San Salvador - Wikitravel

San Salvador is the capital city of El Salvador, approximately in the center of the country in a valley near the base of the San Salvador volcano. The city has a long history, with origins dating back to the Spanish conquest of the Pipil tribes.

Understand[edit]

San Salvador lies in the "Valle de las Hamacas" (literally "Valley of the hammocks", as it was named by the colonizing Spaniards, due to its intense earthquake activity) at the foot of the San Salvador volcano. It covers an area of 600 square km and is home to nearly 2 million people. It is home to one-third of El Salvador's population and one-half of the country's wealth.

The people of San Salvador are generally friendly, though as in any large city, less inclined to engage in conversations with strangers on the street as opposed to other parts of the country. The established suburbs of Colonia San Benito, Colonia Escalon, Colonia San Francisco and Colonia Maquilishuat were traditionally the enclaves of the country's elite, with large estates and beautiful tree-lined avenues. These areas and their surrounds were largely untouched during the civil war that ravaged the country, but became the epicenter of the 'Final Offensive' in 1989 when anti-government forces launched a surprise attack on the capital, a move that signaled the beginning of the end of the brutal war. Due to rapid population growth, these areas have become high-density in parts, where older houses have given way to modern residential and commercial towers. While many older mansions remain residential, others have been turned into boutique cafes, small bars, restaurants and foreign embassies. Most tourists choose to stay in these areas as they remain the more pleasant, leafy and safer parts of the city. Museums, Art Galleries and Theaters are located here.

The areas of Santa Elena (where the US Embassy is located), Antiguo Cuscatlan, Nuevo Cuscatlan, Ciudad Merliot and their surrounds are newer, where the country's modern and more luxurious shopping malls can be found (conveniently within walking distance to each other) and a steadily increasing number of gated communities and residential towers popular with expats, along with international hotel chains. Informal settlements ('communidades') have sprung up alongside creeks and blocks of land in many suburbs, some larger than others, squeezed in between gated communities and larger estates. For security reasons, it is advisable not to enter these areas.

There are middle class areas close to the wealthier neighborhoods, such as Colonia Flor Blanca, which showcase stunning examples of art deco and architectural oddities (like the Castillo Venturoso building), an ode to the city's golden era prior to the civil war. Poorer areas are located in the northern and eastern districts, along with an abundance of shanty towns sprawling along the city's eastern fringes, which are best avoided due to gang activity.

San Salvador's climate is tropical, although the weather can vary; the nights may be cool (especially in December), however, most of the time it is sunny and warm. Wearing t-shirts, jeans, and possibly a light rain jacket is usually sufficient.

Whilst not on most tourists' "to do" list in El Salvador, the capital provides a good base for exploring the rest of the country as it's a transportation hub, with most major roads running through it due to its central location. Spending a few days exploring this cosmopolitan and internationally-conscious city can be a rewarding experience. Whilst parts can seem like a maze of confusion, rich vs poor, modern vs dilapidated, cars vs pedestrians, the city has played a major role in defining and shaping the rest of this small yet intriguing country, once at the forefront of the Cold War. To understand this polarized country, it is essential to understand its political, cultural and social headquarters.

Get in[edit]

By plane[edit]

San Salvador International Airport (IATA: SAL) (ICAO: MSLP)[1] is in Comalapa which is located 50km (30mi) south of San Salvador serving the city of San Salvador and for the country as a whole. It is also the largest airport in Central America. National and international airlines serving this airport include:

• Aeromexico (Mexico City)
• Air Transat (Montreal, Toronto)
• Avianca El Salvador (Belize City, Bogotá, Cali, Cancún, Dallas/Fort Worth, Guatemala City, Guayaquil, Havana, Houston-Intercontinental, Liberia, Lima, Los Angeles, Managua, Medellín-Córdoba, Mexico City, Miami, New York-JFK, Orlando, Panama City, Quito, Roatán, San Francisco, CA; San José, CR; San Pedro Sula, Tegucigalpa, Washington-Dulles)
• American Airline (Dallas/Fort Worth, TX; Miami, FL)
• Copa (Panama City)
• Delta (Atlanta, GA; Los Angeles, CA)
• Frontier Airline (Baltimore, MD; Miami, FL; Orlando, FL)
• Iberia (Madrid)
• Spirit Airline (Baltimore, MD; Ft Lauderdale, FL; Houston, TX; Miami, FL; Orlando, FL)
• United Airlines (Houston, TX; Newark, NJ)
• Volaris (Cancún, Guatemala City, Los Angeles, Mexico City, New York-JFK, San Pedro Sula, Washington-Dulles)
• CM Airlines (Roatan, Honduras) Operates out of Ilopango Airport, not SAL at Comalapa

Given the small size of the country there are no national domestic flights offered.

The airport is located near the coast, and close to popular beaches. For budget travelers the local bus (#138) can take you from the airport into downtown San Salvador for US$0.70 . It is slower than the shuttles and can take up to an hour to get into town as the bus makes multiple stops to pick up and drop off people en-route. To reach the local buses; cross the big parking lot in front of the airport terminal. Then go through an open building at the opposite side of the parking (behind trees) to reach the road. There is a bus-stop at the other side of the building by the road. The next best thing is a limited number of collective shuttle offered by Taxi Acacya [2] going from the arrivals zone of the airport to their office at 3° Calle Poniente y 19° Av. Norte N° 1107; Esquina Opuesta a Puerto Bus in Central San Salvador for fixed price. Otherwise it's a taxi ride for $25+ from the airport to wherever you want to go in San Salvador.

If driving to San Salvador from Comalapa, exercise extreme caution. There are many people who walk along the road.

By bus[edit]

If coming from Honduras, there are daily first-class buses from San Pedro Sula direct to San Salvador. Likewise, from Guatemala there are direct first class services from Guatemala City as well as Puerto Barrios. Shuttles run from Antigua Guatemala, Copan Ruinas, Honduras and Léon, Nicaragua and cost about $40 each.

You can also take local transportation within the neighbouring countries and take buses from the Salvadorian side of the border to the capital (much cheaper than shuttles and direct first class buses). From the border at El Poy (near Ocotepeque in Honduras - the crossing you would use when coming from Copán Ruinas or San Pedro Sula), a bus to San Salvador costs between $2 and $3.50 for the 3hour journey, depending on the standard of the bus - for $3.50 you will have an extremely comfortable airconditioned bus, the same style as a first-class Hedman Alas, but a few years older. The last bus departs around 4:30pm though, so be sure to make it in time.

You may arrive at a number of terminals in San Salvador, most likely at Fenadesal in the east of the city. Buses to El Tunco leave from outside the Occidental (west) terminal. Bus 52 ($0.20) will take you from Fenadesal to within walking distance of the Occidental terminal, get off before Monumento Salvador del Mundo (15minutes walking from here, ask a local or download the map for your phone).

The following bus companies offer comfortable, safe and air conditioned travel with meals included, between San Salvador and other Central American cities & Mexico:

• Transporte del Sol Guatemala, Nicaragua & Costa Rica
• Pullmantur Guatemala & Honduras
• Ticabus Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

Get around[edit]

By far the cheapest option to get around is the public bus system. Generally speaking, bus fares run about $.60 per hour, making transportation to almost any tourist destination in the country less than $5 per person. Despite tourists' complaints, there are schedules to the buses; they run pretty regularly and reach any destination you wish to go.

Major car companies in El Salvador have a habit of being unreliable and for charging for damages that renters did not do. Safeguard yourself by thoroughly checking the car and taking good photos of it before leaving. Alamo has a particularly bad reputation for service and quality. National Rental Car has a fair reputation. The others fall in between. Private parties often rent their vehicles and are more honest than dealing with chains. Just make sure that the car comes with insurance as you will be responsible for damages in an accident or end up in jail until things can be sorted out!

Taxis also provide good ways of getting around. Negotiating the cost of your taxi before you step in is common practice and expected. Expect to pay around $25-35 between the airport and San Salvador or the airport and Playa El Tunco. Carry small denominations of money and have exact change for your taxi fare. It is not common to tip taxi drivers, although they may try to convince you to leave some spare change!

Uber operates in San Salvador and is a safe, inexpensive and reliable way of getting around the city. They also operate to the beach towns around La Libertad. A fare from Zona Rosa to El Tunco is approx. $13-$17. A fare from the historic center of San Salvador to Paseo El Carmen (historic center of Santa Tecla) will be around $4-$6.

Distances between sights make walking an unpopular option for those in a hurry as does the street layout in the city; San Salvador is not a square city but has long avenues that are straight and streets that are not. That said, in some areas walking is a great option, such as the short, 15 minute walk between Zona Rosa and Las Terrazas (Sheraton hotel) which are close together and within sight of one another. If you are interested in Art Deco and Salvadoran architecture, walking is a perfect option to get around the city. One favorite stroll is along Paseo General Escalon (Colonia Escalon) to Central San Salvador - a 45 minute walk that takes you past many historical sites and interesting photo ops. Another great walking option is through Parque Bicentenario, a large green space in Antiguo Cuscatlan with paths and playgrounds, perfect for families.

See[edit]

Boulevards[edit]

San Salvador has wide avenues and boulevards, including the two widest boulevards in Central America: Boulevard de los Proceres and Boulevard de los Heroes. Other important boulevards include Alameda Roosevelt, Paseo General Escalon, Av. Jerusalem, Boulevard Constitucion and Av. Juan Pablo Segundo.

Monuments[edit]

San Salvador has many beautiful monuments, some of them dating back to the early 20th century, while others are more modern. Some of the most important monuments include the National Palace, Plaza Gerardo Barrios, Plaza La Libertad, Plaza Morazan, Water Clock, Monument to the Sea, Atlacatl Monument and the Proceres Monuments (it has 10 busts of famous Salvadorans that line the street).

One of the most recognizable monuments in El Salvador is the Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, or "Monument to the Saviour of The World". The Saviour is San Salvador's Patron Saint and is celebrated with massive festivities during the first full week of August every year.

Historic Center (Centro Historico)[edit]

Earthquakes and a civil war did no favors for the historic center of the city, which has fallen into decay since the 1980s. Office buildings have long been abandoned, and streets are congested with thousands of street vendors and makeshift stalls, where shopping is at its most frenetic and the informal market buzzes at a fast and loud pace. Since 2016, efforts have been made to revitalize the city center - plazas are now full of families both day and night, and new cafes and restaurants have made their way back. On some streets, street vendors have been moved to purpose-built markets halls. If you do visit, it is important to remember that gangs currently control some sectors. While you are unlikely to witness or be the victim of violence, it is recommended to visit as part of a tour, which can be organized at most hotels or hostels.

The Iglesia Rosario, a church built by sculptor Ruben Martinez in the 1970's, is arguably one of the most radically beautiful buildings in Central America. Resembling an airplane hangar from the outside, it is visually awe-inspiring from the inside, where a rainbow of colors rush across the floor and across the altar, as the natural night bounces off the metal and rock with the changing position of the sun.

Plaza de Libertad, groups of musicians and dancer gather daily to perform. Usually starts after 14:00.

The Metropolitan Cathedral nearby was built in 1956, replacing the previous Cathedral that was destroyed by an Earthquake in the 1800s. A steady stream of local and international tourists visit daily to see the tomb of Oscar Romero.

Plaza Futura[edit]

An open plan plaza at the base of a modern business tower, this is a popular expat hangout full of restaurants, cafe's and bars. Prices here are generally higher, however it offers some great views of the city. A pedestrian bridge connects Plaza Futura with the Crowne Plaza Hotel across the road.

Parks[edit]

San Salvador has a large urban park, the Parque Bicentenario, popular with families, joggers, cyclists, dog walkers and nature lovers, providing a welcome respite to residents. Popular with locals, the beautiful botanical gardens of La Laguna located at the bottom of a volcanic crater showcase much native fauna. Zoologico Nacional (The National Zoo), and Parque Saburo Hirao (with a collection of native plants) are in the SE part of the city by the old Presidential House.

Visit El Boquerón to get up close to San Salvador's iconic volcano that last erupted in 1917 - there is a beautiful and well maintained walk along the rim, where you can peer into the crater 1,831 feet deep. The cooler temperatures at this altitude make for a pleasant walk with vastly different vegetation (Pine trees) and is popular with local and international tourists, especially on weekends. There is a small fee to enter the park and a small, but interesting information center. Tours can be arranged from most hotels. There are plenty of eateries surrounding El Boquerón, however there are restaurants along the main road offering some of the most spectacular views of the city such as Linda Vista Gardens, Las Brumas and La Pampa El Volcán.

If you don't get a chance to visit smaller towns and villages outside the capital, a must see destination is Los Planes De Renderos. 1000 Meters above sea level, and it offers a spectacular view of San Salvador. This is a popular oasis for locals from the hectic city life. Check out the restaurants, and near-by parque Balboa, (Balboa Park) with lots of trees and green lawns, ideal for picnics. Indulge yourself eating the tasty salvadorean treat known as pupusas! Puerto del Diablo is another interesting place near Los Planes, a natural rock formation that holds a morbid place in El Salvador's historical civil war, however at the moment there is on-going construction at El Puerto and it is closed off as of November 2018. Rock climbing is abundant near here and you can find climbing activities with the Federacion Salvadorena de Montanismo Escalada. Visit the nearby colonial town of Panchimalco, one of the few towns in the country with a large indigenous population.

Museums[edit]

San Salvador has many museums, the two most important are "Museo David J Guzman" and "Museo de Arte MARTE". David J Guzman National Museum of Anthropology[3] contains a variety of Mayan and Pipil artifacts, while Museo de Arte MARTE[4] displays an extensive collection of international art. Both are located in the Zona Rosa district. There is also a children's museum, the Tin-Marin [5] museum, where kids can experience the world in a fun way. The old national palace is being restored to house the "National Archives," and the "National Museum." Also a new display of early mammal fossils, including a giant sloth, mastodon and more than twenty other species is being set up in the "Museo de Historia Natural," or "Natural History Museum" situated in the SE section of Saburo Hirao park by the National Zoo. Close to the zoo is the "Museo Militar," or Military Museum which is housed in the old castle-like "El Zapote" barracks built in 1895. In the military museum you can find weapons and army uniforms from the 17th, 18th, and early 20th centuries, which were historically used by the Salvadoran army. Other highlights of this museum include the original copies of the 1992 peace accords and the Pope Mobile used when Pope John Paul II visited the country. Entrance is free and a guide service is provided at no charge.

Theatres[edit]

San Salvador has numerous theatres, including the beautiful Teatro Presidente (located near Zona Rosa), where the symphony orchestra and El Salvador Ballet Company regularly perform. A list of performances and events can be found here. The Teatro Nacional in the historic center of the city has recently been restored to its full splendor, where you can step back and experience the grandeur once reserved for the city's elite in the early 1900s.

Entertainment[edit]

San Salvador has several entertainment venues. You can go to restaurants, bars, clubs, casinos, or if you are traveling with kids you can go to the cinemas, bowling, bingo, arcades etc. Cinemas in San Salvador include

• Cinemark Various locations throughout El Salvador, Ph:503 22294315, Merliot,[6].
• Multicinema Various locations throughout El Salvador, Ph:503 22439269, Multiplaza [7].
• Cinepolis, Galerías Escalón, [8].

You can also play video games at World Games and El Mundo Feliz. Families may also want to visit Central America's largest toy store:

• Jugueton San Salvador. boulevard de los proceres #2000. Ph:503 22481253 [9] this a toy store similar to toys r´ us you will find all types of variety of toys and other fun crafts.

The bars, restaurants and clubs at Multiplaza Mall is the entertainment epicenter of the city and popular with young revelers on weekends. A few bars and restaurants can be found within walking distance to each other in the Zona Rosa. Smalls bars are always opening up around Escalon and San Benito, popular with the well-heeled youth of the city.

Learn[edit]

One of the best Spanish Language Schools is:

• Centro de Intercambio y Solidaridad (CIS), Ave Bolivar #103, Colonia Libertad, San Salvador. Ph: (503) 2226-5362 or 503 2235-1330

Started by the former guerillas and a network of foreign aid, CIS strives to better the lives of the Salvadoran people. Their popular language school offers private and group classes, and often hosts lectures by former combatants and other notable people from El Salvador's recent history.

Top international schools (K-12) are:

• The American School (Escuela Americana), San Benito, ph:503 2257-8336, [10]
• The British Academy (Academia Britanica Cuscatleca) in front of CA1, Santa Tecla. Ph:(503) 2241 4400, [11].
• The Panamerican School (Escuela Panamericana), Colonia Escalón, ph:503 2209-6000, [12].
• Escuela Biligue Maquilishuat Ph: +503 2263-8008
• The German School (Deutsche Schule) Jardines de Guadalupe. Ph: 503 22438120, [13].
• The French School (Lycée Français St Exupéry) Next to the British Academy, Santa Tecla , [14].
• The International School of San Salvador Calle La Reforma. Ph: (503) 224-1330, [15]

Buy[edit]

• La Casita. Locations in both Centro comercial multiplaza, San Benito and Centro comercial Plaza San Benito.

• Bookmarks [16], Centro Comercial Basilea [17], Zona Rosa (Next to the Hilton).

• La Ceiba, Galerias, Col.Escalon Av. Paseo Gral.Escalon. There are Many other la ceiba stores in the city.

Malls[edit]

Some of the shopping malls include: Loma Linda, Multiplaza [18], Las Fuentes, Galerias [19], Metrocentro, [20], El Paseo, Plazamundo [21], Plaza Merliot [22], La Gran Via [23] (a lifestyle center / "city walk"), Las Cascadas, Basilea [24], Plaza San Benito and Villas Españolas. These malls have luxury boutiques, international fashion chains, specialty stores and large food courts.

Local Crafts[edit]

For local arts and crafts, visit the Ilopango markets east of the city. Test your bargaining skills and take home some unique, handmade goods. For cheap souvenirs such as hammocks and other local crafts try the Mercado Cuartel. A good hammock can be yours for under $15 US, depending on bargaining skills. For Fair trade crafts from all over the country you can shop at the NGO Centro de Intercabio y Solidaridad[25]. They have a store with diverse products and they support many small artisans.

Fuel[edit]

There are many gas stations - the most notable being Texaco, Puma and Uno throughout the city. Many offer full-service for a higher price, so be sure to check if you are at the full service or the self-service pumps. Gasoline fluctuates between $4-$5 a gallon, averaging about $4.50 for Premium gas. Regular gas is often mixed with kerosene and other cheap liquids, which will eventually ruin your engine. It's advised to buy the premium at all gas stations, unless you want to deal with blown head gaskets!

All gas stations will raise their prices as much as $.50 per gallon for 2-3 weeks before any major holiday - first week of August, Easter and Christmas being the biggest ones in the country.

Department stores[edit]

San Salvador and some Mexican cities are the only cities in Latin America with Sanborns (restaurant and store chain) and Dorians (or Sears). Other department stores include Siman [26], Carrion and Almacenes Europa.

Supermarkets and Other Retail Stores[edit]

• Super Selectos The most common supermarket chain in the city - although not all are created equal. The SS located in Redondel Masferrer and Las Palmas Shopping Center (located on the road to Puerto La Libertad just south of the city) usually have a healthier stock of imported items that foreign tourists may be craving.

• Walmart Located in Centro Comercial Las Cascadas - for many items, Walmart is more expensive than shopping in the local markets or other stores; however they do often carry things that are difficult to find elsewhere.

• La Despensa de Don Juan. Everywhere in the city - Local shopping place.

• Pricesmart (Costco in the U.S.A.), South of Blvd. De los Heroes and in Santa Elena.

Eat[edit]

The restaurant scene in San Salvador is influenced by many different cultures. Food options include Italian [27], Korean, Japanese, Thai, French, Chilean, American, Peruvian, Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern, German, Chinese, Argentinian and others. Local food options include Tipicos Margot where one can purchase the famous Salvadoran Pupusas. Perhaps the biggest indictment against the quality of the San Salvador restaurant scene however is the sheer number of chain restaurants referenced in this article.

Budget[edit]

• Mr. Donut
• Burger King
• McDonald's
• Wendy's
• Biggest
• Pollo Campero
• Pollo Campestre
• Pollo Tip-Top
• KFC
• Subway
• Quiznos
• Pollo Tropical
• Pizza Hut
• Domino's
• Little Caesar's

When you are in El Salvador you won't have to worry about finding a place to eat, there is food everywhere you go.

Mid range[edit]

• Tony Romas, Blvd. el Hipódromo, Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph: (503) 2-298-5050, Fax:(503)2-298-5964, [28]. American casual. There are 3 more Tony roma's in the city.
• La Panetière, San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph: (503) 2-263-8792, Fax: (503) 2-264-1759. There are many other La Panetière in all San Salvador.
• Punto Literario. In El Museo de Arte Marte col. San Benito. Zona Rosa.
• Sal y pimienta, Tercera calle poniente #3877 entre 73 y 75 av. Norte Col. Escalon, Ph: (503) 2-298-1766, Fax: (503) 2-245-0998.
• Restaurante Chileno Hey, 97 av Nte. calle Pte. #4509, Col. Escalon. Ph/Fax: 503-22637281
• Restaurante Basilea, Blvd. El Hipódromo 2-502, col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph: 503-22236818 Fax:503-22790056
• Pasquale, Paseo Gral. Escalón, Col. Escalón frente a Galerías shopping center. Ph:503-2263-1693 Fax: 503-22635445. Italian food.
• Tre fratelli, Blvd. El Hipódromo #307, Zona Rosa Ph/fax: 503-2224-2951 Italian Food.
• Al Pomodoro, Paseo Gral. Escalón #3952 Ph: (503) 2514-4455 or 2257-2545 [29] Italian food.
• Diva, Blv. El Hipódromo, centro comercial San Benito, Zona Rosa PH:503-22790814 Fax:503-2223-6026
• Dynasty, Frente a Blv. el Hipódromo y Av. Las mangolias Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph: 503-22639955 Fax:503-22638615. Chinese food.
• Sushi-Itto. Zona Rosa Ph:503-22241900 Fax:503-22982676
• Chili's, Paseo Gral. Escalón #4220 col. escalon Ph: 503-2637556 Fax:503-22638352
• Café Café, calle el tanque #13099 av. Norte y 7a calle poniente Bi. Col. Escalon, Ph: (503) 226-32413, Fax: (503) 226-34024, [30]. Peruan food.
• Pueblo Viejo, Blvd. Los Heroes, MetroSur 2 nivel. Ph/Fax:503-22611256
• Tequila y Botanas Hotel Real Intercontinental , Blvd. de Los heroes Ph:503-22113333 fax:22114444 Mexican food.
• Los Balcones, km 40.5 autopista al aeropuerto Ph:503-23660000 fax:...01
• Tanoshii sushi bar, Centro Comercial El Paseo, Col. Escalón, Paseo Gral. Escalon. and Tanoshii Hotel Real Intercontinental Blvd. de los Heroes Ph: (503) 221-13333, Fax: 221-14444, [31]. Japanese food.
• Royal, Col. Escalón in front of Pops escalón. Chinese Food.
• Sanborns rastaurant and store, Multiplaza, mexican food.
• Rj, multiplaza. Peruan food
• Inka Grill, Blvd. El Hipódromo, Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Peruan food.
• Voi-la, Av. Masferrer infront of Texaco. French food.
• Restaurante Club Campestre, Av. masferrer , Col Escalón 550 mts arriba de Redondel Masferrer. Buffet and à la carte. Ph:503-22633555.
• Diva Bistro Multiplaza.
• San Martín Multiplaza and El Paseo. Bakery.
• El Rincon de mi Tía Multiplaza. Café and restaurant.
• Olivos Multiplaza and Hilton princess Hotel at Zona Rosa. Salads and Sandwiches.
• Benihana La Gran Via - International Japanese Steak House
• Bennigans La Gran Via - International - Irish
• Señor Tenedor, Av.Olimpica #3544 plaza Jardin, Ph: 2-298-1766, Fax: (503) 2-245-0998.
• La Media Cancha, Steakhouse Restaurant and Sports Bar with TV's for watching sport - 79 Avenida Sur #48, Zona Rosa
• Basilea, Centro Comercial Basilea, Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa, Ph: (503) 2223-6818 [32]. International food.
• 168ChineseRestaurant, 89Av. Nte y 9a calle poniente #4612 Col. Escalon, Ph: (503) 2264-1168, 2264-6168, [33]. Chinese food.
• Cuatro Restaurante Bistró, Calle Padres Aguilar No. 4, Colonia Escalón, Ph: (503) 2263-4593 [34]. Spanish Fusion and Tapas.

Splurge[edit]

• 503, Blvd. del Hipódromo, Zona Rosa. Upscale, international cuisine and sushi lounge. Ph: (503) 2223-4770.
• A lo Nuestro, Calle la Reforma #225-A Col. San Benito, Zona Rosa Ph:503-22235116 Fax:503-22791920
• La Pampa Argentina, In Zona Rosa, in Col. Escalon 1000mts arriba del redondel masferrer, in Santa Elena Boulevard Orden de Malta, and Boulevard. Constitución Col. Escalón Ph: 2-2786057.
• Los Ranchos, Calle La Mascota #232 Interseccion Pje. A y Pje #3 Col.La Mascota, Zona Rosa.
• Angus, La Gran Vía
• Hacienda de los Miranda, Jardines de Guadalupe frente a CA1, La Libertad Ph:503-22431108, Fax: 503-22434841. Buffet and à la carte. [35]
• Finisterre, Col. La Mascota Pje. A#30 Ph/Fax: 503-22637691
• Escorial, Hotel Real intercontinental Blvd. de los Heroes Ph:503-22113333 Fax:503-21144444, [36] or [37]
• Las Orquideas, Hotel Terraza 85Av. Sur y calle Padres Aguilar Ph:503-22630044 Fax: 503-22632828
• El Mirador, Hotel Radisson Col. Escalón. Buffet and à la carte.
• Hunan, Upmarket Chinese Restaurant specialising in Szechuan and Shanghai in elegant surroundings - Paseo General Escalón y 99 Avenida Norte. Plaza Villavicencio
• Paradise, Blvd. El Hipódromo, Zona Rosa. Ph: 503-2223-4832 fax: 503-22244201 [38]
• Faisca Do Brasil, Authentic Brazilian 'Rodizio' style dining in luxurious surroundings. Hotel Real intercontinental Blvd. de los Heroes Ph:503-22113333.
• Fire Of Brazil, Brazilian Steakhouse - Churrascaria. Modern Restaurant and Bar with indoor and outdoor dining. Plaza Futura, San Salvador [39]
• Jeques, Middle Eastern Cuisine. Plaza Futura. Calle el Mirador, Colonia Escalón, San Salvador

If you need to buy something, there are a lot of supermarkets in this city. Some are international, which come from Guatemala, the USA and other countries that are interested in bringing supermarkets to San Salvador. The supermarkets contain products such as food, clothing, candies, tools, shampoos, toys, cosmetics, soaps, etc.

Drink[edit]

San Salvador is well-known for its nightlife. Clubs and bars can be found in the Zona Rosa, Basilea Mall, Las Terrazas (Multiplaza Mall), Boulevard de Los Heroes, Temptation Plaza, and the bars and restaurants area in La Gran Via (Mall and night lifestyle center). .

• wine-o (the wine outlet), Blvd. del Hipodromo #575, San Benito, San Salvador, ☎ +503 2263-5576, [x]. 9AM-10PM. the place for excellente value wine with the best selection $9.

Bars and Clubs[edit]

• Cadejo Brewing Company [40], Zona Rosa. Local brewery with excellent selection of beers and food, offering tours of the brewery. Popular with expats.
• Casa Ku Ku, German Restaurant & Beer Garden. Urbanizacion Madre Selva 3a etapa, Av. El Pepeto #22, Antiguo Cuscatlán. Popular with expats.
• Lobby [41], San Benito. Stylish bar, popular with business professionals and well-heeled youth. Offering classic and premium cocktails and reasonable selection of food
• Circo, Colorful bohemian bar with surrealist interior, offering music, dancing and shows. Pasaje Itsmania 128, Colonia Escalón
• La Taberna, Beer House 79 Av. Norte. Col. Escalon and Santa Tecla
• La Ventana, Colonia Escalon. This is not a club, more of a lounge/coffee spot with food available, and a full bar. Owned by a German who now resides in El Salvador.
• Scape (Gay),Centro Comercial Juan Pablo Segundo, Local 311A, Prolongacion Juan Pablo Segundo, San Salvador.
• Millenium (Gay), 50 meters south of Scape.

For the latest information on gigs, raves,dance parties, international acts and concerts in San Salvador check here: [42](Spanish). Larger events and conventions are generally held in the Feria Internacional [43].

Sleep[edit]

Budget[edit]

• Hostal Cumbres del Volcan 85 Avenida Norte #637, Colonia Escalon, San Salvador. +503-2207-3705 or + 503-7213-9736 Email: [email protected]

Owned by expat, Malcolm Collins who married a Salvadoran and has a passion for exploring his new home, Hostal Cumbres del Volcan is the quintessential bed and breakfast experience. Malcolm and his staff make visitors feel at home and can answer any questions you have about San Salvador. Ask Malcolm to see his photo collection of San Salvador dating back to before 1900 - he can point out the exact places in the city where the old buildings still are or were! Walking distance to many great bars, malls and all the amenities you might need. Dorms - $8 (tax included), Private rooms start at $25 (breakfast and tax included).

• Mariscal Hotel & Suites, Paseo Escalón 3658 (comfortable), from $28

• The Hotel Tazumal House , 35 Avenida Norte, Casa 3. A/C, cable TV, free internet use. From $10 to $40.

• Ximenas Guest House, Calle San Salvador 202, ☎ (503)2260-2481, Cell: 7981-4517 ([email protected]), [x]. A small guesthouse open for over 25 years. Located in a quiet residential area in the Blvd. de Los Heros district, it is within walking distance to malls, banks, pharmacies, post offices, coffee shops, bars and restaurants. The building is well-lit with a tranquil, homey atmosphere with a common area with cable TV, as well as a roof-top terrace with sparse vegetation. Services available include book exchange, modest cafe/restaurant, laundry service, safe deposit lockers, luggage storage and free tourist information. Wireless internet is also available, but there is a small one-time charge to obtain the access code. Computers are also available for $2/hr. Dorms $7, $9 w/hot shower, privates $18-35, varying by AC, number of beds, hot water, TV.

Mid range[edit]

The staff of all the hotels speak English and Spanish, but there are also others who speak other languages. All the hotels include room service.

• Real Comfort inn, Calle el Carmen y Prolongacion Juan Pablo, (503) 2237-7000, Fax: (503) 2237-7001, [44]. 4-Stars Located in the heart of the business district close to important residential areas. Special in-room amenities for long stay guests include mini fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker. Check in time:1:00 PM Check out time is 12:00 PM. Take Prolongacion Juan Pablo II north until you reach 75th Avenue where you will turn left. Advance on 75th Avenue and then turn left again onto Calle El Carmen.

• Ramada Inn, 85 Ave. Sur y Calle Juan José Cañas, Col. Escalón San Salvador, Ph: (503) 2263-0033, Fax: (503) 2263-4099. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4-stars.

• Quality Real Hotel Aeropuerto San Salvador, KM 40.5 Carretera Al Aeropuerto de El Salvador, (503) 2366-0000, Fax: (503) 2366-0001, [45]. Just 3 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from the sandy beaches of Costa del Sol. In house restaurant. Room service, business center, bar and pool. Check in time is 12:00 PM, check out time is 4:00 PM.

• Hotel Happy House, Avenida Los Sisimiles, #2951, Colonia Miramontes, Phone and Fax (503) 22 60 15 68. Hotel includes air conditioning, double bed rooms and free wireless internet access. [46], [47]. 3-stars

• Siesta Casino-Hotel, Hotel Siesta Final Boulevard Los Proceres, Ph: (503) 2-283-0100, Fax: (503) 2-283-0125, [email protected], [48]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4-Stars.

• Holiday Inn, Urbanización y Boulevard Santa Elena a 400 mts. de la Embajada Americana, Ph: (503) 2-241-4000, Fax: (503) 2-241-4070 or (503) 2-241-4067, [49]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4-Stars.

• Terraza Hotel, 85 Ave. Sur y Calle Padres Aguilar Colonia Escalón, Ph: (503 )2263-0044, Fax: (503) 2263-3223, [email protected], [50]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4 stars.

• Hotel Alameda, 43 Ave. Sur y Alameda Roosevelt #2305, Ph: (503) 2267-0800 / 2267-0801, Fax: (503) 2260-3011, [51]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 3-Stars.

• Hotel Alicante, Col La Sultana, calle las rosas y ave los Laureles #1, Ph:(503) 2243-0889 / 2243-5838, [www.alicante.com.sv]. The hotel includes air conditioned, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 3-Stars.

• Hotel Casa Berlin, Avenida El Espino Lote No 62-64, Santa Elena, Madreselva, Antiguo Cuscatlán, Ph: (503) 2243-8877, Fax: (503) 2243-8872, [52]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities. The staff speaks Spanish, English and German. 3-Stars.

• Hotel Capital, Autopista Sur, Boulevard La Sultana y Pasaje Monelca, Ph:(503) 2247-7100, Fax (503) 2243-8018, [53]. The hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other amenities.

• Hotel Good Luck, Avenida Los Sisimiles Pje. #5 casa 2943, Colonia Miramonte, Ph: (503)2260-1666 / (503) 2260-1655 / Fax: ext. 109, [54]. We offer comfortable rooms with air conditioner, Chinese restaurant, private parking, free internet, excellent location, only two block from Metrocentro and many other amenities at very low price.

• Hotel Grecia Inn, Avenida Sisimiles 2922, Colonia Miramonte, Ph: (503)2261-0555 / (503) 2261-0566 / (503) 2261-0577, [55]. A 50 metros de Hotel Real Intercontinental, frente a Metrocentro, the hotel includes air conditioning, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other amenities. The staff speaks English, Spanish and Greek. 4-Stars.

• Hotel Mediterraneo Plaza, 15 Calle Pte. No. 4319, Col. Escalón, Ph: (503) 2263-4592, Fax: (503) 2263-4612, [56]. The hotel includes air conditioned, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities.

• Hotel Mirador Plaza, Calle El Mirador y 95 Ave. Norte Col. Escalón, Ph: (503) 2244-6000, Fax: (503) 2244-6099, [57]. The hotel includes air conditioned, king size beds,double bed rooms,restaurant, bar and many other amenities.

• Novo Aparthotel, Final 61 Ave. Nte. Col. Escalon, Ph (503) 2260-2288, Fax: (503) 2260-5053, [58]. The hotel includes air conditioned, king size beds, double bed rooms, restaurant, bar and many other amenities. 4-Stars.

• Hotel Merliot, Col. Jardines de cuscatlan, Polígono G, No. 24, Av. L-A, Ciudad Merliot. (503) 2278-4417, www.hotelmerliot.com [email protected]. Our comfortable and elegant single, double and triple, with breakfast included (6AM-10AM) have cable TV, telephone, free wireless Internet, private bath with hot water, closet, executive desk, air conditioning.

• Courtyard San Salvador, Esquina Calle 2 y calle 3, Centro de Estilo de Vida La Gran Via, Ph: (503) 2249 3000, [59]. The hotel is centrally located within walking distance to fine restaurants, coffee shops, entertainment and shopping.

Splurge[edit]

• Real InterContinental San Salvador, Boulevard de Los Héroes. San Salvador, 544. El Salvador, ☎ +503 2211 3333 (fax: +503 2211 4444), [x]. The InterContinental San Salvador Hotel has 228 rooms, 6 suites and 2 Club InterContinental floors. It has 13 conference rooms, 3 restaurants, gym, spa, pool and business center. Prices range between $100 - $450.

• Hotel Barceló, Av. Magnolias y Boulevard del Hipod, Ph: (503) 2268-4545, Fax: +503-2268 4500, Located in the Zona Rosa.

• Crowne Plaza Hotel, 89 Avenida Norte y 11 Calle Poniente, Colonia Escalón, Ph: (503) 2-257-0700, Fax: (503) 2-257-0710, [60]. Rooms from $139 per person, per night.

• Sheraton Presidente, San Benito (in front of El Chulon), Avenida la revolucion, Ph: (503) 2-283-4000, [61].

• Suites Las Palmas Aparathotel, Av. Las Palmas y Pje. 6 Col. San Benito, Ph: (503) 2210-3111, Fax: (503) 2210-3100, [62].

Visit the hotel websites for specials.

Stay safe[edit]

San Salvador has had a history of violence. San Salvador was considered the most dangerous city in the world in 1992 due to the 13-year civil war that was just ending. Since then, San Salvador has seen a significant reduction in crime rates; however, until recently, it experienced some of the highest homicide rates in the world, next to Honduras and Guatemala. All three countries have been battling high amounts of gang activity although, in El Salvador, it was rarely directed towards foreign tourists. Within the last year, the Catholic Church has brokered a deal with gang members to reduce violence in exchange for job training programs, special amenities for leaders in prison and other requests made by the leaders of the MS 13 and 18th Street gangs. Since the beginning of this gang "truce" homicide rates have dropped by more than half. [63] This was not the case; in 2015, the gang truce had failed, and murder rates have since spiked at dangerously high levels.

Some advice to staying safe:

• Don't walk on streets that look abandoned and dark, even on broad daylight.
• Use only licensed taxis or rent a car. Most major hotels have taxis that they have approved as safe and legitimate. If unsure about a taxi, call your hotel and they can generally have a safe taxi dispatched to your location. Be wary of taxi drivers, however; they may appear shady and will often charge exorbitant fees, or even drive to areas that isn't your designated destination, which can make you a very easy target of robbery and even kidnapping so you must be aware of those risks involved.
• When using the public buses, keep your valuables out of sight and don't wear expensive looking jewelry.
• Thefts in El Salvador are rare and usually go one of two ways - they will break into your car while you are gone, in which case, you should always try to park in a lot with a parking attendant. Secondly, you may be approached on the street or on the bus (more common) and asked to hand over your phone and/or valuables. In this case, it's best to do what they ask and almost always, they walk away after getting what they want (though this isn't always the case, especially if they happen to be armed and inflict harm on you, maybe even worse).
• As a woman, dress conservatively. Short dresses and skirts are mostly for clubs. Spaghetti strap tank tops, short shorts, and bikinis are for the beaches. In a machismo society such as El Salvador, you don't have the same "equality" as men do and revealing clothing speaks volumes about how men should treat you.
• As a man, be aware of women that you approach. Often women in bars are with a man, and are, for lack of a better word, "theirs". If you you think they are together, do not try to flirt with the woman - it will sometimes start a fight. If you don't think they are together, it is polite and appropriate to ask the man if he minds you flirting with his companion. It is usually not okay to show up to a salsa club without a date, generally speaking, most men will not want to "share" their dance partner.

Salvadorans consider malls, major stores and museums to be the safest places to spend time in the city. Often, wealthy Salvadorans will not go anywhere not surrounded by a high wall, barbed wire and an armed security guard. Foreign tourists are afforded a little more safety as the gang members do not know their private history, family name and how much money they have, and therefore should be relatively safe when using common sense while walking around the city and talking to people.

Some areas considered safest by Salvadoran elite and middle class: Colonia Escalon, Colonia San Benito, Zona Rosa, Santa Tecla and Antiguo Cuscatlan. Even so, traveling after dark is still ill-advised.

Areas considered more dangerous are: Soyapango, Mejicanos and Apopa, although with common sense and daylight hours, there are many interesting areas to explore in these parts of the city as well.

Cope[edit]

Health services[edit]

San Salvador is a city full of pharmacies. Hospital services are also very good and facilities include Hospital de Diagnostico in Villavicencio Plaza.

Banks[edit]

Finding a bank is not a problem within the city. Banks include Davivienda (formerly HSBC), Citibank, Banco Agricola, Banco Centromericano, Scotiabank, Procredit and others. ATMs that are out in the open is not recommended because it makes you a prime target of robbery and theft.

Embassies[edit]

• Brazil, ☎ 2298-7888, [x].

• Canada, Centro Financiero Gigante 63 Av. Sur y Alameda Roosevelt, Local 6, Nivel Lobby II, ☎ (503) 2279-4655, [x].

• Greece, 77 Avenida Norte 335, Colonia Escandon, ☎ +503 263-3402 (fax: +503 263-3403).

• United States, ☎ 2501-2999 (fax: 2501-2150), [x].

• México, ☎ 2248-9900 (fax: 2248-9906), [x].

Get out[edit]

You can get out of Comalapa International Airport or rent a plane for a moderate fee in Ilopango Airport to give you a ride to other of the countries important cities. The rent a plane service is available to go to Santa Ana, San Miguel and La Union (on Tamarindo, near the Gulf of Fonseca where you can board a ferry to take you to the other Islands)

If you are looking for an excursion out of the city, check the classified section of the newspaper El Diario de Hoy ("Asesores de Viaje y Excursiones" heading) for any reasonably priced tours that may be departing soon.

WikiPedia:San Salvador

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