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Where is Salta located?
- Nestled in the mountainous regions of northwestern Argentina, Salta is a provincial capital city with a pleasant year-round climate and spectacular Andean landscapes.
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Why is Salta known as "Salta la Linda"?
- Commonly referred to as Salta la Linda (Salta the Pretty), the town was founded in 1582 and is renowned for its exquisite Spanish colonial architecture and rich Andean heritage.
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What is the atmosphere like in Salta?
- Exuding a laid-back rural vibe, the beautiful colonial city offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere.
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What are the must-see attractions in Salta?
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Salta is home to several must-see attractions and activities, including:
- The stunning neoclassical Salta Cathedral
- The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña
- The 18th-century El Cabildo, a town hall turned historical museum
- The famous Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds)
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Salta is home to several must-see attractions and activities, including:
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1. Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds)
Ride through breathtaking landscapes, admire thrilling heights in an unforgettable trip.
Arguably Argentina’s most famous train trip, the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) takes a journey into the clouds. The tourist train departs from Salta’s central station and descends into the Lerma Valley before beginning the steep climb up into the mountains around the Quebrada del Toro. It passes several ruins along the way and regularly steams through clouds before reaching the town of San Antonio de Los Cobres, one of the highest villages in Argentina at an elevation of 4,220m. Here the train crosses on the La Polvorilla Viaduct, a spectacular feat of engineering that spans an immense desert canyon, offering breathtaking views of the beautifully colored cliffside rocks and the valley far below, before descending back to Salta.
Ground Floor Local 33 Baccaro Gallery, A4400 Salta, Argentina, Phone: +54-38-74-22-80-21
2. Cabildo and Museo Historico del Norte (History Museum of the North)
Explore colonial history, admire artifacts showcasing Argentina’s rich past.
Overlooking Salta’s central square, Plaza 9 de Julio, the Cabildo and Museo Historico del Norte (History Museum of the North, is dedicated to Argentina's rich colonial and revolutionary history. Based within the old cabildo, a beautifully restored colonial government building dating back to the 1700s and an architectural gem in its own right, the museum features an array of exhibits documenting the story of colonialism in Argentina and the wars of independence in the early 19th century. The museum’s collection boasts some ancient artifacts, paintings, furniture, and automobiles, and the central courtyard offers a tranquil place to relax with colorful climbing plants and flowers. Cabildo and Museo Histórico del Norte is open Tuesday through Sunday.
Caseros 549, 4400 Salta, Argentina, Phone: +54-38-74-21-53-40
3. Mercado Municipal San Miguel
Browse local crafts, savor affordable bites in a lively marketplace.
Mercado Municipal San Miguel is a huge indoor market in the heart of Salta that takes up almost an entire block and sells all sorts of goodies from fresh fruit and vegetables, local produce and food, clothing to electrical items and gadgets. Based in a historical building on Avenue St Martin, the bustling neighborhood market tends to draw more locals than tourists, so it is a fantastic spot to sample local foods, meet local people, and soak up the spirit of Salta.
Av. San Martín 780, Salta, Argentina, Phone: +54-38-74-37-34-06
4. Cerro San Bernardo
Hike scenic trails, admire panoramic views of Salta’s picturesque surroundings.
For some of the most spectacular views of the city, head up to the top of Cerro San Bernardo (San Bernardo Hill) on foot or with a teleférico (cable car). If you plan on walking to the top, the path begins behind the Güemes Monument, while the cable car leaves from Parque San Martín, which is a pretty park overlooking the town and worth a stroll. At the top of the hill are a beautifully landscaped terraced garden with plenty of picnic spots, a monument to the Battle of Salta, a small market selling souvenirs, and several food vendors selling delicious local snack food. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day or watch the sunset in the evenings.
Camino Cerro San Bernardo, A4400 Salta, Argentina
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