Plaza San Francisco - San Francisco as seen from Fox Plaza looking East.
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Plaza San Francisco

4.2
·13k reviews·La Paz, Bolivia

A historic heart of La Paz, featuring a stunning colonial basilica and a lively public square buzzing with culture and commerce.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Plaza San Francisco - San Francisco as seen from Fox Plaza looking East.

Plaza San Francisco

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.2
(13k reviews)

"It's a very vibrant place, the central square of La Paz, always busy and crowded with people."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Basilica of San Francisco de Assisi

Basilica of San Francisco de Assisi

Plaza San Francisco

Stunning colonial-era church showcasing Andean Baroque style, a true architectural gem.

Vibrant Street Life

Vibrant Street Life

Plaza San Francisco

Experience the lively atmosphere with street art, bustling commerce, and diverse local food stalls.

TikTokReddit
Community Events

Community Events

Plaza San Francisco

The plaza frequently hosts fairs, concerts, and community gatherings. Check local listings!

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Altitude Awareness is Key

La Paz is one of the highest capital cities in the world. Take it slow upon arrival, drink plenty of water and coca tea to combat altitude sickness. Many visitors find common activities challenging initially. Reddit

Navigating the Bustle

Plaza San Francisco is a central hub, often busy with traffic and commerce. Be aware of your surroundings and potential protests. TikTokReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively events and local buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#lapaz_bolivia🇧🇴 #elaltobolivia🇧🇴🥰 #riosecoextranca #senkata #cruceviadela#plazasanfrancisco #munaypata
@negrito_memin
21.8K likes • 772K views

💧 Hydrate for Altitude

Drink lots of water and coca tea to adjust to the high altitude. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience the plaza and its surroundings is by walking. TikTok

El centro de La Paz merece ser revalorizado, y la Plaza San Francisco 🌆es la clave. En este video, 🎥 presentamos las ideas y propuestas que propusimos para nuestra ciudad, para transformarla en el principal punto de encuentro de La Paz. #CiudadHumana #InnovacionPolitica #CalidadDeVida #Dockweiler
@cesardockweiler
16.5K likes • 302K views
Hoy te mostramos cómo llegar a Plaza San Francisco 😁
plazasanfrancisco.sv
475 likes • 56K views

🍲 Sample Street Food

Don't miss out on delicious local treats like beef heart! Reddit

📅 Check for Events

The plaza hosts various events, from concerts to fairs. TikTokInstagram

🔷️Así se ha disfrutado este 4 de octubre en la Plaza San Francisco con la Feria de Voluntariado 'Barbastro Mueve'
aytobarbastro
105 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Hydrate for Altitude

Drink lots of water and coca tea to adjust to the high altitude. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

The best way to experience the plaza and its surroundings is by walking. TikTok

🍲 Sample Street Food

Don't miss out on delicious local treats like beef heart! Reddit

📅 Check for Events

The plaza hosts various events, from concerts to fairs. TikTokInstagram

🚗 Avoid Heavy Vehicles

Heavy vehicles are prohibited to protect the river embankments. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.2
(13k reviews)

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

Historic Basilica
Vibrant street life
Local food options

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Busy traffic

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Plaza San Francisco is a public square and is free to enter and explore. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

During certain events or protests, access might be temporarily restricted. Also, heavy vehicles are prohibited due to ongoing construction. TikTok+2

Yes, many walking tours of La Paz include a stop at Plaza San Francisco due to its historical and central significance. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

Photography rules can vary inside religious buildings. It's best to check for signage or ask permission before taking photos inside the Basilica. TikTok

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour shots. Evenings can be atmospheric with city lights. TikTok

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. Instagram

The area around Plaza San Francisco sometimes features murals and street art, adding a colorful dimension to your photos. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

While the plaza itself is more about the atmosphere and street food, numerous restaurants are located in the surrounding streets, offering diverse culinary experiences. Instagram

Don't miss out on salteñas, anticuchos (grilled beef heart), and api con pastel (a warm corn drink with fried dough). Reddit

Street food can be delicious, but it's always wise to choose vendors with high turnover and good hygiene practices. Look for busy stalls. Reddit

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza San Francisco can be an engaging spot for families, offering a glimpse into local life. Children often enjoy watching the pigeons that flock to the square and the general buzz of activity. Instagram The Basilica of San Francisco offers a quiet space for reflection, and the surrounding streets have various food options that might appeal to younger palates. TikTok

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. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Plaza San Francisco is an excellent destination for budget travelers as it's a free public space to explore. You can soak in the atmosphere, admire the architecture, and people-watch without spending a dime. TikTok

For affordable eats, dive into the street food scene around the plaza. Vendors offer local snacks and meals at very reasonable prices. TikTokReddit Utilizing local public transport like trufis is also a cost-effective way to get around La Paz and reach the plaza. TikTok

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Plaza San Francisco offers a rich tapestry of subjects. The Andean Baroque architecture of the Basilica is a must-capture, especially during the golden hours. Instagram The vibrant street life, from vendors to daily commuters, provides dynamic candid shots. TikTok

Consider exploring the surrounding streets for street art and unique urban scenes. TikTok While drone photography can offer stunning aerial views, be sure to check and adhere to all local regulations before flying. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Basilica of San Francisco: A Historical Marvel

The Basilica of San Francisco is the undisputed architectural centerpiece of Plaza San Francisco. Constructed between the 16th and 17th centuries, it's a magnificent example of Andean Baroque style. Its facade, adorned with intricate carvings, tells stories of faith and history. Inside, visitors can marvel at the rich religious art and the serene atmosphere. TikTok

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. TikTokReddit

Navigating La Paz's Altitude

La Paz's extreme altitude (around 3,650 meters or 11,975 feet) is a significant factor for any visitor. Many travelers report feeling the effects, including shortness of breath, headaches, and fatigue. The advice from locals and experienced travelers is consistent: take it easy on your first day or two. Reddit

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. Reddit Many find that simply resting and acclimatizing properly makes a world of difference to their overall experience in La Paz. Reddit

The Plaza as a Community Hub

Plaza San Francisco is more than just a historical site; it's a dynamic community hub where life in La Paz unfolds. The square frequently hosts a variety of events, from lively concerts and cultural festivals to important civic gatherings and protests. TikTok+2

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. TikTokInstagram

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