Salem travel guide
Salem Tourism | Salem Guide
You're Going to Love Salem
With a population of 24,802, Salem is a must-see destination in Virginia, United States. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Salem deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.
Activities & attractions in Salem
Where to Eat in Salem
If you’re looking for affordable options, Frankie Rowland's Steakhouse - Salem (300 E Main St) and Brood Restaurant and Bar (210 E Main Street) are great picks.
When to visit Salem
Looking for warm weather? Then head to Salem in July, when the average temperature is 73.4 °F, and the highest can go up to 84.2 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 26.6 °F, with an average temperature of 35.6 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in August, when precipitation is around 4.4″. In contrast, November is usually the driest month of the year in Salem, with an average rainfall of 2.7″.
How to Get to Salem
Plane
When flying to Salem, you’ll arrive at Roanoke (ROA), which is located 5 miles from the city center. Airlines that fly from the United States to Salem include Delta, Lufthansa and ANA. The shortest domestic flight to Salem departs from Washington, D.C. and takes around 1h 07m.
Train
Amtrak is the only carrier operating train routes to Salem. The train journey from Salem to Alexandria takes 4h 38m and costs around $23 for a one-way ticket. When coming by train from Newark, expect to pay about $104 for a 8h 32m trip.
Car
Another option to get to Salem is to pick up a car rental from Washington, D.C., which is about 198 miles from Salem. You’ll find branches of Sixt and Kyte, among others, in Washington, D.C..
Bus
Megabus operates bus routes to Salem. Salem’s bus station is located 1.6 miles from the city center.
Airlines serving Salem
Where to stay in Salem
If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Motel 6 Salem. Va and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Roanoke Salem.
Where to stay in popular areas of Salem
Most booked hotels in Salem
Renting a car in Salem
Renting a car in Salem costs $61 per day, on average, or $122 if you want to rent if for 2 days.
It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 10% cheaper than airport locations in Salem.
Expect to pay $3.90 per gallon in Salem (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $46.79 and $62.38. The most frequently booked car type in Salem is Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Economy rental cars (Chevrolet Spark or similar) are, on average, 52% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.