This article is a complete guide to Salta, Argentina – the city. The city of Salta is your launching pad to countless adventures in both Salta and Jujuy.
This is where your flight lands, but now what?
Should you use this city as a base camp for day trips and excursions? Or should you rent a car for the most epic road trip of your life?
And how much time should you spend in Salta city? What is there to do HERE beyond the excursions and road trips?
After spending more than 15 years living in Argentina I never tire of visiting the Northwest. With three trips here under my belt, I’ve polished and perfected this guide multiple times to make it the most comprehensive guide to visiting Salta possible.
So, let’s get to it. Here are the best things to do in Salta and all the insider logistical tips I’ve picked up over the years.
QUICK NOTE: This post contains affiliate links and Sol Salute may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.
A Complete Guide to Salta, Argentina
The Salta province is widely known as Salta la Linda – Salta the Beautiful.
It’s easy to see why. The entire province is jaw-dropping at every turn.
But how should you plan your visit to Salta?
A lot of people use the city of Salta as a base for day trips and excursions. I agree that this is the way to go if you only have a few days here. I would do one day trip to Cachi or Cafayate, another day trip into Jujuy, and spend the third day in the city of Salta. I go into detail about these excursions later on, keep reading.
Personally, I prefer to rent a car for epic road trips. There is so much to see here: for ideas read my Salta road trip itinerary and my Salta & Jujuy road trip itinerary.
If you have the time and are willing to drive, you won’t regret it.
The Best Things to do in Salta, City
Let’s start this guide by breaking down the best things to do IN Salta, the city.
Salta is a small city and most activities are on or near the main square, the Plaza 9 de Julio.
This makes it very easy to see a lot of things in a short amount of time without feeling rushed.
We spent one full day in the city on our first trip and felt like we saw everything we wanted to see. I prefer to take my time to enjoy a city and still did not feel rushed.
On our most recent trip with two tired kids in tow, we saw less and would have benefitted from an extra day (but our airline had other plans and we lost the extra time we thought we’d have).
Museo Arqueológico de Alta Montaña (MAAM)
📍 Plaza 9 de Julio at Mitre 77
🕑 Open: Tuesdays-Sundays, 11 am- 7 pm, final entrance at 6:30 pm (closed Mondays)
The High Altitude Archeological Museum is a MUST visit. Go, even if you think you hate museums.
In 1999, Dr. Johan Reinhard discovered three mummified children at the peak of a mountain in perfect condition.
The children had been buried during the time of the Incas, before the arrival of the Spanish.
They are one of the greatest archeological discoveries of our time, and you can see them right here in Salta.
What you’ll see: The objects they were buried with are on full display and one of the three mummies will be on display. They never display all three children together for reasons of conservation.
Ultimately, this was one of the most interesting museums I have ever visited. If you love history, you cannot miss it.
Visit the Cabildo
📍 Plaza 9 de Julio at Caseros 549
The Cabildo was where the Spanish government was based during Argentina’s colonial rule in Salta. It is one of the oldest colonial buildings in the region.
Just about all cities in Argentina have a Cabildo and if you’ve been to Buenos Aires, you’ve likely seen the Cabildo in Plaza de Mayo. But Salta’s remains in tact (whereas the Cabildo on Plaza de Mayo was modified to make room for Avenida de Mayo).
Visit the museum to see historical artifacts about Salta’s role in Argentina’s battle for independence.
The interior patios are reminiscent of Spanish Andalusia, with colorful flowers flowing over the upper floors’ balconies.
Make sure to enjoy the panoramic view of the plaza from the second-story balconies.
Cathedral of Salta
Also on the Plaza de 9 de Julio is the Cathedral.
There’s been a church here in one form or another since the 16th Century.
There are free guided tours that are very worthwhile but are only in Spanish. At the moment they are offered at 5 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, confirm here.
But even without a tour, you’re sure to enjoy a walk through the Cathedral.
Iglesia San Francisco
The star of the show, in my opinion, is Iglesia San Francisco. This stunner of a church dates back to the 18th century, built by Fray Vicente Muñoz and then perfected by architect Luis Giorgi.
It is an icon of Salta in terracotta red, ivory, and white. The bell tower is one of the tallest in South America at 54 meters.
San Francisco’s bell is referred to as the “Campana de la Patria.” Its construction was ordered by General Belgrano himself along with the ammunitions used in the Battle of Salta during the fight for independence.
📍Visit the museum: The Museo San Francisco is open from 10 am to 1:30 pm, Monday through Saturday. You can tour the old convent and even climb the bell tower. It has a cost, for a free tour scan the QR codes for a self-guided tour of the church.
🥟Dine in Patio San Francisco: There is a lovely cafe in the church’s inner courtyard. It has the most beautiful setting for a late breakfast, afternoon tea, or even empanadas and wine for dinner.
Cerro San Bernardo
The San Bernardo Funicular is located 1 kilometer from the Plaza 9 de Julio in Parque San Martín. Check here for current hours and prices.
You can choose to take the funicular or hike up the steps to the top. Once at the top enjoy the views. There is a cafe and kiosco at the top but I recommend bringing your own snack or mate along.
- Walking up Cerro San Bernardo: Go to the start of the staircase by the Anthropology Museum if you prefer trekking your way to the top. It will take 30-45 minutes to walk up its 1,021 steps.
- The Funicular: The base station is in Parque Martín. The ride up takes just under 10 minutes and offers spectacular views along the way. The price varies based on your residence.
- Mix & Match: On our first trip we took the funicular up and walked back down. It took us 30 minutes to walk down which makes me skeptical of the advertised 30 minute walk up. Don’t forget the altitude might slow you down if you’re used to sea level like me.
Two funiculars: Teleférico Ala Delta: In 2023 they inaugurated a second funicular from the top of Cerro San Bernardo to Cerro Ala Delta. This second station features a lot more nature and a lot less crowds. Adrenaline junkies can also paraglide from Ala Delta.
When you purchase your funicular tickets at the base in Parque San Martin you’ll be offered the option to purchase tickets for both cerros in a discounted package deal. Otherwise, you can purchase just the ticket to Ala Delta at the top of San Bernardo (in case you chose to walk up).
Experience a Peña Folklorica
Folklore is a general term that refers to traditional music and dance from across Argentina. This isn’t tango, which is from Buenos Aires only. This is chamamé, chacarera, zamba… the list goes on.
Arguably, a traditional peña is the perfect night out – offering music, traditional food and lots of wine.
Peñas are typical in Salta and if you want to feel like a local, then stay up late one night to join the party.
💃🏻Want a guide and a fun group for the night? Go a guided tour of the best peñas in Salta, reserve it here.
Otherwise, choose one of these two options for your night out:
- Calle Balcarce: The two blocks of Balcarce between Alsina and Ameghino is famous for its peñas, a few to check out include La Vieja Estación, Los Cardones, and Nora Julia.
- La Casona del Molino: Located far from Balcarce at Luis Burela 1. La Casona del Molino is the most authentic peña in Salta, frequented by locals and tourists alike. Musicians sing and play the guitar and drums around the table. Rather than a produced show this feels more like a folkloric jam session, plus the food is incredible. Make a reservation via Whatsapp.
The Religious Circuit
Beyond the Cathedral and Iglesia San Francisco, there are plenty more jaw dropping churches worth visiting in Salta.
The Salta tourism site has a map and guide for their Circuito Reliogoso. It has photos and history on each church that is only in Spanish but that’s nothing Google Translate can’t fix.
My favorite was the baby blue Iglesia Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria de la Viña, pictured above.
Eat your weight in Empanadas
The empanadas from Salta are among the best in all of Argentina.
There is never ending debate about the empanadas of Tucuman vs Salta, but I am firmly on team Empanadas Salteñas.
Empanadas de carne from the province of Salta feature diced meat, potato, cumin, paprika, and green onion. They are accompanied with a spicy fresh tomato and locoto sauce called Yasgua. Put a spoonful onto each bite for maximum enjoyment.
🥟Here are where to get the best empanadas in Salta:
- El Buen Gusto: Family owned and operated, a local favorite open for more than 70 years. Their empanadas are famous for their 30 repulgues (pinched closure), it’s a work of art.
- La Salteñeria: Cozy spot just three blocks from Plaza 9 de Julio. The dough is perfectly burnt from the traditional clay oven (horno de barro).
- Doña Salta: A massive touristy restaurant, don’t be turned off by that because the quality is top notch. The meat empanadas are very juicy and were one of my favorites of the whole trip.
- Patio San Francisco: Great food but better location. This cafe and restaurant is located in the inner courtyard of Salta’s most beautiful church. Go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, just go and enjoy the stunning location.
- La Nueva Criollita: Another local haunt with great prices and quality.
And while yes, the empanadas are incredible and you should eat them every day. Also try other northern dishes while you’re here.
Argentina’s Northwest is home to the best cuisine in the country (in my opinion). It’s flavorful, spicy, and unlike anything you’ll try in Buenos Aires or Patagonia.
Try tamales, humita, and traditional hearty stews like locro.
But if you’re craving great empanadas once you’re back in the big city, here are the best empanadas in Buenos Aires.
Shop for Souvenirs
With woven tapestries, shawls and sweaters, ceramics, and carved Chane masks, Argentina’s Northwest is an authentic souvenir collector’s dream.
You’ll see souvenirs all over Salta. Street side vendors sell ceramics and spices all along the main routes. Plenty of shops sell mass produced sweaters and tchotchkes.
But I find that the few blocks of Caseros street off of Plaza 9 de Julio as you walk to the terracotta-toned Iglesia San Francisco is the best place to shop for authentic, high quality crafts and woven goods.
My favorite shop was Una Tienda con Propósito, featuring limited edition pieces and fair trade work, like Matriarca.
Things to do near Salta: The 4 Best Excursions
As I mentioned from the start, I prefer to explore Salta by renting a car to explore the regions of Salta and Jujuy at my own pace.
However, if you’d prefer not to drive and would rather just use Salta as your home base then that’s no problem at all. If you’re on limited time, this is how I recommend you see this region.
I recommend at least two day trips: one into Salta (either Cachi or Cafayate or both) and one into Jujuy. Allow for a day to see the city of Salta, ideally in between your other excursions to rest because these are long days with a lot of time on the road.
Day Tour Package: I list out the top day tours below individually, but you can book this 3 pack to see the top 3 day tours from Salta and save money and effort by having everything packaged together.
1. Purmamarca & The Salinas Grandes Salt Flats
One of the main things to see in Salta is a day trip to Jujuy to see Purmamarca and the Salinas Grandes Salt Flats.
This is a full day excursion into the province of Jujuy, a tiny province that borders Salta just to the north. Spending at least a day here is a MUST if you are in Salta. If you have the time, 3-4 days in Jujuy is ideal.
The town of Purmamarca is gorgeous and you’d be forgiven for thinking you were actually in Bolivia.
There’s a permanent artisan market in the main square surrounded by mountains in a rainbow’s worth of reds, ochres, and oranges.
After Purmamarca the tour heads to Argentina’s Salt Flats. They’re lesser known than the Salinas Grandes of Bolivia but are equally worth a visit.
2. Cafayate & The Quebrada de las Conchas
While Jujuy lies to the north of Salta, a day trip to Cafayate will take you three hours to the south.
This popular Salta excursion includes a drive through the gorgeous Quebrada de las Conchas (Shells’ Gorge).
The tour stops to see unique geological formations unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Once in Cafayate, you’ll be treated to a wine tasting in Argentina’s second-largest wine region.
Book your Cafayate excursion now.
Read More: The Best Wineries in Cafayate
3. Cachi & the Cuesta del Obispo
We’ve gone north to Purmarmarca and south to Cafayate, now let’s go west to Cachi.
Cachi is one of the most beautiful towns in all of Salta (if not all of Argentina). This colonial town is three hours from the city of Salta but don’t worry, the drive is gorgeous.
I fell so hard for Cachi after our first trip to Salta that we recently returned to stay for four nights. It’s that beautiful.
The drive from Salta to Cachi weaves along Ruta 33. You’ll see the Escoipe Gorge before ascending the Cuesta del Obispo, one of Argentina’s most popular scenic drives.
After the Cuesta del Obispo’s dizzying series of switchbacks you’ll drive the impossibly straight Recta Tin Tin through Los Cardones National Park.
The tour includes time to wander the beautiful colonial streets of Cachi and time for lunch before returning to Salta.
Click here to reserve your Cachi excursion.
4. Ride the Tren de los Nubes
The Tren de los Nubes, or train to the clouds, is one of the most popular things to do in Salta.
It is a long day, starting with a long bus ride to San Antonio de los Cobres where you’ll transfer onto the train. There are scheduled photo stops along the route but keep in mind that you’ll be spending a lot of time in the bus.
Once aboard the train you’ll spend about an hour to reach the Viaducto La Polvorilla, the viaduct and massive bridge that you see in all of the photos and promotional material.
The views ARE beautiful and you’ll see an area hard to see any other way but by this train.
I haven’t personally been on the Tren de los Nubes so I can’t offer an honest opinion other than why we’ve chosen not to do it. And that is that it sounds like a lot of time in the bus versus the train.
Asking around I’ve heard all sorts of opinions. Some rave that it was the most beautiful thing they’ve seen and others agree it’s not worth the effort.
You know what interests you best but my final verdict is: I won’t be taking this train unless I’m on a road trip in the region and drive through San Antonio de los Cobres on my own, skipping the long transfer.
If you do want to go, you can know that it’s one of the most popular things to do in Salta for a reason, reserve your Tren de los Nubes excursion here.
Where to Stay in Salta
Searching for accommodation in Salta?
Keep your search centered near the main Plaza 9 de Julio to be close to the sights. I like Caseros street, there are a lot of shops, restaurants and hotels here off of the main square.
To cut to the chase, my favorite hotel in Salta is Villa Vicuña. I’ve stayed at their Cafayate property twice and recently was able to experience their Salta property (after my parents raved about it over ten years ago). Keep reading for more information and a list of alternatives for different budgets and needs.
Villa Vicuña
My favorite hotel in Salta is Villa Vicuña, a boutique hotel housed in a Spanish colonial mansion.
Villa Vicuña is impeccably decorated and feels luxurious while still being accessible. With only 12 rooms, you are guaranteed an intimate and quiet stay.
The location is unbeatable, less than 3 blocks from Plaza 9 de Julio, 1 block from Iglesia San Francisco, and within reach of Cerro San Bernardo. You can walk everywhere you need to go.
The inner courtyard features a beautiful plunge pool with lounge chairs, ideal for the hot summer months. In cooler months, the same patio houses an enclosed lounge area surrounding a fireplace, the perfect spot to curl up with a book and a glass of wine.
Check rates & availability here.
If you’ll be traveling south to Cafayate, then you can also stay at their Cafayate property to receive the same quality stay throughout your trip.
More Salta Hotels
- Kkala Boutique Hotel – Another lovely charming hotel, the Kkala Boutique Hotel is another option for those looking for an authentic, colonial style hotel. The only downside is that it isn’t walkable, you need to take a taxi to the sites. Luckily, it takes under 5 minutes. My favorite thing during our stay (during our second visit to Salta) was watching the toucans fly by the deck as we ate our breakfast.
- Hotel Salta – Stay at Hotel Salta for the historic building and prime location, not for the luxury. While it’s an icon located right on the main square, rooms are dated. But the location is unbeatable and the historic building’s common areas are stunning.
- Best Hostel in Salta – For those on a budget or looking to meet other travelers, you can’t beat a good hostel. This hostel is the best option, the dorm rooms are old school hostel – full of bunk beds and lockers. Nothing special, but very cheap. For a higher price tag but more comfort you can book a private room.
What to pack for Salta
Salta is a casual destination. Think sneakers, not heels. Prioritize comfort.
While you can dress up for the wineries, it’s far from expected. You’ll even see plenty of tourists here in their hiking clothes or athleisurewear. Here’s a few guidelines and tips on what to bring:
- Comfortable clothing: Jeans or better, hiking pants like these that can be dressed up or down. Pack lightweight shorts for the summer.
- Winter – Light Layers – Temperatures fluctuate in the desert. Bring a jacket or coat, scarf, and fleece for the evening but be prepared to be down to a t-shirt by noon while in the sun, even in the winter.
- Summer – Dress for the heat. Pack shorts, ideally some with movement like these hiking shorts. Protect yourself from the sun and the heat. Hike in a long sleeve, light weight shirt like this sun shirt, a sunhat, and always sunglasses. For non-athleisurewear go for long sleeve linen shirts.
- Sun protection: At this altitude the sun is very strong, wear sunscreen every day, sunglasses to protect your eyes, and if you’re extra sensitive like me, also pack chapstick with SPF.
- Water bottle: Avoid issues from the altitude (and wine) by staying hydrated.
- Travel adaptor
- Insect Repellent: In the summer, mosquitos carry dengue in Salta, especially in the muggy jungles of the yungas (because yes, there are lush green jungles here among the red earth deserts). These wipes are easy to travel with.
When to visit Salta
The best time to visit Argentina’s Northwest is during winter or the shoulder seasons. This region is sunny nearly every day of the year. Despite temperatures dropping at night, the days will likely be sunny and warm.
Summer is a busy travel season all over Argentina, so plan in advance if you want to go from the holidays through February. And this is the desert, so expect hot temperatures in the summer.
This region is very devout. Semana Santa is one of the busiest times of year here as people flock here for Salta’s strong Catholic traditions and religious processions. If coming during Easter, book your accommodation in advance.
Keep Reading about Salta
- 9 Day Jujuy & Salta Road Trip Itinerary
- 3 Day Itinerary for the province of Jujuy
- How to visit the Salinas Grandes Salt Flats
- Things to do in Cafayate
- The 12 Best Wineries in Cafayate
- 6 Wineries in Cachi to Visit
- Cuevas de Acsibi Excursion: All About This Natural Wonder in Salta
Argentina Travel Resources
- BOOK A CONSULTATION | I offer one-on-one travel consultations to help you plan your trip to Argentina. Pick my brain to get a local’s insight. Click here for more information.
- MY MAP | Buy my interactive map with 300+ pins to have access to the city as I see it. It is an invaluable resource. See more here about how it works.
- AIRPORT TRANSFERS | Having a driver waiting for you is ideal for a stress free arrival, Welcome Pickups is the best option for a driver from Ezeiza or Aeroparque.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE | Always travel insured. Anything can happen anywhere and it is scarier and costlier in an unfamiliar country. SafetyWing’s Essential Plan covers unexpected travel and medical emergencies and even offers add-ons like electronics theft or adventure sports. It is the best if you’re coming on vacation. If you’re coming as a digital nomad or an extended stay, you need their Complete Nomad Plan which also covers routine check ups, maternity, mental healthcare and more. Read more: Health Insurance in Argentina
- PHONE PLAN | These days, traveling with data is essential. Especially in Argentina where everything is managed on Instagram and WhatsApp. I recommend this E-SIM card. It’s hassle-free and affordable, for more read how to get an Argentina sim card.
- ACCOMMODATION IN ARGENTINA | booking.com is the most common hotel site used in Argentina and it’s where you’ll find the most options.
- RENTAL CARS | I love to travel Argentina via road trip, Discover Cars is a great platform to compare different rates and providers.
- BUS TICKETS | Check Busbud for long distance bus routes and tickets.
- VPN | If you’ll be using a public WiFi connection and want to secure your data, I highly recommend using a VPN, I personally use and have had a good experience with ExpressVPN. I also use it to access Hulu and American Netflix from Argentina.
- FLIGHTS | Always check Google Flights and Skyscanner for flights to and within Argentina. Aerolineas Argentina is the local airline with the most routes. FlyBondi and Jetsmart are two budget airlines with dirt-cheap prices (but expect to pay for every add-on like luggage).
Your photos are SO beautiful! They totally bring the city to life! It sounds like a great base to visit other surrounding areas and I love all the architecture in the city. Gonna put this spot on my list for Argentina, thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much!! 🙂 Thanks for you reading.
Thank you for this article. We are in Salta now and already visited Pena and the sunday market at baclarce street. Tomorrow we go to the museum and the hill 🙂
I’m glad it’s been helpful! Sounds like you’re having a good trip, you’ll love the museum!
Thank you very much for you incredible work! We spent 10 days travelling around Salta, followed many of your tips, and fell absolutely in love with the region. As a wine enthusiast myself as well, I’m particularly grateful for your recommendation of Isasmendi in Cachi 😊 Keep up the amazing work!
Any comment about the best times/months to visit?
Couldn’t see any info regarding that.
Thanks!
Here’s a post to help with that:
https://solsalute.com/blog/the-best-time-to-visit-argentina/
Great update on this! Thanks. I read it a few times before the update and now it has so much more good info! If we aren’t museum people, but definitely plan to visit the Salta museum, how long should be planned for that? I ask because our day in Salta was going to be a Monday, but since they are closed, I am debating if we would stay in Salta until they open Tuesday, or if we could fit it in before the airport on our last day with an evening flight. Do you think a couple hours is more than enough?