Squares (plazas, piazzas, places) are great tourist stops. They are usually a beehive of activity, with restaurants, shops, street performers, and often major attractions. They are great places for people-watching and frequently offer a respite from sightseeing since they are places to relax and have a glass of wine or beer or a cup of coffee or tea.
In this series, I will list my favorite squares around the world, with the reasons why they are special. I will present them in groups of five (5) although I will not attempt to rank within the group. However, groups are ranked; group 1 is my all-time favorite 5, while group 2 is next, etc.
Group 9
Place de Petit Sablon, Brussels, Belgium* — This cute little square is more like a park. It is an oasis of green in the center of Brussels. The square is notable for its ring of shrubs and its statues.
Place du Petit Sablon
Place Jacques Cartier, Montreal, Quebec Province, Canada* — This is the most popular gathering place in Vieux (Old) Montreal. There are several places to dine al fresco and the architecture around the square is interesting.
Place Jacques Cartier
Main Square, Ravello, Italy* — This adorable little square, high above the sea on the Amalfi Coast, features the town Cathedral. It is common to see small children playing soccer on the square, and it is frequented by locals as well as tourists.
Main Square, Ravello
Plaza de Corredera, Cordoba, Spain* — This beautiful Spanish square is surrounded by classic orange-colored buildings. Restaurants on the ground floor make it an important gathering place.
Plaza de Corredera
Goldenheart Square, Fairbanks, Alaska — The gorgeous fountain is the focal point of this significant spot in Fairbanks. The square is a popular meeting place for residents and tourists.
Goldenheart Square, Fairbanks
* All these locations are included in my walking tours of each city. Check them out by clicking on “Walking Tour Store.”.
