Want a mix of colonial charm, Andean culture, and stunning mountain scenery? Head to Salta! Located in northwestern Argentina, Salta is known for its preserved colonial architecture, rich indigenous heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're sipping Torrontés wine or taking a scenic train ride through the Andes, Salta is an unforgettable cultural escape.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Salta is during the dry season (April through October), when you’ll enjoy clear skies and mild temperatures ideal for exploring the region’s mountains, vineyards, and high desert terrain. Summers (November to March) are warmer and wetter but still pleasant for sightseeing.
How to Get There
- By Air: Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport (SLA) is about 20 minutes from downtown Salta and has frequent flights from Buenos Aires and other Argentine cities.
- By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Salta with Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and neighboring provinces. The bus terminal is centrally located in the city.
- By Car: Renting a car is a great option for exploring the surrounding valleys and mountain routes, such as the Calchaquí Valleys or Quebrada de Humahuaca.
Where to Stay
- Legado Mítico Salta – Stylish boutique hotel in a renovated colonial mansion with Argentine-themed rooms.
- Villa Vicuña Hotel Boutique – Elegant and cozy stay just steps from Salta’s main square.
- Hotel Salta – Classic option with traditional décor and a rooftop pool overlooking the historic center.
Top Attractions
1.Ride High into the Andes on the 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.Step Into Colonial History at the Cabildo and Museo Historico del Norte
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
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3.Shop Local Flavors and Crafts at 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.Hike or Cable Up for Views from 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
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Salta Cathedral – Stunning pink-hued cathedral on Plaza 9 de Julio, a must-visit for architecture lovers.
- MAAM – Museum of High Altitude Archaeology – Home to the famous “Llullaillaco Children” mummies and Incan artifacts.
- Plaza 9 de Julio – Lively heart of the city surrounded by museums, cafés, and colonial buildings.
Where to Eat
- Doña Salta – Popular restaurant serving traditional empanadas, tamales, and hearty Andean fare in a rustic setting.
- El Solar del Convento – Elegant dining with regional Argentine dishes and fine local wines near the main square.
- Chirimoya – Vegetarian-friendly option with fresh juices, quinoa bowls, and healthy desserts.
- Jose Balcarce – Gourmet take on northwest Argentine cuisine, with a creative twist and mountain views.
If you are interested in local events:
- Salta Carnival (February/March) – Colorful festivities with folkloric dancing, parades, and traditional music.
- Fiesta del Milagro (September) – One of Salta’s biggest religious festivals, drawing thousands of pilgrims.
- Wine and Empanada Festival (Dates vary) – Celebrate local flavors with tastings, live folk music, and artisan markets.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) – Experience processions and sacred celebrations throughout Salta’s churches and plazas.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes to 2 Hours of Salta, Argentina:
- San Lorenzo (30 min) – Lush mountain village with nature trails and cafés in a peaceful, green valley.
- Cachi (2–2.5 hrs) – Cobblestone streets, adobe houses, and breathtaking desert mountain views along Ruta 33.
- Cafayate (2–2.5 hrs) – Wine country gem known for Torrontés, dramatic red rock formations, and boutique wineries.
- Quebrada de San Lorenzo (30 min) – Hike through subtropical forest and enjoy birdwatching in this protected natural area.
- Salinas Grandes (via Purmamarca) (3+ hrs) – Dazzling salt flats and colorful mountain villages, great for a long scenic day trip or overnight adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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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:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Ride High into the Andes on the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds)
- 2. Step Into Colonial History at the Cabildo and Museo Historico del Norte
- 3. Shop Local Flavors and Crafts at Mercado Municipal San Miguel
- 4. Hike or Cable Up for Views from Cerro San Bernardo