Plaza San Francisco
A historic heart of Quito, Plaza San Francisco buzzes with vendors, crafts, and colonial charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Plaza San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic heart of Quito, Plaza San Francisco buzzes with vendors, crafts, and colonial charm.
"It's a European style, touristy square with nice architecture, lots of vendors."
🎯 Avoid Weekend Crowds
Weekends can be very crowded; weekdays offer a more relaxed experience.
✨ Explore Hidden Courtyards
Don't miss the shops in the courtyards behind the main stalls for unique finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vendor Huts & Local Crafts
Plaza San Francisco
Discover a vibrant array of merchandise, from alpaca clothing to intricate hand embroidery.
Architectural Charm
Plaza San Francisco
Admire the European-style architecture surrounding the bustling square.
Seasonal Decorations
Plaza San Francisco
Experience the plaza transformed by festive decorations, especially during Christmas.
Hidden Courtyards
Plaza San Francisco
Seek out the secret courtyards filled with artisans selling handmade jewelry and instruments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Avoid Weekend Crowds
Weekends can be very crowded; weekdays offer a more relaxed experience.
✨ Explore Hidden Courtyards
Don't miss the shops in the courtyards behind the main stalls for unique finds.
🛍️ Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find quality alpaca clothing, scarves, and blankets from reputable vendors.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The European-style buildings offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Avoid Weekend Crowds
Weekends can be very crowded; weekdays offer a more relaxed experience.
✨ Explore Hidden Courtyards
Don't miss the shops in the courtyards behind the main stalls for unique finds.
🛍️ Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find quality alpaca clothing, scarves, and blankets from reputable vendors.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The European-style buildings offer beautiful photo opportunities.
🍲 Sample Local Flavors
Enjoy street food and nearby restaurants for a taste of local cuisine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Plaza San Francisco for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse vendor offerings, and beautiful architecture. It's a lively hub for shopping, especially for alpaca goods and handmade crafts, and a great spot to experience local culture. Some find it can get very crowded on weekends.
"It’s a large pedestrian square with nicely built vendor huts of various merchandise. On one side, within the buildings, are stores selling quality alpaca clothing, scarves, and blankets.
Amongst these stores are also great sources of hand embroidery.
The square itself is a center of activity. This Christmas season, it’s the location of a very tall, well decorated tree. It has dancing lights, very pleasing in the evenings."
A V (globetrotter)
"Newly opened after remodeling. New kiosks and fountain. Most of the vendors selling clothing. A major new venue for entertainment and citwide festivals."
Dana Simmons
"More than the outside - the inside is the hidden secret. Definitely worth taking a look inside."
Michael E Hattaway
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza San Francisco is located in the historic center of Quito. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or by walking if you are staying nearby in the historic district.
Yes, several bus routes pass through or near the historic center of Quito, making Plaza San Francisco accessible by public transport.
Walking is often the best way to explore the historic center and discover its charm. Taxis are also readily available.
Parking in the historic center can be challenging. It's advisable to use public transport or taxis if possible.
From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle to the historic center. Public transport options are also available but may take longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Plaza San Francisco is a public square, so there is no entrance fee to visit.
As a public square, it is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Individual shops and vendors may have their own operating hours.
Many guided tours of Quito's historic center include a stop at Plaza San Francisco.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's a busy public space. Be mindful of your belongings.
Events held at the plaza may require tickets, depending on the nature of the event. Check local listings for specific information.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You can find a variety of souvenirs, including alpaca clothing, scarves, blankets, handmade jewelry, and musical instruments.
Yes, the area around Plaza San Francisco has many restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
Look for stores within the buildings surrounding the plaza that specialize in quality alpaca goods.
You can find street food vendors offering local snacks, and nearby restaurants provide a wider dining experience.
Yes, venture into the hidden courtyards to discover small shops where artisans sell their handmade creations.
📸 📸 Photography
The plaza itself, the surrounding architecture, and the vibrant vendor stalls offer great photo opportunities.
Drone photography is possible, offering unique aerial perspectives of the plaza and its surroundings.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful light for photography, with the added charm of evening lights.
It's polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their merchandise.
The historic buildings, the central fountain (if active), and any seasonal decorations make for excellent photo subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exploring, keep an eye on younger children as it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Consider visiting during weekday afternoons for a less hectic experience. The variety of sights and sounds can make it an interesting outing, and nearby restaurants offer family-friendly dining options.
💰 Budget Travelers
Comparing prices among vendors is recommended to get the best deals on items like alpaca goods. Opting for public transport to reach the historic center also helps keep costs down. Enjoying the sights and sounds of the plaza without spending much is entirely possible.
📸 Photographers
+1Don't forget to explore the hidden courtyards for unique perspectives and to capture artisans at work. Drone photography can offer stunning aerial views of the plaza and its surroundings, showcasing its layout and integration within the historic city. Remember to be respectful when photographing people and their stalls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Quito's History
Historically, it has been a hub for commerce, social gatherings, and religious events. Today, it continues this tradition by hosting various festivals, markets, and daily activities. The surrounding buildings, including churches and colonial-era structures, add to its historical significance and provide a rich backdrop for exploration.
Visitors often remark on the vibrant atmosphere, especially during festive seasons. The blend of historical architecture with the lively presence of vendors and locals creates a unique and immersive experience. It’s a place where the past and present of Quito converge.
A Shopper's Paradise: Crafts and Souvenirs
Beyond clothing, you can find unique handmade items such as musical instruments and artisanal crafts. A key tip from travelers is to explore the less obvious areas; tucked away behind the main stalls are hidden courtyards where artisans often work and sell their creations directly. This offers a more personal shopping experience and a chance to find truly unique pieces.
When shopping, remember that bargaining is common in many markets, though prices in established shops might be fixed. It's always a good idea to compare prices and inspect the quality of goods before making a purchase. The vibrant colors and textures of the merchandise make browsing a delightful experience in itself.
Culinary Delights Around the Plaza
For a more substantial meal, numerous restaurants nearby offer traditional Ecuadorian dishes. From hearty stews to fresh seafood, there's something to satisfy every craving. Some establishments even offer cooking classes or demonstrations, providing a deeper dive into local gastronomy.
Travelers often recommend trying local specialties and enjoying the lively ambiance of dining in the historic center. Whether you're grabbing a quick empanada from a street vendor or enjoying a leisurely dinner, the food scene around Plaza San Francisco is an integral part of the visitor experience.
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