Plaza de Mercado San Francisco
Bucaramanga's vibrant market, a sensory feast of colors, smells, and flavors offering authentic local cuisine and fresh produce.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh produce & family fun
Plaza de Mercado San Francisco
Best Time
Fresh produce & family fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bucaramanga's vibrant market, a sensory feast of colors, smells, and flavors offering authentic local cuisine and fresh produce.
"A spectacle of colors, smells, and flavors that will leave you breathless. 
🎯 Try the 'Chaofania'!
Don't miss this unique local soup made from cow's bowel – surprisingly delicious! :food_bowl:
🚗 No On-Site Parking
Plan for parking nearby as there are no dedicated spots within the market. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Culinary Delights
Savor authentic local dishes and discover a kaleidoscope of fresh produce, meats, and regional specialties.
Fresh Produce Paradise
Stock up on the freshest fruits, vegetables, and local ingredients for a true taste of Bucaramanga.
Local Atmosphere
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and authentic charm of this iconic Bucaramanga market.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Flavors
Sunday Morning Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the 'Chaofania'!
Don't miss this unique local soup made from cow's bowel – surprisingly delicious! :food_bowl:
🚗 No On-Site Parking
Plan for parking nearby as there are no dedicated spots within the market. :car:
🛍️ Explore the Aisles
Wander through the spacious market for a wide variety of products and local finds. :shopping_bags:
☀️ Sunday Activities
Enjoy family-friendly activities and a lively atmosphere on Sundays. :familywomanwoman_boy:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the 'Chaofania'!
Don't miss this unique local soup made from cow's bowel – surprisingly delicious! :food_bowl:
🚗 No On-Site Parking
Plan for parking nearby as there are no dedicated spots within the market. :car:
🛍️ Explore the Aisles
Wander through the spacious market for a wide variety of products and local finds. :shopping_bags:
☀️ Sunday Activities
Enjoy family-friendly activities and a lively atmosphere on Sundays. :familywomanwoman_boy:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Plaza de Mercado San Francisco as a vibrant hub for authentic local cuisine and fresh produce, offering a true taste of Bucaramanga. While some mention security concerns in the surrounding areas, the market itself is celebrated for its lively atmosphere and affordable, delicious food options. +1
"Perfect place to start your sunday grocery, you can start in one of many restaurants you can find there. If you want to try a real local meal ask for "chaofania" os a soup made out of little bits of cow's bowel, I know it sounds awful but its quite the opposite!"
Emanuel Cañete
"Public square, open all day. Sunday activities for the children's. Also, early in the morning (from 5 am) people running with your dogs. 🐕"
Sergio Alvarez
"Good place to go early in the morning to buy fresh products."
Ewma0480
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The plaza is located at Calle 12 con Cra. 22, a central spot in Bucaramanga. You can reach it by local bus or taxi. While there's no dedicated parking, many visitors find street parking in the surrounding areas.
Yes, it's well-served by local buses that frequent the city center. Check with local transport apps or ask residents for the most convenient routes.
The neighborhood is best explored on foot, especially if you're interested in the leather goods shops mentioned in some guides.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Plaza de Mercado San Francisco is generally free. It's a public market where you pay for the goods you purchase.
The market is open all day, but it's particularly vibrant in the mornings, especially on Sundays. Early mornings are best for fresh product selection.
Tickets are not required for entry as it's a public market. You can simply walk in and explore.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast array of local groceries, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and traditional Colombian dishes. It's also known for leather goods like shoes and belts in the surrounding area.
Absolutely! The plaza is dotted with numerous restaurants and food stalls offering authentic local meals. It's a perfect spot to start your day with a meal.
Yes, Sundays are particularly lively with activities for children, making it a great family outing.
'Chaofania' is a local soup made from cow's bowel, highly recommended by visitors for its unique taste. You can find it at some of the restaurants within the market.
While generally safe, like any busy market, be aware of your surroundings. Some social media posts mention security incidents in the vicinity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Visitors highly recommend trying 'chaofania,' a unique local soup. You can also find a wide variety of fresh produce and traditional Colombian dishes.
While the market is known for fresh produce, many dishes are meat-centric. However, you can often find fresh fruit juices and vegetable-based sides.
Food prices are generally affordable, offering great value for authentic local cuisine. You can expect to eat well without breaking the bank.
Yes, the market is a fantastic place to find a wide variety of fresh fruit juices made on the spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the produce stalls, the bustling activity of shoppers, and the authentic local life. The market's architecture also offers interesting shots.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls. Many are happy to oblige if asked respectfully.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the market's essence. Sundays can be very lively, offering dynamic street photography opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Eating at the market stalls is significantly cheaper than in most restaurants, allowing you to savor authentic Colombian flavors without overspending. The surrounding leather goods shops also offer competitive prices for souvenirs and personal items. 🍜 Food Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Bucaramanga's Commerce
The market is renowned for its incredible variety, offering everything from exotic fruits and fresh meats to artisanal products. It's a place where locals shop daily and where visitors can truly immerse themselves in the authentic Colombian way of life. Beyond the fresh produce, the surrounding area of San Francisco is also known for its concentration of leather goods shops. If you're looking for quality shoes, belts, or accessories, this neighborhood is a prime spot to find them at competitive prices.
While the market itself is a vibrant and generally safe space, it's worth noting that some social media content has highlighted security concerns in the broader vicinity. Visitors are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or when exploring late at night.
+1 Despite these occasional reports, the overwhelming sentiment from visitors is positive, emphasizing the market's charm and the quality of its offerings.A Culinary Adventure: Must-Try Dishes
Beyond this specific delicacy, the market is a treasure trove of fresh ingredients. You can find an abundance of colorful fruits, vegetables, and high-quality meats, making it the perfect place to gather ingredients for a home-cooked meal or to sample various local preparations.
Many stalls offer ready-to-eat meals, allowing you to taste the freshness and local culinary expertise directly. The vibrant atmosphere encourages exploration, with vendors often happy to let you sample their wares.When visiting, don't shy away from the numerous restaurants and food stalls scattered throughout the plaza. These eateries are where the heart of the market's culinary scene truly beats. Whether you're seeking a hearty breakfast, a flavorful lunch, or a refreshing snack, you're bound to find something delicious that captures the essence of Bucaramanga's gastronomy.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit