Discover the Vibrant Mercado San Francisco El Alto
Experience the lively atmosphere of Mercado San Francisco El Alto, a vibrant market showcasing Guatemalan culture, crafts, and cuisine.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco El Alto, Mercado San Francisco El Alto offers an authentic market experience with vibrant stalls, local crafts, and delicious street food. This bustling market is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in Guatemalan culture.
A brief summary to Mercado San Francisco El Alto
- WHV4+QXR, Unnamed Road,, San Francisco El Alto, GT
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-5 pm
- Thursday 5 am-5 pm
- Friday 5 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-1:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the freshest produce and to avoid the crowds.
- Bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Don’t hesitate to haggle; it’s part of the shopping culture here.
- Try local snacks from street food vendors for an authentic taste of Guatemala.
- Take a camera to capture the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the market.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from the center of Quetzaltenango (Xela), head towards Avenida Las Américas. Follow this road until you reach the intersection with Calle 5a. Turn left onto Calle 5a and continue driving until you reach the junction with the main road to San Francisco El Alto (CA-1). Merge onto CA-1 towards San Francisco El Alto. After approximately 10 km, take the exit toward San Francisco El Alto. Follow the signs to the market, which will be located on your left. Parking is available near the market, but be cautious of the busy traffic.
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Public Transportation (Minibus)
To get to Mercado San Francisco El Alto via minibus, head to the main minibus terminal in Quetzaltenango (Xela) located near Parque Central. Look for the buses heading to San Francisco El Alto; they are typically marked with their destination. The fare is approximately Q5-10 (Guatemalan Quetzals) per person. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the San Francisco El Alto terminal, you can walk to the market. It is a short 5-10 minute walk; just follow the crowds or ask locals for directions.
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Taxi
For a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from Quetzaltenango (Xela) to Mercado San Francisco El Alto. You can find taxis around Parque Central or call a local taxi service. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey; it should cost around Q80-100. The drive will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The taxi will drop you off near the market entrance.
Discover more about Mercado San Francisco El Alto
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Tecun Uman Monument
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Quetzaltenango Guatemala
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Unmissable attractions to see
El Calvario
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Iglesia Catolica San Andrés Xecul
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San Diego
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Chon Rat
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Mirador hacia cumbre de Olintepeque
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El Campito
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Essential places to dine
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EL MIRADOR RESTAURANTE & HOSPEDAJE
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Lando’s Restaurante
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Italio Ristorante
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Restaurante La Cabaña
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La Taberna de Don Rodrigo
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Restaurante El Apaste
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Restaurante Don Carlos - Quetzaltenango.
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Giro´s ristorante e pizzeria
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DOÑA ODY Rustico Café
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Restaurante Casa Vieja
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Brule Gourmet
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Boutique MORGAN.
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Cherry boutique
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Bloom Shop
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Muru
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Liquor's Club Xela
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Boreal Sport Bar
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Búho Bar
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La toxica Bar
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Sky Bar Xela
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Mamazzita Disco Bar
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La Buba Gastro & Pub
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