Landmark Tours Around San Salvador

Choosing a tour is easier when you know the questions to ask. This page answers the common ones for San Salvador. Since 2022 the country has operated under a state of exception that remains active, so keep a photocopy of your passport photo page with you whichever tour you pick.

Which tour covers the old centre?

A guided Centro Histórico walk takes in the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio Nacional, the Teatro Nacional and Plaza Barrios. Guided visits inside the palace run Tuesday to Sunday, with entry at $5 for non-resident foreigners, $3 for Central Americans and resident foreigners and $1 for Salvadorans. Hours depend on the Ministry of Culture, so ask your guide to confirm them for your day.

Which tour reaches the Maya sites?

Maya route tours link Joya de Cerén, San Andrés and Tazumal. The three sites share Tuesday to Sunday opening from 09:00 to 16:00. Foreigners pay $10 at Joya de Cerén, about $3 to $5 at San Andrés and about $5 at Tazumal. Joya de Cerén lies about 36 km out, and Tazumal sits about 80 km west in Chalchuapa, next to Casa Blanca and its small museum. A single tour saves you arranging three separate rides. Browse departures on GetYourGuide , and read the Chalchuapa guide from elsalvador.com for current fees.

Is there a tour of the theatre at night?

The Teatro Nacional, which dates from 1917, ran night guided tours between 10 October and 1 November 2026, 18:00 to 24:00, starting from Plaza Morazán. Whether another series follows is a question for local organisers, and so is the ticket price.

Is there a pilgrimage tour?

Visitors who want to follow the story of Saint Óscar Romero can combine two places. His tomb is in the crypt of the Metropolitan Cathedral on Plaza Barrios, at 2ª Avenida Sur #213. The Divina Providencia hospital keeps the small chapel where he was killed on 24 March 1980, plus the rooms of the Centro Monseñor Romero, and university students lead the tours. Check opening times and any fee with each site before you arrive. This is a solemn visit, so dress modestly and keep your voice low. The crypt website is the starting point.

What should I check before booking?

  • Entry fees. Ask whether they are included, because foreigners pay more than locals.
  • Monday. The palace and the Maya sites are closed, so avoid booking that day.
  • Transport. Ask how you reach the meeting point, and use an official taxi or ride-hailing car to get there.
  • Weather. June to November is rainy season, with floods and landslides that can change a route.

Can I do these on my own?

Yes. Use official taxis or ride-hailing, not public buses. Each site can be visited independently, though a guide adds the stories behind the buildings.

Read more: Walking tours and Sightseeing . The 2-day El Salvador itinerary shows how tours fit into a short stay.