one week in El Salvador
El Salvador itinerary
Created by:
itinerary-hub
Published on:
March 25, 2021
7 days
262 km
4 steps
This is the perfect round trip to see what El Salvador has to offer. Starting and finishing in San Salvador, with this itinerary you will pass through colonial towns, pacific beaches and loads of volcanoes.
Step 1: San Salvador
2 days recommended
San Salvador
San Salvador is home to some of the best food in the country. From traditional pupusas to delicious seafood dishes, you won’t be disappointed. The city also has a great nightlife and is known for its lively bars and clubs.
The city is also home to the National Palace, a museum showcasing the city’s history and culture. Here, you can see artefacts from the Mayan and Lenca cultures, as well as a range of art from the colonial era.
-
Hit the beach at El Tunco
El Tunco is a small coastal town in El Salvador, located just 30 miles south of the country's capital, San Salvador. It's a popular destination for travelers looking for a laid-back beach vibe and excellent surfing. The town's main beach, El Sunzal, is a great spot to soak up the sun and take part in some of the best surfing in Central America. The waves here are considered some of the most consistent in the region, and are perfect for beginners and experts alike. The town is small and friendly, with a range of restaurants and bars that serve up delicious local cuisine and creative cocktails. There's also a lively nightlife scene with plenty of live music and entertainment. El Tunco is the perfect place for a relaxing beach getaway, or for a thrilling surfing adventure.
-
Boqueron National Park
Experience El Salvador's natural beauty at Boqueron National Park. With its stunning wildlife, majestic mountains and lush greenery, it's the perfect place to explore and relax. Enjoy a hike through the park's trails, take a dip in its sparkling lakes and rivers, or just admire its breathtaking views. Boqueron National Park is a great place to explore, relax and create lasting memories.
-
Museum of Art of El Salvador
This museum is home to some of the best works of Salvadoran artists, ranging from the Colonial period to the present day. The museum features a wide range of art forms, from painting and sculpture to photography and multimedia. Visitors can explore the museum's permanent collection, which includes works by renowned Salvadoran artists such as Antonio Cordero, José Luis Cuevas, and Roberto D'Aubuisson. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, featuring works from modern and contemporary artists
-
Visit the colonial town of Suchitoto
Nestled among the dense jungle and tranquil lake, Suchitoto is a colonial city that has been remarkably preserved. Its significance during the El Salvador civil war of the 1980s is also noteworthy. This charming town offers the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of San Salvador, with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.
-
La Ruta de Las Flores
Located in the western part of the country, La Ruta de Las Flores is a picturesque route that winds through the small but vibrant towns of Nahuizalco, Salcoatitán,Juayua, Ataco, and Apaneca. Along the way, visitors can admire the colorful flowers that bloom in the region, take in the stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes, and enjoy the local culture and cuisine. On weekends, the towns come alive with vibrant markets and festivals offering everything from locally made crafts to delicious Salvadoran dishes.
-
The National Palace
The National Palace in San Salvador is a majestic sight to behold. Built in the late 19th century, the palace is a stunning combination of neoclassical and French Renaissance styles. It is home to the President of El Salvador and features a beautiful garden, grand fountains, and a museum dedicated to Salvadoran history. A visit to the palace is a must for anyone visiting San Salvador.
-
Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador
The Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador is an impressive sight. The baroque architecture is stunning, with intricate details throughout. The interior is beautiful, with a large gilded altar and a stunning ceiling mural. It's a great place to explore and experience the history of the city.
-
Iglesia del Rosario
The Iglesia del Rosario is an incredible architectural masterpiece. Designed by Rubén Martínez, the grey stone and metal structure may look unimpressive from the outside, but the interior is a marvel. Inside, the roof is full of beautiful coloured glass windows that cast a rainbow of light throughout the building. From October to January, the 'Eye of God' casts an even more impressive display on the pulpit. Visit mid-day for the best effect, and don't forget to check out the '12 stages of the cross' art at the rear.
-
Take a Free Walking Tour of San Salvador
Explore the vibrant city of San Salvador with a free walking tour. Discover the city's culture, history and monuments. Learn about the fascinating architecture, vibrant street art and the city's hidden gems. Feel the energy of the locals and get to know their stories.
step 1: San Salvador
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
41 km / 25 miles
step 2: El Tunco
Step 2: El Tunco
2 days recommended
El Tunco
El Tunco is a small coastal town in El Salvador, located just 30 miles south of the country's capital, San Salvador. It's a popular destination for travelers looking for a laid-back beach vibe and excellent surfing. The town's main beach, El Sunzal, is a great spot to soak up the sun and take part in some of the best surfing in Central America. The waves here are considered some of the most consistent in the region, and are perfect for beginners and experts alike. The town is small and friendly, with a range of restaurants and bars that serve up delicious local cuisine and creative cocktails. There's also a lively nightlife scene with plenty of live music and entertainment. El Tunco is the perfect place for a relaxing beach getaway, or for a thrilling surfing adventure.
step 2: El Tunco
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
85 km / 52 miles
step 3: Santa Ana
Step 3: Santa Ana
2 days recommended
Santa Ana
The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, with its main plaza and many churches being excellent examples of this style of architecture. This city also offers some great shopping experiences, as it is home to a number of great markets and shops.
The surrounding area is filled with natural beauty as well. The volcano Santa Ana is a popular spot for tourists to visit, offering great views of the countryside. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to be enjoyed, such as hiking and bird watching.
-
La Ruta de Las Flores
Located in the western part of the country, La Ruta de Las Flores is a picturesque route that winds through the small but vibrant towns of Nahuizalco, Salcoatitán,Juayua, Ataco, and Apaneca. Along the way, visitors can admire the colorful flowers that bloom in the region, take in the stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes, and enjoy the local culture and cuisine. On weekends, the towns come alive with vibrant markets and festivals offering everything from locally made crafts to delicious Salvadoran dishes.
step 3: Santa Ana
Transportation type:
car/bus/boat
91 km / 56 miles
step 4: Suchitoto
Step 4: Suchitoto
1 days recommended
Suchitoto
Nestled among the dense jungle and tranquil lake, Suchitoto is a colonial city that has been remarkably preserved. Its significance during the El Salvador civil war of the 1980s is also noteworthy. This charming town offers the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of San Salvador, with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.
-
Visit the Alejandro Cotto Theater
The Alejandro Cotto Theater is a historic theater in Suchitoto that was built in the early 20th century. It features a beautiful neoclassical facade and hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including theater performances and dance shows.
-
Los tercios waterfall
Cascada Los Tercios is an easy 1.5 km hike from town. It features a 10-meter high basalt wall with tiny quartz crystals that sparkle in the sun. The waterfall is only active from June to November, making it a unique and special sight to behold.
-
Centro Arte para la Paz
Centro Arte para la Paz is a cultural and educational center established in 1994. The center promotes peace, social justice, and environmental sustainability through the arts, providing a variety of programs and activities such as workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events. It supports local artists by offering space to create and showcase their work, hosts art exhibitions, and offers youth educational programs focused on sustainability, social justice, and the arts. The colonial-era building that houses the center has been restored and repurposed, providing visitors with a unique and inspiring cultural experience.
-
Lake Suchitlan
Lake Suchitlan is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. The lake is surrounded by lush tropical forests and the stunning Cerron Grande Mountain Range. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, boating, fishing, and bird watching. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and more. There are also several local restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.
-
Visit the Santa Lucia Church
The Santa Lucia Church is a historic landmark in Suchitoto, built in the 19th century. This church is a stunning example of colonial architecture, featuring a beautiful stone facade, and the inside is adorned with intricate wood carvings and stunning stained-glass windows. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church to learn about its history and architecture, or attend a mass on Sundays, which is a great way to experience the local culture.