San Salvador , El Salvador

Hugo's City Tour

Active

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

From crime capital to becoming one of the safest cities in Latin America.
Hugo's City Tour is the ideal choice for lovers of cultural tourism, or those who simply want to satiate their curiosity. During the tour of the Historic Center of San Salvador, led by a tour guide certified by the Ministry of Tourism, you visit ancient squares, monuments, civil and religious buildings that portray the history and identity of the capital city of El Salvador. At the same time, the visitor knows the most momentous events that have happened during the five centuries of existence of the city. From the time of its founding, through the attempts at independence, the Central American Unionist ideal, the civil war, to the period when San Salvador and the entire country goes from suffering the constant siege of criminality to transforming into a place where you breathe tranquility.

Available options

Guided Walking Tour in the Historic Center of San Salvador

What's included

Clubs and restaurants offering nightlife to tourists interested in it shall be indicated

Upon request, the guide indicates the places where typical Salvadoran food is offered

Optionally you also walk through the chaotic and street food area of the city.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The guide will describe to tourists important aspects of the history of the Cathedral, the architectural elements and the iconography inside. The visit also includes the crypt area to learn about the mausoleum and a brief biographical review of San Oscar Romero.

Touring the capital city’s founding square, tourists, through the guide, will learn about some of the most momentous events that have occurred since the beginning of the settlement to the present, the important buildings existing during colonial times, and the historical and architectural value of the properties that currently surround the site.

Stop 3

Inside this church visitors will find a place whose pieces of religious art in modernist style, the non-traditional distribution of its space, the multicolored and natural luminosity that this temple illuminates, make it a unique church of its kind.
For the above reasons, it is an ideal place to take pictures and videos.

On this site is the monument dedicated to the character who gives his name to the square. The guide gives a brief overview of the life, ideals and influence of this political and military leader in the region during the first decades after the Declaration of Independence of Central America.
From that same point, the guide describes significant facts about the history of the National Theatre, located in front of the same square.

This is an ideal space for tourists to take pictures and videos of the iconic buildings located around the square. The guide refers to the political, religious and historical events that have taken place at the site, as well as the monument and other symbolic elements located there.

The tour concludes with a tour of the seven levels of the new national library, whose design, layout, services and technological resources constitute a novel concept of public library.

What's not included

Right of entry into Iglesia El Rosario.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The main entrance to the Cathedral is opposite Plaza Barrios. The guide will wear a white or blue shirt, with the country name "El Salvador" emblazoned on the chest, and "Tourist Guide emblazoned on the back, plus a cap or hat.

About San Salvador

San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and bustling urban life. It offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, with numerous cultural attractions and nearby natural wonders.

Top Attractions

El Rosario Church

A stunning example of modern religious architecture, known for its unique design and beautiful stained glass windows.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

National Palace

A historic building that once housed the government of El Salvador, now a museum showcasing the country's history and political heritage.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Jardín Botánico La Laguna

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, a lake, and walking paths, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (around $2)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pupusas

Thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat, and often served with curtido (a cabbage slaw) and tomato sauce.

Main Dish Vegetarian options available (cheese and bean fillings)

Paste

A small, round bread roll filled with various savory fillings like pork, chicken, or beans.

Snack Vegetarian options available (bean filling)

Yuca Frita

Fried yuca (cassava) served with curtido and a spicy sauce.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Imposible National Park Exploring Mayan ruins at Joya de Cerén Visiting Jardín Botánico La Laguna Enjoying a coffee at a local café Guided tours of El Rosario Church and National Palace Attending local festivals and events Boat tours on Lake Suchitlán in Suchitoto N/A

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

22°C to 30°C 72°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

CST (UTC -6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

San Salvador has improved in terms of safety in recent years, but it's still important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime, including armed robbery and assault, can also occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use common sense and stay alert in crowded places
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport • 45 km from city center

By bus

Terminal de Oriente, Terminal de Occidente

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They can be crowded and sometimes confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, TaxisAhora

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colonia Escalón Colonia San Benito Downtown (Centro Histórico)

Day trips

Joya de Cerén

35 km from San Salvador • Half day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a pre-Columbian Mayan village preserved under volcanic ash, similar to Pompeii.

El Imposible National Park

100 km from San Salvador • Full day

El Salvador's largest national park, offering diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Suchitoto

70 km from San Salvador • Full day or overnight

A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a beautiful lake view.

Festivals

Feria de Agosto • August Fiestas Patronales de San Salvador • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Use app-based taxi services like Uber or TaxisAhora for safer and more transparent pricing.
Explore the city's street art and graffiti, which can be found in various neighborhoods and offers a unique perspective on the city's culture and history.
Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and to experience the vibrant local culture.
Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash to minimize the risk of theft.