Best of Salta: Guided City Tour

Founded in the 16th century by Spanish visionary Hernando de Lerma, Salta turned into a wildly successful trading center. See evidence of Salta’s heyday in the gold-plated cathedrals and mansions as your vehicle winds through the city, which went into decline after Argentina’s war for independence and the changing of trading routes on the Pacific coast. Today, Salta is known for its beautiful and well-preserved colonial architecture.

uilt in 1885, and learn about national hero General Güemes, whose remains rest in the cathedral; he fought against the Spanish during Argentina’s war for independence.

lonial architecture of the Historical Museum of the North, housed in the old cabildo, or town hall.

Its purple belfry stands 174 feet (53 meters) tall, and the bell it holds was constructed out of the cannons used during the Battle of Salta.

e city, and the monument to General Güemes.

At the top of San Bernardo Hill, take in sweeping views of the city and Andean peaks.

of the battle fought and won here during the war for independence.

ta during the summer because of its unusual subtropical microclimate.

te colonial building, to peruse the offerings from craftsmen who travel from all over the province to sell their goods here. Snack on alfajores (cookies with caramel filling) and candied walnuts, or pick up one-of-a-kind purses, blankets and jewelry (snacks and shopping at your own expense).

With your souvenir shopping done, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.