Fun Walking Tour of San Salvador's Historic Center
Description
"The tour is like a roller coaster of emotions, from stories of the civil war and gang violence to crowded and chaotic markets. It's a fantastic way to see San Salvador," commented one of our guests. We invite you to discover the country's capital, which has changed the most in Latin America, a place that not long ago was known as the murder capital of the world. Walk the most iconic squares in the city, visit Rosary Church, one of the few Brutalist churches on the continent and visited by thousands of tourists. Visit the National Library — the most modern in Central America, and Romero’s crypt — he was assassinated while celebrating Mass and his tomb is visited by thousands of people. Learn about history and culture; laugh, taste, and walk with us. We are traveling souls (Carlos and Gio) – passionate, dedicated guides, ready to show you El Salvador from a whole new perspective.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Barrios Square. A place where thousands of Salvadorans pass through to find all kinds of activities, from concerts, exhibitions and artistic events, or simply feed the traveling pigeons. Learn about presidents who were executed there, as well as legends and stories of love affairs and romances. See the national palace from where President Bukele gave his message to the nation at the inauguration of his second term.
Liberty Square. Explores the heart of the city's historic center. This iconic plaza, with its prominent Liberty Monument, is a symbol of the country's independence. The tour covers the plaza's history, surrounding architecture, and its cultural significance, offering a glimpse into Central America and El Salvador's past. See the architecture of yesterday and today mixed with the new buildings of the present. Learn why the flags of Central America share the colors blue and white and learn about Mesoamerica, a vast region that unites countries from Costa Rica to Mexico.
Rosary Church. Marvel at one of the few brutalist churches on the continent, which hundreds of tourists visit every month. Rosary Church in San Salvador highlights its unique modern architecture, vibrant stained glass windows, and the church's significance in the community. Designed by Rubén Martínez, this unconventional structure offers a captivating blend of art and history. Discover each of the stories of the people buried there and the reasons why the church always remains closed, even though it is 100% active, and offers masses every day.
National Library (BINAES) Meet the most modern library in Central America, which thousands of tourists visit every day. Opened 24/7, with 7 floors to visit. Discover the amount of books available and enjoy the views of this fantastic place.
San Salvador Cathedral. Discover the fascinating story of Romero of America, the first Salvadoran saint who was assassinated while officiating mass in 1980. Walk in the crypt that contains his remains and is visited by thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year. Hear of Salvadoran civil war, from 1980 - 1992, which gave rise to the terrible phenomenon of gangs.
Kilometro 0 in San Salvador. Rest your feet in this important place where you will also have the opportunity to taste some Salvadoran pupusas, tamales, quesadillas, horchata, and delicious coffee, grown in the best regions in the country.
National Teather and Morazán Square. Learn the fascinating story of the first Salvadoran woman to run for president at a time when women could not vote, let alone run for president. Besides, learn how El Salvador has evolved from being the murder capital to the safest country on the continent.
Public Market and surrounding streets. An authentic glimpse into local culture and the daily life of the city. Dig into the complex history of gangs in El Salvador. Know the context on how gang activity impacted the area, the market's resilience, and the community's ongoing efforts to reclaim and revitalize the space
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(210)
I met Carlos as arranged outside the library, he had 2 assistants with him who were learning the role. Both very capable. Very good English was spoken throughout and although the serious information was very informative a light hearted and sometimes funny approach was taken as required. Some good laughs were enjoyed by everyone. There was no pressure to buy anything on route although the opportunity was available. A great 3 hours and very good value for money. Highly recommended.
Great experience! Carlos was a great guide who explained a lot about San Salvador, the city center, its history, and the current vibes. He also gave great recommendations for where to eat and shop. Very helpful!
This city tour was outstanding! We learned so much about the history and culture and enjoyed all the different stops along the tour. What a joy to see families and children living their best life in this beautiful country: and not to forget the delicious food everywhere. How does a country go from being hell on earth to becoming the MOST safest country in the world, it’s aa absolute miracle brought forward by the dedicated leadership of one man. A million thanks to our wonderful tour guide Azucena and her assistants. Already planing a return visit.
This is a great tour that everyone should do to give yourself an opportunity to actually see the city. Stefany was the best tour guide. She was very friendly and knowledgeable. She took us around and showed us many historical sites, but at the same time,she gave us glimpses at day-to-day life, whether it be about their money or visiting a local bakery. With.Stefany, she will show you all of the best highlights to see in the city and learn about their history. If you’re lucky, she will even give you some firsthand experiences about growing up in the city herself.
Excellent guides, and above all they knew how to explain all the concerns we had.
We had an incredible time! The girls did a truly great job from start to finish. They were all very knowledgeable and friendly, which made the whole experience so much better. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a well-guided and welcoming tour!
The best tour we have done on our trip through South America and Central America! Azucena has been an excellent guide, always with a smile and satisfying our curiosity about San Salvador. Gabriela and Mariana accompanied us, explaining everything perfectly and enriching Azucena's explanations with their data and anecdotes. Thank you very much for the tour and for this good time we have spent together with you!
Carlos was very informative and gave great details on the country and connected the information to life in San Salvador today!
Don’t change a thing. Part historical, part cultural, everything combined nicely for a great experience. San Salvador center turns magical at night and the tour ended at the right time for us to experience the magic.
Azucena is an excellent guide and she showed us the most iconic places in the city. Her companions Mariana and Roberto, student interns, helped to enrich the experience. 100% recommended
