10 Things To Do In Salta: Colonial Architecture & Rich Heritage

Visit Salta, Argentina which is located in Argentina, for a vacation in the heart of the city.

Salta is a popular province in the northwestern region of Argentina. It is also known as La Linda because of its surroundings and charming attractions. Explore the things to do in Salta for a great holiday with your family and friends. This place offers an unforgettable experience with a blend of natural beauty, traditions, and cultural heritage. This place excites history, wine, and adventure enthusiasts from all across the world. You can celebrate vibrant festivals and processions during your visit. The charming colonial architecture is waiting for you to visit and gather a lifetime of memories.

Top 10 Things To Do In Salta

It’s time to check out the popular things to do in Salta, Argentina. Look through this guide for complete details!

1. Explore The Catedral De Salta (Salta Cathedral)

Explore the Catedral de Salta with family as one of the best things to do in Salta.

Photo: Laura Fiorucci / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a notable landmark in Salta and is an excellent example of colonial architecture. It has two towering bell Towers with intricate decorations. The neoclassical elements add a charm to it. This is the main place of worship in Salta and is an important religious site for the locals. It has the tomb of General Martin De Guemes. He was the national hero who played a key role in the independence of Argentina. Mass is organised regularly. You can visit the cathedral and explore this epitome of history and culture in Salta.

Location: Plaza 9 de Julio, Salta, Argentina

2. Train To The Clouds (Tren A Las Nubes)

Explore the Catedral de Salta with family as one of the best things to do in Salta.

Photo: Laura Fiorucci / Wikimedia Commons

This is a unique experience and is also said to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. It takes you through the Andes mountains at a high altitude. The breathtaking views of the Andes are stunning to watch. The ride takes you to a height of about 4000 m, the reason why it is referred to as the train to the clouds. The train has informational commentary, helping the visitors know about the geology of the region. The tickets can be purchased online or at the station. It is advised to book the ride in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Location: Av. Belgrano 1, Salta, Argentina

3. Hiking At Quebrada De Las Conchas (Shells Gorge)

Going on a hike with your family is one of the best things to do in Salta this year.

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

This is an attractive natural site located in Salta province and is known for its rock formations. It has colourful landscapes attracting both locals and tourists from all parts of the world. It has exciting opportunities for sightseeing and photography. It is a great place to hike for adventure enthusiasts, allowing visitors to observe the natural beauty of the gorge. September to November is considered the best time to visit. The unique rock formation resembles the shape of shells, animals, faces, and ancient structures. The sunrise and Sunset views are stunning to watch.

Location: National Route 68, Salta Province, Argentina

4. San Bernardo Cable Car (Teleférico San Bernardo)

Taking a cable car ride with your family is one of the best things to do in Salta, Argentina.

Photo: Renek78 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a popular attraction offering stunning surrounding landscapes. It is full of adventure as the cable car ride starts from the base of San Barnardo Hill and takes you through the surrounding valleys and Andes mountains. It is a great photography opportunity as well. You can enjoy several attractions like the Virgin of San Barnardo and walking pathways. Morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit. It is a family-friendly attraction in which people of all ages and children can participate. At the base, you can shop from the small markets selling local goods.

Location: Cerro San Bernardo, Salta, Argentina

5. Explore The Museo De Alta Montaña (Museum Of High Altitude Archaeology)

Visiting the Museum is among the best things to do in Salta with your family this year.

Photo: José Fontanelli / Wikimedia Commons

This museum has fascinating archaeological pieces from the regions of the Andes, like mummies and Inca artefacts. The museum has Llullaillaco mummies, discovered from the summit of the Llullaillaco Volcano. The local artefacts include textiles, ceramics, tools, and jewellery pieces. These items provide an insight into the culture and technology of the Andes civilization. There are interactive exhibits, especially information for the children. This is a great attraction for history and archaeology enthusiasts from all parts of the world. It is a well-designed museum with spacious halls and temperature temperature-controlled environment to protect the mummies.

Location: Casi Cerro San Bernardo, Salta, Argentina

6. Wine Tasting At Cafayate Wine Region

Visiting the Wine region is among the best places, popular for its high-altitude vineyards.

Photo: Lantus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a well-known wine region in Argentina, popular for its high-altitude vineyards and exceptional wines. It provides a rich cultural experience to visitors. The high-altitude vineyards are present at about 1700 m above sea level. The Torrontés grape wine is an aromatic wine known for its fresh and fruity flavour. The rolling vineyards are present in a dramatic backdrop, ideal for sightseeing and photography. The national Grape Harvest Festival is enjoyed at this place, typically organised in March. It involves dancing, music and local wines to enjoy.

Location: Cafayate, Salta Province, Argentina

7. Stroll At Paseo de los Poetas (Poets’ Walk)

Visiting the Poet’s Walk is among the best and charming promenades in Salta, Argentina.

Photo: José Luis Fernández / Wikimedia Commons

This is a charming promenade in Salta, Argentina. It is dedicated to the well-reputed poets of the country and literary figures. This place showcases the role of poets in Argentina’s literary and cultural heritage. The paths are lined with gardens and trees, providing a peaceful environment to enjoy. It is a great place for a stroll with your family and friends. The literary atmosphere of this place is highly appreciated by the visitors. Visiting this place on a mild sunny day offers a great experience for this open-air attraction.

Location: Av. San Martín, Salta, Argentina

8. Learn About Wildlife At Salta Zoo

Visiting Salta's Zoo is among the unique experiences that can be enjoyed with family.

Photo: Renato M.E. Sabbatini / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a unique experience that can be enjoyed with family and children. This zoo is home to the native animal species of Argentina, including pumas, Jaguars, birds, and reptiles. It is a natural park with mountains and green areas in the backdrop. There are interactive experiences where you can feed goats and sheep. The educational programmes provide awareness about wildlife conservation to the visitors. There are playground areas allowing children to have a fun trip. Morning or early afternoon is when the animals are most active and can be observed in their natural habitat. A typical visit lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Location: Avenida Virrey Toledo, Salta, Argentina

9. Shop At Salta’s Handicraft Market (Mercado Artesanal)

Salta's Handicraft Market is a popular market to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

Photo: Bright-210 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

This is a popular market where you can shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional goods in Salta. It is great for purchasing woven textiles, ceramics, leather goods, scarves, and colourful blankets. You can also buy silver jewellry, including rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Wooden crafts, pottery, and decorative items are the highlights. The atmosphere of the market is lively and festive. There are street performances that you can observe. You can interact with the local artisans to learn more about the artistic heritage of the region.

Location: Av. San Martín 915, Salta, Argentina

10. Explore San Lorenzo

Exploring San Lorenzo is among the picture-perfect villages close to Salta city in Argentina.

Photo: Óðinn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

It is a picture-perfect village close to Salta city. It has a relaxing atmosphere. The lush green forest and mountain view are stunning to see. It is a great place to visit for nature lovers. It is a great spot for hiking and bird-watching. It is located near the San Lorenzo River where you can relax on your day out. Horseback riding is a great adventure in the middle of the rolling Hills. It is a fantastic half-day trip from Salta city. The local restaurants offer great food. You can rent a car or taxi to visit this place from the city.

Location: San Lorenzo, Salta, Argentina

Now that you have checked out the popular things to do in Salta Province, you are all set to unlock an adventure in Argentina. This city has a well-preserved colonial architecture with cobblestone streets to explore. It has UNESCO world heritage sites that you can visit with your children to make them learn about history. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a great time in Argentina.

Cover Photo: Maia Bermúdez / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

In Salta, families can explore the Tren a las Nubes, a scenic train ride through the Andes, and visit the Museo de los Niños for interactive exhibits. The Teleférico San Bernardo cable car offers stunning city views and a fun experience for all ages.
Salta is known for its colonial architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant folkloric culture, including traditional music and festivals.
Salta is famous for its empanadas, salteñas, locro (stew), and humitas (corn-based dumplings).
Salta is accessible by plane via Salta Martín Miguel de Güemes International Airport, by bus, or by train from other major Argentine cities.
Salta has a warm, semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a great year-round destination.

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