Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Salta + Insider Tips

1. Explore the Colonial Charm of Salta City

Salta may be small, but its colonial past gives it a unique character and plenty of fantastic architecture. One of the best things to do in Salta is to discover the city’s three most beautiful churches and its colonial past.

First, visit the Catedral Basílica de Salta, the most famous and charming church in the city, located on the 9th of July Square. With its pink Baroque façade and richly decorated interiors, it’s a national monument of Argentina.

Just a short walk away is the Basílica Menor y Convento de San Francisco, another must-see Salta attraction. Its Spanish colonial style will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into Spain. Also, in the yard, there’s a cozy café where you can enjoy a glass of wine or sample local flavors.

For your Salta travel guide, also include the Iglesia la Viña, the History Museum of the North, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, and the charming streets surrounding the cathedral, which are all important examples of colonial architecture in Salta.

2. Visit San Bernardo Hill for Panoramic Views

One of the best things to do in Salta, Argentina, is to take a ride on the cable car to the San Bernardo Hills. The hill dominates the city and offers stunning views over the city. Any Salta travel guide wouldn’t be complete without it.

The San Bernardo cable car has been running since 1901 and remains one of Salta’s most iconic symbols. Beyond the beautiful panoramic views, it also offers a lively atmosphere. Local events, including colorful celebrations like carnival, often take place here.

The most magical time to take the ride is at sunset, when the city glows under golden light, but be prepared for longer lines at this hour. If you’d rather skip the wait, you can reach the top by Uber or taxi. And for the truly adventurous, you can also hike up.

The first ride up departs at 9 am, with the last one leaving at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost 20,000 pesos.

3. Find the Best Parrillas in Salta

During my stay, I was on a mission to find the best restaurants in Salta. To my surprise, Salta turned out to be a fantastic destination for food lovers. 

From traditional parrillas that serve juicy steaks to cozy spots with creative twists, there’s something for every taste and budget. And the warm hospitality makes dining out even more enjoyable.

El Charrúa, with its two locations, has become a true institution in Salta and is a must for anyone wanting to experience an authentic parrilla. Another favorite of mine was 802 Cocina a las Brasas, a stylish yet welcoming spot that takes grilling to another level.

If steak isn’t your top choice, don’t worry. The city also offers plenty of alternatives, from regional specialties to international flavors, that are just as worth trying. Keep reading, and I’ll share other top restaurants in Salta that you shouldn’t miss.

🥩 Are you someone who loves Argentinian asado? Make sure you save these amazing parillas in Buenos Aires as well!

4. And Taste the Most Exquisite Empanadas

If you’re traveling to Salta, chances are you’ve already passed through Buenos Aires and probably tried your fair share of empanadas there. But let me tell you this: as good as the Buenos Aires empanadas are, nothing compares to the empanadas salteñas. 

Salta is known across Argentina for having some of the very best empanadas in the country, and after trying them myself, I can confidently say they were the most flavorful I’ve ever had.

They’re smaller than those in Buenos Aires, baked to perfection, and generously filled with juicy minced beef, potatoes, and just the right amount of spices. 

Locals often pair them with a glass of Torrontés wine, which comes from the surrounding vineyards, making the experience even more authentic.

During my stay, I sampled empanadas in several restaurants, and my absolute favorite was at Doña Salta. This well-known restaurant is often recommended as one of the best places to eat in Salta because it offers a full range of local dishes. 

The empanadas at Doña Salta were bursting with flavor. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. I still think about them long after leaving.

5. Catch Seasonal Festivals and Cultural Events

During my time in Salta, I quickly realized that it’s the people and their celebrations that give the city its unique spirit. If you’re planning what to do in Salta, Argentina, make sure to experience some of its vibrant cultural events.

Carnival in February is one of the highlights, with a vibrant mix of indigenous traditions and European influences that creates a truly unique atmosphere. 

Around the same time, you can also witness the Change of the Royal Guard of Honor, a ceremonial display with original costumes that takes you straight back to Salta’s colonial past.

On February 20, the Battle of Salta Parade honors General Belgrano’s 1813 victory with a civil-military procession around Plaza 9 de Julio. 

Another date to remember is April 16, Salta’s Founding Day, celebrated with parades and historical reenactments that showcase the city’s roots.

Religious events like Holy Week also hold special importance, while the city’s calendar is dotted with other festivities worth experiencing:

• Fiesta de la Vendimia (March) – Celebrate wine and harvest with tastings, winemaking traditions, and regional cuisine.
• Jazz Festival (July) – Live performances across the city.
• Pachamama Festival (August 1) – A tribute to Mother Earth, rich in Andean tradition.
• Artisan and Food Fairs – Held several times a year, perfect for discovering local crafts and flavors.

6. Stroll Through Mercado San Miguel and Shop for Handmade Goods

A visit to Mercado San Miguel is one of the best ways to experience everyday life in Salta. This lively market is filled with fresh produce, spices, and a wide selection of handmade crafts, from woven ponchos and colorful textiles to artisanal ceramics and leather goods.

It’s the perfect spot to shop for souvenirs while supporting local artisans. For the best experience, come in the morning when the market is at its liveliest. Remember to bring cash (most stalls don’t take cards) and be ready to bargain politely, it’s all part of the fun.

Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, strolling through the stalls offers a genuine glimpse into Salta’s traditions and warm hospitality.

7. Experience a Peña Show (Traditional Music and Dance)

One of the most memorable cultural experiences you can have in Salta is attending a peña show. A peña is a traditional folk music and dance gathering where locals come together to celebrate Argentina’s heritage through lively performances of regional dances. 

Most peña venues are concentrated in the Balcarce neighborhood, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars offering nightly shows. 

Among them, the most famous is Peña La Vieja Estación, a long-standing institution that’s popular with both locals and visitors. I personally attended a show here and, while the food was good, I did notice the prices were higher than in most other places in Salta. 

That said, you’re not just paying for dinner. You’re paying for an unforgettable cultural experience filled with live music, traditional dances, and a warm, festive atmosphere.

If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry. You can often catch free peña-style performances in the Balcarce area or around Plaza 9 de Julio, Salta’s main square. 

As someone who experienced it firsthand, I can confidently recommend including a peña night in your Salta itinerary. It’s one of those cultural experiences that stays with you long after your trip.

8. Take a Trip on the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds)

The Tren a las Nubes, or “Train to the Clouds,” is one of the most iconic things to do in Salta and a bucket-list experience for many travelers in Argentina. 

Known as one of the highest railway journeys in the world, this remarkable train ride climbs into the Andes, reaching an altitude of over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level. 

The journey begins in the city of Salta and winds its way through dramatic landscapes of valleys, mountains, and viaducts, showcasing the raw beauty of northwest Argentina. 

Since this is one of the top attractions in Salta, tickets often sell out quickly during peak season. I recommend booking in advance directly through the official website or with a trusted tour operator in Salta.

Be prepared: the entire trip lasts around 15 hours round-trip, so it’s a full-day adventure. The altitude is high, and temperatures can fluctuate drastically throughout the journey, so dress in layers and bring plenty of water. 

The best time to ride the Tren a las Nubes is between April and November, when the skies are generally clear and the views of the Andean landscapes are at their most spectacular.

After experiencing Buenos Aires, one of the reasons I was so excited to head north to Salta was its unique wine tradition. The region is home to some of the highest-altitude vineyards in the world, producing wines you simply can’t find anywhere else.

While there are plenty of wine tours in Salta that depart daily from the city center, I personally recommend renting a car. This way, you’ll not only visit vineyards at your own pace but also enjoy some of the most spectacular landscapes in Argentina along the way.

One of the best road trips you can take is toward Cafayate, the heart of Salta’s wine country. The drive itself is an experience, as you’ll pass through the Quebrada de las Conchas, a breathtaking valley of red rock formations that looks almost otherworldly.

When it comes to vineyards, a few stand out. One of my top recommendations is Bodega El Esteco, an elegant estate with a hotel designed in a charming mix of Spanish and Italian styles. 

If you prefer something more contemporary, head to Piattelli Vineyards, which combines modern architecture with incredible mountain views. For a more traditional experience, Bodega Vasija Secreta is one of the oldest wineries in the region.

💡 If you’re feeling adventurous and have extra time, consider making a loop back to Salta through Cachi, a picturesque town surrounded by valleys and mountains. The road is challenging and recommended only for confident drivers, but the landscapes are unforgettable.

While Salta is full of treasures, the neighboring province of Jujuy offers a completely different (and equally stunning!) perspective of Argentina, all within a short drive. Jujuy is rich in Andean culture, visible in the local people, food, and architecture.

As you leave Salta, the scenery changes dramatically: wild, colorful landscapes, charming highland towns, and countless photo-worthy views at every turn.

Top trips from Salta include the Salinas Grandes, vast salt flats rivaling those in Bolivia, and the Serranía de Hornocal, famously known as the Mountain of 14 Colors. 

Don’t miss picturesque towns like Tilcara, Humahuaca, and Purmamarca, or the remote village of Iruya for a more adventurous excursion.

We rented a car and spent 3 nights exploring the area of Jujuy. While you can plan a long day trip from Salta to Salinas Grandes, you won’t be able to explore the rest of the region in such a short time, so I recommend you stick around and have a fun road trip.

Other Things to Know Before Visiting Salta

How to Get to Salta

The city is served by Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA), located just 15 minutes from the center.

Direct flights connect Salta with Buenos Aires in about two hours, as well as with other major cities in Argentina like Córdoba, Mendoza, and Iguazú. There are also some international routes from Bolivia, Chile, and Brazil.

If you prefer scenic journeys, long-distance buses are a popular option. The trip from Buenos Aires takes around 20 hours, but buses in Argentina are surprisingly comfortable, with reclining seats and meal service.

If you’re already in the northwest, renting a car can be the best choice. Driving from Jujuy to Salta takes about 2 hours, while Tucumán is roughly 4.5 hours away.

Where to Stay in Salta

For first-time visitors, staying in or near the city center (around 9th of July Square) is ideal. You’ll be within walking distance of Salta’s main attractions, restaurants, and markets, making it easy to explore the colonial streets and cultural sites. 

If you are looking for luxury, Salta is not the right place, however, it offers multiple boutique hotels and overall pretty affordable prices. In case you want to stick to the budget, there are a lot of guesthouses and even some hostels.

These are some of the top-rated hotels in Salta:

• Villa Vicuña Salta Hotel Boutique
• El Bodeguero Hotel
• Legado Mitico Salta Hotel Boutique
• MG Design Hotel Boutique
• Solar De La Plaza

How to Get Around Salta

Getting around Salta is relatively easy. Since many of the best things to do in Salta are in or near the city center, you can explore most attractions on foot. Walking is the best way to soak up the colonial charm and enjoy the lively squares, markets, and restaurants.

For longer distances, taxis and Uber are widely available and affordable. They’re a safe option for reaching attractions outside the city center, such as San Bernardo Hill or the airport.

If you plan to explore beyond the city (road trip or day trips to Cafayate, Salinas Grandes, or the Calchaquí Valleys), renting a car is the best option. Car rentals are easy to arrange in downtown Salta or at the airport.

💡 Travel tip: Roads in northern Argentina can be winding, especially in the mountains, so if you’re not comfortable driving, you can also book guided tours to explore Salta’s surroundings.

Best Time to Visit Salta

The best time to visit Salta is during the dry season, from April to November, when the weather is generally sunny, skies are clear, and temperatures are comfortable for exploring both the city and the surroundings. 

Summer in Salta, from December to March, can be hot and humid, with occasional heavy rainfall. While this is also when local festivals like Carnival take place, be prepared for warmer temperatures and possible road closures in the mountains.

If you want to combine city sightseeing with outdoor adventures like the Tren a las Nubes or vineyard tours in Cafayate, aim for April to June or September to November. These months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds.

Here is a quick overview of the weather in Salta

• Summer (Dec–Mar): Hot and humid, with afternoon storms; great for festivals like Carnival.
• Autumn (Apr–Jun): Mild, dry, and perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and vineyard tours.
• Winter (Jul–Aug): Cool and dry, ideal for day trips, photography, and exploring the Andes.
• Spring (Sep–Nov): Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and harvest festivals.

FAQ: Travel Guide to Salta, Argentina