The Heart of Quito: Plaza de San Francisco
Experience the vibrant heart of Quito at Plaza de San Francisco, where colonial architecture meets rich cultural heritage in Ecuador's historic capital.
Plaza de San Francisco, a vibrant town square in Quito, Ecuador, showcases stunning colonial architecture, lively markets, and rich cultural heritage. This iconic square is a must-visit for any traveler seeking to experience the essence of Ecuador's capital. Surrounded by historic buildings and bustling activity, it invites tourists to explore its artistic legacy, taste local treats, and appreciate the beauty of its surroundings.
A brief summary to Plaza de San Francisco
- Quito, Centro Histórico, EC
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and better photography opportunities.
- Try local snacks from the street vendors for an authentic taste of Quito.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby San Francisco Market for more artisan goods.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and lively scenes around the plaza.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the Centro Histórico area, walk towards the intersection of Calle 10 de Agosto and Calle Sucre. From there, head south on Calle Sucre for about 5 blocks until you reach Plaza de San Francisco, which will be on your left. Look for the large church and the bustling square as your landmark.
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Public Bus
Find a nearby bus stop and take the Trolebus line towards La Ofelia. Get off at the 'San Francisco' stop. After disembarking, walk east along Calle Sucre for a few minutes, and you will see Plaza de San Francisco straight ahead.
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Taxi or Ride-share
Request a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to take you directly to Plaza de San Francisco. Provide the driver with the address 'Plaza de San Francisco, 170401 Quito'. The driver will drop you off at the entrance of the plaza, where you can explore the area.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can ride to Plaza de San Francisco. Start from the Parque El Ejido, head towards Avenida 6 de Diciembre, then turn onto Avenida Amazonas. Follow signs to Centro Histórico, and you’ll eventually find yourself at Plaza de San Francisco, where bike parking is available nearby.
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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