Sightseeing in the Centro Histórico
Most sightseeing in San Salvador is packed into the Centro Histórico, where the cathedral, the national palace, the national theatre and the national library stand within a short walk of each other. Start in the morning, keep your phone and camera out of sight when you are not using them, and take an official taxi or ride-hailing car to the centre. El Salvador’s state of exception is still in force, so carry a copy of your passport photo page and expect police ID checks. The UK FCDO safety page also reports petty crime and robberies.
Metropolitan Cathedral and the Romero crypt
The cathedral stands on Plaza Barrios. In its crypt lies the tomb of Saint Óscar Romero, which draws pilgrims as well as visitors. Hours are about 08:00 to 17:00 Monday to Saturday and 07:00 to 18:00 on Sunday, so check ahead. The crypt address is 2ª Avenida Sur #213, and the crypt website has details. Keep a solemn tone here, speak softly and dress modestly.
Palacio Nacional
The Palacio Nacional is visited on guided tours from Tuesday to Sunday, not on Mondays. Fees are $1 for Salvadorans, $3 for Central Americans and resident foreigners and $5 for non-resident foreigners. Opening hours vary, so check the Ministry of Culture schedule before you go. See the palace fee report .
Teatro Nacional
The national theatre dates from 1917 and faces Plaza Morazán. You can enjoy the exterior at any time. Night guided tours ran from 10 October to 1 November 2026, from 18:00 to 24:00, meeting at Plaza Morazán. Ask locally whether more are planned.
Plaza Gerardo Barrios and BINAES
Plaza Gerardo Barrios, also called Plaza Barrios, is the square the cathedral faces. The national library, BINAES, stands close by in the Centro Histórico. It reopened in November 2023, has seven levels, is open 24 hours a day and charges nothing to enter. A rooftop terrace on level 7 has a restaurant and a gallery.
Iglesia El Rosario
The Iglesia El Rosario was designed by Rubén Martínez. Tourist visits inside have been suspended until further notice since 10 September 2026, so enjoy the exterior from the street. The church opens for Mass only, and photography is not allowed inside. Attend a service if you wish to see the interior, or check whether tourist visits have resumed.
Museums in the wider city
MUNA charges $10 to non-resident foreigners, $3 to resident foreigners and $1 to Salvadorans, and it is in the Colonia San Benito area. Check hours before you go. Parque Saburo Hirao is open Wednesday to Sunday from 09:00 to 16:00 and includes the Natural History Museum.
Tips
- Plan around Mondays, when the Palacio Nacional is closed.
- Dollars are the currency, and only a few businesses accept bitcoin.
- Avoid walking alone on remote trails and use official taxis rather than public buses.
Read more: Walking tours and Attraction tours .
Book a city tour through GetYourGuide .