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Sucre

Sucre, Chuquisaca, Bolivia

Step Back in Time in Sucre, Bolivia: The White City of the Americas Nestled high in the Bolivian Andes, Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, beckons travelers with its timeless charm and captivating history. Kn…

#historic city#cultural heritage#colonial architecture#UNESCO World Heritage Site#Andean region

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Sucre.

Top Hotels in Sucre

Top Flights to Sucre

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Sucre.

Tours

Explore Sucre's Historic Architecture

Visit Sucre's well-preserved colonial buildings and historical landmarks. Admire the white-washed structures that give the city its nickname, 'The White City.'

Shopping

Tarabuco Market

Experience local culture and buy traditional textiles at Bolivia's famous Tarabuco Market.

Outdoor

Hiking the Chataquilla Trail

A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the Andes and leads to the Inca site of Chataquilla.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Sucre.

Currency

Bs | BOB | Bolivian Boliviano

Population

Not Available

Languages

Spanish, Spanish, Quechua, Aymara

Average weather

Sucre

Jan

21°12°

Feb

21°12°

Mar

21°11°

Apr

21°10°

May

21°8°

Jun

20°6°

Jul

20°5°

Aug

21°6°

Sep

22°8°

Oct

22°10°

Nov

22°11°

Dec

21°12°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Sucre.

What people love

Sucre, located in Bolivia, offers a unique travel experience with a mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Some of the pros of traveling to Sucre include:

Historical significance: Sucre is known as the constitutional capital of Bolivia and has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. The city's well-preserved architecture reflects its colonial past, with numerous historic buildings, churches, and museums to explore.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Sucre's historic center has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance. Visitors can stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial buildings and visit sites like the Recoleta Monastery and the Casa de la Libertad.
Cultural experiences: Sucre is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and cultural events taking place throughout the year. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending traditional festivals, sampling local cuisine, and interacting with friendly locals.
Outdoor activities: Surrounding Sucre are beautiful landscapes and outdoor opportunities for adventure seekers. From hiking in the nearby mountains to exploring the Tarabuco market or visiting the dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy in and around Sucre.
Language learning: Sucre is a popular destination for travelers looking to learn Spanish. The city is home to many language schools offering immersive Spanish courses for all levels, making it an ideal place to improve language skills while experiencing Bolivian culture.

Overall, Sucre offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures that make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic Bolivian experience.

Enjoy your trip to Sucre!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Sucre, Bolivia, include:

Altitude sickness: Sucre is located at a high altitude of about 2,800 meters above sea level. Travelers who are not acclimated to high altitudes may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as shortness of breath, headaches, and fatigue.
Limited transportation options: Sucre is not as well-connected by air or rail as some other major cities in Bolivia. Traveling to and from Sucre may require multiple transfers and longer travel times.
Safety concerns: While Sucre is generally considered a safe city for travelers, petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can still occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is important to take precautions such as avoiding displaying valuable items and being aware of your surroundings.
Limited English proficiency: English is not widely spoken in Sucre, so travelers who do not speak Spanish may encounter communication barriers. It is helpful to have a basic understanding of Spanish or carry a translation app to facilitate interactions with locals.
Limited tourist infrastructure: Compared to larger cities like La Paz or Santa Cruz, Sucre may have fewer tourist amenities and services. Accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators may be more limited, requiring travelers to plan ahead and make reservations in advance.

Please note that these are general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It is always recommended to research and plan your trip carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia and the capital of the department of Chuquisaca. It is a city rich in history and cultural heritage, often referred to as the "white city" due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. Here is a detailed history of Sucre:

Early History and Foundation

Pre-Columbian Period: Before the arrival of the Spanish, the area around present-day Sucre was inhabited by indigenous groups, including the Charcas people.
1538: The city was founded by the Spanish conquistadors as "La Plata" on November 30, 1538, by Pedro Anzures, Marqués de Campo Redondo. The city was named La Plata (The Silver) due to its proximity to the rich silver mines of Potosí.

Colonial Period

16th-17th Centuries: La Plata became an important colonial city, serving as a major administrative center for the Spanish Empire in South America. It was home to the Real Audiencia de Charcas, a key judicial body.
1609: The Archbishopric of La Plata was established, highlighting the city's religious significance in the region.

Independence Era

1809: Sucre played a critical role in the independence movement. On May 25, 1809, a revolt against Spanish rule took place in the city, marking one of the first uprisings in Latin America.
1825: Bolivia declared its independence, and in 1839, the city was renamed Sucre in honor of Antonio José de Sucre, a leader in the independence movement and a close ally of Simón Bolívar.

Republican Period and Modern Era

19th Century: Sucre was Bolivia's capital and the seat of government until 1898 when a civil war led to the transfer of governmental powers to La Paz. However, Sucre remains the constitutional capital and the seat of the judiciary.
20th Century: Sucre continued to develop as a cultural and educational center. It is home to the Universidad Mayor Real y Pontificia de San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca, one of the oldest universities in the Americas, founded in 1624.

Significant Landmarks

Casa de la Libertad: This historic building is where the Bolivian Declaration of Independence was signed. It is now a museum dedicated to the history of Bolivia.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Sucre: An impressive example of 16th-century Spanish architecture, the cathedral is located in the main plaza.
Recoleta Monastery: A beautiful colonial monastery that offers panoramic views of the city.
La Glorieta Castle: An eclectic building constructed in the late 19th century, showcasing a mix of architectural styles.

Cultural Significance

Sucre is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its well-preserved colonial architecture and its role in the history of the continent. The city is also known for its vibrant cultural life, including festivals, music, and traditional dances.

Overall, Sucre is a city of great historical importance in Bolivia and Latin America, reflecting both its colonial past and its role in the region's path to independence.