Salta is a large city (though not so large as to feel overwhelming) in the Lerma valley of Northwestern Argentina. It is the capital of the province of the same name and the best places to stay in Salta are mainly centrally located and perfect bases for enjoying this most attractive and interesting of cities (though we have also found a couple of properties just outside town, which provide the perfect balance of city and country).

You feel a distinct change of culture on arriving in Salta — it's not known as Argentina's gateway city for nothing. The climate is sub-tropical, and it also marks the beginning of the former Aztec lands, a gateway to the Andean countries to the north — the Chilean and Bolivian borders are not far away across the foothills of the Andes. Consequently amongst the people you see here, there are many more indigenous cultures, alongside Italian, Spanish and Arab communities.

Salta itself is famous for its old colonial architecture and cosmopolitan vibe. There is a lovely mix of restaurants, bars and cafes — truly something for everyone here. This is a friendly place to be, a unique blend of Spanish and Gaucho and there is much to see and do. Start with the historic centre and admire the beautiful architecture, then take a break for some people watching and dulce de leche on the cafe-lined Plaza 9 de Julio. Finally jump in the cable car and admire the views from the top of San Bernado Hill — the vistas are epic over the city to the Andes beyond.

Salta is a busy year round destination and is many travellers' starting point for a further exploration of the region. For this reason the best places to stay in Salta can be very busy, so don't leave it till the last minute if you want to ensure a room in one of our recommended hotels.

The Best Places to Stay in Salta

For great value

• Solar de la Plaza is an elegant, neo classical building in the heart of the city. The rooms are stylish with sash windows, antique furniture and four poster beds. This is a great spot for exploring the city and excellent value.
• For a more luxurious feel, but still good value, the Villa Vicuna in the middle of town is chic and stylish with white-washed walls, cast iron beds and tiled floors. It's also a great place to unwind, with an outdoor pool and tranquil, sub-tropical gardens.

For boutique style

• KKala Boutique Hotel has a great vibe and is in a quiet location with lovely views from roof top terraces and balconies.The rooms are individual and contemporary with rich hues and parquet flooring. There's also a beautiful pool.
• Legado Mitico, a sister hotel to the one in Buenos Aires, is a small boutque hotel with a lot of charisma. The eleven rooms are elegant with a traditional feel. Charming staff will cater for your every whim.
• Design Suites Salta is a chic contemporary hotel in an excellent central location, with great views over the town and mountains beyond — not least from the rooftop pool. Choose a corner room for the best views through two walls of glass.

Out of town

• On the other side of the airport, on the edge of town, is the gorgeous House of Jasmines estancia. Set in wonderful lush gardens, you'll enjoy four poster beds, elegant interiors, stunning views of the mountains and a pool you will not want to leave.
• The nine room Finca Valentina is very close by and also boasts great views of the Andes, chic interiors, excellent food, a lovely pool and large gardens.
• Slightly further out (about 36 km to the south of the city) is Finca San Antonio, a traditional rural property overlooking a pretty lake. The charming traditional rooms are furnished with antiques. There is a wide range of activiities in the area, from horseriding to rafting to golf.

Travel information

• Salta enjoys a subtropical highland climate, and is a good year round destination. Winters are warm with day time termperatures around 17°C, but if you want the heat come in the summer months (January and February) when the highs are around the mid twenties.
• The nearest airport is Martin Miguel de Guernes International Airport, just 7km from the city centre.
• For car hire we recommend the wide choice with our online partner Rentalcars.

Stll not sure?

• Expand your search to include all our recommendations in Salta Province,
• Or check out our pick of the best wine hotels in Cafayate
• Alternatively, contact a friendly guru for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Salta