Plaza San Francisco
A historic Arequipa square buzzing with culinary delights, lively nightlife, and local charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & cooler temps
Plaza San Francisco
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Arequipa square buzzing with culinary delights, lively nightlife, and local charm.
"A great place in the Historic Centre of Arequipa. Beautiful square, cafes and restaurants."
🎯 Evening Eats & Drinks
Plaza San Francisco buzzes at night with restaurants & bars offering great deals.
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Don't miss hidden culinary gems on Calle San Francisco!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Charm
Arequipa, Peru
A beautiful, peaceful square in Arequipa's historic center, perfect for relaxation and soaking in local life.
Culinary Delights
Calle San Francisco, Arequipa
Discover a vibrant food scene with everything from 'mostrito' chicken to romantic dinners and lively bars.
Themed Cafes
Near Plaza San Francisco, Arequipa
Step into a fairytale at 'El té de Alicia,' a whimsical cafe inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Evening Buzz
Explore Beyond the Plaza
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Evening Eats & Drinks
Plaza San Francisco buzzes at night with restaurants & bars offering great deals. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Don't miss hidden culinary gems on Calle San Francisco! +2
☕ Whimsical Cafe Stop
Visit 'El té de Alicia' for a magical Alice in Wonderland themed experience.
👻 Local Legends
Ask about the 'ghosts of Calle San Francisco' for a spooky local tale.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Evening Eats & Drinks
Plaza San Francisco buzzes at night with restaurants & bars offering great deals. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Don't miss hidden culinary gems on Calle San Francisco! +2
☕ Whimsical Cafe Stop
Visit 'El té de Alicia' for a magical Alice in Wonderland themed experience.
👻 Local Legends
Ask about the 'ghosts of Calle San Francisco' for a spooky local tale.
🎶 Live Music Nights
Check for free jazz events at Plaza San Francisco on select Fridays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plaza San Francisco in Arequipa for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and its prime location within the historic center. It's a great spot to relax, enjoy local cafes, and is conveniently situated near the artisanal market. Some find the evening atmosphere particularly vibrant.
"Just beautiful 😍"
Ariel Fuentes
"Pleasant and quiet small square. Come and relax."
Richard Parker
"nice"
Jerry Zhang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza San Francisco is centrally located in Arequipa's historic center. It's easily accessible by taxi or a short walk from many hotels. If you're coming from further afield, local buses will likely drop you nearby.
No, there are multiple places named Plaza San Francisco. The one in Arequipa, Peru, is a historic square known for its food and atmosphere. The Plaza San Francisco in San Salvador is a commercial center.
Plaza San Francisco in La Serena, Chile, is accessible by car or public transport. Drone footage shows it's a scenic spot, suggesting good road access.
Plaza San Francisco in Zaragoza is a gastronomic hub. It's located away from the main 'El Tubo' area, offering a distinct culinary route.
Plaza San Francisco in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a charming spot known for its pigeons and peaceful atmosphere, suggesting it's centrally located and accessible for pedestrians.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza San Francisco in Arequipa is a public square and does not require tickets for entry. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere.
The Plaza San Francisco in Cuenca, Ecuador, is a public space and is free to enter. Enjoy the children playing and the peaceful ambiance.
Plaza San Francisco in Zaragoza is a public square and generally free to access. The surrounding restaurants and bars will have their own pricing.
Occasionally, events like 'Jazz Francisco' are held at Plaza San Francisco in Teld, Spain, and these often have free entry. Always check local listings for specific events.
As a public square, Plaza San Francisco in Arequipa is open 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, with many coming alive in the evening.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area around Plaza San Francisco is a foodie paradise! You'll find everything from 'pollo al brasa' (rotisserie chicken) and burgers
to romantic Italian dinners
and delightful brunches.
Absolutely! La Italiana Ristorante on Calle San Francisco offers a perfect setting for a romantic dinner with delicious pasta.
Don't miss 'El té de Alicia,' a charming cafe with an Alice in Wonderland theme, offering drinks and desserts. Aleiana Brunch & Cake is also a great spot for brunch.
Yes, look for local eateries and 'combos' like the cheeseburger and mojito deal for S/19.90 offered at Don Filo. Many places offer affordable daily specials.
Chugchucara is a traditional Ecuadorian dish. You can try it at 'Hasta la vuelta señor' near Plaza San Francisco in Quito.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire plaza offers a picturesque setting with its colonial architecture. Capture the lively atmosphere in the evenings or the peaceful daytime charm.
Yes, drone shots of Plaza San Francisco in La Serena, Chile, showcase its aesthetic appeal and surrounding landscape.
The Plaza San Francisco in Cuenca is popular for capturing candid moments of children playing and the serene, almost magical, atmosphere.
Absolutely! Events like the 'Feria de Voluntariado' or 'Jazz Francisco' are great opportunities for vibrant event photography. 
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for the architecture. Evenings are also great for capturing the lively ambiance of the restaurants and bars.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a unique family outing, consider 'El té de Alicia' near the Arequipa plaza, a whimsical cafe inspired by Alice in Wonderland that will enchant younger visitors.
🍜 Foodies & Nightlife Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore the side streets for hidden culinary gems. Many TikTok creators highlight the evening specials and the energetic atmosphere, making it a prime destination for experiencing Arequipa's food and social scene after dark. Keep an eye out for special events like live music too!
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
As a public square, the plaza itself is free to explore, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere without spending a dime. Enjoying a simple meal from a local vendor or a coffee from a less-hyped cafe can be very economical.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Arequipa's Culinary Heartbeat
Evenings are when the plaza truly comes alive. As the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts, with restaurants and bars buzzing with activity. Many establishments offer evening specials and promotions, making it an ideal spot for dinner and drinks. TikTok creators often highlight the lively nightlife and university student scene here, suggesting it's a great place to experience Arequipa after dark.
Beyond the main plaza, exploring the side streets reveals even more gastronomic treasures. Don't be afraid to wander and discover hidden gems that offer a more local dining experience. Whether you're craving traditional Peruvian fare or international flavors, the area around Plaza San Francisco is sure to satisfy.
Local Legends and Nightlife
When night falls, the plaza transforms into a hub for Arequipa's vibrant nightlife. It's a popular spot for university students and locals looking to socialize and have fun. TikTok videos often showcase the energetic parties and gatherings that take place here, highlighting it as a key destination for experiencing the city's after-dark scene.
Beyond the general nightlife, keep an eye out for specific events. Occasionally, the plaza hosts free music events, such as 'Jazz Francisco,' offering a more relaxed yet engaging evening experience.
This variety ensures that Plaza San Francisco offers something for everyone, from those seeking a quiet evening meal to those looking for a lively night out.Plaza San Francisco Across Latin America
+1In San Salvador, Plaza San Francisco is a modern commercial center, home to businesses like Celeste Imperio, offering a different kind of urban experience focused on shopping and dining.
Meanwhile, the Plaza San Francisco in La Serena, Chile, is recognized for its scenic beauty, often captured through drone footage, highlighting its appeal for tourism and visual exploration. Each Plaza San Francisco, despite the shared name, provides a unique glimpse into the local culture and urban landscape of its respective city. Whether you're seeking culinary adventures in Peru, peaceful moments in Ecuador, commercial convenience in El Salvador, or scenic vistas in Chile, these plazas offer diverse attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit