Things To Do
in Sucre

Sucre, Colombia is a warm Caribbean-influenced town in the Bolivar region known for its colonial charm and laid-back rhythm. The historic center features whitewashed facades, balconies, plazas, and lively street markets that pulse with color and music. Surrounding nature offers rivers, mangroves, and dry forests perfect for day trips from the city.

Visitors will find friendly locals, affordable adventures, and a blend of culture, food, and scenic views.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Café Gourmet, savoring fresh Colombian coffee and local pastries. Afterward, stroll through the beautiful Plaza 25 de Mayo, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and colonial architecture that surrounds you. Don’t miss visiting the stunning Sucre Cathedral, a striking example of Baroque architecture that dates back to the 16th century.

afternoon
:

After a traditional lunch at a local eatery, visit the Casa de la Libertad, where you can learn about the history of Bolivia's independence and the role Sucre played. Spend some time exploring the nearby Museo ASUR, which showcases indigenous art and cultural artifacts, providing insight into the region's rich heritage. As you wander through the streets, enjoy the colorful murals that adorn many buildings, reflecting the city's artistic spirit.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Mirador de La Recoleta for a panoramic view of Sucre bathed in golden light. For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional dishes like salteñas or pique a lo macho. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for a drink at a cozy bar.

day 2
Chocolate and Coffee Tasting
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local coffee farm just outside Sucre, where you’ll learn about the coffee-growing process from bean to cup. Enjoy a guided tour, and participate in a coffee tasting session, experiencing the rich flavors and aromas of Colombian coffee. Afterward, savor a delicious breakfast made with fresh local ingredients at the farm.

afternoon
:

After lunch, join a chocolate-making workshop where you can discover the art of transforming cacao beans into mouthwatering chocolate treats. Engage in the hands-on process, from grinding the beans to molding your creations, and enjoy tasting different varieties along the way. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Sucre, stopping by artisan shops to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its local cuisine, where you can sample dishes featuring chocolate, like a rich mole sauce. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to the central square, where locals often gather for music and dance performances. Wrap up your evening with a sweet treat from a local dessert shop, enjoying the flavors of traditional Colombian sweets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
Coffee at a cafe$1-2
🚌One-way public transport$0.50-1.50
🛏️Budget hotel per night$15-35
📱Local SIM data/top-up$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm Caribbean culture and affordable prices
  • Compact center is walkable and easy to explore
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Occasional safety concerns for tourists in crowded areas
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Sucre

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Central

Historic square framed by colonial buildings, fountains, and shaded balconies; ideal for golden-hour portraits.

Iglesia Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

Elegant white church with classic details, offering strong architectural lines for photography.

Callejón de la Artesanía

Colorful market street with crafts, murals, and lively street life.

River overlook and nearby promenade

Scenic vantage point along a nearby river with soft evening light.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sucre

Caribbean-influenced Colombian cuisine here blends fresh seafood, coconut flavors, and plantains with hearty stews and street snacks. Expect vibrant colors, affordable prices, and generous portions served with warmth.

Sucre Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arepa de huevo

A crisp cornmeal arepa stuffed with a fried egg—popular as a grab-and-go breakfast or snack.

Must-Try!

Sancocho de pescado

Fish stew with yuca, plantain, and corn on the cob; comfort food in many coastal towns.

Posta negra cartagenera

Slow-braised beef in a dark, slightly sweet sauce; a regional favorite.

Arroz con coco

Rice cooked with coconut milk, a staple accompaniment to seafood.

Patacones y maduros

Fried green plantains and ripe sweet plantains served as sides or snacks.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Local de Sincelejo

Bustling market with fresh produce, fish stalls, and ready-to-eat fried snacks.

Areperas and street stalls

Casual spots offering arepas, empanadas, and grilled seafood on the go.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical Caribbean climate with heat and humidity year-round. Average highs range from 28–34°C (82–93°F); rainfall peaks in the rainy seasons and humidity stays high.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a warm 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake or light kiss on the cheek in social circles.

Dress Code

Casual but neat clothing is common; dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded markets and transport hubs. Stay aware, keep valuables secure, use licensed taxis, and travel with a companion when possible.

Tipping in Sucre

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

5–10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash (Colombian peso COP) is widely used; credit cards accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants; mobile payment options are growing.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December–March)

Mostly sunny days with lower humidity, ideal for outdoor sightseeing and long walks.

Rainy Seasons (April–May, October–November)

Afternoons see tropical showers; carry a light rain jacket and quick-dry footwear.

Nightlife Guide

Sucre at Night

The nightlife centers on plaza-side bars and live music venues featuring salsa, vallenato, and Caribbean rhythms. Expect friendly crowds, affordable drinks, and a relaxed pace; late-night options are more low-key than in bigger cities.

Hiking in Sucre

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Foothills and river trails outside the city

Gentle to moderate hikes with river views and forest scenery.

Dry forest reserves near coastal ranges

Short to moderate hikes offering wildlife and panoramic lookouts.

Airports

How to reach Sucre by plane.

Rafael Núñez International Airport (Cartagena)

Major international airport near the coast with frequent flights to major Colombian cities.

Los Garzones Airport (Montería)

Regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for connections within Colombia.

Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (Medellín)

Large hub with national and international flights; often used for domestic connections.

El Dorado International Airport (Bogotá)

Primary national and international hub with extensive flight options.

Gustavo Rojas Pinilla Airport (Sincelejo)

Local airport serving regional routes; convenient for travel within Sucre and nearby towns.

Getting Around

Walkability

The historic center is compact and walkable, with most attractions within a 20–30 minute stroll; some hills and uneven sidewalks require comfortable footwear.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban residents

Young professionals and students in the city center.

Families

Local families in surrounding towns and rural communities.

Afro-Colombian communities

Cultural presence in coastal and riverine areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; widespread local leagues and street games.

Baseball

Significant local interest with community leagues in several towns.

Cycling

Flat coastal-and-foothill routes attract recreational cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the city center; rural roads can be busy during holidays or market days. Taxis are plentiful and affordable; buses connect towns in the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sucre.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted; look for beans, lentils, arroz con vegetales, and platters featuring plantains, yuca, and salads. Communicate 'soy vegetariano/a' or 'sin carne' and ask for veggie options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Sincelejo and Montería with public hospitals and private clinics; for major medical care, travelers often use larger regional hospitals in bigger cities and travel insurance is advised.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide