Mercado Nacional de Artesanias (National Craft Market), San Salvador

National Craft Market is an open-air market that serves as a gateway into El Salvador’s artisan traditions, where locals and tourists mingle among stalls brimming with handcrafted treasures. What makes the market truly special is the chance to interact directly with the artisans-many sellers are the very creators of their wares. They’re often proud to explain their techniques and traditions.

Explore long rows of vendors offering handwoven hammocks, embroidered blouses, black pottery, wooden figurines, colorful sculptures, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, musical instruments, and more, immersing yourself in the cultural artistry of the country.

One particularly interesting detail: among the crafts you'll find are “miniature house façades in bright colours” and the beloved “sorpresa”, meaning surprise-a playful ceramic orb, often shaped like eggs or animals, revealing tiny scenes inside once you lift its lid. These are quintessential Salvadoran souvenir items that delight both kids and adults.