Santa Ana, El Salvador’s second largest city, bustles with traffic and people. It’s a colorful, filled with food stalls and street markets. History, culture, and people weave a colorful, captivating tapestry.
Santa Ana has a lively yet laid-back vibe, welcoming you to explore its colorful streets, savor world-class coffee, and even use it as a gateway to the nearby Santa Ana Volcano and the turquoise waters of Lake Coatepeque. Its 275k+ people are warm and friendly. The city’s historic center displays a kaleidoscope of pastel-hued colonial architecture, from the neo-Gothic splendor of the Santa Ana Cathedral to the ornate Teatro de Santa Ana. Combine this with the bustle of vibrant markets and friendly locals, and Santa Ana is a wonderful stop on any El Salvador itinerary.
Getting there: Santa Ana is about 75 km, or 2 hours’ drive, from San Salvador. If following our How to Spend a Perfect Week in El Salvador itinerary, you will be driving from Suchitoto. Either way, roads are good, and pass through scenic, rural areas of small villages and farms. Note: Watch out for “Tumulos” (speed bumps) in the approach to, and through each town.
Free street parking is available in Santa Ana within a few blocks of the historic district. Drive around a little if needed to find the right spot.
In the Historic District
Santa Ana’s main sights are in the compact historic area surrounding its main square, Liberty Park (Parque Libertad). Note this area is separate from Santa Ana downtown.
Santa Ana Cathedral
Stop first at the Santa Ana Cathedral (Catedral de la Señora Santa Ana), which is located at the heart of the city’s historic district. This soaring cathedral is highly photogenic with its white walls and impressive neo-Gothic architecture and spires.
Designated as a national monument in 1995, the current structure stands on the grounds of the original church, which was built in the late 1500s. The original parish was destroyed by lightning in the 19th century.
Construction on the new cathedral began in 1904 and was finished in 1959. We were unable to find regular hours for visiting posted anywhere online. Unfortunately, the cathedral was closed during the entire two hours we were in the area. We hope it will be open when you visit!
Liberty Park
Liberty Park (Parque Libertad), right across the street from the front of the cathedral, is a great place to take photos and people watch. Check out the monument to Liberty. See our section “Soak in the Vibe” below for tips on enjoying Liberty Park and the streets of Santa Ana.
National Theater of Santa Ana
This theater is the oldest in Central America and a national monument. Completed in 1905, the architecture of the theater is eclectic, combining Romanesque, Greek and Renaissance styles.
A tour of the theater is worthwhile. Tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday 8 AM to 4 PM (no admittance without tour). The English tour is $5/person or $7 if you wish to take photos inside.
Our guide spoke excellent English and gave a thorough tour, including information on the history of the theater, the president’s balcony box, and the elaborate men’s and women’s salons. The art deco interior of the theater is elaborate and decorated in dark red, gold and polished wood.
Other Sights in Santa Ana
About 1.3 km away from Parque Libertad is the Old Art School (Escuela de Artes). The ruins of this colonial school are said to be a photographer’s dream. We tried to visit but were turned away by police – entrance to the attraction now requires a permit which must be obtained at the tourist office in the main square.
Adjacent to the Old Art School is a large market. This huge, colorful area, which stretches for blocks, is a real working market – not touristy. Wander through to shop and for a fantastic cultural experience. It’s possible to bargain with vendors, but keep in mind that compared to American prices, items are already priced low. Help an El Salvadoran out!
Soak in the Vibe
Grab some tortas and a big, cheap pack of fresh fruit called ‘jocote’ from street vendors or treat yourself to ice cream at the nearby Boston Ice Cream location. Soak in the vibe of this colorful city. Take a walk through its streets or hang out with the locals in Liberty Park. Families with children chasing pigeons filled the park during our visit.
Other Related Guides
How to Spend a Perfect Week in El Salvador (with links to each of the guides below)
Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Santa Ana Volcano with Stay on Lago de Coatepeque