming and sunbathing to your heart’s content, Plus, this town is a paradise for foodies as it hosts a spectacular food fair where you go on a palatable culinary adventure of Juayua’s local specialties - the Gastronomica Fair.

Good to know:

• The city’s colonial church was initially dedicated to the patron city of the settlement, St. Lucia, but after its reconstruction, it was rededicated.

• Carriage rides are offered in the city, and I’d love to try it out!

• Learn more about the city on the tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Vista Los Volcanes Hotel y Restaurante

• Budget: Hostal DEYLUWIN

5. Sonsonate

Need more suggestions for your upcoming El Salvadoran escapade? Add the majestic city if Sonsonate in your travel itinerary. It features a gorgeous landscape of vast plain lands, quaint neighborhoods, and a tranquil ambiance all throughout the city. The views here are as enchanting as most of the other cities on the list. While in Sonsonate, you might want to learn the history of the city and its train and transport heritage in Railway Museum Plaza. Also, say a few prayers at Sonsonate Cathedral before embarking on an exciting adventure to Parque Aquatico Escuco.

Good to know:

• Holy Week celebrations in Sonsonate are so popular that they have been officially declared as a part of the Religious Cultural Heritage of the nation. Make sure to visit during this period to get the full experience of the city.

• Read more about the city on its tourism board page.

Stay here:

• La Casa Del Pinito

• Budget: Silvia’s Vacation Home

6. La Palma

Your El Salvadoran adventure will not be complete without a visit to the charming town of La Palma. Nesting on the Chalatenango department of the country, this little town brags about its gorgeous natural landscape, as well as its vibrant art scene. Breezing through the city, you’ll notice a lot of fascinating graffiti and murals on several walls. Not only that, because of its mountainous topography, there are a lot of safe and scenic hiking routes in La Palma that are popular with tourists.

Good to know:

• The municipality is known for its ceramic, wood, and leather handicraft goods and cotton textiles.

• The Clock Tower is an iconic structure that will be a great backdrop for your photos!

• Check out the tourism board page for more details on the city.

Stay here:

• Home with a garden

• Budget: Hostal y Restaurante Posada Real

7. Panchimalco

An ideal hideaway destination for all types of tourists all year round, Panchimalco is a small simple town that is worth discovering. It holds an enthralling history from its Indian heritage during the colonial era in the 16th century. Also called Panchos, the people of Panchimalco is one of the warmest and friendliest people in El Salvador. Its religious festivals are another reason to love this captivating town. When you visit in May, you will witness the colorful Fería de Cultura de las Flores y las Palmas, which features lots of extravagant floats and fireworks show at night.

Good to know:

• Make sure to visit Balboa Nature Park if you’re going on a family vacation as the park has a playground, games, and even a maze.

• For more details on the city, check out its tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Country house with beautiful decor

• Budget: Cozy room on Airbnb

8. Apopa

Nestled in the San Salvador region of El Salvador, Apopa is a simple and beautiful town in El Salvador. It is where San Salvador and Soyapango interlinks. It might not be a modern metropolis, but the town has a fair share of fantastic hotels and vacation rentals if you wish to explore this side of the country. Also, the food here is definitely worth a try and the people are hospitable. Plus, attractions in Apopa, just like the other towns and cities in El Salvador, are priced in a reasonable bracket that will surely not break your bank.

Good to know:

• Parroquia Santa Catalina de Alejandría is the municipality's most important church. The structure faces the Noe Canjura Park, and after a tour of the church, you can unwind in the park and enjoy some sunshine.

Stay here:

• Budget: Private room on Airbnb

9. Ahuachapan

Set on the western side of El Salvador, Ahuachapan is a quaint little municipality that is the official capital of the Ahuachapán region. Tourists will be overwhelmed by the number of breathtaking natural wonders that is worth visiting on this side of the country. Marvel at the beauty of nature and the stunning landscape in Ruta de Las Flores Volcano. Experience running through a natural maze just like in the movies in Laberinto de Apaneca. Also, experience the refreshing waters of Salto de Malacatiupan before leaving town.

Good to know:

• Parroquia de La Asunción is a colonial church in the city that dates back a hundred or more years. I’d love to take a tour of this beautiful structure.

• Pasaje La Concordia is a pedestrian area that’s another popular spot for tours. The area is filled with murals and monuments.

• Check out the city’s tourism board page for more details.

Stay here:

• Quinta El Espino

• Cielito

10. El Mozote

Located in Morazán department, El Mozote is a fascinating village with a grim history. A place that historians are fond of exploring, El Mozote was where the El Mozote massacre took place, and almost a thousand of noncombatants were murdered by the US Government-funded army, called Atlacatl Battalion. Monumento De La Paz y la Reconciliación has become a symbol of that tragic period of time. On a different note, if you visit El Mozote for adventure, you will not be disappointed as it has numerous attractions, such as Llano del Muerto, Cascadas las Pilas, and Casacada la Olomina.

Good to know:

• If you want to learn more about the city's tragic past and take some time to reflect, head to El Mozote Historic Site. The monument has plaques bearing the names of the victims of the massacre.

11. Tamanique

Immerse in nature and discover the interesting culture of Tamanique. Known for their vast plains of avocado trees and their thriving coffee industry, the whole landscape of Tamanique is like a paradise on earth. Tourists love exploring the Cascadas Tamanique and are left in awe by its beauty while swimming in its cool waters and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. Also, if you are one that likes outdoor adventures and being in high places that lets you breathe fresh air and admire nature, hike through the routes of Peñon de Comasagua and let your breath be taken away by the views from above.

Good to know:

• Parque de Tamanique is a great spot to just relax and read a book.

• Cascadas Tamanique is actually a set of four waterfalls, and the first two falls have pools you can dive into. Local guides are available from the city park, and they’ll be particularly helpful if you’re attempting the 2-km (1.24 mi) walk to the fourth waterfall.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Casa 44

• Budget: Flat with a garden

12. San Vicente

To conclude your El Salvadoran adventure, spend your last day in San Vicente. In this gorgeous city, you will find the marvelous double-peaked volcano that is also named San Vicente. This volcano is one of the highest peaks in the country, drawing tourists from everywhere. Also, you should check out Amapulapa. It is a fantastic waterpark that is surrounded by lush nature and boasts picturesque views - an ideal hideaway destination for families. For couples on a romantic getaway, have a lovely date in Laguna de Apastepeque while enjoying the views of an enchanting lagoon.

Good to know:

• The city’s Basilica Nuestra Señora del Pilar dates back to 1762 and is a great play to learn about the history of the settlement.

• Perhaps the most iconic attraction of the city is Torre Vicentina. The beautiful tower is located in the central square and must be included in your itinerary.

• For more information about the city, check out its tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Casa Verde

• Budget: Beautiful room with a private bathroom

13. San Salvador

A breathtaking, densely populated city in El Salvador, San Salvador is the official capital of this Central American nation. It is the economic, cultural, and political hub of El Salvador. When you get to the heart of it, you will be captivated by its overall appearance - a combination of 21st-century modern architecture and colonial structures in one majestic metropolis. Here, you can find a lot of remarkable landmarks such as Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, National Palace, El Rosario Church, and a lot more. Not only that, but it is also a haven of fantastic retail shops, excellent restaurants, and superb recreational areas, which, according to me, makes it a great place to take the family.

Good to know:

• History nerds should definitely check out the Museo Nacional de Antropología David J Guzmán. The museum is particularly popular for its Maya and Olmec artifacts from Cuscatlan and Lenca artifacts.

• You can learn more about the city at its tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Hotel Mirador Plaza

• Budget: Villa Stahl

14. Suchitoto

1/5 best places to visit in el salvador | suchitoto

2/5 suchitoto

3/5 suchitoto

4/5 suchitoto

5/5

Show all photos

If you are planning a much-deserved vacation in the beautiful Central American country of El Salvador any time soon, you might want to start the escapade by exploring the charming little municipality of Suchitoto. Aside from its old town charm, Suchitoto captivates tourists with the picturesque views of the mountainous area of Lago Suchitlán. This town is not only a haven for outdoor activities but also has marvelous historic landmarks, including the colonial 18th-century Santa Lucia Church. If it’s art you are after, Centro Arte para la Paz is a museum and a convent that you should not miss while in town.

Good to know:

• Though it might seem like a small settlement, Suchitoto has a number of annual festivals that put it firmly on the map, Some of the more popular ones include the International Festival of Art and Culture, the Suchitoto International Film Festival, and Corn Festival.

• Learn more about the city on its tourism board page.

Stay here:

• Casa 1800 Suchitoto Boutique

• Budget: Hostal Raíces de mi Pueblo

Suchitoto Full-Day Tour from San Salvador

Duration: 5 hours

25 reviews

from USD

65.0

Book Now

15. Perquin

For tourists who are into sightseeing, city walks, and getting to know the culture and history of the places they visit, Perquin is a charming little municipality in El Salvador that is definitely worth a visit. Here, you will find the Museum of Revolution that centers on the colonial era of the country and the Salvadoran Civil War. Also, it has a fair share of stunning natural wonders that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Invite your friends for a camping activity in the enchanting Llano del Muerto or experience swimming in the rejuvenating waters of Salto El Perol.

Good to know:

• If you’re planning on vacation here in August, make sure to arrive in time to celebrate the Winter Festival, held on the first week of the month.

• If you need more details on the municipality, check out the tourism board page for the city.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Villa Verde

• Budget: Hotel y Restaurante Las Margaritas

Fall in love with El Salvador

El Salvador is a stunning country in Central America that features majestic and diverse natural landscapes. It has enchanting beaches, marvelous waterfalls, lakes, lagoons, vast plains of coffee plantations, mountainous areas with picturesque views, and other gorgeous natural wonders. Not only that, but it has a rich cultural heritage that is rooted in its colonial heritage, and I’d love to hang out with the locals and learn about their traditions. If you are planning to explore this side of America, use this list of the best places to visit in El Salvador as your guide in planning an itinerary.