Mercado Ex-Cuartel — Attraction in San Salvador

The building was previously used as military barracks from about 1890’s or so and was repurposed as a mercado in the 1950’s. Here you’ll find souvenirs, custom clothing’s, and many other items. Most items found throughout the country can be found here for much cheaper. While visiting one of the beaches we purchased a few niknaks for $8 and found them here starting at $6 I’m confident we could haggle it down but no need to since we’d previously purchased. Don’t be afraid to haggle, it’s part of the exchange and the starting price is often double the selling price. Most shop have the same thing so after you visit a few you’ve seen them all. The vendors will try to get you into their shops (normal practice) don’t be shy to say, “no thank you” and keep walking they understand. I’d say the area is safe we saw plenty of arm military within the building and on the outside You will find parking on along the side of the building and there’s a parking attendant who will watch your vehicle as you shop. Parking is tight and limited if you go I’d recommend go before noon we found plenty parking spots. Parking was $1 for two hours but prices vary on the size of your vehicle due to the number of parking spots you’ll take up due to the width of the vehicle. To use the bath room it’ll cost $.15 cents the attendant will hand you toilet paper and overall the bathrooms were clean. It was odd to see a man cleaning the ladies room as ladies entered to use it. Overall great experience. Please like the comment of this...

The last time I was there was about 20 years ago, and the place itself has not changed. Lots of shops and everyone offers the same things. I was excited to go back and purchase a few souvenirs, I found myself overwhelmed and frustrated. They are honest with their prices at all, and everyone shop tells you a difference price for the same item. It's sad because unless you are familiar with bargaining, they will rip you off. The place has no ventilation whatsoever and can get very, very hot, making the visit unpleasant. After spending a good amount of money at one shop, I was accused of not paying for an avanico that, mind you, didn't cost more than $1.00. When I asked how much it was so I could pay, they wouldn't tell me. I will never go back there, I will give my business to the small vendors in the towns like Juayua, Suchitoto, Ilobasco, etc. I will say, though, I liked how clean the restrooms were, and for only 15 cents, they even give you toitlet paper. If you can...

El Mercado Excuartel es un punto de referencia importante en la ciudad, conocido por su enfoque en artesanías, productos típicos y por contar con un pabellón de comida económica, ideal para quienes buscan opciones populares y accesibles. Su ubicación cerca del centro histórico de San Salvador facilita el acceso, y muchas rutas de autobús pasan por el mercado o cerca de él.

Sin embargo, siento un poco de tristeza porque este lugar no fue pensado originalmente como mercado, y eso se refleja en sus instalaciones, que son bastante precarias. A pesar de eso, la gente que atiende los puestos es muy cálida y amable, y eso compensa bastante.

No es justo para ellos que tengan que trabajar en condiciones tan limitadas, porque merecen un espacio digno para desarrollar su labor con más comodidad y seguridad. Ojalá en el futuro puedan mejorar las instalaciones para beneficio de todos.

Mercado Excuartel is an important landmark in the city, known for its focus on crafts, typical products, and an affordable food pavilion, perfect for those looking for popular and accessible meal options. Its location near San Salvador’s historic downtown makes it easy to reach, with many bus routes passing through or near the market.

However, I feel a bit sad because this place wasn’t originally designed as a market, which is reflected in its rather poor facilities. Despite this, the people running the stalls are very warm and friendly, which makes up for a lot.

It’s not fair for them to work under such limited conditions because they deserve a decent space to carry out their work with more comfort and safety. Hopefully, the facilities will improve in the future for...