San Francisco Square: Quito's Historic Heart
Discover Quito's vibrant history and culture in San Francisco Square, a historic landmark with stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.
San Francisco Square, or Plaza de San Francisco, is a major historical and cultural hub in Quito's Old Town, Ecuador. Surrounded by colonial architecture, including the iconic San Francisco Church, the square offers a vibrant glimpse into the city's rich past.
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.
- Try local delicacies from the food vendors around the square.
- Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, as pickpockets can be present.
Getting There
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Walking
From Plaza Grande, walk west along Calle Chile for two blocks. Turn right onto Calle Cuenca and walk one block north. San Francisco Square will be on your left. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
From La Mariscal, take the Trolebús towards the Centro Histórico. Get off at the Plaza de San Francisco stop. The fare is $0.25-$0.45. From there, it's a short walk to the square.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From Plaza Foch, a taxi or ride-share to San Francisco Square typically costs between $3 and $9. The ride is approximately 5 km and takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.
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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Arco de La Reina
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Museo Casa de Sucre
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Quito
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Quito Historic Center
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Pasaje Tobar
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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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Garcia Moreno
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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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Church of the Society of Jesus
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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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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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Independence Square
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Calle La Ronda
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Museo de Arte Colonial
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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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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
0.2 km
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Cira Boutique
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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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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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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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Cafe Mosaico
1.3 km
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