Things to Do at Plaza 25 de Mayo

Complete Guide to Plaza 25 de Mayo in Sucre

About Plaza 25 de Mayo

Plaza 25 de Mayo is the historic heart of Sucre, Bolivia's constitutional capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautifully preserved colonial square, dating back to the 16th century, serves as the city's main gathering place and represents the birthplace of Bolivia's independence. Named after the date of the first cry for independence in 1809, the plaza is surrounded by impressive whitewashed colonial buildings with red-tiled roofs that have earned Sucre the nickname 'La Ciudad Blanca' (The White City). The square features elegant arcades, manicured gardens, and a central fountain, creating a perfect example of Spanish colonial urban planning. It's not just a tourist attraction but a living piece of history where locals gather, street vendors sell traditional snacks, and important civic events take place. The plaza's pristine condition and architectural harmony make it one of South America's most beautiful colonial squares and a testament to Bolivia's rich cultural heritage.

What to See & Do

Casa de la Libertad

The historic building where Bolivia's Declaration of Independence was signed in 1825, now a museum showcasing the country's independence history

Metropolitan Cathedral

A impressive colonial cathedral with baroque architecture, beautiful altars, and religious art dating back to the 16th century

Colonial Architecture

Admire the perfectly preserved white colonial buildings with their characteristic red-tiled roofs and elegant arcades surrounding the square

Central Fountain

An ornate fountain at the plaza's center, perfect for photos and a popular meeting point for locals and visitors

Street Performers and Vendors

Experience local culture through traditional music performances, artisan crafts, and authentic Bolivian street food

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The plaza is accessible 24/7 as a public space, though surrounding museums and attractions have varying hours (typically 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)

Tickets & Pricing

Free to visit the plaza itself; individual attractions like Casa de la Libertad charge separate entrance fees (around 15-30 BOB)

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (7-9 AM) for photography and peaceful exploration, or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for local atmosphere and golden hour lighting

Suggested Duration

1-2 hours for the plaza itself, or a full day if visiting surrounding museums and attractions

Getting There

Plaza 25 de Mayo is located in the historic center of Sucre and is easily walkable from most hotels in the city center. From Sucre's main bus terminal (Terminal de Buses), take a taxi (15-20 minutes) or local bus to the center. If arriving from other cities, Sucre's Juana Azurduy de Padilla Airport is about 30 minutes away by taxi. The plaza is the central reference point in Sucre, so most local transportation and walking directions use it as a landmark.

Things to Do Nearby

Museo de la Recoleta
A colonial convent turned museum offering panoramic city views and religious art collections
Mercado Central
Traditional market perfect for experiencing local culture, buying souvenirs, and trying authentic Bolivian cuisine
Parque Simón Bolívar
A peaceful park with the iconic Eiffel Tower replica, ideal for relaxation and city views
Iglesia de San Felipe Neri
Historic church with rooftop access offering spectacular 360-degree views of Sucre's white colonial architecture
Museo Textil Etnográfico
Fascinating museum showcasing traditional Bolivian textiles and indigenous weaving techniques

Tips & Advice

Visit early in the morning for the best photographs with soft lighting and fewer crowds
Bring sunscreen and a hat as the high altitude (2,800m) intensifies UV rays
Try local specialties like salteñas (Bolivian empanadas) from street vendors around the plaza
Respect photography rules at religious sites and ask permission before photographing locals

Tours & Activities at Plaza 25 de Mayo