Plaza San Francisco
A historic heart of La Paz, featuring a stunning colonial basilica and a lively public square buzzing with culture and commerce.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Plaza San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic heart of La Paz, featuring a stunning colonial basilica and a lively public square buzzing with culture and commerce.
"It's a very vibrant place, the central square of La Paz, always busy and crowded with people."
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink lots of water and coca tea to adjust to the high altitude.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to experience the plaza and its surroundings is by walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Basilica of San Francisco de Assisi
Plaza San Francisco
Stunning colonial-era church showcasing Andean Baroque style, a true architectural gem.
Vibrant Street Life
Plaza San Francisco
Experience the lively atmosphere with street art, bustling commerce, and diverse local food stalls.
Community Events
Plaza San Francisco
The plaza frequently hosts fairs, concerts, and community gatherings. Check local listings!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Awareness is Key
Navigating the Bustle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink lots of water and coca tea to adjust to the high altitude.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to experience the plaza and its surroundings is by walking.
🍲 Sample Street Food
Don't miss out on delicious local treats like beef heart!
📅 Check for Events
The plaza hosts various events, from concerts to fairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Hydrate for Altitude
Drink lots of water and coca tea to adjust to the high altitude.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to experience the plaza and its surroundings is by walking.
🍲 Sample Street Food
Don't miss out on delicious local treats like beef heart!
📅 Check for Events
The plaza hosts various events, from concerts to fairs.
🚗 Avoid Heavy Vehicles
Heavy vehicles are prohibited to protect the river embankments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza San Francisco is a vibrant and historically significant public square in La Paz, lauded for its impressive Basilica and lively atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the bustling street life, diverse food options, and its role as a central gathering point. However, some find it less grand than other world-class plazas and note the constant activity and traffic.
"Great place to walk with significant history, some historical buildings this is known as Plaza Murillo and is located in the old town, Casco Viejoa and serves as the heart of Bolivia's political life. The plaza is surrounded by significant buildings such as the Presidential Palace, the National Congress of Bolivia, and the Cathedral of La Paz. It was originally named Plaza Mayor and later Plaza de Armas but it was renamed in honor of Pedro Murillo, a hero of Bolivia's independence. It’s a very vibrant place."
Ross Daniels
"Pretty enough but hardly world class in comparison to others"
SB
"This is the central square of La Paz. It is a wide open space, always busy and crowded with people. The traffic is heavy and the commerce non stop. It is the place where political protests gather. The basilica of San Francisco de Assisi is its most iconic building. It was built between the 16th and 17th century in Andean Baroque style."
Andreas Kafiotis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza San Francisco is centrally located in La Paz, Bolivia. It's easily accessible by local taxis or public transport. Many walking tours start here, making it a convenient point to begin exploring the city.
Yes, it's one of the most iconic and central squares in La Paz, often referred to as the main square. You'll likely pass through it if you're exploring the historic center.
Taxis are readily available, and local buses and minibuses (trufis) frequent the area. Be aware that heavy vehicles are restricted due to ongoing infrastructure work.
Depending on your starting point and your acclimatization to the altitude, walking is a great option. It's a good way to see the city, but remember to take it slow.
While specific routes vary, it's a major landmark. If you're coming from the airport or other districts, most routes will eventually lead you to the city center where the plaza is located.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza San Francisco is a public square and is free to enter and explore.
As a public space, the plaza is generally accessible at all hours. However, individual businesses or attractions around it will have their own operating times.
While the plaza itself is free, there might be a small fee or donation requested for entry into the Basilica of San Francisco for its upkeep.
During certain events or protests, access might be temporarily restricted. Also, heavy vehicles are prohibited due to ongoing construction.
Yes, many walking tours of La Paz include a stop at Plaza San Francisco due to its historical and central significance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning facade of the Basilica of San Francisco, the vibrant street life, and any local events or art installations. Drone shots can offer unique perspectives.
Photography rules can vary inside religious buildings. It's best to check for signage or ask permission before taking photos inside the Basilica.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour shots. Evenings can be atmospheric with city lights.
Drone regulations can be complex. It's advisable to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in public spaces like Plaza San Francisco.
The area around Plaza San Francisco sometimes features murals and street art, adding a colorful dimension to your photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of options, from street food vendors selling local delicacies like beef heart to restaurants offering traditional Bolivian cuisine.
While the plaza itself is more about the atmosphere and street food, numerous restaurants are located in the surrounding streets, offering diverse culinary experiences.
Don't miss out on salteñas, anticuchos (grilled beef heart), and api con pastel (a warm corn drink with fried dough).
Street food can be delicious, but it's always wise to choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices. Look for busy stalls.
Options might be limited, especially with traditional street food. However, many restaurants in the city center are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's best to inquire.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the altitude, as it can affect children too. Keep hydration levels up and plan for shorter excursions. The open space of the plaza allows kids some room to move, but always supervise them closely due to the crowds and traffic.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, dive into the street food scene around the plaza. Vendors offer local snacks and meals at very reasonable prices. Utilizing local public transport like trufis is also a cost-effective way to get around La Paz and reach the plaza.
📸 Photographers
Consider exploring the surrounding streets for street art and unique urban scenes. While drone photography can offer stunning aerial views, be sure to check and adhere to all local regulations before flying.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Basilica of San Francisco: A Historical Marvel
This iconic church has witnessed centuries of La Paz's history, from colonial times to modern-day events. It stands as a testament to the enduring cultural and religious heritage of Bolivia. Many visitors find it to be a peaceful sanctuary amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
Navigating La Paz's Altitude
Hydration is crucial. Drink plenty of water and the local coca tea (mate de coca), which is widely available and helps alleviate altitude sickness symptoms. Avoid strenuous activities, alcohol, and heavy meals initially. Listen to your body and allow it time to adjust. Many find that simply resting and acclimatizing properly makes a world of difference to their overall experience in La Paz.
The Plaza as a Community Hub
Street vendors add to the vibrant atmosphere, offering local snacks and crafts, while artists sometimes showcase their work. It's a place where people gather, connect, and express themselves, making it a true reflection of the city's spirit. Keep an eye out for local announcements, as you might stumble upon a unique event during your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit