Sucre is Bolivia’s constitutional capital and one of the country’s most historically important and visually striking cities. Located at an altitude of 9,220 ft (2,810 m) in the south-central Andes, Sucre is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, whitewashed buildings, and pleasant year-round climate. In this post, we will explore the best areas to stay in Sucre, Bolivia.
Founded in 1538, Sucre was the site of the first call for independence in Latin America and remains a symbol of Bolivian identity. Its historic center has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features landmarks such as Plaza 25 de Mayo, Casa de la Libertad—where Bolivia’s declaration of independence was signed—and San Felipe Neri Convent, which offers rooftop views of the city’s red-tiled roofs and baroque domes. Sucre’s Old Town also offers hillside views, colonial guesthouses, and easy access to local cafés and artisan markets. Find accommodation in Sucre’s Historic City Center.
Sucre also provides access to nearby natural and cultural sites such as Maragua Crater, known for its unusual geological formations and fossilized dinosaur footprints, and the Cretaceous Park, located just outside the city.
The city’s highland location gives it a mild and temperate climate, with daytime temperatures averaging between 65–75 ºF (18–24 ºC) year-round. The dry season, from April to October, is the most popular time to visit, offering clear skies and ideal conditions for walking tours and day trips.
Sucre is served by Alcantarí International Airport (SRE), located 18 mi (30 km) southeast of the city. It has regular domestic flights to La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba, and taxi or shuttle services connect the airport to the city. Intercity buses also link Sucre to destinations such as Potosí and Tarija.
Public transportation within the city consists mainly of minibuses and shared taxis, and the Historic Center is highly walkable, with most attractions, cafés, and accommodations located within a compact area.
Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay in Sucre, Bolivia.
What are the best areas to stay in Sucre?
The best area to stay in Sucre is the Historic City Center. This UNESCO-listed district is home to colonial landmarks, museums, tree-lined plazas, and rooftop terraces with mountain views, all within walking distance. It’s also where you’ll find the city’s main square, Plaza 25 de Mayo, surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and cultural institutions. With a compact layout and plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and local shops, the Historic Center offers a convenient and scenic base for exploring Sucre on foot. Find accommodation in Sucre City Center.
1. Sucre Historic City Center
The best location for culture and history
With its historical appeal, scenic views, and walkability, Sucre’s Historic City Center is the top choice for travelers looking to stay in the city’s heart.
The Historic City Center, or Casco Viejo, is the cultural and architectural heart of Sucre. Centered around Plaza 25 de Mayo, it features narrow, walkable streets lined with whitewashed colonial buildings, tile roofs, and ornamental balconies. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the city’s colonial charm and houses many of its most important landmarks, including the Casa de la Libertad, where Bolivia’s declaration of independence was signed, the Cathedral of Sucre, and the Government Palace.
Within this central area lies Recoleta, a hillside neighborhood with panoramic views of the city. Recoleta is home to the La Recoleta Monastery, founded in the 1600s, and a small plaza surrounded by cafés and artisan shops. Its higher elevation makes it a popular spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a quieter atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the main square.
Beyond the historical sites, the Historic Center also hosts museums like the Museo Nacional de Etnografía y Folklore (MUSEF) and the Museo de Arte Indígena, which showcase Bolivia’s diverse cultures and traditions. Numerous churches, such as San Felipe Neri and San Francisco, add to the area’s historic landscape.
The city center offers a relaxed dining and nightlife scene, with local restaurants, rooftop cafés, and bars tucked between the historic buildings. While not a nightlife hub, it’s ideal for those looking to enjoy Sucre’s charm in a quieter setting.
The area is highly walkable, and local transport options include minibuses and shared taxis that connect it to other parts of the city. The compact layout makes it easy to explore most attractions on foot.
Accommodation options include budget hostels, mid-range hotels, and restored colonial guesthouses, many offering rooftop terraces or central courtyards.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Sucre’s Old Town
Hostal Sucre
Hostal Sucre offers amenities, including a garden and a terrace. This property is set a short distance from attractions such as Surapata Park. The property provides a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi.
2. Sucre Bus Station
The best-connected location in Sucre
With excellent transportation and cheap places to stay, the area around the Main Bus Station is one of the best areas to stay in Sucre.
Located east of the Historic City Center along Avenida Ostria Gutiérrez, Sucre’s main bus terminal serves as the city’s primary gateway for travelers arriving by land. It offers frequent connections to major Bolivian cities such as La Paz, Cochabamba, and Santa Cruz, as well as international routes to Argentina.
The surrounding area includes a few local landmarks like the University of Saint Francis Xavier (USFX) campus and the Museo del Sombrero, dedicated to traditional hat-making. While the neighborhood is a bit chaotic and busy—as is often the case around bus terminals in South America—it also offers a wide range of budget accommodations and eateries catering to travelers in transit.
The area around the bus station is a practical choice for those planning to continue their journey by land, offering easy access to intercity transportation and affordable places to stay.
Read this in other languages:
- |ES| Mejores zonas donde alojarse en Sucre, Bolivia.
- |PT| Melhores áreas para se hospedar em Sucre, Bolívia.
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