San Francisco Square: Quito's Historic Heart
A historic Quito square, Plaza de San Francisco offers stunning architecture, cultural experiences, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
San Francisco Square, or Plaza de San Francisco, is one of Quito's oldest and most significant public spaces, steeped in history dating back to pre-Inca times. Flanked by the imposing San Francisco Church, this bustling square offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to San Francisco Square
- QFHM+JX3, Quito, Centro Histórico, 170401, EC
Local tips
- Visit in the morning to experience local markets and avoid large crowds.
- Explore the artisan shops near the square for unique, handcrafted souvenirs.
- Enjoy the sunset views over the square and San Francisco Church.
- Sample local foods from vendors around the square.
Getting There
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Walking
San Francisco Square is centrally located in Quito's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Independence Square, walk approximately 5 blocks west along Calle Chile. The Plaza de San Francisco will be on your right, in front of the San Francisco Church.
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Public Transport
Several public buses and the Trolebús (a trolleybus system) stop near San Francisco Square. Look for buses or Trolebús lines heading to the 'Centro Histórico'. The fare for buses is approximately $0.25, and the Trolebús costs $0.25-$0.45. Get off at the 'San Francisco' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the square.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Quito. Simply provide 'Plaza de San Francisco' as your destination. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between $2 and $5. Be sure the driver uses the taximeter, or negotiate the fare in advance.
Discover more about San Francisco Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Casa Gangotena
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La bodega de Cantúña
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Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in Quito's historic center at La Bodega de Cantuña, a culinary treasure trove for food lovers and culture seekers.
Arco de La Reina
0.2 km
Discover the Arco de La Reina, a captivating historical landmark in Quito that showcases Ecuador's rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
Museo Casa de Sucre
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Explore the Museo Casa de Sucre in Quito, where history comes alive through the life of a national hero and the struggles for independence in South America.
Quito
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Explore the rich history and stunning natural landscapes of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Ecuador's vibrant culture.
Quito Historic Center
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Explore Quito's Historic Center: A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial charm, rich history, and vibrant local culture.
Pasaje Tobar
0.3 km
Explore the historical charm of Pasaje Tobar, a stunning passageway in Quito, where colonial architecture meets vibrant local culture.
Monumento a la Independencia
0.3 km
A towering tribute to Ecuadorian independence, the Monumento a la Independencia stands as a symbol of freedom in Quito's historic Plaza Grande.
Monumento Mariscal Sucre
0.4 km
A historic monument in Quito's Plaza de Santo Domingo honoring Mariscal Sucre, a hero of Ecuadorian independence.
Arco De Santo Domingo
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Discover Quito's colonial history at the Arco de Santo Domingo, a 17th-century archway connecting the city center to the historic La Loma Grande neighborhood.
Garcia Moreno
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Explore Quito's oldest street, Calle García Moreno, where colonial history and religious landmarks converge in the heart of the city's historic center.
San Agustin
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Basílica del Voto Nacional
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Unmissable attractions to see
Plaza de San Francisco
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San Francisco Catholic Church
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Casa del Alabado Pre-Columbian Art Museum
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Explore the Casa del Alabado, a cultural gem in Quito showcasing the richness of Ecuador's pre-Columbian art and heritage.
Church of the Society of Jesus
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Baroque beauty of La Compañía, a must-visit church in Quito's historic center, rich in history and artistry.
Museum of the City
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Discover the captivating history and cultural heritage of Quito at the Museum of the City, a must-visit attraction for all travelers.
Church of the Tabernacle
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Centro Cultural Metropolitano
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Explore the vibrant art scene of Quito at the Centro Cultural Metropolitano, a cultural center that offers diverse exhibitions and engaging events.
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
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Explore the stunning Catedral Metropolitana de Quito, a historic masterpiece in the heart of Ecuador's capital, showcasing breathtaking architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Carondelet Palace
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Experience the historic charm and architectural beauty of Carondelet Palace, the heart of Ecuador's government in Quito's vibrant Centro Histórico.
Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy
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Discover the breathtaking Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy in Quito, a stunning Gothic masterpiece offering rich history and panoramic views of Ecuador's capital.
Independence Square
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Calle La Ronda
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Museo de Arte Colonial
0.4 km
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Palacio Arzobispal
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Iglesia de Santo Domingo
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante Casa Gangotena
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La Capilla Restaurant
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San Ignacio
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Nuestro Legado
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Claroscuro Gastro Bar
0.3 km
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La Negra Mala
0.3 km
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La Vid Restaurante
0.4 km
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Hasta La Vuelta Señor
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Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Hasta La Vuelta Señor in Quito's historic center - a culinary journey through traditional flavors.
Vista Hermosa (Centro Histórico)
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La Caponata
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Govinda Gopal Restaurante Vegetariano
0.8 km
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El Ventanal Restaurant
0.8 km
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Pim's
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Las Corvinas de Don Jimmy
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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
0.3 km
Discover stylish clothing and accessories at Cira Boutique in Quito, where local fashion meets modern trends in a chic shopping experience.
Fancy Shop
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Discover the elegance of Quito at Fancy Shop, where modern style meets local craftsmanship in women's fashion.
Alta Tendencia Boutique
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Explore the heart of Quito's fashion scene at Alta Tendencia Boutique, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a chic setting.
MAAZ STORE
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Urban Store
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Explore the delightful Urban Store in Quito, a toy wonderland filled with imaginative games and timeless treasures for all ages.
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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Amazonas Store
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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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Discover the flavors of Quito at MOR-Ō Resto-Pub, a cozy gastropub offering gourmet burgers and craft beers just steps from the Basilica.
Bandido Brewing
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Community Hostel
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RIDER'S BAR KARAOKE
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Experience unforgettable nights of music, laughter, and local brews at Rider's Bar Karaoke in Quito, Ecuador's vibrant nightlife hub.
Zona Seven
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Vibes Oasis Pub
1.1 km
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Xenial
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La Oficina Brew Pub
1.2 km
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Cafe Mosaico
1.3 km
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