Plaza de San Francisco: The Heart of Quito
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at Plaza de San Francisco, Quito's iconic town square surrounded by stunning architecture and lively markets.
Plaza de San Francisco is a vibrant town square in the heart of Quito, Ecuador, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and lively atmosphere. It is a hub for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage and daily life of this enchanting city. With its impressive church, bustling market, and surrounding cafes, visitors can immerse themselves in the spirit of Quito while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Andes. Don't miss this must-visit location when exploring Ecuador's capital.
A brief summary to Plaza de San Francisco
- Quito, Centro Histórico, EC
Local tips
- Visit in the morning to enjoy the local market before it gets crowded.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the area.
- Don’t forget to try local snacks from vendors around the plaza.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.
- Plan your visit during local festivals to experience the plaza's vibrant celebrations.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Mindo, head east on Calle 9 de Octubre towards the main road. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Avenida 28 de Septiembre. Turn left and walk along the avenue until you reach the bus stop. Take a bus heading to Quito, which should take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive in Quito, disembark at the Terminal Terrestre. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the Centro Histórico. The Plaza de San Francisco is a well-known landmark, so you can ask the driver to drop you off there.
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Bus
From Mindo, go to the main bus station located near the town center. Look for the bus that goes directly to Quito, which typically departs every 30 minutes. Once on the bus, enjoy the scenic ride that will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arriving in Quito, you will want to get off at the Terminal Terrestre. From Terminal Terrestre, you can catch a local bus or take a taxi to the Centro Histórico. The Plaza de San Francisco is a prominent square; inform the driver that this is your destination.
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Taxi
If you prefer not to take the bus, you can hire a taxi from Mindo to Quito. Discuss and agree on the fare before beginning your journey, as this is not a metered service. The ride to the Plaza de San Francisco in Quito will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Quito, ask the taxi driver to take you directly to Plaza de San Francisco, which is a famous landmark in the Centro Histórico.
Discover more about Plaza de San Francisco
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La bodega de Cantúña
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Casa Gangotena
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Museo Casa de Sucre
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Quito
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Pasaje Tobar
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Calle La Ronda
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Palacio Arzobispal
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Monumento Mariscal Sucre
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Garcia Moreno
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Iglesia de Santo Domingo
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Arco De Santo Domingo
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San Agustin
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Yaku Water Museum
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La Guaragua
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Virgin of the Panecillo
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Unmissable attractions to see
San Francisco Square
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San Francisco Catholic Church
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Museo Franciscano Fray Pedro Gocial
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San Francisco Convent
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Museo de la Moneda
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Museo Antiguo Banco Central Del Ecuador
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Casa del Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum
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Church of the Society of Jesus
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Iglesia de El Carmen Alto
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Arco de La Reina
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Museum of the City
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Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum
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Centro Cultural Metropolitano
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Church of the Tabernacle
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Museo del Carmen Alto
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Essential places to dine
La Capilla Restaurant
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Restaurante Casa Gangotena
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San Ignacio
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Nuestro Legado
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Claroscuro Gastro Bar
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La Vid Restaurante
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Hasta La Vuelta Señor
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La Negra Mala
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Vista Hermosa (Centro Histórico)
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La Caponata
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Govinda Gopal Restaurante Vegetariano
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El Ventanal Restaurant
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Las Corvinas de Don Jimmy
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Pim's
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Vista Hermosa (ITCHIMBIA)
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ecuador Shops
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Sombreros López
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Cira Boutique
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Fancy Shop
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MAAZ STORE
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Alta Tendencia Boutique
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Urban Store
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Lokuras D' Boutique
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Chimborazo Store
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Tienda De Recuerdos Local 27
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Novedades Brithney
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The Shopping A Sueños Dorados
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Souvenirs Ecuador
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Quitus Craft Market
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La Mariscal Artisan Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sinners Microcerveceria - Centro Historico
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Whiskey A Go Go
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Imbabura
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EDISON BAQUERO
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LICORERIA EL AMANECER
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Andes Brew Pub - Plaza del Teatro
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MOR-Ō Resto-Pub
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Bandido Brewing
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Community Hostel
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RIDER'S BAR KARAOKE
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Zona Seven
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Vibes Oasis Pub
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Xenial
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La Oficina Brew Pub
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The Secret Garden Quito
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