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Best Things to Do in Quito Ecuador: Travel Guide & Tips

January 29, 2020 By John Widmer 69 Comments

There are so many awesome things to do in Quito, Ecuador !

Quito is an intriguing travel destination to consider. It’s one of the largest cities in the world to lie right next to the equator. And at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet, or nearly 2 miles high), Quito is the highest constitutional capital city in the entire world.

This high-flung equatorial city dates way back to its founding, in 1534 . Some of the architecture from that century can still be found in Quito’s historic Old Town today!

But fast-forward to 2020 and visitors will realize that Quito is a fascinating mix of old-meets-new . Historic alleyways and baroque buildings are situated against a backdrop of modern skyscrapers with trendy eateries.

Quito is a land of beautiful contrasts. The city is indeed a busy and sprawling metropolis. Yet the looming volcanos and tranquil Andean mountain peaks surrounding Quito provide a stark reminder of the serene landscapes all around.

Home to the country’s largest international airport, Quito is frequently used as a gateway city to access the rest of Ecuador. Often travelers visit Quito as a quick one-day stopover on the way to the Galapagos. But there are so many great things to do in Quito to easily justify a longer stay. Ecuador’s capital can be an unexpected delight to travelers.

There are plenty of things to do in Quito itself to fill several days of a packed itinerary. Quito contains:

• dozens of historic buildings to discover in Old Town,
• the unique opportunity of visiting the equator line ,
• hiking trails to trek from right within the city,
• hundreds of ornate churches to admire,
• a ride from the city into the Andes one of the highest cable cars in the world,
• fantastic local cuisine to try, plus some interesting local drinks to tip back, and
• more than fifty museums to tour!

Yet those who enjoy adventure activities should budget extra time into their Ecuador itinerary, in order to pursue Quito’s awesome day trips. Quito acts as an excellent travel hub to organize excursions within a two-hour drive of the city. There’s an abundance of popular Quito day trips to consider, from summiting an icy volcano to river tubing through a cloud forest .

The many things to do listed within this detailed Quito travel guide have been carefully curated after doing several months of on-the-ground research in the city, reviewing Quito’s best attractions and activities.

It’s all in a grand effort to help travelers make the most of a visit here. So we hope this Best Things to Do in Quito Travel Guide proves helpful to anyone planning a trip to this great South American capital.

Welcome to Quito, Ecuador!

Best Things to Do in Quito Ecuador

The following lists our top 20 recommendations of things to do in Quito, with a handy map to help find these Quito attractions.

1) Wander Quito’s Historic Center

Quito’s Old Town acts as a show-stealer within Ecuador’s capital city. Wandering through the bustling streets among centuries-old architecture is not just something to see in Quito. The Old Town is something to experience.

Quito historic center is recognized as having the best-preserved, least altered historic center in all of Latin America. It’s this accolade that led Quito to become the first city in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site (alongside Krakow, Poland) back in 1978. Read the full Quito UNESCO description .

Quito Old Town delivers not only cultural significance. Quito’s historic center exudes charm. Despite earthquakes and modernization, the baroque buildings throughout Quito’s Old Town remain largely intact. It can feel like another era wandering amongst the beautiful architecture that’s been here for nearly a half-millennium!

Where to Go in Quito Old Town:

To begin exploring Quito Old Town, head to its heart. That’s Plaza Grande .

All within a 10-minute walking radius of this centrally-located plaza are dozens of notable buildings and attractions to see within Quito’s historic center.

To help narrow down some points of interest, Quito’s Center of Touristic Services suggests the following six locations as the must-sees of Quito Old Town :

• Presidential Palace : also known as Carondelet Palace , this is where Ecuador’s president lives and works.
• Metropolitan Cathedral : Catholic church completed in 1565 and now the archdiocese. Has tour & museum ($3).
• La Compañía de Jesus : a 17th-century Jesuit church a few blocks away from Plaza Grande, known for its gold-covered interior.
• Plaza San Francisco : Quito plaza that contains the city’s oldest church (St Francis), street vendors, a chapel, a museum with religious art, and cafes. But it’s the Andes views here that provide a beautiful natural backdrop during a clear day.
• La Merced : White, domed Catholic Church (1736) that contains important artworks and library.
• San Agustin : Historical convent (1617), where Ecuador’s Independence Act was signed and houses many paintings from 17th-century artist Miguel de Santiago. Hourlong tours of the halls and interior courtyard are $2.
• City Museum : Learn all about the history of Quito through the chronological exhibits in this former hospital building.

For those interested in architecture, churches, and history, it’s easily possible to spend an entire day, or more, exploring Quito Old Town. Yet even those with a casual interest should still be fascinated for hours strolling through the historic center’s cobblestone alleyways.

Budget some time to take a break at one of the many cafes in order to simply watch life in Quito pass by. Consider ending a long day strolling through the historic center at Bandido Brewing for what we say is the best craft beer in Quito Old Town. (Note: it’s $3 pints during happy hour from 4:00-7:00).

🗺️ On your own : Quito’s tourism information center is right along Plaza Grande, opposite the Presidential Palace. They can provide a helpful city map (free). The map includes many points of interest, plus walking tour routes you can pursue on your own.

🚶 Quito Free Walking Tour : There is a free (tip-based) Quito walking tour every day, except Sundays, at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. It’s run by the Community Hostel . The 3½-hour tour provides an in-depth look into Old Town with interesting background about the city, Ecuadorian culture, and Quito travel tips. A $5-$10 tip per person is suggested. See: Free Walking Tour Ecuador .

2) Climb the Basilica del Voto Nacional for Views & Oddities

If a visitor were to only go to one of Quito’s numerous churches, our recommendation is to definitely visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional .

Quito’s Basilica is not just another church in South America.  Visit this church, even if you’re not into churches. It is actually the largest neo-Gothic church in all of the Americas.

But it’s not just the Basilica’s grandiosity that makes a trip here one of the best things to do in Quito. It can be such an adventurous experience to climb the towers ! The brave who make it to the top are rewarded with stunning views of Quito down below. Definitely make sure that climbing this rickety route is on your list of things to do in Quito. Yet below are three more great reasons of why the Quito Basilica deserves a visit.

See the Armadillos that Have Replaced Gargoyles

Ecuadorian iguanas, armadillos, and Andean condors can all be found lining the Basilica’s exterior. It’s such an interesting sight! Those who don’t know to look may miss it entirely.

Pursue the Harrowing Climb atop This Church

After ascending many steps midway up one of the Basilica’s towers, visitors can walk directly atop the enclosed church roof on a wooden plank walkway. Then the climb begins on a series of steep & stairs and even ladders. Children and adults regularly turn back out of nervousness. Those who are able to climb higher and higher will finally reach the top to enjoy incredible views of Quito.

It can all be a little nerve-wracking for those with even the slightest fear of heights. But it’s this adventure involved that helps to make a visit to the Basilica such a fun thing to do in Quito! The ladders are sturdy and there is railing.

Have a Beer in Church – Really!

Perhaps the most unique thing to do in the Quito Basilica is to have a  beer in this church! It’s a great way to calm your nerves after the climb, while also taking in those sweet Quito vistas.

Before exiting the other tower in the Basilica, walk up the spiral staircase to reach the Basilica’s somewhat hidden café. The views are great here too! So grab a table by the windows overlooking Quito Old Town and enjoy a cold cerveza from inside this place of worship. Doing so may be one of the more unusual things to do in Quito, Ecuador!

💲 Cost : $2 admission to climb the towers 🕒 Hours : 9:00 am-4:00 pm ⌚ Length of visit : About 1 hour, possibly longer if lingering for a beer. 📍 Location : About a 10-minute walk northeast of Plaza Grande, found here on Google Maps . 💡 Tip : If possible, go on a weekday when it’s less-trafficked to avoid waits that sometimes form at the ladders.

3)  Take the Quito TelefériQo High Into the Andes

The TelefériQo is Quito’s awesome cable car that flies passengers high up into the Andes. It’s pretty incredible to be able to go from the middle of this bustling capital city to then be transported to the peaceful mountaintops. This occurs all within an ultra-scenic 18-minute cable car ride. Personally, taking the teleferiQo is our favorite thing to do in Quito.

Quito’s TelefériQo is one of the highest cable car lifts in the world. It brings passengers up to an altitude of about 4,000 meters (about 2.5 miles high). The 2.5-kilometer ride on the aerial gondola itself is a lot of fun. Yet there are even more things to do once at the top of this beloved Quito attraction.

The upper TeleferiQo station is actually on the eastern slope of the Pichincha Volcano! After arriving to the upper station, there’s a lookout platform to soak in the views. You’ll also find hiking trails to trek, horseback riding ($10 per hour), a few cafes to relax at, a church, a swing soaring off the side of this mountain, and some touristic photo opportunities with resident llamas.

Gazing way back down towards the city, the lookout platform offers some of the best sweeping views of Quito. It gives perspective of just how big the city is, tucked into the mountain valley.

There’s also now a thrilling swing for adventurous souls to fly right over Quito! And it’s free.

Yet it’s the hiking trails way up here that make for a particularly awesome recreational pursuit.

For those who are well-acclimatized, it’s possible to trek the high altitude trail to summit Rucu Pichincha . It takes about 4-5 hours to complete the 10-kilometer roundtrip hike up this active volcano. The trail starts out fairly easy and well-defined. But it becomes a steep and strenuous climb in parts.

Patchy snow can even be encountered along the way. This makes it one of the few places in the world to find snow in the equatorial zone. There’s also a rock scramble towards the Rucu Pichincha summit. So this should only be pursued by experienced hikers.

💲 Cost : $8.50 for adults, roundtrip 🕒 Hours : Tuesday-Thursday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm. Friday-Monday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm ⌚ Length of visit : Minimum of 1 hour. Best to allow for 2 hours. Plan 5-7 hours if attempting the cable car + hike up Rucu Pichincha. 📍 Location : Here on Google Maps , on the western fringes of central Quito. Take a taxi or Uber, which should cost about $3-$5 each way if coming from somewhere central in Quito. 💡 Tips : Pack a jacket, as it’s much cooler up here. Go on the TeleferiQo when the weather is clear. There are better odds in the mornings. If hiking, wait a few days in Quito to acclimatize before pursuing.

4) Go to the Equator and Its Quirky Attractions

La Mitad del Mundo (the Middle of the World) is one big tourist attraction near Quito. This is where the equator passes through Ecuador. It’s all at latitude zero, just north of Quito.

Is Going to the Equator Really Worth It?

Quito’s equator attractions are completely touristy and out of the way from central Quito. Also, the main monument isn’t even actually on the equator. Despite these downsides, visiting the equator can still be a quirky and fun thing to do in Quito. It’s a half-day diversion on the northern outskirts of the capital.

For those with only one day or two days in Quito, perhaps the equator attractions could be something to skip. But if you’re in Quito for more than a few days, it’s almost necessary to add it to your Quito itinerary. Come see what all the fuss is about and snap a few equator-selfies!

Understand there are two separate Quito equator attractions :

• Ciudad Mitad del Mundo,
• Museo Solar Intiñan

Quito Equator Attraction #1: Ciudad Mitad del Mundo

They haven’t changed the line, nor is there any mention of the inaccuracy at the famed monument. It’s close enough.

The monument here is the main attraction. But there’s an entire “equator city” that surrounds it. That’s known as the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World City). Here, visitors will find loads of tourist shops, cafes, a planetarium, a train ride, and other little attractions.

💲 Cost : $5. Note: the ticket booth may try to upsell a more expensive combo ticket that includes many of the onsite attractions. But a $5 ticket grants access into the “Equator City” and the monument. 🕒 Hours : 9:00 am – 6:00 pm. ⌚ Length of visit : 30 minutes or so. Longer if visiting many of the onsite attractions. 🔗 Official Website : Mitad del Mundo . 📍 Location : It’s a 40-60 minute drive from central Quito to Mitad del Mundo, found here on Google Maps . It can be approached by bus, taxi, or tour. More detail on how to get to the equator zone follows.

Quito Equator Attraction #2: Museo Solar Intiñan

The Museo Solar Intiñan is a smaller and lesser-visited attraction in Quito’s equator zone. Yet, it’s no less interesting. The Intiñan Museum is closer to where the equator passes through. Although our GPS showed their equator line was still 90 meters south of latitude 0.

Upon entering the open-air museum, guests are taken for an included 45-minute tour to see kitschy exhibits that have nothing to do with the equator. There’s a shrunken head, a preserved anaconda, and other Ecuadorian oddities.

Then it’s on to the main show: the equator.

On Intiñin’s equator line, a guide leads visitors through a few funny “experiments,” that many are skeptical of. For example, water is poured into sinks on each side of the equator to demonstrate the Coriolis Effect in which the rotation of the water purportedly changes on either side of the equator. (Watch closely at the direction the water was poured from and judge for yourself.)

It’s also possible to attempt walking a straight line on the equator. It’s supposedly more difficult since both hemispheres are tugging at you. We’re doubtful of this too. Yet the results of our attempt, captured on video, speaks for itself:

Despite our suspicions of scientific misrepresentations, the Museo Solar Intiñan is all good fun! Go there, have a laugh, and judge the experiments for yourself.

💲 Cost : $4 🕒 Hours : 9:30 am – 5:00 pm. ⌚ Length of visit : It’s a 45-minute tour. 🔗 Official Website : Museo Iniñan . 📍 Location : Museo Intiñan is located just around the corner from Mitad del Mundo, found here on Google Maps , about a 5-10 minute walk away. The equator area can be approached by bus, taxi, or tour. Complete directions on how to get to the equator zone are below.

Directions to Equator Attractions from Quito

So which of the two equator attractions to visit? We suggest to go to both . They are both inexpensive, don’t take much time, and are two completely different equator experiences. If you’ve taken the time to reach this area, visit the two attractions together.

🚕 Quito to the Equator by Taxi/Uber : The most convenient way to get to Mitad del Mundo is by taxi or Uber. Expect to pay about $15 each way by taxi. An Uber estimate from Old Town Quito to the equator attractions is $12-$18, each way.

5) Go to El Panecillo for Some of the Best Views of Quito

In a city surrounded by mountains, there are great miradors (viewpoints) all along the higher outskirts of Quito. Yet El Panecillo is one of the only lookout points that pops up right from the middle of the city. And it’s capped by a very notable statue.

El Panecillo translates to the “The Little Bread Loaf.” This hill in the middle of the city separates North and South Quito. While wandering around Quito Old Town, El Panecillo hill is usually somewhere looming in the background. Go here to get excellent views of Quito down below. On clear days, it’s also possible to see the region’s volcanos.

In addition to the great vistas, there’s also a big Virgin Mary statue. It’s one-of-a-kind because of her angelic wings. The statue is known as the La Virgen de Quito and is said to be the largest winged Virgin Mary statue in the world .

6) Check Out the  Guayasamín Collection and  Quito’s 50+ Museums

There are dozens of museums all throughout Quito. In fact, there is said to be more than 50 museums spread across Ecuador’s capital! Since these museums are all indoor, museums can be the perfect solution for things to do in Quito on a rainy day.

There is a museum for just about every interest in Quito, whether that’s art, culture, history, religion, and more. There are even more obscure museums like a water museum and even an artisan beer museum at the equator. Yet some of Quito’s most popular museums include :

• For Everything Ecuador: * Museo Nacional * – Ecuador’s expansive National Museum contains a large and impressive collection of Ecuadorian artwork, historical exhibits, and artifacts. It’s a great free museum – go!
• For Culture: Mindalae Museum – ethno-historical craft museum that explores Ecuador’s indigenous people. ($3)
• For Ancient Relics: Casa del Alabado – houses a large collection of well-preserved pre-Colombian artwork. ($4)
• For Quito’s History: Museo de la Ciudad – exhibits in a former hospital chronologically showcasing Quito’s history. ($3)

Guayasamín’s La Capilla Del Hombre Museum

Yet perhaps the most popular museum in Quito is the adjoining La Capilla Del Hombre and Museo Guayasamín ($8). If only visiting one museum in Quito, this is likely the best bet. And particularly so for art-lovers.

Oswaldo Guayasamín is arguably Ecuador’s most famous painter. Even for those who have never heard of this artist, there’s much to learn about Guayasamín at this museum. Most visitors depart with a newfound respect and fascination for Guayasamín.

“The Chapel of the Man” is his masterpiece building. Guayasamín personally designed it before his death (1999) to showcase his masterworks. The neighboring home/museum offers a peek into Guayasamín’s life. It also shows off the artist’s prized collections, his bedroom, his working art studio, and more of his art pieces.

7) Enjoy Quito’s Central Park and Botanical Gardens

For such a busy South American capital city, there’s a refreshing number of parks and green spaces throughout Quito. If the busy streets and bus exhaust become a bother, these parks are the perfect escape right within the city. In Quito’s parks, visitors can be greeted by hummingbirds in the fresh air amongst a forest of trees.

Our best Quito park suggestion is:   Parque Carolina.  This big park right in the middle of the city is somewhat reminiscent of New York’s Central Park. But Parque Carolina is distinctly and charmingly Ecuadorian.

Carolina Park can be best experienced on weekends. That’s when it seems all of Quito comes here for some outdoor fun. Lots of food vendors are set up to serve Ecuadorian favorites like fritada , ceviche de chocho , fresh juices, and more.

Quiteños come to Parque Carolina for a bit of recreation within the city. Or a fiesta. It’s never surprising to find a local festival or even a concert happening within this park.

Parque Carolina also holds more than just futbol fields, playgrounds, and running tracks. It also boasts the largest free skatepark that we’ve seen anywhere in the world. Additionally, there’s a man-made river, where park-goers can rent paddle boats for a leisurely float around the park ($4.50 per boat, per half hour).

Explore Quito’s Botanical Gardens

Perhaps most notable for travelers, within Parque Carolina there’s the really well-done  Quito Botanical Gardens . Visitors will find multiple greenhouses offering a glimpse into the different regions of Ecuador, from the high paromo (alpine) to lowland jungle environments. It’s an expansive and impressive garden, with meandering trails throughout.

Both the rose garden and orchid garden are highlights. There’s even a Japanese zen garden. But perhaps most interesting is the greenhouse showcasing carnivorous plants !

8) Climb the Steps to Itchimbía for Views and the Crystal Palace

It’s a healthy climb up the many flights of stairs on the eastern side of Quito’s Old Town to reach the area known as Itchimbía. Itchimbía is where that big orange Quito sign makes for great photo ops overlooking the city. So after catching your breath from climbing the stairs, go check out the sign and pose for a selfie.

Itchimbia is also home to Quito’s Crystal Palace . This massive structure of iron flanked with glass walls was shipped over from Germany over 100 years ago. It’s said to resemble the Las Halles market in Paris, and as such, has served as a market itself.

The Crystal Palace now functions as a cultural center that hosts events. Yet it often sits empty, making for a particularly pleasant chill-out spot in Quito that is complete with bean bag chairs.

A third great reason to make the trek up to Itchimbia is simply for more sweet views of this awesome city. For the best photos, visit Itchimbia during the morning. That’s when the eastern sun lights up the Old Town to the west.

While the afternoon sun isn’t favorable to taking pictures towards the west, there is a great reason to visit Itchimbia after 4:00 pm.

On the street just below Itchimbia Park, Manuel Samaniego , there are three restaurants directly next to one another. They each offer spectacular views of the city as you dine and are in the perfect position to watch the sunset over Quito. At the very least, consider popping in for a drink to reward yourself for climbing up all those steps. We enjoyed Cafe Mosaico . But you can also try Vista Hermosa and Pideme La Luna .

9)  Plaza Foch: It’s What to Do in Quito at Night

Plaza Foch is THE party place in Quito . All around this central plaza in New Town, there are many cafes, bars, and clubs. It’s in this area that young Quiteños mix with travelers who frequent the area, each looking for a good time. An evening partying around Plaza Foch is among the most fun things to do in Quito at night.

Plaza Foch is a place for celebrations and revelry. Grab a table outside. Plaza Foch can be equally as good for people watching as it is for drinking.

Celebrating in Plaza Foch also makes for a great thing to do in Quito on New Year’s Eve! Here’s a video to give an idea of what the scene is like in Plaza Foch on December 31.

But Plaza Foch is more than just loud clubs. Cozy bars and even a number of craft beer pubs are also found in this area. (More on the latter in section #12 of this Quito travel guide!)

10) Drink Canelazo on Calle La Ronda

Speaking of drinking in Quito, La Ronda street is another good place to do that. This quaint pedestrian walkway slices right through Quito Old Town. With its balcony-lined cobblestone street, La Ronda may just be one of the most scenic stretches of Quito’s historic center .

A few shops and many cafés line this picturesque cobblestone alleyway. These buildings actually date way back to the 1600s. So La Ronda makes for a particularly inviting setting in Quito to stop in for a drink. Find an empty table at any one of these second-level balconies and order the specialty here: a canelazo .

Canelazo is a warm alcoholic drink found throughout the Ecuadorian highlands. This distinctly Ecuadorian beverage is made from hot cinnamon-sugar water that’s usually flavored with local fruit, most commonly naranjilla . Aguardiente (sugarcane alcohol) is added to give canelazo its kick. Know that the strength of canelazo can vary drastically based on how much aguardiente is used.

Canelazo tends to be quite sweet, with lots of panela (raw sugar) added. But the spiciness of the cinnamon and the citrusy tang of the naranjilla fruit helps to balance it out.

Canelazo is a popular drink throughout Ecuador during December, particularly so for Fiestas del Quito and Christmas. But on La Ronda, canelazo is popular all year long. And we can’t think of a more perfect setting to sip canelazo than perched on a balcony in La Ronda.

11) Eat Your Way Around Quito: Try the Local Specialties

One of the best things to do in Quito is simply to eat! Ecuadorian food is delicious and there are some particularly tasty regional dishes to the Quito area to be on the lookout for.

Here are a few favorite local Quito dishes we recommend to try:

Eat Locro de Papa in Quito

This is a creamy and hearty soup that’s quite popular throughout the Ecuadorian Andes. But it is most iconic to Quito to the point that it’s sometimes even called Locro Quiteño . It’s a soup made with three of our favorite local i ngredients: potato, cheese, and avocado!

This rich & creamy soup is a perfect way to keep warm in these higher elevations. A white mozzarella-like cheese is what’s plunked into the milk-based broth. Locro de papa is further flavored with onion, garlic, cumin, and ground annatto seed (achiote). The soup is completed by being topped with freshly sliced avocado – yum! 🌱 It’s vegetarian-friendly too !

Locro de papa is commonly found throughout Quito. In Old Town, try the locro de papa in the historic courtyard surroundings of Hasta la Vuelta . At $8, it’s a bit pricey for this soup. But the atmosphere and quality helps to justify it.

Eat Empanadas de Viento in Quito

Translated to “wind empanadas” because of the airy interior that’s created when it’s fried. G ooey melted cheese is tucked inside the crispy fried dough and a bit of sugar is sprinkled on top. These snacks are often huge and sharable.

Empanadas de viento pair great to pair with a canelzao. They can be found throughout Quito. Empanadas de viento are most commonly found in La Ronda. Expect to pay $2-$4, depending on the size and location.

Eat Fritada in Quito

Fritada has many local Ecuadorian components, anchored by flavorful pork. That pork is boiled in spiced-up water until it evaporates, when the pork is then fried in its own fat.

This culminates in some tasty pork morsels that are good on their own merit. But one of the best aspects of fritada is the variety of sides it comes with. Here’s what you normally get: hominy, toasted corn, avocado, ripe plantain, and llapingachos .

What are Llapingachos? They’re fried potato pancakes stuffed with cheese. Often served as a side to many dishes in Quito. Be sure to try them too, whether with fritada or on their own!

Where to find good local food in Quito?

For lunch in Old Town, one of the best places to try local Quito cuisine is at the Mercado Central . An array of food stalls awaits to compete for your business. Prices are inexpensive and all of Quito’s classics can be found here. It’s also a great place to mix with the local Quiteño crowd.

For dinner in La Floresta, try the street food stalls in Parque Navarro , which similarly sports a charmingly local vibe amidst this neighborhood that’s better known for its upscale restaurants.

If you’re either a foodie who wants to explore Ecuadorian cuisine further or simply hesitant to approach unfamiliar street foods on your own, then definitely consider taking this Quito Food Tour . It’s a deal at only $25, including lots of nibbles. But it’s only offered on Friday nights.

12) Stumble onto a Quito Craft Beer Pub Crawl

There’s no better way to wash down Quito’s street food than the city’s delicious craft beer. Quito’s craft beer scene is exploding right now and there are great microbreweries scattered all throughout the capital. In traveling extensively in Ecuador, we can definitively say that Quito has the best craft beers and the most brewpubs anywhere in the country.

This makes for a fantastic opportunity to go on a craft beer pub-crawl in Quito. It’s possible to create your pub crawl or leave it to the professionals by joining an organized Quito Craft Beer Tour. Both options are a blast for any beer-lovers traveling to Quito.

Quito Craft Beer Tour

For an easy and fun way to discover the best craft beer places in Quito, book this Quito Craft Beer Tour . A designated driver conveniently takes drinkers around to three notable Quito brewpubs. The modest $44 price not only includes the transportation, but also beer at each brewery and a liquid welcome gift! Besides the convenience of a driver, guests also learn a lot about the flourishing Quito craft beer scene and potentially meet some of the brewers. Check the availability calendar and recent reviews here .

A DIY Craft Beer Pub Crawl

Or form a craft beer pub crawl of your own. Some Quito brewpubs are within close proximity of each other to walk. Uber and taxis make it easy getting to further-flung microbreweries. All in the name of research, we visited over a dozen craft breweries in Quito. Below are some of the favorites that we recommend, with happy hours noted to save you a few bucks while sampling Quito’s finest brews!

Best Quito Craft Breweries in Old Town :

🍺  Bandido Brewing is our favorite brewpub in Quito Old Town. During the weekday 4-7 happy hour pints are $3. 🍺  Santa Rosa Cerverza  recently opened this second location to now offer Old Town some of the best beers in Quito. 🍺 La Oficina brews up their own San Blas beers, which are decent and very well-priced. $4 pints drop to $2 during their generous 5:00-7:00 happy hour.

Best Quito Craft Breweries in New Town :

🍺 ABYSMO Brew Pub  has some high-quality brews in Quito. Great IPAs, but it’s the bourbon stout that is the best of its kind in Ecuador. Half-liters $5.50-$6.50. 🍺 Santa Rosa Cerverza Artesanal Bar  arguably has some of the best craft beer in Quito. The IPAs are excellent, particularly the Dark IPA. Pints: ~$6. A Tuesday-only happy hour drops select taps to $3.50 from 4:00-8:00. 🍺  Bandidos del Paramo :  This Quito brewpub is a taproom collaboration of two established Quito craft breweries: Bandidos and Paramo. Happy hour is 3×2 beers until 8:00. Now with two locations (1) Plaza Foch and (2) Whymper. 🍺 3 Monjes : La Floresta staple with some particularly strong and tasty brews. $5.50 half-liters.

Honorable Mentions in New Town

🍺  Cherusker Cerveceria : Cherusker goes for a German flair and it’s their German styles that shine the brightest. We recommend the Bavaria Wheat Beer. 5 beers on tap. $3.50-$3.90 per pint. 🍺  Indie Beer Company : 6 beers on tap (2 of their own, 4 guest taps.) $4.50 per pint, or 2 for $6. Pleasant atmosphere with okay beer. 🍺 Cervecería Camino del Sol : This is a fairly common craft beer brand in Ecuador and their Plaza Foch brewpub makes a convenient location. 5 beers on tap. $4.90 per half-liter. The beer is decent and the label artwork is awesome.

13) Admire La Floresta’s Street Art

La Floresta is a trendy Quito neighborhood in New Town with with historic hacienda-style houses that help to define this Quito enclave. There’s some great restaurants here too. Yet it’s the flourishing street art scene that’s really beginning to make La Floresta stand out.

Dozens of intricate murals and tasteful graffiti can be found all throughout the La Floresta neighborhood. It can be like walking through an outdoor art museum! But to see the best works, you must know where to look.

Thankfully there’s a great street art walking tour of La Floresta. The free (tip-based) walking tour hits all the most notable places in La Floresta, led by a passionate and knowledgable street artist. While street art is the focus of this La Floresta tour, it also takes in some of the neighborhood’s best viewpoints, a visit to an artist’s workshop, markets, and more.

This La Floresta waking tour makes an interesting exploration to discover a different side of Quito.

14) Join Quito’s Sunday Bike Ride: Quito Ciclopaseo

Every Sunday morning beginning at 8:00 am, a 30-kilometer stretch of Quito’s streets are closed off to vehicular traffic so that cyclists can enjoy a car-free ride around Quito. It’s a fantastic way to mix with locals and cover a lot of ground across Quito.

The Ciclopaseo has an interesting route that meanders from highways in New Town to the cobblestone streets of Old Town and even passes right through a few of Quito’s parks!

Many places in the city tend to be closed on Sunday. So the Ciclopaseo can be one of the best things to do in Quito on Sundays. Take to two wheels and explore Quito from behind the handlebars!

Here’s a glimpse into what that’s like.

15) Tour the Government Palace and Meet the President of Ecuador

How cool is this! Every Monday in Quito, there is a big changing of the guard ceremony outside of the Presidential Palace, also known as Carondelet Palace. During this procession, it’s a weekly tradition for the president to come out and wave to the crowd gathering on Plaza Grande down below.

It’s all quite the pomp and circumstance! A marching band parades through. Guards on horses have a choreographed moment. And then everyone in the plaza gets a chance to wave to the President of Ecuador.

If in Quito on a Monday, it’s highly recommended to squeeze this procession into your Quito itinerary. Greeting the President may be one of the most unique free things to do in Quito. Occasionally the president misses the weekly tradition, but the changing of the guards still takes place, regardless of his attendance or not. It all goes down in Plaza Grande every Monday at 11:00 am.

⚠️ Important tip : Be extra vigilant of pickpockets as the plaza gets crowded during the ceremony and many become distracted while sneaky pickpockets are out in force.

It’s also possible to tour Quito’s presidential palace! This is an interesting opportunity to be able to tour the Ecuadorian equivalent of the White House. And it’s yet another free thing to do in Quito. The grand tour can take up to two hours, visiting the stately interior of offices, banquet rooms, courtyards, and the balcony. Note, there is no longer a ticketing system as there once was. Now advanced reservations are required. Info below.

Best Quito Day Trips & Excursions

Perhaps one of Quito’s best attributes is its Andean location. This lends itself to so many awesome Quito day trips & excursions throughout the region. We attempted to explore the surrounding mountains at length so that we can give you our recommendations for the best Quito day trips.

Although each of these suggestions can most certainly be accomplished by day trips, those who have time should consider doing some of them as overnight excursions. You’ll get a chance to explore each place deeper. That said, each can still be accomplished on a day trip from Quito.

16) Go to the Mindo Cloud Forest for Birding and Adventure

The Mindo Cloud Forest is a fascinating environment located less than a two-hour drive from Quito. This cloud forest is similar to a rainforest. But the elevation and nearly constant low-lying cloud cover is what makes Mindo a cloud forest instead. People come to Mindo from all over the world for its biodiversity that boasts over 500 bird species!

Yet Mindo is highly recommended not only for its nature and birding, but also for adventure!

In Mindo, there are many recreation pursuits. Common outdoor activities in Mindo include hiking , canyoning , repelling down waterfalls , zip lining , hand-pull cable cars , rope bridges, and river tubing .

Additionally, Mindo may have some of the best value adventure activities we’ve seen anywhere in the world! To give an example, zip-lining starts at $10 for a half-course run through the cloud forest and tube rafting is $6!

In addition to the many adventures in Mindo, there’s also a worthwhile butterfly garden ($7.50), a chocolate factory   ($10), and quaint riverside cafes to relax at over a beer.

While it is possible to visit Mindo as a day trip, those who enjoy outdoor adventure should consider a minimum of staying one night. Personally, Mindo is one of our favorite places in Ecuador. If you also enjoy nature and adventure, then be sure to read our separate travel guide that details the: 10 Best Things To Do in Mindo Cloud Forest . And check out all the video highlights below:

17) Cotopaxi Day Trip: Hike Toward the Snowy Summit of an Active Volcano

A day trip from Quito to Cotopaxi is a must-do excursion for any travelers who enjoy adventure. This glacier-capped beauty is one of the tallest active volcanoes in the world and is the 2nd highest point in Ecuador . The summit is 5,897 meters (that’s an elevation of about 3.6 miles high)!

To reach the summit of Cotopaxi, it takes a grueling overnight ascent that is occasionally off-limits due to heightened volcanic activity. But during Cotopaxi day trips from Quito, it’s possible to trek as far up as base camp at an elevation of 4,864 meters! The journey begins after breakfast with a drive through the clouds and up the side of Cotopaxi. Wild horses can often be spotted in this area of Cotopaxi National Park.

The dirt road eventually ends and that’s when the hiking begins. It’s a steep yet short trek, a bit more than 1 km. But the lower oxygen levels at this altitude make it a more difficult trek up the volcanic terrain. Depending on weather conditions at the time, there’s a chance of snow towards the Cotopaxi base camp. It’s there that hikers can warm up with some hot chocolate or try the coca tea to help combat any potential altitude sickness.

Yet perhaps the most thrilling part of the Cotopaxi day tour is the descent! For those who have opted to take a Cotopaxi day tour, mountain bikes provide a bumpy ride down the side of this active volcano! It’s awesome, and the entire experience makes for one of the best Quito day trips.

❌🚕 Quito to Cotopaxi Taxi: It’s possible to find a taxi willing to drive to Cotopaxi for the day. Expect to pay ~$100 for the return trip. But without 4-wheel drive, the taxi likely won’t be able, or willing, to drive towards the top of Cotopaxi for the trek to base camp.

🚂 Quito to Cotopaxi Train:  There is a tourist train that runs from Quito to Cotopaxi. But it doesn’t let passengers off to hike up Cotopaxi. Instead, the train is more of a relaxing day that only goes near the base of the volcano for a short walk. Best for those not wanting to trek. Be forewarned the train only goes to view Cotopaxi, which may be obscured by clouds. The $39 trip runs Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, by Tren Ecuador .

✅🚐 Cotopaxi Day Tours:  A Cotopaxi Day tour is the best option for adventure travelers. It’s convenient, good value, and the hike-and-bike tour makes a great combo. Here are three options:

18) Take a Laguna Quilotoa Day Trip to this Scenic Crater Lake

A day trip to Laguna Quilotoa Crater is a very popular and worthwhile thing to do from Quito. This former volcano collapsed from an eruption that is estimated to have occurred about 600 years ago. Now the remaining crater lays filled with water, transformed as a deep crater lake. And it’s an awe-inspiring sight.

Pictures don’t even really do it justice. Quilotoa is simply one of those places that you have to see in person. It’s jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

There are some great views from the Quilotoa Crater rim. But it’s a fun hike down the steep path to the bottom. Along the way, there’s an awesome swing that flies over the edge of the crater. Amazing!

Once at the bottom of Laguna Quilotoa, there’s a chance to kayak around the crater lake ($2.50). It’s then a tough hike back up to the top. For those who don’t quite have the energy, some men with some mules are happy to offer their services.

While going to Laguna Quilotoa does make a good day trip from Quito, it’s also possible to pursue an awesome 3-day trek in around the crater and through Andean farming villages, with great hostel stays and filling meals. This is known as the Quilotoa Loop. It’s one of our favorite treks in South America.

For more info on that, see our separate post: How To Trek the Quilotoa Loop the Cheap & Easy Way .

🚐 Laguna Quilotoa Crater Day Trip from Quito : It’s recommended to travel to Quilotoa as part of a day tour from Quito. This makes for a long day but the impressive crater is so worth the journey. Most day trips help break apart the long drive by stopping at a local market or historic church on the way to Quilotoa. On the return, detours are made to a local home and Cañon del Rio Toachi. The Laguna Quilotoa day tours are good value, starting at $45 and some include lunch. Here’s where to book:

19) Day Trip from Quito to Otavalo for Crafts and Crater Lake

Otavalo is home to Ecuador’s most famous local market, which is one of the largest and most renown markets in all of South America. We recommend an Otavalo day trip for anyone who enjoys shopping for local crafts, as you’ll find the best craft shopping in all of Ecuador here.

The Otavalo market tradition goes back hundreds of years all the way to pre-Incan times. The craft market is a particular highlight with so many colorful items on display. This famous Otavalo market really expands on Saturdays, and to a lesser extent, on Wednesdays.

On Saturday the market sprawls out across dozens of blocks of Otavalo’s streets. The market runs from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Although we notice people begin to start packing up after 4:00 pm. While Saturday and Wednesday are best, it is possible to visit the craft market any day of the week.

On Saturdays, there’s also an animal market. It may seem like a novelty, but we suggest passing on that. There’s really not much to it, other than disturbing animal conditions.

More things to do around Otavalo

There’s an impressive condor rehabilitation center, Parque Condor , which can be reached by taxi from Otavalo for $4. Near there is a beautiful waterfall, Waterfall Peguche , accessible by a short hike.  Also nearby are many stunning Andean lakes, such as Laguna Cuicocha (below).

It’s so worth it to take a day tour to Otavalo since they easily include stops at many additional locations. Due to timing and connections, it would be impossible to visit them all on your own during a single day. The highlight of a day tour in the Otavalo area is the stunning crater lake known as Laguna Cuicocha ! If going to Otavalo, ensure this is a stop on your day tour.

20) Lagunas de Mojanda is a Hiking Utopia on a Clear Day

This area just outside of Otavalo is a hiker’s paradise on a clear day. What looks like picturesque green foothills are actually high-altitude alpine volcanoes! In between them, scenic crater lakes abound. It can be a magical place to visit when the weather cooperates.

There are dozens of treks to pursue at Lagunas de Mojanda, but the summit of Fuya Fuya is the most popular. It’s a great (and steep) hike to the summit of Fuya Fuya (4,263 meters) that offers some specular views of the lakes below and the many volcanoes that surround. 💡 Pro tip: pack some cardboard to slide down this volcano on the descent!

While it may be among the most beautiful places in the region, it does take a bit more effort to reach from Quito than the aforementioned day trip suggestions. Unfortunately there are no organized day tours go to Lagunas de Mojanda.

🚌 Quito to Lagunas de Mojanda bus + taxi : It’s not possible to get all the way Lagunas de Mojanda by bus. It can be accessed from Otavalo (see bus directions in Otavalo section above). From Otavalo, it’s a $15 taxi to Lagunas de Mojanda, each way. Consider paying the taxi to wait or to return (particularly so on a weekday), as taxis are not frequent here.

Quito Ecuador: Travel Tips

Before pursuing all the fun things to do in Quito, there are other logistics and travel tips to be aware of. We’ve scouted out the cheapest flights to get to Quito, the best places to stay in Quito, and important travel tips you need to know.

Getting to Quito Ecuador & Inexpensive Flight Routes

🇺🇸 Flights from  US to Quito

There are many flight routes from US to Quito. Direct flights can be found from Atlanta, Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale.

The best-priced airfares from the US to Quito are typically found from Florida; either Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Each of those locations regularly have airfare to Quito under $250 each way.

To secure and inexpensive fare, try to book at least three weeks in advance. There’s a nonstop JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale to Quito that we’ve even seen priced less than $100 each way !

Other flights from the US to Quito can cost upwards of $1,000. So i t’s worth considering booking a separate flight to Florida first in order to save several hundred dollars in airfare. New York City also tends to have competitive rates to Quito, with a layover is involved.

We’ve found the best rates from US to Quito by searching Skyscanner .

🇪🇺 Flights from Europe to Quito

Direct flights from Europe to Quito exist from Paris, Amsterdam, and Madrid.

Yet the most inexpensive ticket from Europe to Quito tends to be through Spain. As of 2o2o, we’ve regularly seen direct flights between Madrid and Quito listed around $330, one-way .

So if flying from Europe, it can be worth considering flying to Madrid first, then onward to Quito. Elsewhere in Europe, you may be spending well upwards of $1,500 on a round-trip ticket to Quito. You can flights these cheap flights from Madrid to Quito using three different airlines that serve this route: Iberia, Air Europa, and Plus Ultra Lineas Aereas.

Again, we’ve found the best rates from Europe to Quito by searching Skyscanner

Where to Stay in Quito Ecuador

Although it’s a very large city, there are two main areas most Quito visitors stay in:

• New Town: La Mariscal & La Floresta

So which should you choose? It’s a tough call and there’s no right answer. Yet we’d suggest a stay in Old Town, particularly so for shorter stays. In Old Town, you’ll be right in the heart Quito’s historic center to more easily experience some of the capital’s cultural highlights, just outside your doorstep.

Yet for those who are in Quito for a longer stay, New Town may prove a better option. New Town enjoys a location with more modern conveniences. There are lots of restaurants, malls, supermarkets, and bars. There’s also more of a nightlife scene around Plaza Foch compared to Old Town. So those looking to party may also be better situated in New Town. And it can be a bit safer at night.

Either way, it really doesn’t make too much of a difference, as these two locations are only separated by a few stops on the Ecovia or a $2-$3 Uber/taxi.

Hostels in Quito Are Best for Solo Travelers ⭐

Great Deals for Private Budget Rooms in Quito ⭐⭐

You can actually find some very decent private rooms in Quito for under $20 per night! They may be fairly basic, but they’re clean & comfy crash pads. 🏨 Hotel Yumbo Imperial : You can’t beat the location, smack in the middle of the historic center just two blocks form Plaza Grande. Hotel Yumbo boasts small but colorful rooms, at an incredible bargain, with a great location. 🏨 Hotel Margarita 2 : This hotel has very nice rooms for under $20 price. Thus, it may be one of the best values in Quito that includes private bathrooms (rather than shared). It’s next to a park and only about a 10-minute walk to the historic center. 🏨 L’Auberge Inn :  While not located in Mariscal nor in the historic center, the hotel’s location in between the two, making either area accessible. With great reviews and a great value, this is certainly a place to consider staying in Quito.

Excellent Value Quito Hotels ⭐⭐⭐

There are a few 3 & 4-star hotels with excellent reviews, yet with prices at only around $50 per night! Both of the steals even include breakfast, and can be found in La Mariscal, close to Plaza Foch: 🏨 Embassy Quito : This must be the most modern and stylish hotel you can find in Quito for under $50 and includes breakfast. 🏨 Sierra Madre :  This is another great option near Plaza Foch, with breakfast, and rooms under $50 per night.

Enjoy Luxury for Less ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For a little luxury, Quito has some fantastic value 5-star hotels to consider. Each of these can be booked for around $100 per night, which is a steal for the high-quality accommodation they deliver. Even if it’s out of your price range, just take a look at some of these elegant properties in Quito. 🏨 Casa San Marcos Hotel Boutique : If looking for a classy place in Quito Old Town that retains the area’s historic charm, look no further. This boutique hotel offers all the modern conveniences amongst gorgeous antiques and old-world charm. This intimate space boasts an excellent location in Old Town. If we were to splurge in Quito, this would be our #1 choice. 🏨 GHL Hotel Le Parc : Add some elegance to your stay in Quito with this swanky hotel in the financial district right next to Parque Carolina. 🏨 NH Collection Royal Quito :  This modern hotel is all class in the trendy La Floresta neighborhood.

For Long-Term Stays in Quito: Airbnb 🏢

For longer stays in Quito, Airbnb can be a great option to have the conveniences of a kitchen, laundry, etc. There are plenty of Airbnb throughout the city. We stayed in a modern one-bedroom furnished Airbnb apartment for as low as $400 for the month (28 days) including utilities. $600/month can be a good price range to shoot for in a centrally located area.

Of course, shorter stays are possible too. But we find that quick stays in Quito can be better served by a hotel or hostel, which are similarly inexpensive. If interested in Airbnb and have never used it before, feel free to use our referral link to save up to $40+ on your first Airbnb booking .

More Quito Travel Tips:

🌩️  don’t check the weather in quito.

Seriously, don’t bother. It’s usually wrong. The weather in Quito is very unpredictable. The forecasted temperatures can be somewhat trusted. But Quito’s sun/cloud/rain forecasts have proven to be consistently wrong.

☔  Always bring a rain jacket with you

Or a compact travel umbrella like this . Weather changes in an instant in Quito. A beautiful sunny day can turn into a torrential downpour with almost no transition. Always take a rain jacket or umbrella with you even if it appears to be a bright sunshiny day. June through August are the driest months in Quito. But it still rains then too.

🍽️  Get to know the “almuerzos”

The Spanish word for lunch is almuerzo . But in Quito, it takes on a slightly different meaning. Restaurants offering almuerzos are generally dishing out a set 3-course set menu of soup, a main w/ sides, dessert, and juice.

Almuerzo prices typically range $2.00-$3.50, so they are great options for budget travelers to eat amongst the local crowd in Quito. The incredible values are very common. Simply look for the sandwich boards or a handwritten sign outside of restaurants during lunchtime.

⛰️  Beware of Quito’s altitude

Quito is one of the highest capital cities in the world, with an altitude of 3,000 meters. That’s about two miles high!  Altitude sickness can occur at altitudes higher than 2,400 meters. Quito is 600 meters beyond that.

Some people visiting Quito from sea level experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Allow a few days to acclimatize before pursuing physical activities like hiking Cotopaxi and Quilotoa.

For those who are particularly prone to altitude sickness, consider taking this natural medication . It’s well worth it, as evidence from these great reviews it gets on Amazon . Avoid that throbbing headache and instead enjoy your trip to Quito!

☀️  Use lots of sunscreen.

In Quito, visitors are hit with a double-whammy of the equatorial sun and altitude. The sun in Quito is no joke. Visitors manage to get burned even on cloudy days.

Pack sunscreen with you. It tends to be much more expensive in Quito compared to US prices. Use at least SPF 50. We like this Banana Boat sunscreen that Amazon sells at a good price.

🚱 Don’t drink the water in Quito

The tap water in Quito is regarded as generally not safe to drink. Use bottled water only.

Also, consider traveling with this compact LifeStraw . We have one and it really came in handy a few times when we realized we were out of bottled water at night after all the stores were closed.

💸 Cash is king

Ecuador uses the US dollar as its currency. While some businesses in Quito do accept credit card, most don’t. Some places that do accept credit cards may add a fee. ATMs are frequent, so it’s best to use those and have cash.

💵  Use small bills

Most businesses generally won’t accept $50 or $100 bills. Come with small change as you’ll otherwise have a very difficult time breaking a hundo spot. Even twenties can sometimes be tough to break. Carry small change if possible.

🆔  Carry your ID

It’s not only the law. Bars often ask to see your ID upon entry (even when you’re clearly of age). It is almost always required if you do make any credit card purchases. Some of Quito’s free attractions, such as museums, also require an ID upon entry.

🚇  Reconsider public transportation for short trips

We’re often advocates of public transportation as a cost-effective and more ecological means of transport. But in Quito, we often noticed the $0.25 Ecovia, Troles, and buses can become packed to the point that you can barely breathe. With all the people up against you and further threats of pickpockets, you may want to reconsider taking the $0.25 ride during busy times.

It can be worth it to spend a few extra quarters to take an Uber or taxi, which both have reasonable rates. Traveling a few kilometers across town is typically less than $2.

🚕  Use the meter for taxis in Quito.

Often a taxi driver will turn on his meter upon you entering the cab. If he does, go with it. It’s a good rate. If not, be sure to negotiate a price immediately or you could end up paying more than expected.

🚗 Better yet, Uber in Quito .

We found Uber rates tend to be about the same, or slightly cheaper than a taxi. Ubers in Quito are safe and reliable.

Uber is also a good option for non-Spanish speakers. The destination is input into the app, so there’s no need to explain directions.

As long as you have an international data connection, the same Uber app you use at home works in Quito.

👛  Watch out for pickpockets.

Keep very vigilant, particularly in crowded places frequented by tourists. We found Quito to be safe overall. But there is a real threat of pickpockets in touristic areas. This holds particularly true in Old Town and in crowded public transport.

Be very mindful if someone seems to be innocently bumping into you. Keep belongings close in these instances.

 ⚠️  Important: Be Sure to Have Travel Insurance in Quito.

You never know what could go wrong during a trip to Quito, from a minor incident like lost luggage or flight cancelation to a major disaster like an earthquake or a car accident. Travel insurance will not only come to your rescue. It will also cover those unexpected costs.

Whether you sprain an ankle while hiking Cotopaxi or become a pickpocketing victim in Plaza Grande, don’t let something like this ruin your trip to Quito. We always use travel insurance while roaming around Ecuador and recommend it. We like World Nomads , which has what we’ve found to have the best price and coverage combination (particularly for longer trips).  Enter the dates for your trip  to get a quick estimate.

💼  What to Pack for Quito

Pack for Quito as you would for any cool-weather destination. We recommend plenty of activewear and sun protection. Also, be sure to pack comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll undoubtedly be doing. It’s wise to pack either a travel umbrella or a rain jacket too.

Of course, pack all of your regular travel gear that you’d pack for any international trip. Don’t forget the camera and your passport! Check out our Ultimate Travel Packing List for all our packing tips and travel gear ideas, which we wrote while based in Quito.

Traveling to Quito Ecuador?

We hope this Quito travel guide has helped to show what we’ve found are the best things to do in Quito. If you’ve used this guide to help plan a trip to Quito, please let us know in the comments. We always love to hear from people who may have stumbled across our posts.

Or if you have any questions while planning a trip to Quito, feel free to ask and we’ll try to answer. Finally, if you’ve been to Quito and have your own favorite thing to do in Quito, let us know so we can check it out next time.

And there will be a next time. Quito is way too fun not to return!

Lastly, if this post has helped you, please consider sticking with us to continue receiving travel tips and inspiration! Join thousands of other savvy travelers on our Facebook and/or Instagram to get more awesome travel ideas into your social feeds!

Where to Next in Ecuador?

If you found this Quito Travel Guide helpful, then you may be interested in other travel guides we’ve published about Ecuador.

 🇪🇨 For the most comprehensive round-up on traveling Ecuador, be sure to check out our article that sums up the best experiences and where to go.

Read : 20 Best Things to Do in Ecuador & Interesting Places to Visit

🐢 Did you know that you don’t have to take a pricey Galapagos tour? You can actually visit the Galapagos independently for cheap! This post reveals exactly how it’s possible.

Read :  How To Afford the Best of the Galapagos: Budget Travel Tips

⛪ Cuenca is Ecuador’s colonial gem and is another one of the country’s Unesco World Heritage Sites. It’s nicknamed the Athens of Ecuador for its historic center and being a cultural hub. Yet adventure abounds in the Andes that surround and our latest guide spills all the details.

Read: 20 Best Things To Do in Cuenca Ecuador: Travel Guide

🎡  Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city. In comparison to Quito, it’s so different. Guayaquil is near the coast with a warm and tropical vibe. There’s lots to do in Guayaquil to consider a stopover of a few days.

Read :  15 Best Things To Do in Guayaquil Ecuador: Travel Guide

🚣 We weren’t sure if it was possible to travel by boat from Ecuador to reach the Amazon River . So we set off on a rural adventure to find out. Read our tale to see how.

Read :  How to Travel the Napo River by Boat from Coca to Iquitos

🏔️ Riobamba  is a 3-4 hour bus ride from Quito further into the Andes. This city sits at the base of Ecuador’s tallest mountain , Chimborazo, and hence is an awesome gateway to numerous adventures that about in the area.

Read : Riobamba Travel Guide: Best Adventures & Things to Do

Publishing note: This article about the Best Things To Do in Quito is continually updated to best reflect the latest and up-to-date info. Last updated January 29, 2020.

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January 19, 2023 at 1:26 AM

Am about to embark on a trip to Quito and the Galapagos. Thanks for all the helpful information. Have taken note and altered my itinerary. On a Trip Advisor site I saw that there was a Hop On Hop Off bus in Quito but I have not seen mention of this anywhere else. Can you confirm if this still operating? Someone mentioned that it was called Wanderbus?

February 7, 2023 at 12:00 PM

Wanderbus is a bus transportation option that makes multiday trips across Ecuador, allowing passengers to hop-on and off at various destinations across the country. If you’re looking for a hop-on-hop-off tour of Quito, there is a 2.5-hr double-decker bus tour of Quito but the ability to hop-on/off is limited. For a thorough tour of Quito, we instead recommend the Original 1914 Trolley Tour .

November 25, 2022 at 9:07 PM

This is very detailed! Bravo! I love your little blue boxes with tips and specifics on each activity. This page was easy to navigate and had a lot of really good information. Having been to Quito myself, and enjoyed many of the same things, I can only say well done, and I agree!!

October 30, 2021 at 2:54 AM

Thank you so much for this very detailed blog. It is absolutely EXCELLENT. The best of any destination guide I have seen for any city! Keep up the great work.

We are looking forward to our visit in Jan. 2021

November 4, 2020 at 12:18 AM

We plan to trip to Ecuador. This post help a lot. Thank you for the post.

August 3, 2020 at 3:33 PM

Love your info. Need more guides like this.

February 23, 2020 at 7:03 PM

Just wanted to thank you for all the great info. I will be in Quito for 10 days in June for my 60th birthday. I have reserved a room at the Community Hostel and will be booking my trips through them. I loved all your links and videos. Job well done, thanks again.

February 26, 2020 at 2:58 PM

So great to hear – hope you have a fantastic trip! 🙂

December 20, 2019 at 1:26 PM

Wow, great information on this site! Thanks so much for taking time to write and update it. I have one question about the Sunday bike days – do we have to rent bikes to go on the roads or can we get them elsewhere? I’m planning to do the free city bike program with biciquito, so wondering if I can just use one of these. Thanks!

December 20, 2019 at 4:08 PM

So glad you found it helpful! 🙂 The Sunday bike ride is open to everyone regardless of where you get the bike from. Most people that do the bike ride are local to Quito, so just bring their own bikes. You bring grab a bike from wherever to join in the fun. I’d imagine the Biciquito bikes should work just fine, so long as you completed their registration process. Have a great trip!

August 15, 2019 at 7:01 AM

This article was SO HELPFUL!! Thank you 🙂

One question: as we won’t be in Quito on a Saturday or Wednesday but wanted to do a combined day tour of equator and Otavalo – do you know if the two can be done on public transport? i.e. is there a bus connecting the two?

Also, do you happen to have restaurant recommendations apart from the amazing markets?

August 20, 2019 at 11:49 AM

It could be possible, but time would be tight. The main equator monument, Mitad del Mundo, is located on a different highway than the road to Otavalo. They’re both accessed from the North side of Quito, so that may help. If trying to squeeze them both into one day, I’d suggest going to Otavalo first, early in the morning, then hitting the equator monuments if you have time once you return. From Terminal Carcelen, it’s about a 2-hour bus ride each way to Otavalo. Once you return back to Quito, if you still have time before it closes (6pm), then you could take a taxi/Uber from the terminal directly to the equator monument. Depending on traffic, it could take up to 30 minutes and cost $5-$8 to Uber from Carcelen to Mitad del Mundo. Also, just note that the Otavalo market isn’t as big on days other than Wed and Sat. Have a great trip!

August 5, 2019 at 10:27 PM

Thank you for this guide! I really like and appreciate the details and organization of information. We referred to it a few times during our one week stay in Quito, and it was very helpful. There were a couple of things that were different than what was described here, not sure if it was just our luck or maybe some things have changed since your last update. I’ll just mention them here in case it’s helpful for other travelers, feel free to fact-check them and reply if it’s not generally true (and just our random experience). 1) Bus to Mitad del Mundo: There is actually a direct bus that’s not too hard to get to from the Centro Historico, which doesn’t require the transfer at Ofelia and was pretty easy. We boarded at the El Tejar bus stop (although I imagine there are other stops along the route that people could get to), which was about a 15 min walk from Plaza Grande, along Meijia until it turns into El Tejar (rough coordinates here: -0.214157, -78.51636). It’s not the bus stop at the island in the middle, just the one on the closer side if you’re walking along Meijia from Plaza Grande and the bus companies are called Transporte Mitad del Mundo. The ones to Mitad del Mundo will have a yellow sign saying “Mitad del Mundo” or “Ciudad del Mundo” in front. It costs $0.40. We heard it runs every 30 mins or so, although we waited no more than 5 mins so we can’t verify that. 2) Guard Change: We were told by our walking tour guide that this happens 8am most Mondays, except the first Monday of the month, when it’s at 11am. Since we were here the first Monday, it was at 11am as you mentioned, so we can’t verify the other time mentioned by our guide, but maybe it’s worth looking into to confirm. 3) Bike rental for Ciclopaseo: We actually didn’t find any bike rentals at Plaza Grande and were told by the Tourist Info Office that there aren’t any in the Centro Historico (unless you made some sort of advance reservation or something). We were instructed to go to La Mariscal, where we also didn’t see many bike rentals on Av. Amazonas until we reached La Carolina Parque area, where we saw a few, but not as many as we expected. If we were to do it again, we would probably plan ahead and reserve bikes since it didn’t seem as easy to just walk around and get one the day of. 4) Not quite mentioned in your Quito guide but rather in your Galapagos post, we actually did find snorkel sets in Quito and they weren’t so expensive (not $60+). We found many in the ‘Casas de Deportes’ sports stores around the Centro Historico, many near the Santo Domingo bus stop/plaza, although we’ve seen some more stores elsewhere as well. They ranged from $10-35. Probably cheap unknown brands so we can’t vouch for the quality though. We already bought ours in Costa Rica as we thought we couldn’t find any cheap ones in Quito and we are traveling for a while so we can’t get them from the U.S. shipped to us. There was an ‘Aquatek’ brand one in Quito for $35, though we got the same thing in Costa Rica for about $30. 5) We found the bus travel in Quito to be relatively safe, not that uncomfortable (we only had a crowded bus a couple of times and most other times we could find a seat), very economical for budget/backpack travelers (.25 for most buses), and definitely more ecological than taking cars around all the time. We understand of course that many of your readers are probably coming straight from North America/Europe for only a short vacation so maybe Uber/taxi is just easier to deal with and much cheaper than back home, but we would like to advocate for buses a little because it’s much more environmentally friendly (less carbon footprint per passenger). Quito even has some electric buses, and the Trole bus/Ecovia stops are very established. Google Maps has pretty good transit information on Quito, and we used it to get around with no problem. The only thing that was confusing on Google Maps is that they use numbers for routes that aren’t really displayed on the buses (e.g. Google will show bus 112 or 78 but the buses will not have these signs), so it’s easier to go by the destination (e.g. if Google says Rio Cuca, then just watch for the label that says Rio Cuca on the bus windshields).

Anyway, sorry for the long comment. We really found your guide super helpful and just wanted to share a little of our experience in case it’s helpful for others too. Now we’re headed to Galapagos next and will be looking at your post as well 🙂

August 6, 2019 at 8:08 PM

Am glad to hear this was helpful! Thanks so much for taking the time for your thoughtful response and feedback. Pointing out differences you noticed will surely help other travelers and we’ll definitely make some upcoming edits to this post to reflect this.

1) Thanks so much for the added info about the direct bus to Mitad del Mundo. Great to hear about not having to do the transfer. And your details are awesome. Will incorporate this info into the directions when we make a quick update to this post again soon. 2) The guard change has been at 11:00, every Monday in the past. Thanks for the heads-up about a potential 8am change. Will research this a bit further to confirm if it’s changed other than the first Monday at 11:00. Glad you were still able to catch it! 🙂 3) The bike rentals on Av Rio Amazonas alongside Parque Carolina are probably more abundant. That’s actually where we always go to rent them. Yet when we were last in Quito a few months ago, there were bikes still available at Plaza Grande, even at mid-day. Perhaps the demand for bikes is much greater at the Plaza though and they get scooped up in advance. I’ll soon edit this to suggest going to Parque Carolina as more of a sure thing to actually get a bike. 4) Glad to hear that there are some cheap-er masks around somewhere in Quito. Due to taxation, all the imported masks, and any merch really (cars, electronics, everything) are all so much more expensive than if purchased back in North America, or even across the border in Colombia. We’ve only encountered very high prices for masks, among the sporting goods stores throughout EC. Other travelers have been surprised by this in what is otherwise an economical country to travel in. So we like to advise packing a mask to avoid the potential of overpaying once in EC. In Galapagos, we’ve seen mask & snorkel sets being sold closer to $100 (yikes!) 5) The public transport is certainly worth considering, particularly for the more environmentally-friendly mode of transportation you mention on Quito’s sometimes heavily trafficked roadways. It’s really such a responsible move to make as a traveler and we totally applaud that. Yet we have found the Ecovia, in particular, to get regularly packed with everyone pressed up against each other and we’ve even had friends living in Quito who’ve gotten pickpocketed in those conditions. So it’s tough to fully recommend. Perhaps it’s best for more seasoned travelers and when it’s not overly crowded. I’ll change that tip to reflect not ignoring the public transport entirely.

Anyhow, thanks again so much for all the feedback. I really like to keep these guides up-to-date, based on reader feedback and changing conditions. Most people rarely take the time to stop back by after their trip to note any differences or changes. So this is all so helpful to us! Muchas gracias! 🙂 Hope you have an excellent time exploring all the magic of the Galapagos that awaits you!

June 14, 2019 at 1:54 PM

Felicito por esta guia muy completa y fácil de utilizar. Recomiendo siempre a mis pasajeros Arbnb que la visiten y así aprovechen mejor su estadía en Quito. Solo una observación, requiere actualizar la foto de Visita al Presidente.

June 19, 2019 at 7:58 PM

Nos alegra saber que el artículo está completo y es fácil de seguir. Lamento haber usado la foto de cuando vimos a Correa en el palacio hace años. Tendremos que volver para capturar una foto del presidente Moreno. Tales cambios pueden ser difíciles de mantener actualizados.

March 22, 2019 at 10:40 AM

Truly an amazing guide- muchísimas gracias!! I just arrived to Quito this morning and will be using this guide as a bible to all things cool in Quito! I’m definitely booking my hostel and Mitad del Mundo tour through your guide/site. Thanks again for such an easy and detailed guide!!

March 22, 2019 at 7:38 PM

Welcome to Quito! 🙂 It’s so great to hear this because we actually just spent the past few days giving this post a major update, after having just returned to Quito ourselves earlier this month. So it’s nice to know this fresh info is getting out there. Have an awesome trip to Quito and Ecuador!

March 21, 2019 at 6:02 PM

I’m so glad I found your post just before we went to Quito on March 3! I literally wrote down my list of things to do (and eat!) from this post, and everything was right on! Especially appreciated were the notes on taxi prices and approximate distances/drive times to sights.

Thanks so much for all the time it took to put this together. Lisa

March 22, 2019 at 7:30 PM

So glad to hear this proved helpful! Thanks for taking the time to stop back by our blog to let us know. Always encouraging feedback to hear. 🙂 Hope you had a great time in Quito!

March 19, 2019 at 9:58 PM

Hi, Thanks for sharing such a comprehensive guide. Heading to Quito for a few days in coming months and this guide really helps us choose how to best spend that time. Any packing tips? –seems long pants and sleeves and a fleece would be wise…Cheers!

March 21, 2019 at 4:09 PM

De nada! 🙂 So glad to hear this has been helpful. In the last day or two, we actually just did a big major update to this guide for 2019. It’s largely the same recommendations, but some logistics had changed and a few new things in Quito we discovered had popped up. Regarding packing, yes definitely long pants and long sleeves. Some days it gets warm enough for short sleeves. But it tends to cool off quickly at night. Fleece would be ideal. No need for a thick winter jacket or anything. And be sure to pack stuff for the sun and the rain. Hope you have a great trip to Quito!

February 18, 2019 at 12:23 PM

I have literally refered back to this article throughout my entire 10 days in Quito. So helpful. Looking forward to the next one. Thanks for sharing. Alan, Ireland.

February 19, 2019 at 6:59 AM

Ah, that’s so great to hear! 🙂 Thanks so much for dropping by with the comment to let us know. We’re really looking forward to returning Quito later this month! Cheers!

January 26, 2019 at 10:35 AM

Awesome post….you have tons of helpful tips, with specific details which most posts are missing. We are going to Quito in March for a week. This helps me feel more prepared. Thank you!

January 28, 2019 at 9:11 AM

Thanks for the kind feedback and so glad this proved helpful! 🙂 Hope you have a great trip to Quito! We’re getting excited to be heading back there next month ourselves.

November 24, 2018 at 4:50 PM

This is a really awesome guide. Thank you for all of the work on this!

November 12, 2018 at 5:09 PM

That i call a Guide – amazing work!

May 19, 2018 at 3:21 PM

Great suggestions! I have some notes I will post about somethings that have changed in the past 12 months, just finished a great visit with my husband.

May 25, 2018 at 1:05 PM

So glad to hear you had a great visit! Yes, please do let us know any changes you’ve noticed as we’re just getting ready to update this article. 🙂

February 28, 2018 at 4:47 PM

Wow – this is an awesome itenery. I plan on my first travelling experience and start in Quito. There seems so much to do i might plan in a few extra days! Onto the galapagos islands blog next! Thank you for this – your time is appreciated

March 20, 2018 at 10:26 AM

Thanks Abby! There’s so much to do in Quito, I’m sure you’ll be happy if you build in a few extra days. Enjoy exploring Ecuador, you’ve picked an excellent country to kick off your travels!

January 23, 2018 at 7:35 PM

I agree with all the previous compliments on how great this article is! I have a quick question. Where did you stay the night for the 2 day trip to Mindo? I would love to do the 2 day trip exactly how you suggest in the article.

January 24, 2018 at 10:40 PM

Always glad to hear this is helpful! 🙂 We stayed at Bio Hostal Mindo Cloud Forest. I was very inexpensive, good enough (yet nothing amazing), good location, and had a great hot breakfast. We were satisfied but really, there are loads of great inexpensive places in Mindo! Have a great trip – buen viaje!

October 11, 2017 at 8:17 PM

Thank you very much for this great guide. I am staying in Quito right now and find it very useful

October 24, 2017 at 11:23 PM

So glad to hear this Quito travel guide is proving helpful! Thanks so much for stopping by with the positive feedback.

September 27, 2017 at 7:34 AM

Hi John! Wow, this is a really comprehensive post with lots of really useful information and tips. It makes me want to go back to Quito. It’s such a beautiful city. I loved the Quito Craft Beer Tour. It was really fun! I actually just wrote a blog post recently too about alternative things to do in Quito.

July 19, 2017 at 8:53 PM

I would suggest doing one of the Escape Rooms in Quito. The games are quite cheep in comparison to the US or other parts of the world and some of them are well themed and thoughtfull. I would recommend Escape 23 in the Mariscal Area. Some more are: Exit, Room Escape Ecuador and Reto Eureka.

PS: Great Bog! =)

July 27, 2017 at 1:47 PM

We’ve seen those escape rooms popping up all over the place and have always wanted to do it. With costs lower in Quito compared to other places in the world, sounds like it could be worth doing there. Definitely something to consider checking out – thanks for the idea!

May 5, 2017 at 6:33 PM

Hey! What a winderdul article so helpful thank you very much for your work and passion. Quick questioni eant to do otovalo tour tomorrow but i want to take my time and buy a lot of souvenirs… do you think it is a great idea to do it with a grouo or it s best on my own???

May 7, 2017 at 4:55 PM

Not sure if this has reached you in time, but I’d suggest that if your main priority in Otovalo is shopping, then just do it yourself. But if those other activities interest you, the tour would make for a more complete day. I’d imagine that it would give you enough time to shop. It’s a big market but most of the handicrafts are clustered together in one area. I would assume that you would have enough time on the tour to buy all that you wanted but it really depends on just how much shopping you’re planning to do. If in doubt, I’d say just go on your own and you’ll have all the time you want. 🙂

March 1, 2017 at 12:44 AM

This is so informative and helpful especially for us who is planning to visit quito ecuador. I’ll be saving this to my bookmarks. And by the way, this will be my first travel so I’m excited haha! But, thank you so much! I love this. 😀

March 3, 2017 at 1:12 PM

Hey Esther, thanks for the comment! We’re so happy to hear that you have found our guide to be useful when planning your trip. Enjoy beautiful Quito!

February 22, 2017 at 3:39 PM

Wow, that’s a very nice and comprehensive guide to Quito! I’m planning to visit Ecuador this year, so definitely bookmarking it.

February 23, 2017 at 1:40 PM

Hey Pedro, thanks for the comment. We have no doubt that you’ll enjoy Ecuador just as much as we are!

February 22, 2017 at 4:43 AM

Quito Ecuador is really pretty. You are really lucky! I really want to visit here now.

February 22, 2017 at 2:13 PM

Hey Karla, thanks for the comment. We feel very lucky to travel through such a beautiful country 🙂 Hoping that you’ll get to experience it too!

February 21, 2017 at 4:56 PM

Excellent comprehensive article. I’ll be forwarding it to others bookmarking for myself. Thank you.

February 22, 2017 at 2:10 PM

Hey Alicia, thanks for the comment. We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the article and thank you for sharing!

February 21, 2017 at 10:03 AM

We stayed the night at Casa San Marcos, and it was fabulous! We were only really in Quito for a day and a half (we went to Canar, Banos, and Otavalo) and it was very rainy, but the Centro Historico was beautiful!

February 21, 2017 at 4:36 PM

Hey Teresa, thanks for the comment and sharing your experience at Casa San Marcos. Sounds like you had some really full days during your visit! Glad to hear that you enjoyed the historic charm in Quito as much as we did 🙂

February 21, 2017 at 7:12 AM

Bookmarked. This is a really comprehensive guide. I bookmarked it because we have plans to visit Ecuador and Quito of course, and this will surely be an asset to us. Great work. 🙂

February 21, 2017 at 4:27 PM

Thanks for the comment! We have no doubt that you’ll have a wonderful time in Quito. Please let us know if you have any questions when planning your visit.

February 20, 2017 at 10:16 PM

Wow this is SUCH comprehensive guide to Quito. I have heard great things about this city, but I can see there is even more to do than I had heard of. Fabulous write up.

February 21, 2017 at 4:17 PM

Hi Skye, thanks for the comment and compliment. We were absolutely amazed with the amount of activities and sights to keep us busy, there’s certainly no shortage of things to do 🙂

February 19, 2017 at 11:26 PM

First of all kudos for writing such an extensive and detailed article. Most people are busy writing listicles and this is a perfect mixture of story telling and point wise details to help travelers. Ecuador and the neighboring countries is, for me, a completely different world that I am always fascinated with but never had the opportunity to explore. There’s obviously so much to do here and the architecture and the vibe seems to be very European. I love how you gave such a well rounded posts covering all aspects of the city and the country to an extent. Reading the article my feet are itchy to really get up and start exploring again.

February 20, 2017 at 4:11 PM

Hey, thank you so much for the compliment! As you can see, we think that Quito and the surrounding area is a perfect travel destination with endless activities to keep one busy. Glad to hear that you’re considering exploring again. Please let us know if you add Quito to your itinerary and we’ll be happy to answer any questions.

June 16, 2017 at 7:51 PM

Best travel article ever! I am curious if you know the scoop on easy to reach waterfalls or swimming holes? I know there are waterfalls in the mountains but are there any other spots? Leaving June 29th til July 2nd from Miami, I’ve gotta take a dip or dive there! Thank you for sharing your experience in such a remarkable way!

June 20, 2017 at 4:14 PM

Oh you’re making us blush. Thanks! 🙂 As for waterfalls, if you are planning to go to Mindo (and you should!), there are many many waterfalls all around there. Otovalo has some nice Falls around it too, such a Peguche. Closer to Quito, you could perhaps try the Rio Pita Waterfall that is about 1-hour South of the city and there are some excursions that go there, but it’s not a very common one. Hope that helps and have an awesome trip to Quito!!

February 19, 2017 at 6:07 PM

This is a fantastic guide to Quito!!! No need for any other guide just yours. Would love to get back over to South America some time and visit Quito – when I do I know were I will be heading for info 🙂

February 20, 2017 at 4:06 PM

Hey Melissa, thanks so much for the comment and kind words. I hope that you’ll be able to make it back to South America and add Quito to your itinerary 🙂

February 19, 2017 at 4:18 PM

What a fantastic article! We’re looking to visit Cuito early next year, and we’re definitely going to stay a few days, just so that we can fit in the craft beer crawl! Looks like there’s plenty going on there

February 20, 2017 at 4:04 PM

Hey Nicky, thanks for the comment. So happy to hear that you’ll be traveling to Quito. There’s so much here to do, and as you mentioned, the craft beer crawl is reason alone to stay. Please let us know if you have any questions when planning your trip to Quito.

February 19, 2017 at 2:57 PM

WOW. This is such a detailed post! You bet that I’m bookmarking your post now! After all, I aim to visit this part of the world sometime soon this year.

Thanks for this!

February 20, 2017 at 4:01 PM

Hey Aileen, thanks for the comment! I’m confident that you won’t regret adding Quito to your travel itinerary this year. Please let us know if you have any questions when planning your trip.

February 19, 2017 at 2:25 PM

By far, the most comprehensive guide to Quite I’ve read. I feel like you provided more information and detail than Lonely Planet does! Very impressed! I had no idea there was so many interesting things to do in Quito, because like you mention, most people I know who have been tend to just do an overnight before moving on. Interesting that it has a fun beer culture too, which is something I certainly would like to dive into!

February 20, 2017 at 3:59 PM

Hey Drew, thanks for the comment and kind words. Comparing this post to the Lonely Planet is quite the compliment 🙂 Quito is such an amazing city with loads to keep one busy, definitely deserves more than just a stopover. I hope you have an opportunity to check out the craft beer scene!

February 19, 2017 at 3:04 AM

Wow! What a super comprehensive guide. There are loads of things to do in Quito. We were just there last year and reading your post was fun! Great tips. 🙂

February 20, 2017 at 3:53 PM

Hey Anna, thanks for the comment! Glad to hear that you’ve been to Quito and reading this post brought back some memories for you.

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3 Days in Quito, Ecuador: The Perfect Itinerary and Travel Guide

A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here .

Planning on spending 3 days in Quito, Ecuador? Keep reading for my comprehensive travel guide to Quito, including an itinerary and useful travel tips.

Quito, Ecuador is an incredibly fascinating city. The Ecuadorian capital is a South American gem – as one of the first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites, this is a city that’s worth visiting for much longer than just a quick stop en route to the Galapagos. From the beautiful colonial architecture to the incredible viewpoints throughout the city, there are a ton of things to do in Quito to keep you busy.

During my first visit to Quito, I spent several days taking in the sights and absorbing the Ecuadorian culture. If you only have a short time to spend exploring Quito, or if you’re just stopping over before heading to the Galapagos Islands, 3 days in Quito is the perfect way to introduce yourself to the city and begin your Ecuador adventure. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the city’s top sights, try some delicious local food, and take in the views from some of the most incredible lookouts.

Ready to spend 3 days in Quito, Ecuador? Keep reading for a sample itinerary and helpful travel tips on where to stay in Quito, where to eat, how to stay safe, and more!

Table of Contents

Top Travel Tips for Quito, Ecuador

Quito, ecuador basics.

• Location: South America
• Ecuadorian Currency: US Dollar
• Language: Spanish
• Visa Information: If you’re a US Citizen visiting Ecuador for less than 90 days, you do not need a visa. You do need to have at least six months of validity remaining on your passport. If you’re from a country other than the US, click here to see if you’ll need a visa .
• Tipping: In most restaurants, rounding up your bill is an acceptable tip for the servers. In many fancier restaurants, a service charge (usually 10%) may be added to your bill – in this case, there’s no need to tip. In taxis, it is also acceptable to round up the fare. If the driver assists with your bags, consider giving an extra $1 or so for their help.

When is the best time to visit Quito?

There is truly no bad time to visit Quito. With the city’s high altitude and location near the equator, temperatures remain relatively consistent year-round. June through September are the driest and warmest months. It’s also the high season, so you can expect to see more tourists and slightly higher prices during this time.

From January to May, temperatures tend to be a bit cooler and the city sees more rain (and fewer tourists). October and November generally see lower temperatures, fewer tourists, and cheaper prices, while in December, there tends to be a boost of tourists over the holidays.

I visited Quito between May and June and had excellent weather during my visit. The temperatures were warm but not too hot, and we had little rain other than the occasional sprinkle. Even if you plan to visit during the warm months, bring a jacket with you. The mornings and evenings can get a bit chilly, and if you ride the TeleferiQo, the temperature will be several degrees cooler at the top.

If you enjoy planning your travels around local holidays and festivals, consider checking one of these out:

• Quito Carnival – early February before Ash Wednesday
• Semana Santa (Holy Week) – the week before Easter Sunday (late March or early April)
• Ecuadorian Day of the Dead – November 2
• New Year’s Eve – December 31. Not a local festival, but Quiteños know how to celebrate!

Quito Safety Tips – 3 Days in Quito

When I told my friends and family that I would be traveling to Quito, they were all concerned about my safety. My aunt even told me I should dye my hair dark and go tanning since I wouldn’t fit in as a pale-skinned blonde (spoiler alert: that was not necessary). Despite their worries, I found Quito to be a very safe city. Like anywhere else in the world though, you should always take basic precautions and use your common sense. Here are some of my top tips for staying safe during your 3 days in Quito:

Don’t walk around with your valuables in sight.

Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in Quito. I even nearly got my phone snatched out of my hand! Keep your valuables, like your phone or camera, secure in a purse or backpack when they’re not in use.

Don’t put your wallet or your phone in your back pocket. Carry only the spending that you’ll need for the day, as well as one debit and credit card, while you’re out exploring the city. Leave the rest of your cash as well as a back-up debit card (use a separate bank account from your primary debit card) and credit cards secured safely back at your hotel. I like to keep my extra money hidden in a pocket inside my suitcase.

If you’re concerned about pickpockets or bag slashers, consider getting a pickpocket-proof bag. I bought this Travelon Anti-Theft Backpack for my trip to Quito and love it. It’s traveled the world with me since!

Getting Around Quito: Use only registered taxis, or call an Uber.

Taxis and Ubers are very cheap in Quito; while the buses are cheaper, taxis or Ubers will nearly always be more convenient. To ensure that you get a registered taxi, call one from the Easy Taxi app or Uber .

During my visit to Quito, I had no issues hailing taxis from the street. Each ride generally costs between $2 and $5. If you go this route, make sure to check and see that the taxi has a green sticker on the side – this will let you know that it is an official, registered taxi. When you get in the taxi, make sure to tell the driver to turn on the meter, or else you will get overcharged. If the driver refuses to use the meter, find another taxi. If you’re going on a longer trip, like to/from the airport, agree on a price before getting in the taxi. For example, $25-$30 is a reasonable fare for a trip from the airport to the center of Quito.

Don’t underestimate the altitude.

Quito’s altitude is 9350 feet above sea level. Chances are, that’s a pretty big difference from what you’re used to back home. When you first arrive in Quito, you might notice a slight headache and that you get out of breath sooner than you do at home. You should acclimate after your first day or so, but if you notice your symptoms getting worse, seek medical attention. Altitude sickness can be serious!

Enjoy a drink or two, but don’t drink too much .

This is especially true if you’re traveling solo. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a night out and a few alcoholic beverages, but make sure not to get too intoxicated. Ensure that you are able to navigate back to your accommodation.

When drinking, never let your drink out of your sight. Walk with your hand covering the opening and never accept a drink from strangers. It could be laced with something, and you could end up being drugged and robbed or sexually assaulted.

If you’re traveling with friends, make sure to take care of one another. If you notice that one of your friends seems like he or she has had too much, make sure that they make it back to your accommodation safe and sound.

Stay safe if you plan on meeting up with someone.

If you plan on using an app like Tinder during your 3 days in Quito, make sure to take necessary precautions so that you stay safe. Have a conversation with them and do a little bit of internet stalking before you decide to meet up, and if you do meet up, do so in a public place. Always let a travel buddy or a friend back home know what’s going on – send them a photo of a person as well as their name and a link to their social media. I also recommend sharing your location on your phone with someone you trust in case something goes wrong.

Spending 3 days in Quito? Don’t forget travel insurance!

When I book a trip, my first step is booking a flight. My second step? I buy travel insurance.

If cases of stolen belongings, altitude sickness, or ankle sprain during your 3 days in Quito, travel insurance will help you get reimbursed for unexpected expenses. During all of my travels, including my trip to Quito, I use World Nomads Travel Insurance. I’ve never had to make a claim but had my phone gotten snatched out of my hand, I would have been so glad that I had the option to do so!

Click here to learn more about World Nomads or get a quote for your next trip .

What to Pack for 3 Days in Quito: The Essentials

• Umbrella – Quito can be rainy at anytime, even during the dry season. Pack an umbrella for those unexpected (or expected) showers!
• Waterproof Jacket – Quito can get a bit chilly, especially if you’re going to be at the top of one of the nearby mountains. Bring a waterproof jacket to help you stay warm. It’ll help keep you dry during the rain too!
• Sunscreen – Quito is located at the equator, so the sun is strong! I got a pretty bad sunburn on one of the coolest, cloudiest days of my trip. Make sure to pack some sunscreen and apply it every day!
• Camera – You’ll want a camera to capture the beauty of Quito. Make sure to have one on hand – it’s up to you whether you use your phone or a dedicated camera! I’m a big fan of my Sony a6000 .
• Pickpocket-Proof Bag – As I said earlier, pickpockets are common around Quito. I chose to protect my belongings with a pickpocket-proof bag. The zippers lock together and the material is slash-proof. It’s not fool-proof, but it will help deter opportunistic thieves. My anti-theft bag is made by Travelon ; they have several options for women and men.
• US Dollar Bills – Ecuador’s currency is the US Dollar. Before you leave the US, go to your bank and get some $1 and $5 bills. In many markets, shops, and cafes, the shopkeepers may be unable to accept larger denomination bills. These small bills are also handy for covering taxi fares.

3 Days in Quito Itinerary

3 days in quito // day 1, morning: take a free walking tour of quito.

Start off the first morning of your 3 days in Quito with a free walking tour . There are a few different tours in Quito, but I recommend Free Walking Tour Ecuador , which is operated by the kind folks at the Community Hostel. On this tour, a local guide will take you around Quito’s beautiful and historic colonial center and tell you all about the history of the city and its sights. You’ll see the plazas, churches, and more that make Quito unique.

Free Walking Tour Ecuador’s morning tour of Quito runs every day and meets at 10:20 AM. The afternoon tour meets at 2:20 PM and runs Monday-Saturday. All tours depart from Community Hostel . Walk-in availability may be available, but I recommend booking your tour in advance to secure your spot.

Make sure to bring along some cash to tip your guide! While the tours are free, the guides do work off tips. I usually budget at least $10 USD as a tip when I take free walking tours.

Afternoon: Take a trip to the Middle of the World

After the walking tour, grab lunch somewhere nearby (I recommend checking out Mercado Central for a delicious, cheap local meal) before heading back to Community Hostel for their Middle of the World Tour .

You can’t visit Quito without paying a visit to Ecuador’s namesake: the equator! First, you’ll be taken to the Intiñan Museum , home to the the most geographically accurate equator line. Here, you’ll spend some time learning about Ecuadorian history and performing some fun experiments to witness the magnetic forces of the equator. Up next, you’ll visit the more widely known Middle of the World Monument before being taken back to Quito. Upon arrival in Quito, the driver may give you the option of being dropped off at the TeleferiQo or back at the meeting point. Skip the TeleferiQo for now as you’ll be going there tomorrow!

The Middle of the World Tours run from Monday to Saturday. The tour is $10, which does not include admission to the Intiñan Museum nor the Middle of the World Monument. Admission to the Intiñan Museum is $4 for adults, while the Middle of the World Monument costs $5. Like the free walking tour, it is recommended to book your spot for the Middle of the World Tour in advance.

Evening: Spend an evening exploring Quito’s Old Town

Quito’s breathtaking Old Town is the centerpiece of the city, and it should be visited both during the daytime and the evening. While you got an introduction to Old Town during the day while on the free walking tour, you’ll spend day 3 of your 3 days in Quito exploring it more in-depth.

During the evening, Quito’s Old Town transforms while retaining its charm. Visit La Ronda, the main street of Old Town, to be wowed by street performers. The area is full of delicious restaurants and there’s a nightlife spot for everyone. If you’re a fan of beer, check out  Bandido Brewing , a pub and microbrewery where you can get dinner and a drink (or two).

3 Days in Quito // Day 2

Morning: take the teleferiqo to see quito from above.

Begin day 2 of your 3 days in Quito with beautiful views of the city.

One of my favorite things that I did on my trip to Quito was taking the TeleferiQo up to the Cruz Loma lookout. The TeleferiQo, a combination of the words “teleférico” and “Quito,” is Quito’s version of a sky tram and one of the highest aerial lifts in the world. At the top, you’ll have breathtaking views of sprawling Quito below from atop Cruz Loma lookout.

When you get to the top, spend some time walking around and taking in the gorgeous views. For the adventurous, there are some hiking trails to the summit of Rucu Pichincha. You can hire a guide or go on the trails yourself. If you choose to do the hike, make sure you are well-acclimated to Quito’s altitude!

Tickets for the TeleferiQo are $7.50 for adults. I was recommended to take a taxi to the TeleferiQo entrance as the neighborhood surrounding it is not the safest. Also, make sure to bring a jacket as the temperature is several degrees chillier at the top! The TeleferiQo opens at 9:00 AM; go as early as possible for the clearest views.

Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at the Mercado Artesenal La Mariscal

When I travel, I love dedicating some time to shopping for souvenirs. My favorite places for souvenir shopping are local markets, and Quito’s Mercado Artesenal La Mariscal is one of the best I’ve visited.

You’ll find everything here: blankets made from alpaca wool, t-shirts, chocolate bars, and more. They even had thimbles, which are my souvenir of choice!

Haggling is necessary when shopping at the market. Typically, you can negotiate the price to about one-third of their original asking price. Make sure you have small bills, as many of the shopkeepers may not be able to make change.

Evening: Have dinner and a drink in Plaza Foch

After your visit to the Middle of the World, take a taxi to Plaza Foch , the main square of Mariscal Sucre, Quito’s New Town. Here, you’ll find tons of cool restaurants, bars, and clubs. Find a nice place to have dinner and a drink to unwind after a long day of exploring. If you still have some energy, visit one of the clubs in the area to dance the night away.

This area is known to have scammers and pickpockets around who prey on tourists, so make sure to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

3 Days in Quito // Day 3

Spend the last of your 3 days in quito exploring some of the city’s top sights..

As touristy as they may be, I highly recommend spending day 3 of your Quito adventure exploring the rest of the city via the Quito Hop-On Hop-Off Tour Bus .

For just $15, you can get a ticket on the Quito Tour Bus, which will double as your tour guide and mode of transportation for the day. The bus route runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, so start early to make the most out of your ticket.

Make your way to the tour’s main stop at Boulevard Naciones Unidas . You can book your tickets here on the day of your tour or do so online in advance . From here, you can take the bus around Quito, listening to the audio tour and hopping off at any sites that pique your interest. Here are some of my favorite stops on the tour:

Jardín Botanico de Quito

If you enjoy seeing local fauna and flora, make a stop at Quito’s Botanical Garden. The garden has an extensive collection of Ecuadorian and South American plants. Make sure to check out the orchid garden! Tickets to the botanical garden are $3.50 for adults.

Basílica del Voto Nacional

Located in Quito’s Old Town, the Basílica del Voto Nacional is the largest and most famous church in Quito. Pay the $2 entrance fee to climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views over Old Town.

I recommend getting off at this stop and spending some time exploring elsewhere in Old Town during the day. Visit Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús ( Church of the Company of Jesus in English), which is known as Quito’s “gold church” – you’ll see why when you go inside! Other must-see sites in Old Town include Plaza Grande, Quito’s Municipal Building, and the Palacio de Carondelet (the Presidential Palace).

Mirador el Panecillo

At the top of El Panecillo Hill, there is a statue of the Virgin Mary that is visible from nearly all of Quito. The views of Quito from atop the hill are also great. The tour bus stop here is 30 minutes, so you’ll be able to get off and explore a bit while the bus waits on you.

3 Days in Quito – Where to Stay in Quito

During my visit to Quito, I stayed at Otavalo Huasi II , a family-run hostel with comfortable beds and a delicious breakfast served each morning. A bed here costs about $25 a night and includes breakfast.

Here are some of my other picks of great, affordable accommodations in Quito:

• Community Hostel – Located in the historic center of Quito, Community Hostel is consistently ranked as one of Quito’s best hostels. It is the perfect spot for solo travelers who are looking to make friends and who are traveling Ecuador on a budget . Dorm beds cost from $10 a night; private rooms are also available. Read reviews of Community Hostel on TripAdvisor ; when you’re ready to book, you can do so on Booking.com .
• Casa Joaquin Boutique Hotel – On my next visit to Quito, I hope to stay at Casa Joaquin Boutique Hotel . Located in the heart of historic Quito, this small boutique hotel is full of charm. With rooms starting around $80 a night, this hotel is a great value for traveling couples. Read reviews of Casa Joaquin Boutique Hotel on TripAdvisor ; when you’re ready to book, you can do so on Booking.com .
• There are tons of great, affordable vacation rentals in Quito that are perfect for budget travelers. This luxurious apartment is located in a safe neighborhood and has amazing views over the city. This gorgeous Authentic Spanish Colonial Home in Colonial Quito is just steps from Old Town Quito and sleeps up to 8 people, making it perfect for groups. Click here for more Quito vacation rentals .
• Find more Quito hotels on Booking.com

<br /> (function(d, sc, u) {<br /> var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0];<br /> s.type = 'text/javascript';<br /> s.async = true;<br /> s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date());<br /> p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p);<br /> })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_basjs/flexiproduct.js');<br 3 Days in Quito – Where to Eat in Quito

There are tons of affordable, delicious restaurants in Quito. Here are some of my favorite places to eat in Quito:

• Mercado Central – This local market is full of stalls selling fresh produce, juices, and multi-course Ecuadorian meals. A meal here can be as cheap as $5, so this is a great place to try a variety of Ecuadorian staples. I recommend getting seafood from Las Corvinas de Don Jimmy ! ( map )
• Cafe Plaza Grande – Located in the historic Hotel Plaza Grande, Cafe Plaza Grande is a delicious restaurant right in Old Town’s main square. A meal here will cost around $15-20 so it’s a little more expensive than other places in Quito. Make sure to order the homemade ice cream for a unique surprise! ( map )
• Bandido Brewing – This microbrewery/pub combo serves up delicious pizza and cold beer. It’s perfect for when you need a break from Ecuadorian food! ( map )
• La Pradera Food Truck Garden – If you and your travel buddies can’t agree on what to have for dinner, hit up the La Pradera Food Garden. Here, you’ll find all sorts of food trucks that will satisfy everyone’s appetite. ( map )

Spending more than 3 days in Quito?

If you have more than just 3 days to spend exploring Quito, check out my guide to some of the best things to do in Quito, Ecuador . Here are some other great things to do in and around Quito:

• Experience Ecuadorian culture and cuisine by taking a Quito Food and Beer Tour
• Take a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park , where you’ll encounter spectacular views of the Cotopaxi Volcano
• Spend a day in Otavalo , Ecuador’s most famous market town. Saturdays and Wednesdays are the best days to visit.
• Get in touch with nature or have an adrenaline rush by taking a day trip to Mindo Cloud Forest , located just 2 hours from Quito.

This itinerary for 3 days in Quito, Ecuador is a perfect introduction to this charming South American city. Have you been to Quito, or are you planning a trip there? Let me know in the comments!

Planning a trip to Ecuador? Read these posts next:

• How to Travel Ecuador on a Student Budget: Budget Travel in Ecuador
• 13 of the Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador
• Ecuador: First Impressions

After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.

3 Days In Quito: The PERFECT Itinerary (2023)

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So, how long do you need in Quito? In my opinion, three days in Quito is the perfect amount of time. It gives you enough time to really get a feel for the city, acclimatise to the crazy altitude and try some of the local foods.

There are plenty of things to do in Quito; from being able to visit the ‘ middle of the world ‘ (where the equator line lies), to exploring the Old Town with its grand buildings and churches.

Then the quirky pubs in La Floresta, chocolate tours in the Historic Centre and day trips to nearby towns such as Otavalo and Mindo . Quito has a lot to offer a first time visitor!

In the following post, I explain all of the best things to do whilst spending 3 days in Quito . As I’ve mentioned, this is a great amount of time to spend in the capital of Ecuador, so let’s get started!

Still got a question about how many days in Quito or a 3-day Quito itinerary? Let me know over on  Instagram  or shoot me an email at jennie(@)jenniewanders.com!

🇪🇨  Other Ecuador posts:

• Banos To Guayaquil (Ecuador) Complete Guide & Routes
• Banos To Cuenca (Ecuador) Full Guide & Routes
• 2 Weeks In Ecuador: Routes, Itineraries & Guides!
• Quito To Cotopaxi: FULL Guide, Routes + Tips
• 10 Days In Ecuador: Route, Itinerary & Tips

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

3 Days in Quito: A Summary

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is a popular starting point for backpackers travelling around the country. As well as being the oldest capital city in South America, it is the second-highest city in the world; sitting at an impressive 2850m (9350ft) above sea level.

San Francisco de Quito (the official name) was also the first UNESCO city in the world, along with the Galapagos Islands in 1978.

As well as having some fun things to do within the city, it’s a great base to have in Ecuador to explore some of the nearby locations; such as  Mindo ,  Cotopaxi ,  Banos  and the  Amazon Rainforest !

It’s also perfect for budget backpackers or tourists, as it’s one of the cheapest cities we’ve ever been to.

When you first arrive in Quito, I recommend booking or at least knowing what you’re doing next. Whether it’s your Galapagos flight , a Cotopaxi hike or a trip to Mindo Rainforest , know what you’re doing next so that you can plan your transfers or journeys on day three.

If you want my recommendation, it’s to head to the Amazon Rainforest from Quito. Stay at Community Hostel for your 3 days in Quito, and book a 4-day/3-night tour to the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve . This means all of your onward transfers are sorted, and you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime!

But if the Amazon Rainforest isn’t your thing, I’ve listed a few other locations to visit after Quito in the ‘onward travel’ section.

Day 1 in Quito

Summary: acclimatize and rest, have an easy breakfast and walk around the Old Town and Museo de la Ciudad. Do the Middle of the World tour, and have either a family-style dinner at Community Hostel , or head to Cafe Mosaico for sunset drinks.

Day 1: Morning

When you first arrive in Quito, it’s likely you’ll need to acclimatize from the altitude. If you need to take it easy, don’t feel guilty . Quito is the second-highest city in the world, so take it easy!

If you’re not feeling the effects of the high altitude, I recommend heading out for breakfast, grabbing a coffee, watching the world go by and enjoying your first morning in Quito.

After breakfast, take a walk around the Old Town. You don’t need to spend too long doing this, as tomorrow you’ll be taking a free walking tour of the city (which is also a great opportunity to make new friends).

Afterwards (if you still have the energy) head to the Museo de la Ciudad. Located in the colonial centre of Quito, it’s a great way to learn a little more about the city.

Day 1: Afternoon

Get ready for your Middle of the World tour ! Depending on the tour you have booked (you can book online here or via Community Hostel ), tours start around 2 pm.

All tours have transfers included, but you need to pre-book before arriving in Quito for the best availability.

The tour includes visiting the equator line, proof of visit certificate, a museum visit, magnetic field games, tram rides and more. It’s a must-do when in Quito (and it’s a pretty chilled activity for your first day!)

Day 1: Evening

At the end of your first day in Quito, you can either relax back in your accommodation or head out for dinner. If you’d like to watch the sunset from a pretty rooftop bar, I recommend Cafe Mosaico.

It’s only a 10-minute walk from both Secret Garden Hostel and Community Hostel , so you don’t need to worry about walking around too much at night.

Day 2 in Quito

Summary: Free walking tour of Quito, Parque El Ejido , La Ronda neighbourhood for dinner and drinks.

Day 2: Morning

After breakfast, I recommend doing a free walking tour of Quito. You can do the free walking tour with Community Hostel (which starts at 10 am every day, and they meet on the rooftop). This includes iconic sights such as La Compania de Jesus, Basilica del Voto Nacional and Plaza de la Independencia , and is the perfect chance to make friends and meet new people.

TOP TIP: If you’re doing the walking tour, don’t forget to tip your tour guide at the end. We found around $8-10 USD was the standard tip amount in 2023.

Day 2: Afternoon

Not far from the Old Town is Parque El Ejido . It’s great to walk around and to have some time away from the bustle of the city. If you’re on a tight budget, pick up some lunch from the supermarket and have a picnic in the park.

Day 2: Evening

‘Magical’ La Ronda is known as Quito’s most ‘romantic’ and pretty neighbourhood. Full of colorful buildings, craft shops, art galleries and lantern-lit streets, it’s a beautiful and safe area to spend your evenings in Quito.

Spend your time in La Ronda roaming the streets, drinking cocktails and enjoying a pizza and craft beer at Panaderia Reina de la Paz.

Day 3 in Quito

Summary: breakfast and coffee in the Old Town, Quito cable car and viewpoint (or Quilotoa crater lake), afternoon drinks, Community Hostel family dinner and onward transfers to the Amazon Rainforest!

Day 3: Morning and afternoon

By day 3, your body should be a little more used to the altitude (although if you haven’t acclimated, I do not recommend the next activity). First, head to a supermarket and stock up on snacks and drinks.

Then head to Quito’s TelefériQo, the main station for the Quito cable car. This takes you even higher in altitude (another 1100m!), and you’ll get to see Volcán Pichincha up close. When at the top, you can either take a hike, walk or relax and enjoy your picnic.

When you return to town, take it easy, grab a coffee , a glass of wine, or head to the Bandido Brewing pub for a couple of cheap beers (happy hour is between 4-7 pm).

But don’t go too over the top, you’re off to the Amazon Rainforest in the evening, so you need to rest!

Not acclimated yet? Take a day trip to the wonderful Quilotoa crater lake . Just 2 hours from Quito, it’s a fun day trip full of hikes, beautiful views and epic scenery.

Day 3: Evening

Be sure to sign up early for the Community Hostel family-style dinner. If you’re up for it, join in on one of the evening social activities, or just chill in the lounge area whilst waiting for your Amazon tour transfer to pick you up. It usually arrives around 11.30 pm – 12 am, so get comfy!

As well as running a family-style dinner, they host free karaoke, salsa lessons, quiz nights and more. If that’s not your thing, chill in their TV room, read your book or catch up on your favourite series!

Other things to do in Quito

Where to stay in quito.

Knowing where to stay in Quito is important. Why? Well, there for starters, it’s a big city. There are many areas to choose from, and picking the wrong one could be detrimental to your trip. Secondly, some of the areas are less safe and tourist-friendly than others.

If you’re in Quito for the first time, I recommend booking accommodation in either the main Historic Centre or La Floresta.

The Old Town (Historic Centre) is perfect for 3 days in Ecuador, as it’s in the centre of town, close to all of the major attractions and has some great hostels and hotels.

La Floresta is better suited to digital nomads and long-term stays in the city.

Some of the  best accommodations in Quito include:

• Viajero Hostel  (city centre): a beautiful hostel that includes free breakfast!
• Community Hostel  (city centre): the perfect social hostel for the  Amazon Rainforest tour!
• Secret Garden : (city centre): around a 15-minute walk to the main square, and is ideal for specific Cotopaxi tours.
• Hotel Stubel Suites & Cafe  (La Floresta): a hotel with offers stunning views of the Guápulo Valley.
• NH Collection Quito Royal  (La Floresta): a more luxurious stay with a health club, free WiFi and free breakfast.

Where to eat in Quito

If you’re interested in the best food options in Quito, I’ve listed some of our favourites below. But, we found the best cafes and brunch spots by simply walking around (they’re sadly not all listed on Google Maps), so keep your eyes open!

🍳 Breakfast, brunch and lunch:

• Magnolia Cafe Arte : a lovely cafe in the Old Town for breakfast and lunch. The staff are the sweetest! (Old Town)
• Ocho Cafe: the perfect spot for coffee and breakfast. (La Floresta)
• Jervis: a cute coffee spot with tasty bagels and amazing cappuccinos (La Floresta)
• Coffee Zular: a brunch spot for good coffee and food (Old Town)
• Atavico Cafe: a busy breakfast and lunch spot serving amazing sandwiches (Old Town)
• Bandido Brewing Company: an excellent beer brewing pub with delicious food options. Happy hour is from 4-7 pm daily. (Old Town)
• YiYi Dumplings : a cute dumpling and dim sum cafe (La Floresta)
• El Hornero: a pizza and pasta spot (La Floresta)
• Sinners: for American-style pub food (La Floresta)

Budget for 3 days in Quito

Quito is a great city for backpackers travelling on a budget. You can easily spend a day in Quito for under £30 per person ($35 USD) and comfortably travel around the city, eat in a restaurant and even buy some souvenirs.

If you’re visiting Quito with a mid-range budget (similar to Tom and myself), I recommend budgeting around £60-80 per day. This includes a private Airbnb apartment, a meal in a restaurant, taxis and trams and a few evening drinks.

Of course, prices will vary and depend on the time of year that you are visiting Quito, but on average, most things cost under £10 ($12 USD); including nightly accommodations!

Day trips from Quito

If you’re staying in Quito for longer than one day and want to head out of the city,  I recommend the following day trips (or overnight trips).

• Amazon Rainforest tour (Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve) :  not a day trip, but so worth it if you have the luxury of time on your side! It’s a must-do, must-see and must-experience when in Ecuador. Find out more about visiting the  Amazon from Quito here!
• Mindo : Mindo is a beautiful cloud forest just 2 hours north of Quito, and is the  perfect  day trip. Mindo can be visited either independently or with a tour – you can see how to get to  Mindo from Quito here  or  book a day trip to Mindo here!
• Cotopaxi : Cotopaxi volcano is one of the most iconic sights in the country, and is a must-see for any nature fan. Again, you can either  book a day trip to Cotopaxi,  or  travel there independently .
• Otavalo: Otavalo is a bustling market town around 2 hours from Quito. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to learn a little more about the local culture and traditions. You can either visit Otavalo independently or book a guided tour from Quito here.
• Quilotoa Crater Lake : just 2 hours from Quito, Quilotoa Lagoon was formed when a (now extinct) volcano collapsed. It’s now a dazzling emerald Green lake that’s well worth the journey.
• Middle of the World Equator Line :  one epic day trip from Quito that’s only 20 minutes outside of the city! I recommend booking a tour for this rather than visiting independently.  You’ll visit the literal ‘middle of the world’,  be given an ‘Equator line certificate’ and play some fun games testing the surrounding magnetic fields!
• Quito cooking class :  another tour located in the city itself, this is a great way to fill some time in Quito and to learn more about the local history and culture. I highly recommend booking a  homestay cooking class similar to this one!

Related posts: Frog Concert Mindo: Just WHAT Is It? FULL Guide | Quito To Cotopaxi: FULL Guide, Routes + Tips

Onward travel after 3 days in Quito

Quito tends to be at the start of most backpackers’ Ecuador trips. After Quito, as it’s well located in the country, you can get to most other major destinations, and even embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Amazon Rainforest or the Galapagos Islands.

Some popular routes include;

• Starting in Quito, then heading into the Amazon Rainforest
• Flying from Quito to the Galapagos Islands
• Heading north to Mindo cloud forest
• Heading south to Cotopaxi volcano , the world’s highest active volcano
• Taking a trip to Otavalo, a market town in the Andean highlands
• Travelling to Banos , the adventure capital of the country
• Heading straight to Guayaquil , the biggest city in Ecuador, before flying to the Galapagos

There are so many options to choose from when deciding where to go after Quito! To help you decide, I’ve written a  3-week ,  2-week  and  10-day itinerary  for Ecuador, with all options starting from Quito (or Guayaquil if you’re working in reverse). Enjoy!

Related posts: 2 Weeks In Ecuador: Routes, Itineraries & Guides! | What To Pack For Ecuador: All-Year Round Guide

3 days in Quito: FAQs

1) how many days do you need in quito.

Two-three days is enough time to explore Ecuador’s capital city. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, eat some local food and see some of the major sights. It’s also a city at an exceptionally high altitude; so a few days gives you some time to acclimatize.

2) Is it safe to walk around Quito at night?

Safety is subjective, so I can only share my personal experiences when it comes to safety in Quito.

We found walking around during the day to be safer than at night, although there were certain areas that I wouldn’t have visited alone at any time of day.

Both hostels we stayed in in Quito ( Community Hostel  and  Viajero ), either served family-style dinners or were right next to restaurants  for us to use. This meant we didn’t have to wander too far after dark.

Areas such as La Mariscal and La Ronda are popular with tourists and locals after dark, and of course, you can have an epic time in Quito after dark (and I’d love to hear from you if you did!).

Whne it comes to safety at night in Quito, you decide for yourself and what  you’re  comfortable with.

3) Is Quito a walkable city?

Yes, Quito is walkable.  You can easily walk around the Old Town and La Floresta without needing to use any public transport. Distances between the areas can be relatively far, so if you want to travel from one area to another area, I recommend Uber, the tram or bus.

Remember; Quito sits at an altitude of 2850m, so you might find it a little hard to walk around at first! We often became out of breathe and tired after a short walk; so you might want to factor that into your itinerary!

4) What is the best month to visit Quito?

In summary, August is generally the warmest month of the year, with a high of 20°C (60°F). February is the coldest, with a low of 10°C (50°F).

But tourists can visit Ecuador year-round, and there isn’t a specific “best” time to go.  You can explore the country in any month and have great weather.

As Quito sits at an altitude of just under 3000m, it’s colder than most locations in the country. Even though it’s close to the equator, the altitude means most of the year Quito is windy, chilly and even a little cold (under 20°C / 60°F).

5) Do you need a SIM card to travel around Ecuador?

Yes, I highly recommend  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and  safety in Ecuador .

We found most of the cities to be chaotic and difficult to find local SIM cards.  ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

Don’t forget travel insurance for South America!

If you’re visiting South America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is  so  important to have  travel insurance .   And  if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you  definitely  need travel insurance.

Personally, I recommend  SafetyWing .  As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at  just $42 USD per month.

I know, I know, you’re thinking  ‘but I can’t afford that!’ . I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.

If you need medical help at  any point  whilst in South America,  you need  travel insurance.

With  SafetyWing , you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)

Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for South America . Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a  lot  of debt. Don’t be that person!

If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the  best travel insurance companies , I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for  SafetyWing , and the job is done!

3 Days in Quito: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it!  Everything you need to know about spending 3 days in Quito and how many days in Quito are enough.  When you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at   real-life  travellers wanting authentic and down-to-earth information.  

I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend  (read more  here !), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Ecuador content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

🇪🇨 Other Ecuador posts:

• One Day In Quito: What To Do, Eat, See & Explore
• Quito To Guayaquil: Full Guide & Transport Options
• Ecuador Itinerary 3 Weeks: FULL Route + Guide

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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The Ultimate Guide to Quito

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Table of Contents

My first visit to Quito was as a student years ago, as the first and last destination on my volunteer trip in Ecuador, and to this day, I maintain an amazing impression of the city. While, at that time, I could not explore Quito as thoroughly as I would have liked, I still saw it as a vibrant and charming city.

But Quito can also be overwhelming. Especially if it’s your first time visiting Ecuador, or even South America. You may be asking yourself how much you’re supposed to tip. Or how you’ll get from place to place.

Well, for all of you, I compiled an ultimate guide to help you on your trip to Quito, Ecuador. Enjoy!

Quito is the capital of Ecuador, a country located (not-so-surprisingly) on the equator, in South America. The official language of Ecuador is Spanish. I would definitely recommend learning some Spanish if you’re backpacking around South America. However, it is not necessary to know or learn Spanish to visit Quito.

Weather and Climate

While many people believe that Quito is hot due to its proximity to the equator, this is not the case. With an average annual temperature of 14°C (58°F), it typically ranges from 10-19°C (50-67°F). This temperate temperature is due to the city’s altitude of 2,800 m (9252 ft).

Furthermore, it additionally rains in Quito, with peak rainfall happening in March and April, ranging from 140 mm to 170 mm (5.5 inches to 6.7 inches), in those months. However, from June to August, there is little rainfall, ranging from 20 mm to 40 mm (0.8 inches to 1.6 inches), in those months.

While the city is temperate and occasionally rainy, I would recommend wearing sunscreen regardless of the weather, as Quito is still close to the equator, and is therefore subject to strong UV rays.

For more information on the weather and climate in Quito, I recommend checking out this web site , or this website .

Transportation

Once you arrive in Ecuador, you’ll most likely land at the Quito International Airport, known as the Aeropuerto Internacional Mariscal Sucre. At the airport, there are many taxis available that can drive you into Quito, which takes about an hour. This will cost you around $25-$35 USD.

If you’re hoping to save some money, you can also get into town by bus. However, the buses are not in service before 4 am or after 11 pm, so you’ll have to take a taxi if you arrive really late at night, or really early in the morning. The cost of the buses range from $2 USD for the green bus, and $12 USD for the white and red bus (AERO Servicio).

Once you arrive at your accommodation in Quito, there are various forms of transportation that you can use within Quito. For instance, you can take…

Taxis are abundant in Quito. Taxi companies include Urgentaxi and City Taxi, and they are, for the most part, yellow.

However, regarding taxis, you have to be aware of potential scams. First, always ensure that the taximetro (the little black box recording the cost) is being used. If the driver refuses to do this, you should either find another taxi, or negotiate a price before departing. You should especially negotiate a price during rush hour. Further, note that it is difficult to find a taxi when it’s raining.

The minimum cost for a ride is $1 USD.

Traveling by bus is a great alternative form of transportation, as it is the cheapest and easiest. In Quito, there are two bus systems:

Local Buses

With local buses costing $0.25 USD per ride, they are my preferred form of transport. They operate from 6 am to 9 pm, and you can typically get off at any street corner. However, you do have to flag them down. They are blue if they are traveling within Quito, and green if they go outside of Quito (into the outlying areas).

However, you do have to remember to signal before your stop, and you’ll have to jump out of the bus while it is still moving (akin to the buses in Southeast Asia).

Trolley Bus Systems

There are three trolley bus systems in Quito: Trolebus, EcoVia, and Metrobus. The trolley buses also cost $0.25 USD per ride, making it an equally cheap option.

A good thing about these buses is that they have their own lanes on the roads, which means you do not experience many traffic issues; this can be a problem with the local buses. However, they can get crowded during rush hour.

Issues with the Bus System

As buses are the cheapest options, they can get quite crowded, especially during rush hour. Additionally, you have to be aware of pick-pocketing. To learn more about how to protect yourself from pickpockets, scroll to the end of this article.

Where to Stay

Typically, regarding accommodations, I use websites such as booking.com , hostelworld.com , or expedia.com to find the cheapest places possible.

However, I have learned through trial-and-error that choosing the cheapest possible option isn’t always the best decision. For instance, while I was able to choose the cheapest possible accommodation, I then realized that I had to spend a lot of extra money or time getting to and from the center of town.

And let me tell you, walking 30 minutes into town may not seem long, until you realize it’s the middle of summer in south Cambodia, and the humidity and temperature decide to team up to suck up all of your energy and motivation.

So, your choice of accommodation will depend on your budget. But, I also recommend taking into account the hotel ratings, its distance from downtown, and the amenities it offers.

Personally, I stayed in the Hotel San Francisco de Quito, which I adored. They offered such a great variety of rooms, and was in a great location.

What to Do in Quito

There are several things you can do, see, experience, and enjoy in Quito; it is without a doubt one of the world’s best dream destinations . Things to do include:

• Wander around Quito Old Town . Start off in the Plaza Grande, then explore the surrounding cathedrals and shops.
• Admire the bizarre gargoyles of the Basilica del Voto Nacional .
• Simultaneously stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at the Museu Solar Intinan .
• Admire the views from the Itchimbia cultural center.
• Try out the cuisine by going to a variety of different restaurants.
• Check out one of the dozens of museums in Quito, including the Museo Nacional , the San Francisco Museum , and the Museo de la Ciudad .
• Take one of the incredible day trips from Quito ! From Cotopaxi to Mindo, there are many options to choose from.

• Restaurants : In Ecuador, most restaurants include a 10% service charge on the final bill. So, in a basic, mid-tier restaurant, I would recommend rounding up the bill, or simply leaving a couple extra bucks for the server. At more expensive restaurants, I would recommend adding an extra tip of 5-10%, depending on the level of service.
• Taxis : Most of the time, when you use a taxi in Quito, you will be paying in cash. For tips, I would recommend rounding up to the even dollar.

Pickpockets

While Quito is one of the best cities in South America , pick-pocketing is still a common occurrence (in Quito and in most of South America). However, there are things you can do to reduce your likelihood of being pick-pocketed. This includes:

• Be aware of your valuables at all times. This includes your cell phone, money, credit cards, passports, or any other expensive or important item.
• Keep your valuables as concealed as possible, and don’t wear anything flashy (like jewelry or watches, etc.) Overall, try to look like you have nothing worth stealing.
• Consider buying some sort of money belt or leg pouch, that will allow you to hide your valuables.

In Conclusion,

Quito is an immensely vibrant city, with many things to offer. While there are issues with pickpockets and crowds, it is still an incredible city to visit, that I would definitely not skip over.

Thanks for reading the article! If you have any questions, feel free to comment down below, and if you want to see more travel and hike-related content, make sure to check out my other articles.

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Mia is the founder of Walk a While with Me, a travel blog dedicated to sharing the best self-guided walking tours, travel itineraries, and hikes for destinations around the world. A keen traveler, she has visited more than 20 countries in the past six years. She is excited for you to follow along on her adventures!

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Ultimate Quito Itinerary: A Local’s Guide to 2 Days in Quito

Quito is a massive city, and the cultural heart of Ecuador , and there is so much to see and do here. Narrowing it all down and determining what to do in Quito for 2 days can be a challenge.

Two days in Quito might not seem like a long time to enjoy one of South America’s great cities (the best city in Ecuador for travelers!), but it’s a perfect amount of time for a beautiful introduction to an unforgettable place.

Keep reading for our ultimate guide to the best 2 days in Quito . We used this exact Quito 2-day itinerary when friends and family visited us in Quito through the years we spent living there. We’re sharing how to enjoy this city on a short tip and make the most of your two days here, traveling smart and seeing only the best!

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Quito Itinerary

By spending 2 days in Quito, you’ll have time to visit all the best sites in Quito (some of the top attractions in Ecuador !) and the area immediately outside the city. Any less time than two days in Quito and you’ll be rushed, and miss some unforgettable travel experiences.

While Quito has plenty to do – enough to fill several days of your time – there are several main attractions that you just can’t miss, no matter how long you’re here.

Must-Visit Places in Quito

Looking for those must-visit destinations you’ll want to add to any Quito itinerary? Make sure you don’t skip these top attractions in Quito – they’re among some of the best things to do in Ecuador !

• Visit Old Town Quito : This is Latin America’s largest and best-preserved colonial center. There is so much to see and do here, including visiting opulent churches and exploring winding streets. Read More : Old Town Quito: Ultimate Guide to Quito’s Historic Center
• Mitad del Mundo : Spanish for “Middle of the World,” Mitad del Mundo is the Equator line. Here you can visit a monument to the Equator, straddle two hemispheres, and do some fun, campy “science experiments” that only work here.

With 2 days in Quito, you’ll be able to visit all of these must-see destinations. This guide to what to do in Quito for 2 days covers all of these sites and has space for a few extras as well.

Read More: 18 Best Things To Do in Ecuador

What To Pack for Ecuador

Check out our  Ultimate Ecuador Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Ecuador and what we never travel without.

Quito Tours

With just two days in Quito, consider booking a tour or excursion to help you see the best of the city as easily as possible. You can find tours that cover all of the best of Quito in a day, or half-day tours to specific destinations within the city.  

Small group tours and excursions are also generally quite affordable in Ecuador , so even if you wouldn’t normally choose this option in order to stay within budget, they might be a great option for you here.  

Here are some of the best tours in Quito that I love recommending to visitors. These are especially fantastic if you’re looking for what to do in Quito for 2 days , or on another short Quito itinerary.

• Quito Historic Center Walking Tour
• Off the Beaten Path Historic Center Quito Tour
• The Delicious Side of Quito: Quito Food Tour

Some of the most popular excursions in Quito are excursions to Mitad del Mundo – though just a few miles outside of Quito, it can take up to an hour to get there by public transportation. Here are Mitad del Mundo excursions worth considering.

• Quito Historic Center and Mitad del Mundo Excursion
• Mitad del Mundo Half-Day Excursion
• Mitad del Mundo and TelefériQo Excursion – just $50 for a private tour and guide, including a visit to the TelefériQo as well!
• Private and Personalized Quito Tour, Including TelefériQo and Mitad del Mundo

Where to Stay in Quito

For most visitors to Quito, staying in the Historic Center of the city is your best bet, especially if you are here for just a few days on a short Quito itinerary. Here you’ll be close to many of the city’s best attractions. Plus, you’ll find hostels and hotels at every price point.

Here are the hotels in Old Town Quito that I most often recommend to travelers.

• ($) The Secret Garden
• ($$) Vista del Angel
• ($$) Hotel Casona 1914
• ($$ – $$$) Hotel Carlota
• ($$$) Casa Gangotena

Visiting Quito as a backpacker ? I generally recommend backpackers stay in the La Mariscal neighborhood. Selina Quito is my favorite option for budget travel in La Mariscal – here you’ll find great options for dorm rooms as well as private rooms.

Read More : Where to Stay in Quito: Neighborhoods & Accommodation Guide

Best Hotels & Hostels in Quito

• The Secret Garden, Quito ($)
• Selina Quito ($ – $$)
• Vista del Angel Boutique Hotel ($$)
• Hotel Carlota ($$ – $$$)
• Casa Gangotena ($$$)

2 Days in Quito

Below you’ll find my complete guide to what to do in Quito for two days. After living in Ecuador for two years, we were lucky enough to have enough friends and family visits that we became pretty good tour guides using this exact Quito itinerary.

Two days in Quito allows you to see most of the best parts of the city enough to really feel like you’re getting to know Quito more than just scratching the surface.

In each daily Quito itinerary, I’ve outlined a plan to get to you to best the city has to offer to make the best use of your time.

• Day One – TelefériQo, Mitad del Mundo, and the best of La Mariscal
• Day Two – Old Town Quito highlights, markets, and park

I’ve grouped activities together in a way that will make travel through the city easiest for you. I’ve organized each sight or activity to make travel easiest for you, so follow the order of the day! However, feel free to switch up which day comes first for you.

My biggest Quito itinerary recommendation? Check the weather of each day you’ll be in Quito, and plan to visit the TelefériQo and Mitad del Mundo on the day with the nicest weather. Visiting the TelefériQo is all about the view, so in the morning (typically fewer clouds high in the mountains!) on a nice weather day you’ll have the best experience.

Travel Essential

Don’t head out on your adventure without comprehensive travel insurance! Good travel insurance may cover lost or stolen gear, medical emergencies, delayed or canceled flights, and more.  Check out the policies available from  SafetyWing or compare plans using  Visitors Coverage .

Day One in Quito

Start the day by heading to the TelefériQo for the best views over the entire city of Quito. This cable car lifts passengers over the city and halfway up the towering Pichincha Volcano. You’ll have incredible views over the city, and of the surrounding valleys and volcanoes.

On the clearest of days, you can see up to five snow-capped volcanoes from the viewpoint at the top of the TelefériQo – some of the most breathtaking volcanoes in South America .

Make sure to bring a jacket when visiting – even if Quito is warm, up on the side of the volcano it gets windy and chilly fast! Don’t come unprepared or it will put a damper on your experience.

Don’t save the TelefériQo for later in the day – Quito weather generally has bright and clear mornings and cloudier afternoons with a rainstorm in the afternoon during the rainy season. Arriving at the TelefériQo when it opens means you’ll skip the later afternoon lines and have the best chance of getting a perfect view.

Interested in making it ALL the way to the top of the Pichincha? Climbing to the top of Rucu Pichincha – one of the peaks of this volcano – is a favorite day trip from Quito .

Read More: 10 Best Day Trips from Quito

Mitad del Mundo

Mitad del Mundo is a must-visit destination for any Quito itinerary. Just a few miles outside of Quito, the “Middle of the Earth” is home to the Equator line that gives Ecuador its name. Visitors to Mitad del Mundo can head to the following sites .

Monument to the Equator

Home to a massive, towering monument, the Monument to the Equator is actually not on the true site of the Equator – GPS revealed it’s just a few meters away! Still a great visit, within the complex you’ll also find a few interesting museum exhibits, restaurants, handicraft shops, and a planetarium with light shows.

Intiñan Museum

Located on the true Equator line, the Intiñan Museum is your best bet for visiting the Equator. You’ll learn how indigenous populations revered the sun and identified the true Equator before Europeans did .

You’ll get to straddle hemispheres and try some fun, campy “science experiments” that only work on the Equator. It’s a great, interactive museum that you’ll love.

I recommend that visitors on a short Quito itinerary (like just 2 days in Quito!) just visit the Inti Ñan Museum . It’s great to see the true Equator , and have a chance to try the “experiments” here!

However, a visit to both is still a great experience. Plan to spend about an hour to an hour and a half at each site you visit.

Read More : 9 Best Day Trips From Quito

Casa de la Cultura 

If you’re going to visit just one museum in Quito , I always recommend making it the Casa de la Cultura . This multi-use building is home to cinemas, stages for performances, galleries, and the National Museum, which has a fantastic permanent collection.

Here you’ll find a fascinating collection of antiquities from pre-Incan civilizations in Ecuador, including sculptures, statues, pottery, jewelry, and more. My favorite part of the exhibit it the mummy! There is also a section on colonial art, but the pre-colonial section is by far the star.

If you’re not the museum-going type, feel free to skip it, though entrance to the museum is free. It is worth a quick stop, regardless! If you have longer than two days in Quito, check back for performances and film festivals – there is so much to see and do here, most of it free or at a low cost.

Parque El Ejido

Directly across the street from the Casa de la Cultura, next head over to Parque El Ejido. One of Quito’s great parks , this is a great place for relaxing and people-watching.

You can also try some street food here . You’ll usually find vendors selling cups of fresh tropical fruit, espumilla (merengue), cevichocos (a ceviche-like snack with white beans instead of seafood), fried plantains, and fried corn.

You’ll also get a chance to see artists who set up their work in the northeast corner of the park near the Casa de la Cultura . It is a great opportunity to get something special to take home, or just appreciate the artwork.

Best Tours of Quito

• Personalized Quito Tour, Including TeleferiQo and Mitad del Mundo

Mercado Artesanal

In the heart of La Mariscal neighborhood, the Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal (La Mariscal Artisan Market) is the best place to go in Quito if you’re looking for handicrafts and souvenirs.

Here you’ll find rows and rows of artisan stalls covering an entire city block selling everything you can imagine . Alpaca sweaters and blankets, ponchos, clothing, tablecloths, carvings, artwork, jewelry… the list goes on. You could easily spend more than an hour wandering and shopping.

The market is mostly covered, except for a central courtyard, so it makes for a great rainy-day activity as well.

If you plan on traveling on to the Otavalo Market north of Quito , I recommend you hold off on any purchases until you visit there! Prices tend to be better and variety is greater at the Otavalo market than they are here. However, this market is still well worth a visit, even if Otavalo is yet to come.

Read More : Ultimate Otavalo Guide: Visiting the Otavalo Market and Beyond

Dinner in La Mariscal

La Mariscal is a lively neighborhood, especially at night, so it’s a great place to end the first of your two days in Quito.

There are tons of restaurants, bars, and clubs in this neighborhood, so you’ll have plenty of choices for where to eat and drink.

Here are some of my favorite places to eat in La Mariscal:

• Miskay : Great Ecuadorian food done well, this restaurant is a great place to try some of Ecuador’s best dishes . Excellent cooking but not pretentious , this is one of my favorite places in La Mariscal for a nice meal.
• Cosa Nostra Trattoria The best wood fired pizza in Quito. This is authentic Italian food in a cozy atmosphere , and another place I’ve come back to over and over again.

Day Two in Quito

Old town quito tour.

Start the second morning of your two days in Quito in Quito’s Old Town. This is an unmissable highlight of any Quito itinerary, and worth at least a few hours of your time, no matter how long you are in this city.

Quito has Latin America’s largest and most well-preserved colonial historic center, and there is so much to see and do here – more than just churches and palaces and plazas!

You can easily take your own self-guided walking tour of this compact neighborhood or book one of these small group tours of the neighborhood if you’d like the insight of a guide. For a Quito 2 day itinerary, these can be a great idea:

Here are the attractions you just can’t miss in the Quito Historic Center:

• Plaza Grande : The Historic Center of Quito’s central plaza, Plaza Grande is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks. Here you’ll find the presidential palace (Carondelet Palace – take the free walking tour if you have time!), the Quito Cathedral, El Sagrario Chapel, and the Centro Cultural Metropolitano.

Read More : Old Town Quito: Ultimate Guide to Quito’s Historic Center

Mercado Central

To finish out a tour of Old Town Quito, make a stop at Mercado Central, on the edge of the Historic Center. This lively market is one used by Ecuadorians every day – you won’t find too many tourists here!

However, this is a great addition to 2 days in Quito – you’ll learn so much about Ecuadorian food and traditional dishes just by looking around here. If you’re looking for what to do in Quito for 2 days that is a bit off the beaten path, this is it!

You can even sample prepared foods on one of the market’s three levels, including classic dishes from the mountainous Andes region of Ecuador like hornado (whole roasted pig), locro (potato soup), and llapingachos (cheesy mashed potato balls).

Don’t think about traveling without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, at home or abroad. 

Parque Itchimbia

This is my favorite park in Quito – though it is often left out of itineraries and guides to the city, it is well worth a visit (take a taxi or the public bus – the climb up the hill is truly brutal). The view from this hilltop park is spectacular – you’ll get an incredible view of the city wedged between the mountains, and see the whole length of Quito.

Make sure to walk around the front end of the park to see the entire view. You’ll sometimes find fun events here like food truck roundups, free concerts, or public art displays.

Check out the Palacio de Cristal on the hilltop for art expositions, too, and take the obligatory photo with the giant Quito sign and a view of El Panecillo.

If you have time, walk around the back end of the park and through the winding bicycle paths for a view of the valleys on the other side of Quito. This is a great place to walk, people-watch, and unwind if you have the time to spare in your 2 days in Quito.

Cafe Mosaico or Vista Hermosa

End your Quito itinerary by enjoying a meal overlooking all of this beautiful city. Just below Parque Itchimbia – across from the main entrance – you’ll find a row of restaurants that make the most of their enviable position on the hillside for an incredible view.

Check out either Cafe Mosaico or Vista Hermosa , but try to make a reservation if you want a balcony table or a seat near the window , as these are the most coveted spots in the house.

Cafe Mosaico is laid back and serves a mix of cafe food and full meals, including some classic Ecuadorian dishes, along with burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Vista Hermosa is fine dining with classic Ecuadorian dishes.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

How to Spend Three Fantastic Days in Quito, Ecuador: A 2023 Itinerary

The capital city of Ecuador, Quito, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers visitors the chance to experience South American culture at its best. Whether you’re looking for amazing architecture, historical landmarks, delicious food, or lively nightlife, you are destined to find it.

Ecuador is a relatively small country, and Quito is located in the middle of it. This makes it easy to get around, whether you’re traveling by taxi, bus, or on foot.

Often overlooked by travelers, Quito is a city that should definitely be on every adventurer’s bucket list. With so much to explore and experience, you’ll want to spend at least three days in this stunning city, soaking up all of the culture, history, and beauty it has to offer.

The country’s capital is home to a number of impressive historical landmarks and monuments, including the Presidential Palace and Basilica. You will learn about Quito’s history, by visiting one or both of these sites.

Of course, no trip to the city would be complete without a sampling of the delicious food. The local cuisine has been heavily influenced by Spanish, African, and indigenous cuisine, resulting in a fusion of flavors that will satisfy any foodie’s palate.

Along with the history and food culture, the city has everything you need for a vibrant latin nightlife. From cozy local bars and restaurants to pulsating dance clubs, you will be able to salsa the night away or practice your Spanish with one of the bartenders.

Whether you’re looking to kick back with friends or go out on the town with your significant other, you’re sure to have a great time! In this guide we will go over all of the best ways to spend three days in Quito, so that you can experience this amazing city at its very best.

Day One in Quito

Located in the center of Ecuador, Quito lies on an elevated Andean valley at 9,350 feet above sea level. This altitude makes it one of the highest capitals in the world and means that you’ll want to acclimatize by spending your first day exploring some of the city’s many attractions and taking it slow.

Head out on a free walking tour of the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I recommend the one that leaves from The Secret Garden hostel . You’ll get to explore some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including Basilica del Voto Nacional, La Compania de Jesus (the largest religious building in South America), and Plaza de la Independencia.

On the tour you will learn the history and significance of these places, while also getting a taste for the unique Ecuadorian culture that makes Quito such a special place. You will have the opportunity to try some Ecuadorian chocolate, the best empanadas in Quito, and some freshly squeezed juices as you walk.

The walking tour leaves at 10 AM and goes until about 1 or 2 in the afternoon depending on the speed of your group, since the walking tour is free, you will be asked to give some sort of tip to your tour guide at the end. Around $5 is the standard amount to tip. 

Once you’re done exploring the historic center, head over to Museo de la Ciudad for some more history and culture. You can either pay a small entrance fee or take advantage of the free entry on Sundays from 9 AM until 3 PM. At this museum, you’ll get an in-depth look at Ecuadorian history as well as the city of Quito. There are also some interesting interactive exhibits that help to bring the past to life.

After a long day of exploring, you’ll probably be ready for lunch. Head over to Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal and try out one of the many cafe or restaurant options in this bustling market that is filled with delicious local flavors. You’ll find everything from fresh fruit juices and empanadas to traditional Ecuadorian ceviche from the various stalls, restaurants, and cafes.

The best part about eating at La Mariscal is that you can try some of the more unusual dishes for a fraction of what you would pay at an upscale restaurant. Some of my favorites are the ceviche, chifles (fried plantain chips), and traditional Ecuadorian tamales.

You can also purchase some of the local spices and foods to take home as souvenirs and grab some fresh fruit. It is sold by the dollar, so you can get quite a lot of fruit for very little money. If you’re still hungry after your meal, try one of the many dessert options like buñuelos (fried sweet dough) for a delicious sweet treat!

Once you’ve had your fill of food, head back to the basilica. During the walking tour you will only see the gothic structure from the outside. So now is your chance to head inside and take a look at the amazingly detailed interior. This church is considered one of the most important examples of Spanish Baroque architecture in South America.

Climb to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the city, and there is a cafe at the top where you can enjoy a beer while you take in the views. The basilica closes at 5PM, so once you’re done exploring head back to your hotel and get ready for dinner.

For dinner, I recommend heading down to the La Floresta neighborhood which is known for its wide array of hip and trendy restaurants. My favorite restaurant there is Cafe Mosaico which has a great atmosphere and amazing food. Try some local specialties like cuy (guinea pig), seco de chivo (goat stew), or quinoa with shrimp.

After dinner, head over to one of the many bars in the area and check out some live music or dance the night away at a salsa club. Quito has some of the best nightlife in all of South America, so make sure you take advantage of it while you’re there!

Day Two in Quito

Wake up early and head out for breakfast at a local spot, like the farmer’s market right off of Plaza Foch. Try some fresh tropical fruits or el tigre, which is my personal favorite. It is mashed plantains with cheese, tomatoes, and avocado, and a nice runny egg on top – the perfect way to start your day. I am drooling just thinking about it!

After breakfast, head out to The Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, which is sort-of the middle of the world. Located about an hour from the city center, it’s a popular tourist attraction that many people visit as part of their day trip. You’ll get to stand equidistant from both the northern and southern hemispheres, which really puts everything into perspective.

The easiest and cheapest way to get there is by taking a local bus, but it does take a bit longer due to all the stops it makes. If you want a bit more comfort and convenience, you can also take a taxi or organized tour bus.

Most people spend around an hour or so touring the various interactive exhibits and learning about Ecuador’s rich history.

After exploring the middle of the world, head back into town for lunch at one of the many delicious local restaurants in the city. One of my favorites is a casual little spot called De la Llama. Try their famous Ecuadorian meat soup or a heaping bowl of quinoa with vegetables and your choice of protein, it’s always fresh and flavorful.

After lunch, head to catch the Teleferiqo, a cable car that takes you up to an elevation of over 12,000 feet. Spend some time walking around the park at the top and enjoying the incredible views of the city below. There’s also a museum at the peak where you can learn more about the history of this unique transportation system. This is a must do in Quito, especially if you’re looking for a fun and unique way to enjoy the stunning views of the city.

If you still have time, I recommend taking a taxi to Mirador el Panecillo. This hilltop park offers a gorgeous view of the city and is home to a famous sculpture of an angel — the Virgin del Panecillo — that can be seen from all over Quito. DO NOT WALK HERE. This area of town is not safe and it is much better to take a taxi than risk putting yourself in danger.

Finally once the sun sets, head back down into town and look for a spot along Parque El Ejido where you can catch an evening concert or show. There are often cultural festivals, street performers, and other types of entertainment taking place throughout the city, so be sure to keep a look out for an event that interests you.

As the evening comes to a close, head back to your hotel and get some rest before another exciting day of exploration tomorrow!

Day Three: A day trip to Otavalo, Cotacachi & Cuicocha

Today we are getting out of the hustle and bustle of the city and heading out to explore some of the stunning natural beauty that surrounds Quito. Start your day bright and early by joining this tour to the north of Quito, which will take you to the picturesque towns of Otavalo and Cotacachi as well as the stunning Cuicocha Lake.

Otavalo is a town famed for its vibrant markets, where you can find all sorts of local artisan goods. If you are wanting to experience the uniqueness of Ecuador and the life of a small town, then this is the place to be.

The town is located about 2 hours north of Quito, so expect this to be a full day trip.

Once you arrive in Otavalo, you will have the opportunity to explore the famous open-air market where locals sell all sorts of handmade goods including blankets, jewelry, clothing, and more. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the incredible traditional textiles that are produced here or purchase a painting or embroidered item from one of the many talented local artists.

This bustling market is one of the largest in South America, and your tour will make sure to set aside enough time for you to explore all of the stalls and shop for souvenirs. 

If shopping isn’t your thing or you don’t have enough room in your suitcase, you can check out all of the incredible food and drink vendors that line the streets. This is the perfect place to try some of the local delicacies, from rich Ecuadorian hot chocolate to savory empanadas.

After spending some time exploring Otavalo, you will head to the beautiful town of Cotacachi. This small town is a major center for leather goods, so you can expect to find a lot of high-end shops here selling everything from handbags and wallets to jackets and shoes. These are all handmade by local artisans. It is okay to haggle a bit here but keep in mind that these are mostly small family businesses, so be considerate and don’t try to over-extort them!

Finally, before the day ends, you will make your way to the beautiful Cuicocha Lake. This crater lake is surrounded by lush green hills and boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Here, you can go hiking or take a boat ride across the lake to really appreciate the beauty of this place.

You can check availability for the specific tour I took using the widget below:

After a long day exploring all that this region has to offer, make your way back to Quito and enjoy your last evening out on the town. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner or just want to catch some live music and dance, there is no shortage of exciting things to do in Quito on your last night!

Quito: What to Know Before You Go

Planning a trip is never easy, from where to stay, what to do, and when to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Quito, there are a few things that you should keep in mind before you go and luckily, I know all the best tips and tricks.

Where to Stay

Quito is a large and diverse city, so you will want to choose your accommodation wisely depending on your travel style. If you’re looking for more of a local experience, there are plenty of cozy bed and breakfasts throughout the city that offer comfortable lodging at affordable prices.

If you prefer a bit more luxury, there are also some great hotels in Quito that offer everything you need, but at a higher dollar price.

For somewhere in between the two I recommend the Chakana Hotel Boutique , a small but cozy hotel in downtown Quito with top notch service and excellent amenities. Every room is dedicated to their ancestors and you can feel the love and respect they have for those who came before them, which is a wonderful way to get in touch with your roots.

Ecuador has a beautiful history and this hotel really showcases their culture, and will help you to immerse yourself in their traditions while still enjoying all the modern comforts of a luxury hotel.

You are going to love the yummy breakfast that is included making it easy to grab something before you head out on your adventures for the day. They also have a great bar on site, so if you want to unwind and grab a drink after a long day exploring the city they’ve got you covered.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Quito

The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from mid-March to early November. This time of year has less rain and more sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the city’s many parks and historical sites.

Being a country that is often overlooked, it doesn’t get as busy as some of its neighboring countries, so you won’t find crowds of tourists trying to squeeze onto buses and into museums even during the peak tourist season.

If you’re looking for a more festive and lively atmosphere, be sure to visit Quito during one of their many festivals. These cultural celebrations are held throughout the year, and are a great way to experience all that Ecuadorian culture has to offer. I recommend Carnival which occurs in March or April depending on the year, and is a huge party that lasts for three days!

People from all over the country travel to Quito during these festivals, and the city really comes alive with vibrant colors and fantastic music.

How to Get Around Quito

Getting around the city is quite easy.

The city has an extensive public transport system that consists of metros, buses, and taxis. You can purchase a card from any convenience store or metro station which you can then load with cash and use to pay for rides.

If you are in the historical center you are perfectly fine to walk around and explore, but if you are planning to explore more of the city I would recommend getting a taxi or using the bus system as they are both easy, inexpensive, and safe. You can also download the uber app and call for a ride if you prefer the convenience of having a car arrive at your location and not have to worry about being scammed.

I do not recommend riding the local buses at night time as they are often targeted by pickpockets. It is just as cheap to take a taxi and it is a lot safer.

Safety Advice for Travelers to Quito

Speaking of safety, let’s get into how to stay safe in the city.

While Quito is a relatively safe city, it is still important to practice caution while you are there. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of what is going on around you, especially when in crowds or getting onto public transportation. 

One thing to keep in mind is that the busier the area, the safer, if you find yourself on a quiet street or a dark alley, be on your guard and get to a busy street as soon as possible. After dark, take a taxi or use the uber app if you feel uneasy walking by yourself.

It is also important to be careful not to drink too much alcohol while in Quito as there have been reports of tourists being drugged and robbed while they are intoxicated. I don’t say this to scare you, but as a friendly caution to make sure you don’t find yourself in an uncomfortable or dangerous situation.

I would also recommend staying in a hotel located within the historical center of town as these tend to be in quieter areas and are generally safer than hotels that are outside of this area.

Some other tips for staying safe while visiting Quito: avoid wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, take only what money you need when you go out and it even helps to use a burner phone on a night out.

Just a few more things to take note of when in Quito.

Be prepared for the altitude. Quito sits at an elevation of nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, which can make it difficult to adjust if you’re not used to high altitudes. Make sure to take it easy and give your body time to adjust when you first arrive, and be sure to drink LOTS of water throughout the day. I can’t emphasize this enough.  It is so important!

Another thing to be prepared for is the weather. Quito has a very unique climate which experiences both rainy and sunny seasons, with temperatures ranging from the 40’s in winter, up to the low 80’s during the summer months. While rain can occur at any time of year, it tends to happen more frequently between December and April. You may want to bring a light rain jacket or an umbrella with you just in case.

In terms of food and drink, there are a ton of amazing restaurants in Quito that offer authentic Ecuadorian cuisine as well as cuisines from all over the world. A few things to make sure and eat while you are here are ceviche, fritada de chancho, tamales, and of course, the famous Ecuadorian dessert: sopa del viernes.

Overall, I would highly recommend spending 3 days in Quito to experience its vibrant culture, amazing architecture and delicious food. Whether you are looking for a relaxing cultural experience or an action-packed adventure, Quito has everything you are looking for and more!

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Quito Travel Tips – A Complete Guide to Visiting Quito, Ecuador

If you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, then you’re most likely going to visit Quito, the country’s capital city. You’ve probably landed on this post because you’re doing research about the city. If that’s the case, then we hope that you’ll find everything you want to know prior to visiting Quito in this travel tips post.

This guide aims to answer every question you might have, such as how to get to Quito and get around the city, where to stay and eat, and how to stay safe and avoid altitude sickness.

You can spend as little or as long as you wish in the city, but about 3 days in Quito would give you the greatest chance to see the best it has to offer.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

Table of Contents

Introducing Quito, Ecuador

Quito is a huge city spread out along a valley on the eastern slopes of Pichincha Volcano. Situated at 2,850 m   (9,350 ft)   above sea level, the city is also one of the highest capital cities in the world.

The earliest settlers in the area were the Quitus; a pre-Inca tribe. The Incas then converted Quito into a major city and even connected it with a road to  Cusco  in Peru.

The capital of Ecuador was then founded by the Spanish in 1534 on the ruins of the Inca city, which is very similar to the way modern  cities across Peru   were founded.

In 1822 Simon Bolivar set Quito free and also formed Gran Colombia which included present-day  Ecuador ,  Colombia , Venezuela, Panama and parts of  Peru  and Brazil. Gran Colombia was dissolved in 1831 due to political differences and Ecuador became independent.

Quito has one of the best-preserved and least altered historic centres in The Americas. Because of that, in 1978 it was the first historic centre in the world to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Read Next: How to Spend 3 Weeks in Ecuador

Is Quito Safe?

Probably one of the biggest questions you’ll have before visiting Quito: is it safe?

Quito is the biggest city in Ecuador, and just like any big city in the world, that also means crime will naturally be higher. However, this doesn’t mean that you should skip visiting the capital. Quite the opposite. We think you should definitely spend at least 3 days in Quito, because there’s a lot of interesting things to do there.

Although we felt safe during our visit and I’m sure you will too, it’s good to be aware of a few things prior to your trip. Below, we’ll list a few health and safety precautions you should bear in mind before and during your travels around Quito. However,  for more official safety advice please visit the Government’s website.

Have Travel Insurance (The Most Important Quito Travel Tip)

Often at the end of most people’s travel planning checklist is insurance. However, it is one of the most important things you should be thinking about during your travel planning. Travel insurance will provide protection if you get ill, injured, have things stolen or suffer last-minute cancellations.

Whilst purchasing travel insurance can feel like a waste of money, if something happens during your trip, it’ll quickly become one of the best investments you’ll make.

We never go anywhere without travel insurance, so make sure to buy one prior to your visit too. There are many different companies out there offering varying levels of coverage depending on your needs. We personally use SafetyWing which offers a high level of coverage at a much more affordable price than most other insurances.

SafetyWing also allows you to sign up even if your trip has already started and you completely forgot about travel insurance in the midst of all the travel planning.

Crime Related Quito Travel Tips

Just like in any densely populated city in the world crimes are not uncommon. Although violent crime is low, petty crime isn’t unheard of. Whilst we never felt unsafe in Quito, here are a few travel safety tips based on our experience and research.

• Don’t walk alone at night. Even the buzzing Historic Centre can be a bit unsafe after dark, so get an Uber instead.
• Be extra vigilant at busy plazas, bus terminals and on public transportation. Keep your valuables hidden where possible and wear your backpack on your front just like the locals.
• Try to avoid using public transportation during rush hours. It’ll be super crowded and you’re more likely to get pickpocketed. We used  money belts  to store our cash and travel cards and always felt more secure with these.
• We also don’t recommend visiting certain places, such as El Panecillo, on foot. This is because our research indicated that robbery and assaults are common on this walking route.
• Make sure to only use licensed taxis. They are yellow cabs with orange license plates and are fitted with security cameras. Although the taxi situation has improved, fake taxis are still out there and robberies can happen.
• We recommend having a physical SIM card or an eSIM so you have a local phone number with 4G coverage. For an eSIM you can use  Airalo , which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone.
• Make sure to also have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark  which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 
• Book your accommodation in safer neighbourhoods, so you won’t have to worry about your belongings when you’re out exploring.

Tourism police are present in touristy areas of Quito. They might stop you and ask about your experience and take a photo with you.

Health Related Quito Travel Tips

One thing you want to avoid on your holiday is getting sick, especially in a foreign country where you might not even speak the language. Here are a few of our personal health related tips to reduce the risk of getting ill. For more official information, check out Ecuador-specific health advice from the  National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) .

• Avoid drinking the tap water. I suggest boiling your water, using a filtered bottle such as  WaterWell  or buying bigger bottles of water and filling up a reusable water bottle. This will help you to reduce your plastic waste too.
• Whilst you should avoid tap water, make sure to actually drink enough purified water to avoid dehydration and other issues such as altitude sickness. Quito is located at 2,850 m (9,350 ft)   above sea level, which means you could get altitude sickness.
• There are many pharmacies in Quito where you can buy medicine, so only bring your prescribed medication and some basic painkillers.
• We suggest buying some altitude sickness tablets when you arrive, especially if you’re heading to even higher altitudes afterwards.

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Quito, Ecuador?

It is important to know that  anyone can develop altitude sickness  and its symptoms can be less or more severe depending on the person. Symptoms of altitude sickness include dehydration, dizziness, headaches, shortness of breath, heavy breathing, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.

To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend spending at least one or two full days in Quito. If you can spare more, that’s even better, especially if you’ll be visiting other parts of the mainland such as Cotopaxi Volcano.

Try to avoid drinking too much alcohol on your first day and don’t eat too many heavy foods either. It’s very important to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration and headaches. You can drink Coca tea like the locals do at high altitudes in South America. In addition, you can also buy some altitude sickness tablets at one of the pharmacies.

Natural Disaster Related Quito Travel Tips

Natural disasters are something you won’t be able to avoid if they occur during your stay. However, knowing what to do in case of an emergency is important.

Quito is located in an area of intense seismic activity. Therefore, there is a high risk of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions . We recommend reading  the US Federal Emergency Management Agency’s advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

How to Get to Quito?

By Plane  – Obviously the easiest and least time consuming way to reach Quito is by flying to Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Depending on where you’re coming from, there are many direct flights between Quito and other major cities in North, South and Central America. From Europe you can fly direct to Quito from Amsterdam or Madrid. You can check where you can fly direct to Quito from on this website.

Find Flights to Quito ✈️

By Bus  – If you’re coming from neighbouring countries, then you can opt to take an international bus to Quito too. There are a lot of different companies that provide these services depending on which country you’re coming from.

For example, from Peru you can arrive to Guayaquil with Cruz del Sur which was one of our favourite bus companies that we used in Peru. You can also arrive from Colombia via the Rumichaca border crossing between Ipiales in Colombia and Tulcan in Ecuador.

Bus travel between countries in South America is a popular and affordable way to travel for both locals and backpackers alike. Travelling by bus will also give you the chance to stop at other places of interest along the way. Our main online sources that helped us to find bus routes and companies operating to and from our next destination were  Busbud.com  and Rome2Rio .

How to get from Quito Airport to Quito Centre?

By Public Bus – The most affordable way to get to Quito from the airport is by public transport. There are buses departing from the airport to Río Coca Terminal located in the north of Quito. You can also reach southern Quito if you hop onto a bus heading to Quitumbe Inter-provincial Terminal .

A single bus ticket only costs $2 USD and it can take an hour to get to the terminal.

Rio Coca Terminal is definitely closer to the Historic Centre and other areas you might be staying in, such as La Mariscal District. You’d still need to take either a public bus, an Uber or a taxi from there though. If you’re arriving at unsociable hours, we recommend opting for private transport from the bus terminal.

Express Buses – Another option you can consider is the Airbuses  (Aeroservicios) . They offer a fast and direct service between the Airport and Quito. The cost varies depending on where you’re going but the Historic Centre is around $14 USD per person.

You can book the service at the arrivals hall or o nline.

By Private Taxi – You can also book a taxi from the airport if you have a lot of luggage and don’t feel confident taking public transport in an unfamiliar city. You can pre-book your taxi at the official desk outside the arrivals main terminal building. You’ll have to tell them your destination and they will calculate your fee.

It’s normally a set fee depending on the distance, but to the Historic Centre it can cost between $25-35 USD.

You might also be able to arrange a pick up with your hotel or Airbnb. We picked this option and it cost us $30USD. Alternatively, you can also just p re-book an airport pickup.

Where to Stay in Quito?

No matter how long you’re staying in Quito, you’ll want to be located close to the attractions. Therefore, we recommend staying somewhere in the Historic Centre.

There are a lot of hotels and hostels catering for all interests and budgets, so you’ll find a lot of tourists in this part of Quito. Below are some of our recommendations:

• The Secret Garden
• Friends Hotel & Rooftop
• Vibes Aurik
• Viajero Quito Hostel

La Mariscal is another popular area, especially because of the vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of hotels, hostels, bars and restaurants catering for everyone wanting to enjoy the city after dark. It’s in the modern part of Quito, so you’ll feel like you could be in any city in the world here.

• Selina Quito
• Hotel Reina Isabel
• Hotel Vieja Cuba

La Floresta is the hipster district of Quito located next to La Mariscal. This area is filled with street art, cool cafes and independent restaurants. It’s definitely a trendier area to stay in Quito.

• Casa Aliso Hotel Boutique
• NH Collection Quito Royal

What to Eat in Quito?

There are many places you can find authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in Quito.

You can head to Mercado Central to take a look at some typical Ecuadorian products. The market has several floors where vendors sell fresh fruit, vegetables , meats, and more. If you get hungry, there’s an entire section dedicated to ready to eat local dishes and fresh fruit juices.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Quito where you can try some typical Ecuadorian cuisine such as bolones de verde, humita s, quimbolitos , and empanada s.

Top Tip. If you want to save some pennies whilst also having a more local experience, then definitely eat out around lunch time. Most local restaurants offer an ‘ almuerzo ‘ or ‘menu del dia’ deal. This will usually include soup for a starter, a main course and a drink.

Do you want to learn more about Ecuadorian cuisine? Then make sure to book a street food tour and have a fantastic gastronomic experience in the city.

Best Ways to Move Around Quito

Whenever we can, we enjoy exploring a new place on foot. You can discover so much more whilst walking than by taking taxis everywhere. Quito’s Historic Centre is definitely walkable and we suggest exploring some of the main sites on foot. It’s also a great way to slowly acclimatise to high altitude.

If you’ve just arrived in the city, it’s always a good idea to join a free walking tour where you won’t just see, but also learn, a lot about Quito.

Note. There are a few places that are considered unsafe to walk to such as El Panecillo viewpoint. If you need to walk greater distances you can always use the bus, Uber or a taxi. Lastly, make sure to avoid walking on your own after dark.

Places located further from the Historic Centre can be reached by local buses. Using public transport is affordable and can give you a real taste of how people move around the city.

You’ll most likely use either Ecovía, Trole or Metrobus buses. These connect the north and south of Quito and they run in dedicated lanes along the main roads. You’ll have to have small change on you to get through the gates. However, you can convert larger bills to smaller change with the booth attendants. Just don’t try to give them anything larger than a $5 note.

Top Tip. Always watch your belongings carefully. Pickpockets aren’t uncommon, especially when the bus is crowded. Keep your valuables in your backpack and wear that in front of you. You will see locals doing the same.

Taxi and Uber

Another way to get around Quito is either with a taxi or Uber. Now it’s probably worth highlighting that fake taxis are not uncommon in the city. You have to make sure that you only get into an official taxi, which should be yellow with an orange plate.

The taxi should be equipped with security cameras and a meter. If you’re going to and from the airport with a taxi, make sure to order one through your hotel or hostel.

Uber is also legal in Quito, so you can definitely use it to get around the city, especially for longer distances or during unsociable hours.

Main Bus Terminals in Quito

Quito is a large, very long city. Therefore, there are quite a few different bus terminals depending on where you’re going.

• Terminal Terrestre Carcelén – Quito Norte (Quito’s north bus station). You would need to go to this bus station if you wanted to visit places such as Otavalo or were heading to Tulcan to cross the Colombian border.
• Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe – Quito Sur (Quito’s south bus station). You would need to go to this bus station if you were visiting places like Guayaquil, Cuenca , Banos and the Amazon Rainforest (Lago Agrio).
• Terminal Terrestre La Ofelia . Another bus station in the north of Quito that you’ll need to get to if you want to visit Mitad del Mundo or Mindo . The Metrobus line’s northern terminal is at La Ofelia station.

Note that it can take anywhere between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to travel between Quito’s north and south stations by car, depending on traffic. With public transport it takes even longer, so always calculate that time in.

Top Tip. In the early morning and late at night, we suggest taking an Uber to these stops. In addition, if you carry a lot of luggage, it’s also more comfortable to take an Uber.

How to Spend 3 Days in Quito, Ecuador

• 18 Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

How to Visit the TeleferiQo in Quito, Ecuador

• How to Visit Mitad del Mundo, Quito’s Equator Line
• 7 Best Day Trips and Multi-Day Trips from Quito, Ecuador

Final Thoughts on Quito Travel Tips

As always we did a ton of research prior to arriving in Quito. We never once felt unsafe walking around. However, we did get stopped by the local tourism police a few times in the Historic Centre asking us how we were finding the city and if they could take photos with us. We found the presence of police reassuring.

Initially, we only stayed a few nights in the city to explore its top sights. However, we always had to return to Quito to catch another bus to our next destination within Ecuador. This definitely allowed us to understand how the city operates in terms of their public transport system.

Have you ever been to Quito before? If so, what was your experience? If not, would you feel more confident spending a few days in the city after reading our guide? Let us know in the comments below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

Our Top Travel Resources

Accommodation:  For hotels we always use  Booking.com  and  Hostelworld  for hostels. We also book longer stays on Airbnb or  Vrbo.

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I have friends who visit various parts of Ecuador every year- I’d love to visit someday…buses look pretty cool..and beautiful scenerey.

Thanks Jennifer, we hope that you can join your friends on one of their future trip to Ecuador.

I feel like Ecuador often is overlooked in south america, ant that really is a shame. What a wonderful country it actually is.

We totally agree. We nearly skipped it, but so happy that we decided to go at the end. It’s a beautiful country with endless things to do.

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Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

• Last updated: April 27, 2020
• Destinations , Ecuador , Things to do

Home » Travel Blog » Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

In this article, you will find some amazing things to do in Quito, Ecuador, along with practical information for places to eat and advice on how to get around.

With the elevation of 2850 meters above sea level, Quito is the second highest capital in the world; La Paz in Bolivia is arguably the highest. Although Quito is not the most populated city in Ecuador – the port city of Guayaquil has a greater population – it is a true metropolis.

The city lies in a valley hemmed by volcanic peaks. The shape of the city resembles a sausage with a length of 50 km and width of 10km. Quito is known as a city of eternal spring. It is really interesting to be located only 20 km from the equator and at very high altitude at the same time; the result is a subtropical highland climate, which is neither too cold nor too warm.

We stayed in Quito for almost two months this spring, volunteering in a downtown hostel. During our free time, we explored the city independently.

Things to do in Quito, Ecuador

Explore the old town.

The historical center of Quito, along with Krakow in Poland, was the first city to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978. The old town is one of the best preserved and protected colonial centers in all of South America, featuring museums, cathedrals and parks.

Climb the Basilico del Voto Nacional

Once it was the largest church of its kind in the Americas. You can take a lift to the balcony and from there walk all the way up the clock tower for amazing views. It is a vertiginous walk up a few steep ladders but that breathtaking view above Quito is definitely worth it!

Explore Museo de la Ciudad

It’s located in the former Hospital building near Calle la Ronda. Learn more about the foundation of the city and different Ecuadorian regions.

Attend a mass service at San Francisco Church

It’s one of the oldest churches in the continent. The construction of the city’s largest colonial structure began in 1534, only a few weeks after the founding of Quito but wasn’t finished for another seventy years.

Watch changing the guards at Plaza Grande (Plaza de la Independencia)

The ceremony is held every Monday at 11am, and you could even catch the President waving from the balcony of La Carondelet palace.  Or simply go to the plaza any other day and just observe the tourist and locals hanging around the main square in the city.

Walk along Calle la Ronda

Calle la Ronda is one of the oldest and most artsy street in Quito, which is full of bars and artisan eateries that open fully in the evening. Once completely neglected, since 2005 this has been nicely restored. Take a sip of canelaza – a hot alcoholic drink based on sugar cane – which warms you up during chilly nights out or try michelada – a spicy beer coctail.

Find your best vintage dress at a Flea market

The market is situated near Plaza del Teatro at Galapagos street or just enjoy observing the shoppers as they search for the best antique deal.

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• Destination equator

Enjoy the views and the parks

Being surrounded by the mountains and the volcanoes, Quito offers amazing hilly views with abundant green places.

Climb to the El Panecillo

El Panecillo or bread bun, is the direct translation of the most significant hill over the city. The Virgin of Quito statue dominates its peak.  From the top, you can admire great views and take a rest in a nearby park. When the view is clear, you can see Cotopaxi volcano from there.

Visit the park La Carolina

Sometimes called also “Central Park” is located in the north part of the city and offers a variety of activities. You can visit the Botanical garden and see many colorful flowers from all over the world. If you are a sport-addict, this is the place for you.

There are a plenty of sport fields, rubberized running tracks and outdoor-fitness equipment. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, a walk in the park alleys enjoying ice-cream or cold juice from the park vendors might be satisfactory.

Explore other parks in Quito

Another option is to visit La Alameda or El Ejido; these parks are situated in between the old and the new town. Both have several food stalls, outdoor-fitness equipment and many green places to rest.  You can rent a boat and row in the lagoon of La Alameda park. If you intend to buy some traditional clothes or souvenirs, aim for the market in El Ejido park. Don’t forget to bargain with the vendors – they will enjoy it!

Visit Itchimbia park

This place provides another great city views. This is located only 30-minutes by foot from the city center. You can walk the steep stairs from Los Rios street . When you get to the top, you will be amazed by the vistas over the city and the views of volcano Pichincha on the other side of the valley.

The architecturally impressive cultural center Crystal palace dominates the hilltop park. Just a street below the park lies a bunch of fancy restaurants with spectacular views and delicious food. They might be fully booked during the evening hours so it´s recommended to either book the best spot in advance or come during the day when it is usually less packed.

Take a cable car to Pichincha volcano

When you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, Pichincha volcano hill will definitely provide adequate relaxation and tranquility. The cable car takes you up to the Cruz Loma peak (4100 metres above the sea level) in about 10 minutes.  From there, you can admire snow-capped volcanoes when the sky is clear or simply observe the sausage shape of Quito from above.

For those keen on hiking, there is a nice trail leading to Rucu Pichincha (4696 metres above the sea level). The hike to the top takes between 3 and 4 hours and requires some scrambling. Going down is obviously easier and takes about 2 hours.

Take into account that the weather changes rapidly at these heights and don´t forget to take plenty of water.

Explore the north part of the city

Quito’s historical center is unique and picturesque but one shouldn’t leave the city without visiting its north districts. The whole area of Plaza Foch, Mariscal and La Floresta have a completely different vibe. Everything is a bit more modern, dazzling and uncongested. High-rises, cafés, bars, fancy restaurants and discos are all around.

Check out the Bellavista neighborhood

Here you can observe three volcanoes on a clear day and splendid views over Quito new town. The art lovers can aim for Capilla del Hombres and a dmire the unique artworks of Oswaldo Guayasam ín, undoubtedly the most famous Ecuadorian painter of the last century.

Visit equatorial line at Mitad del Mundo (Half of the world)

Ecuador got its name after the equatorial line. This imaginary strip lies about 20 km north of Quito and the famous monument dividing the two hemispheres is the most visited touristic attraction in the country. There are two museums worth visiting.

The first one, well-known Mitad del Mundo with the famous monument, lies at the original equator which was measured by French Geodesic expedition back in the 18 th century.

The other one, lesser known Intiñan Solar Museum, is located about 200m further and has an equator marker that is closer to the actual spot. Both museums house a few exhibits of the different Ecuadorian cultures as well as fun facts about the equator.

Where to eat in Quito?

Feeling hungry? Head to Mercado Central, an indoor 2-floor market, which provides tasty meals and snacks for a good price. You can also do your veggie shopping here. There is an abundance of tropical fruits and green stuff stalls including healing herbs and a variety of coca products.

During city walks, you will encounter many local restaurants serving set breakfasts ( desayunos ) and set lunches ( almuerzos ) for very reasonable prices. The usual lunch consists of a soup and main dish; vegetarian options are rare and in most cases you will be served chicken. As a drink, you will be served jugo, which is a very tasty fruit smoothie and in some restaurants, there will be a small dessert too. Aproveche!

And these were some of the best things you can do in the second highest capital in the world. Be ready for some minor symptoms of altitude sickness if you will arrive from a lower elevation. Just take it easy for the first days – don´t rush – simply indulge yourself in the real Andean heights at a slow pace. Quito will definitely embrace you sooner or later! Enjoy!

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Viera Valentová

• Published: July 14, 2017

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The Definitive Quito, Ecuador Visitor Guide

LAST UPDATED – 2/13/24 – Quito, Ecuador Visitor Guide

While many countries sit along the world’s equator, few of them come to mind with travelers as much as the country of Ecuador in South America.  In fact, the country is named after its geographic proximity to the Equator, making it one of the only countries in this world that are named after a geographic feature.  However, there is much more to this fantastic country of over 16 million people than its name.

At 9,252 feet (or 2,820 meters) in elevation, the city of Quito, which is Ecuador’s capital city, is the second-highest capital city in the entire world.  Not only that, but the city of Quito was also one of the very first World Cultural Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO back in 1978. 

The city’s beautiful historic center, with its cobblestone streets and beautiful 16th-century stone houses, is absolutely beautiful.  Touring this area of the city alone is worth a visit to Quito.  Not to be forgotten, Quito is the perfect city to fly into to launch a trip to another Ecuadorian treasure, and the world’s very first Cultural Heritage Site, the infamous Galápagos Islands.

In this Quito, Ecuador visitor guide, I am going to give you all of the information you need to plan a successful trip to Quito.  I cover the best times to visit and the best ways to get there so that you can maximize what you can see and do on your trip.  In addition to this, I also outline the top things to see and do while you are there and where the best places to stay and eat are.  With this information in hand, you can be confident that your trip to Quito will be one that you remember for the rest of your life.

Quito Visitor Guide Navigation Menu

At a glance.

Before you start making any travel plans, you need to be sure you meet the country’s entrance requirements. This includes all of the passport, VISA, and immunization requirements for Ecuador. 

In addition, you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of what languages they speak in Ecuador. This way, you can plan any translation needs you may have. Not only that, but you will need to know what currency they use in Ecuador. Knowing this, you can plan to exchange currency before your trip if necessary.

I have included some of this key information in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below for you to review as you start to make your travel plans.

Passport Requirements

To enter Ecuador, you must have a passport that is valid for 6 months after the date on which you enter the country.  If you plan on staying in Ecuador for 90 days or less, you will not need a VISA to enter the country.

Travel Insurance

Before you head to Ecuador, I would recommend that you purchase travel insurance.  You will want to have this in case something happens and you have to either postpone or cancel your trip.  It would also be a great idea to purchase emergency medical evacuation insurance . 

Should an emergency occur and you need to be medically evacuated from the country, that could cost you tens of thousands of dollars. For more information on protecting yourself and your trip with travel insurance, please review the article I have included in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below.

Travel Immunizations

Before you leave for your trip to Ecuador, you need to make sure you have all of the proper vaccinations.  Not only to protect yourself but to protect others.  You may have questions on what immunizations you need and what to look out for when getting them. If you do, I have included some general guidelines I can pass on to you from my experience below.

• Most specialized travel clinics will not accept insurance so you will have to pay for your travel consultation and immunizations and then request reimbursement from your insurance company later.
• Some immunizations aren’t accepted by every insurance company, so check with your insurance provider before getting your immunizations.
• Check with your regular doctor first, as often they can do a travel consultation for you and write you the necessary prescriptions for your immunizations, even if they aren’t able to give them to you.  This way you can ensure that at least your travel consultant will be covered by your insurance up-front.
• Check with  Walgreens   or other drug stores that give flu shots to see if they have any of the immunization shots that you require before going to a specialized clinic that doesn’t accept insurance to get them.  Walgreens can give you many of the immunizations necessary for international travel, and they accept insurance up-front.
• The  Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website   can be a great resource for answering any travel immunization questions that you have.

Ecuador Immunization Recommendations

You may be wondering what vaccinations your physician will recommend. In case you are, I have compiled a list of what you might expect your doctor to recommend below.

• Typhoid  (either a shot, which is good for 2 years, or a live virus pill, which is good for 4 years).
• Yellow Fever (The Yellow Fever vaccination is not required to enter Ecuador unless you are 1 year of age and older coming from – or who are in airport transit for more than 12 hours in – Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda.  Please see the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) map of the areas where a Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended for more detail.  You can also refer to the IAMAT website for more details on the Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirements for Ecuador).
• Hepatitis A & B  (if you haven’t had them).
• Tetanus  (if you aren’t current).
• Dukoral  (gives you 3-month protection against travel diarrhea).

Packing Tips

Outside of knowing the entry and immunization requirements, there is no pre-travel task more important than packing. Don’t worry, I am here to make sure you are packed and prepared for your trip. I have included links to my packing resources in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below for you to review.

Top Things to See and Do in Quito, Ecuador

In addition to being one of the best spots to fly into to begin an adventure to the Galápagos Islands, there are plenty of amazing things to see and do in the city of Quito itself.  Quito seems to have something for every type of traveler to enjoy. The beautiful old town section of the city is great for those who love history and architecture.

The spectacular local cuisine is sure to excite even the pickiest of foodies. And not to forget, the city’s breathtaking plazas and cathedrals are some of the most beautiful in South America. To assist you in filling out your itinerary, I have included some of my favorite things to see and do in Quito for you to review in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below.

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Mitad del Mundo

If there is one thing you absolutely cannot miss when you visit Quito, it is a trip to the Equator.  While the Mitad del Mundo monument doesn’t sit on the exact Equator, it is the most famous monument in the world celebrating this important geographic landmark.  The Monument to the Equator at Mitad del Mundo was built in the 18th Century and the measurements they took at the time weren’t as precise as the measurements we can do today.

The result is that the monument is roughly 240 meters off from the exact line of the Equator.  Still, the monument is cool enough that I would absolutely recommend visiting.  It is a quick 1.5 hours outside of Quito, so you will either need to rent a car or purchase a tour.  While you are out there, you can make the short trek from Mitad del Mundo to the nearby location of the actual Equator, which is located at the nearby Museo de Sitio Intiñan .

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús

Without a doubt, the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús is one of the most beautiful churches that I saw while in South America.  Construction on this stunning, Spanish Baroque-styled church began in 1605 and was completed nearly 160 years later. 

In addition to being one of the most ornate buildings in all of Ecuador, it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in all of South America.  Beyond the stunning architecture, the church also showcases 44 paintings and 56 sculptures by local artists, which include the infamous “16 Prophets” by Nicolás Javier de Goríbar and sculptures of the Holy Trinity by Bernardo de Legarda.

The church is located along García Moreno and Sucre in the historic center of Quito, about a block to the southwest of Plaza Grande.  It is open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

One of the things that make the city of Quito so beautiful is its prominent location at the foothills of the Andes Mountains.  The best way to appreciate the stunning views of this high-altitude city is to take the city’s famous TelefériQo cable car up to the foothills of Pichincha Volcano above the city. 

The TelefériQo rises from 10,226 feet (3,117 meters) to 12,943 feet (3,945 meters), making it one of the highest aerial lifts in the world.  From the top, you can get some absolutely stunning photographs of Quito in all its glory.  Before you head back down, you can also choose to take a walk on the volcano, which I strongly recommend.

Virgin of El Panecillo

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Quito sits up on the bluffs overlooking the heart of the city.  From its perch on the bluffs, the Virgin of El Panecillo looks over the town and its residents. 

Inaugurated in 1976, the nearly 150-foot-high statue made of aluminum sits over 650 feet above the city, so it can be seen from various points around the old-town section of Quito. 

If you are up for a walk, you can hike to the statue and even enter inside and climb up to the top. From there, you will be treated to some truly spectacular views of Quito.

Parqueadero Basílica del Voto Nacional

If you love beautiful and historic churches, then you won’t want to miss out on visiting the Parqueadero Basílica del Voto Nacional. It is the largest neo-Gothic church in South America that is part of some interesting if not troubling, superstitions. According to legend, if the construction of the basilica is ever officially completed, the world as we know it will end.

That alone sets this church apart from many others that you will visit in South America and throughout the world. The inside of the church is as beautiful as the exterior, with a long central nave that has two smaller, adjoining naves. Throughout the basilica, you will find the most beautiful stained glass windows.

The gargoyles on the exterior of the basilica represent some of the native animals you will find in Ecuador, including iguanas, tortoises, armadillos, and condors. If you decide to visit, the $2 entry fee that you pay to enter also allows you to ascend to the top of one of the two towers of the church. If you are up for the climb, the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Plaza de la Independencia

In the heart of the beautiful historical center of old Quito, Plaza de la Independencia, which is known colloquially as Plaza Grande, is one of the busiest and most well-known plazas in Quito.  The square is not short on history, with the Heroes of the Independence statue in the square’s center and four of the city’s most historical buildings surrounding it. 

Among these are the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral of Quito.  If you are going to visit the plaza, I would strongly recommend you try and visit on a Monday morning.  This is when the “Changing of the Guard” occurs at the Presidential Palace, and it is a wonderful tradition to witness.

Catedral Metropolitana

Though it has had to survive numerous natural disasters including a volcanic eruption and an earthquake since being constructed in the 16th Century, the Catedral Metropolitana de Quito still stands and attracts flocks of visitors to this day.  While the exterior of the church is a clean white, the interior of the church showcases several colorful murals, marble columns, and decorative gold. 

The church is so important to the people throughout Ecuador that it was officially declared the country’s most important church back in 1995.  If you decide to visit, the price of entry includes a guided tour that you should take advantage of.  The tours are in both Spanish and English and include a wealth of historical information about the church and city.

Plaza de San Francisco

There is a lot of history to see in Quito’s historical old town. With its cobblestone streets and old buildings, touring this area will really take you back in time.  Perhaps the place where this is more true than anywhere else in the old town is the infamous Plaza de San Francisco.  Throughout much of the history of Quito, the Plaza de San Francisco was the place where people would congregate to trade.  Today, the plaza is a place to congregate in a cafe to enjoy the company of your friends and to people-watch.

What hasn’t changed is the beautiful Monastery of San Francisco, which still sits in the plaza to this day.  If you’re interested in touring the monastery, there is a great collection of 16th-century artwork and beautiful, intricate furniture inside.  You will also note a collection of images of the sun that decorate the interior. 

These were used by the monks of the monastery to try and convert the native people to Christianity when the monastery was opened.  With so much history, it is little surprise that the Plaza de San Francisco and the Monastery of San Francisco are two of the biggest tourist attractions in Quito to this day.

Shop at the Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal

For those of you who love to do some shopping when you travel, one place that you will not want to miss out on visiting when you are in Quito is the artisan market.  The Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal is an indoor/outdoor market with vendors that sell a wide variety of hand-made goods and other items. 

You will find a good selection of clothing, jewelry, art, handbags, leather goods, and much more on the market.  Make sure you bring your haggling skills and have some fun bartering for deals on souvenirs to bring home.

Try the Street Food Near Parque El Ejido

Before you leave Quito, you absolutely have to try the wonderful street food in the city.  One of the best places to find great street food in the city is on the outskirts of Parque El Ejido.  You will find quite a few street vendors set up along Avenida Patria selling some delicious food you will want to try.  Here is a sample of some of the food you might find when you visit:

• Tortillas – These potato patties typically include sausage and are topped with a fried egg, chopped lettuce, tomato, and rice.
• Tripa Mishki – If you are on the adventurous side, this dish is something you might want to give a try as it is one of the most popular dishes in Ecuador. Consisting of seasoned and fried intestines, the texture takes a while to get used to.
• Empanadas de Viento – This dish is my absolute favorite in Ecuador. These tasty empanadas are filled with cheese and then deep-fried and sprinkled with sugar. Make sure you grab more than one as they are both very light and incredibly addicting.
• Seco de Pollo – This chicken stew is typically served with rice, boiled egg, and potatoes. It is so popular with the locals that it has become a staple in Ecuadorian cuisine. Though you will find this dish throughout Ecuador, the city of Quito is known for having some of the best.

How to Get to Quito, Ecuador

If you are visiting Quito from outside of Ecuador, the best way to visit is to fly into the city’s international airport.  There is a wide range of international flights into and out of Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) every day, so you should have plenty of options.  If you are visiting Quito from other areas of Ecuador, the easiest way to travel between cities is by airplane. 

There are several airports throughout Ecuador that you can take advantage of for your travel needs.  To assist you in your planning needs, I have included a map of the country’s many airports for you to review in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below.

The Basics of Bus Travel

If you are looking for a cheaper way to travel throughout Ecuador, your best bet is to use the country’s bus system.  From Quito, there are two main bus terminals: Quitumbe and Carcelén .  From here, you can visit many of the cities throughout Ecuador in a relatively reasonable amount of time. 

As a general rule of thumb, plan on paying between $1-$1.50 per hour for bus travel in Ecuador.  For instance, I have included some examples of travel times and costs for you to review in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below.

• Quito to Canoa = 6 hours ($6-$9)
• Quito to Guayaquil = 8 hours ($8-$12)
• Quito to Cuenca = 9 hours ($9-$13.50)
• Quito to Montañita = 10 hours ($10-$15)
• Quito to Baños = 3.5 hours ($3.50-$5.25)
• Quito to Tena = 6 hours ($6-$9)
• Quito to Coca = 7 hours ($7-$10.5)
• Quito to Otavalo = 2 hours ($2-$5)

While you are generally safe from violent crime while traveling by bus in Ecuador, the buses are known to be frequented by pickpockets.  If you are traveling with luggage in the bus’s hold, I would recommend locking your bags if possible. 

If you don’t have luggage locks, just make sure your luggage is closed well.  I would recommend keeping anything of value with you in the passenger compartment. 

If you are keeping a carry-on bag with you in the passenger compartment of the bus, do not put your bag in the overhead storage or on the floor.  Instead, keep your bag with you on your lap while on the bus.  This will prevent anyone from having convenient access to your bags.

Best Times to Visit Quito, Ecuador

The city of Quito is located in a subtropical highland climate.  At an altitude of roughly 9,350 feet (or 2,850 meters) and a location right on the Equator, the city has a fairly constant cool, but not cold, climate.  Throughout Ecuador, the climate in the country is divided into two primary seasons – the wet season and the dry season.  The dry season lasts from Jun through August, while the rest of the year sees a fairly high amount of rainfall (especially between February and April).

While the dry season may seem like an ideal time to visit Quito because of the nice weather, it is also the busiest time of year for tourism in the city.  If you visit during the dry season, expect to see larger crowds at the popular tourist spots.  It is also the best time to visit the Galápagos Islands, so there is a greater number of tourists traveling through Quito on their way to the islands as well.  Perhaps the best months to visit are the shoulder months of May and September.  These months tend to still be relatively dry, but there are also typically fewer tourists visiting during these months as well.

Average Temperature (°F)

One of the remarkable things about the weather in much of Ecuador, and especially Quito, is the consistency of the high and low temperatures throughout the year.  Because the city sits right on the Equator and at a high altitude, the high temperature throughout the year fairly consistently reaches the upper 60’s and the low temperature rarely falls below the lower 40’s.

Average Precipitation (Inches)

While there isn’t much variation in the high and low temperatures, there is much more variation in the amount of precipitation the city gets throughout the year.  The dry season in Quito is from June through August, whereas the wettest time of year is usually between February thru April.  If you are planning on spending a good deal of time outside, you might want to avoid visiting during these months.

Where to Stay in Quito, Ecuador

An important decision you need to make when planning your trip to Quito is where you will stay.  When you travel, the accommodations you choose are oftentimes amongst the biggest expenditures for your trip. 

So, not only do you need to be comfortable, but you need to be able to afford to stay there.  Finding the right accommodations for your trip involves looking at the amenities, the location, and most importantly, the price. 

If you are starting to plan your trip to Quito, you may be looking for some hotel and hostel suggestions. I included some great options at different price points in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below. As always, don’t be afraid to expand your search to room-sharing sites such as  Airbnb  or  VRBO  if you aren’t finding a hotel or hostel that meets your needs.

Where to Eat in Quito, Ecuador

In addition to all of the wonderful things to see and do within Quito, the local cuisine is very popular with tourists who visit.  There is no shortage of great restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors for you to sample during your stay.  If you are looking for some recommendations, I have included several highly-rated restaurants for you to review in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below.

Recommended Tours in Quito, Ecuador

No trip to Quito is complete without a little bit of adventure.  There is so much to see and do within the city and the surrounding area, that it is hard to know where to begin.  If you are looking for some recommendations for tours and excursions to take during your stay, I have included some recommendations in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below. 

Quito, Ecuador Photo Gallery

Quito is one of those cities where you don’t really have to put in much effort to get some amazing photographs when you visit.  With beautiful things around almost every corner, finding things to photograph couldn’t be much easier.  If you would like to see some of the photographs that I took during my stay in Quito, I have included a gallery of some of my favorite images for you to review in my Quito, Ecuador visitor guide below.

If you would like to see more of my travel photography, I would also encourage you to give me a follow on Instagram . Putting this blog together to pass on my free guides, itineraries, and travel photography tips is a lot of work and your support in the form of a follow-on Instagram would be so very much appreciated!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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8 comments ›.

Oh my goodness! You know too much! Tell me you have a book or something?! South America has always interested us. We are a homeschooling family and want to do more world schooling; what are your thoughts on Ecuador with small children? I’m guessing wait until they’re in their teens, but wanted to check with you.

Thank you so much for the kind words!! I think Ecuador would be great for younger kids. We saw a number of families while in Quito and the Galapagos. It’s an amazing country! 😄

Really? Okay we will look into it when the world starts turning again; thanks for your reply.

No problem! Good luck and safe travels!

Hmmm… it kinda feels like the world is ending right now, so maybe they completed the cathedral?? Looks like a beautiful city – so cloudy though! Did you get any sun at all while you were there? Wonderful travel guide, as always.

Thank you!! It was very cloudy when we were there. Beautiful city though. Lots of American expats there. Also didn’t realize they use the US dollar. Fascinating!

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Quito travel guide | ecuador.

Updated: Jul 4

In this article, I will show you the best things to do in Quito.

Also, will share some advice on accommodations and a few things you need to know before traveling to quito., things to do in quito, the best and safest places to stay in quito, things you need to know before traveling to quito.

Firstly, you have to visit Quito Old Town ! In my opinion, it is the first place you need to visit as you will get the feel of the place and will see some of the most spectacular architectural examples of South America. Also, the Quito Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Quito, together with Krakow in Poland was actually the first city announced as a World Heritage Site.

The most spectacular sight in Quito Old Town you have to see and visit is the Basilica ! It is the largest neo-Gothic Catholic Church in the both South and North Americas. You can admire it from the outside, or if you wish take the steep stairs up to the top from where you can enjoy amazing views of the city. On your way, you will find an art gallery and a cafe in case you want to stop for a break. The entrance to go up is 3 USD for foreigners and 2 USD for locals.

In Quito Old Town, you will also find a very popular street - Calle La Ronda. It is full of art galleries and cafes. A very colorful street you have to walk through.

Besides the above, must-see attractions in Quito Old Town are:

Church of the Society of Jesus

San Francisco Church

El Sagrario Church

Plaza Grande

Carondelet Palace

Church of Our Lady of Mercy

If you are a chocolate lover then you have arrived at the right country. Ecuador is a massive cocoa producer and exporter. Turns out, the great chocolate in Belgium and Switzerland is actually made from cocoa beans from Ecuador. In Ecuador, you will find many artisan chocolate makers trying to preserve old traditions and support local communities. One company like that is Yumbos Chocolate . They offer a chocolate tasting tour in the heart of the Quito Old Town - San Francisco Square.

Indulge yourself in the best local dishes of Ecuador and Quito. Pick one of the food tours from ' Food Tour Quito ' ! Learn more about the local food culture and try some of the best delicacies the area has to offer.

Quito City has so much more to offer than just a charming old town. A 10min taxi drive away you can reach the top of Panacillo hill, where the statue of Panacillo Virgen is, also called the Virgen of Quito. She overlooks the whole city so from up there you also can get a great view of Quito. Up there you will also find a cafe and a little market. If you decide to go there, please take a taxi as the area around the hill is not the safest because of robbers and stray dogs that can get aggressive. Once up there you will be completely safe.

Another 15min drive away you can reach the Quito Cable Car (Telefériqo Quito). You can go up there for a quick visit but I warn you there is so much more to do. If you walk a bit further up you will find 2 big swings. Also up there, you can go horse riding and if you have more time and power then you can hike to one of the nearby volcanoes.

If you like shopping for local goodies then you have to visit Mariscal Artesian Market . Especially if you do not have time to make your way to Otavalo (a famous indigenous market in Ecuador, 3h away from Quito) then this is a great alternative to add to your Quito itinerary. You will find everything there, starting from traditional ponchos, hats, and outfits to local chocolate, spices, and other goodies.

A very popular place to go out and socialize is Foch Square. I still recommend it if you are planning to meet up with friends but unfortunately, Covid has impacted this place and it is not as lively as it used to be.

A great way how to explore different parts of the city is with Quito Free Walking Tours !

If you are in the town on Sunday, you must participate in the weekly Sunday city bicycle riding. One of the main streets gets shut down from 8 am to 4 pm for cycling. We were very lucky and our hotel could provide us with bicycles and we are so glad we could take part in it. You will see people from families to professional cyclists, everyone is enjoying this activity. I think it is a great initiative from the government for locals and tourists.

Here are 2 bicycle rentals in Quito I found, so you can participate:

Flow Bike Rental Ecuador

Bucket Pass

Quito is famous for having many volcanoes around it. Visiting them might require a whole day. So if you want to see one, while exploring Quito then visit Pululahue Volcano . This is still an active volcano and more shocking, people actually live in the crater. It is not far from the famous equator monument, which I will cover next.

You can't go to Quito and not visit the Middle of the World Monument . It is a must-do when in Ecuador in general. But I have to break this to you - the equator line is not there! When the French came, they actually measured it wrong. Years later when scientists from all over the world came to actually measure it accurately, turned out it is a bit off. By then the monument was already famous and wasn't moved but still, it is quite near the truth.

If you want to be on the real equator line and actually learn more about it, then I highly highly recommend the Inti-Nan Museum , which not only teaches about the equator but also how indigenous people measured time, seasons, and years. Also, it gives a glimpse of how they lived in the old days.

A very special treat I have left for the end is Casa Agave Tour . A company that relived the old traditions of making a very special local drink from Agave is now introducing us to the process of how this drink is made. The whole tour is very interesting and at the end, of course, there is degustation. Not only that, they let you try and make your own cocktails. I really enjoyed this tour, probably one of my absolute favorites so far in the whole of South America.

Quito city is fairly big, so you probably wonder where is the best place to stay in Quito so you are conveniently close to all major attractions.

Well, there is no ideal place, because to get to the cable car, middle of the world monuments, Panacillo and other places you will, either way, need to get a taxi or bus as they are just a bit too far away from the center.

The top 4 areas to stay at are:

Quito Old Town

La Mariscal area

La Floresta  area

González Suárez

I go into more detail about the above 4 areas and also areas you should avoid in my ' Best Places to Stay in Quito Ecuador ' Guide!

Although the city is absolutely amazing and you definitely need to add it to your 'must-visit' list, there are 2 things I want to warn you about.

Firstly, there are stray dogs everywhere and they can be aggressive, so please be careful around them. They can seem calm at first but can attack you at any time. Also, they might have rabies so you do not want to ruin your trip by going to the hospital.

Secondly, be careful if you take the bus in Quito and Ecuador in general. Pickpoceters are extra active on public transport here. They actually can cut up your bag, get what they can get, and disappear without you even knowing, so double watch your bag when on buses.

I hope this guide will help you prepare better for your trip.

To get the vibe of the city, watch this video:.

Make sure to add Amazon to your Ecuador travel itinerary:

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Things to see and do in Quito: our travel guide to visit Ecuador’s capital

During our 2-month language study vacation in Quito, we had more than enough time to visit every corner of Ecuador's capital. Read our travel guide!

Last Update: 27/01/2024 3 COMMENTS

We’re not going to lie to you, we’d mostly heard about Quito , the capital of Ecuador , as a dangerous city, impossible to visit without being stolen something. Yes, it is! We’ve met a dozen travelers who’ve had problems… So we were a little apprehensive about visiting this city after deciding to spend 2 months learning Spanish in Quito .

However, after our linguistic stay, our assessment is as follows: 0 stolen objects and many wonderful discoveries. Frankly, we haven’t yet visited the rest of South America, but Ecuador’s capital already sets the bar very high (in addition to being located at 2800 m altitude 😉). And since we spent so much time there and loved visiting it, we’ve put together a guide to the city to prove to you that there’s plenty to do in Quito and that, no, it’s not just another sketchy South American city!

Plaza Grande and Palacio de Carondelet

Plaza de san francisco, calle de la ronda, basilica del voto nacional, el panecillo, la mariscal or gringolandia, parque metropolitano guangüiltagua, parque la carolina, quito botanical garden, other parks in quito, el teleferiqo, hike to the summit of pinchincha, quito’s markets, learn spanish in quito, other things to do in quito, la mitad del mundo, sitio intiñan museum, mercado artesania otavalo, laguna de cuicocha, mount fuya fuya and mojanda lakes, laguna de quilotoa, baños, other things to do around quito, food in quito, accommodation in quito, from mariscal sucre international airport, in the city, outside the city, map of quito, quito’s climate: when is the best time to visit the city, safety rules in quito.

We took this trip in 2014, but the article was completely revised and updated in November 2023. If you see any price changes or have additional information that might be relevant, please feel free to leave us a comment!

Visit El Centro Historico , Quito’s historic center

300 years of Spanish colonization transformed a city! Imposing their religion, the Spaniards built churches, monasteries, palaces and plazas in Quito, but they thought big! In fact, Quito boasts the largest (and best-preserved) historic center in all of South America. In short, there’s a lot of things to see and do in Quito!

Frankly, I’m not going to give you a boring summary of all the churches there are to visit in the historic center – you’ve probably got a paper guidebook that explains it all.

I simply recommend getting lost in the narrow, colorful streets of old Quito . The architecture of the buildings, the sculptures and frescoes in the churches… Everything is beautiful and superbly maintained. You can see that the city of Quito is making great efforts to preserve its historic center. Here’s a short list of our favorite spots in Quito’s historic center !

We particularly liked the Plaza Grande (Independence Square), with its colonial-style buildings, just in front of the Palacio de Carondelet , the presidential palace and the government palace. Normally, the changing of the guard takes place at 11 a.m. on Mondays. To visit the building, reserve your place 1 or even several days in advance by going directly to the site. The tour of the presidential palace is free and lasts a good hour. You’ll be asked to leave your passport at the entrance, so take it (or a copy) with you. Once we’ve set foot in Latin America, we’ve got into the habit of carrying only a copy with us.

Next to the entrance to the Carondelet Palace, the Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum is very interesting; it traces the history of the city of Quito. If you have to wait to enter the palace, drop in for a visit!

Not far from here, we also really enjoyed the Plaza de San Francisco and its namesake church and convent . Built at the end of the 16 th century, this monument stands out for the different architectural styles that characterize its interior. It is also the oldest church in Quito and one of the largest religious complexes in South America. The visit is not free ($2.5 per person), and we can’t recommend it highly enough.

On San Francisco Square, the restaurant/bar La Bodega de Cantuña has a very nice terrace where you can enjoy a drink on the square. I mention this because we hardly saw any other terraces in Quito’s historic center…

Last but not least, we recommend a visit to Calle de la Ronda , one of Quito’s oldest streets! At the foot of the Panecillo , you’ll admire the unique architecture of these charming, colorful houses. We also recommend a glass (or carafe, as you prefer!) of canelazo , Ecuador’s typical and traditional alcoholic beverage ! It’s made from sugarcane alcohol ( aguardiente ) boiled with cinnamon and sugar, and served hot! To try this beverage, you’ll find several very nice bars in La Ronda, small and charming (nothing like the ultra-touristy La Mariscal district). A word of caution, though: stop by in the late afternoon: although canelazo is quite sweet, it’s pretty strong, and after one or two drinks, you’ll find it hard to get up!

If you’re new to the free walking tour concept, it’s a great way to discover a place for the first time. You’ll set off in a group with a local guide to discover Quito’s historic center , and if you’ve enjoyed the tour, you simply tip the guide as you see fit. Frankly, we love these tours and the concept, so much so that it’s the first thing we do when we arrive in an unfamiliar city!

It was this basilica that impressed us most during our visit to old Quito. Its dimensions are nothing short of impressive: 140 meters long and 115 meters high for the two towers! Visible from anywhere in Quito thanks to the towers, the building has a particularly interesting Gothic style! One of its features is the presence of gargoyles representing Ecuadorian animals (iguanas, turtles, toucans…) all over its facades. It’s quite unusual to see such animals in a religious building of this size!

But the highlight of the visit, in our opinion, is climbing the towers of the Basilica del Voto Nacional . In fact, you can actually go inside the clock , then climb to the top of one of the 2 towers, as well as the third, which is slightly lower than the two main ones. I might as well tell you that you’d never be allowed to do that in Europe…

After that, be prepared to climb a lot of stairs (an elevator can save you a few floors) and even some ladders. You’d better not be afraid of heights! But it’s worth it: the panorama from the top is absolutely incredible. From up there, you simply have the best view in town of Panecillo and Quito!

Another unlikely thing for a basilica is the presence of a café at the top of one of the two towers . For a few dollars, you can enjoy a coffee/cake with a great view of the city. Not bad, eh?

Entrance to the Basilica del Voto Nacional costs $2 per person , but if you want to climb the towers, that too costs $2. You can do one without the other. The Basilica is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.

El Panecillo (roll in English) is the hill in the middle of Quito. At its summit, you’ll find a 41-meter-high aluminum statue of the Virgin ( Virgen del Panecillo ), which can be seen from absolutely anywhere in Quito! She’s a symbol of the city, and even the guardian angel , since she has wings. The view from Panecillo is breathtaking on a clear day, and well worth the climb! For $1 , you can also climb inside the Virgin for a superb 360° view of Quito.

It’s possible to walk up to the Panecillo, but we’ve heard quite a few stories of theft there. Some locals even advised us against walking up alone. As we were with locals, we were able to walk up. To be on the safe side, take a driver or cab (about $8 round trip), a bus around Quito , or the public bus (less than a dollar per person) up to the top of the hill. If you’re fluent in Spanish, just ask to find the right bus! If not, look on Google Maps for the various routes to the Panecillo.

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Located just north of the historic center, La Mariscal is considered Quito’s most festive district. It’s also where the majority of the city’s backpacker hotels are located. If you ask us, there’s not much of interest here . If you’re going to be in Quito, you might as well stay in the magnificent historic center rather than waste your time in yet another backpacker district (which, by the way, looks the same all over the world)! However, you’re bound to come across one, as most of the travel agencies are located in La Mariscal.

In the evenings, the atmosphere is quite friendly, and we’ve been here several times to watch World Cup football matches, just for the atmosphere! But in our opinion, there are other, more interesting areas to go out in Quito, such as La Floresta.

Walk in Quito’s parks

Although you can’t really say that Quito is a green or clean city (just look at the amount of smoke that comes out of the buses, but more on that later), several nice parks are well worth a visit.

Located behind the Olympic Stadium in the northern part of the city, Metropolitan Park is Quito’s largest park and lung. To give you an idea of scale, the park is twice the size of New York’s Central Park ! And it took me 3 hours at a good pace to walk around it!

The whole park is covered in forests and paths , making it the perfect place for a jog in the forest or a barbecue with friends. There are also grills set up in several places, a sort of fitness trail, soccer pitches, basketball courts, and more. And let’s not forget that the Parque Metropolitano Guangüiltagua is also home to an adorable herd of llamas ! In short, there’s plenty to do. What’s more, as the park is located on a hill, you can see the Cotopaxi and Cayambe volcanoes from several viewpoints!

La Carolina Park is located in the heart of downtown Quito, opposite the Quicentro shopping center . Many people come here at weekends to play football, basketball or Ecuavolley, a popular variation of volleyball in Ecuador, with a much higher net. Most of the courts are available free of charge, and the atmosphere is great! You can also grab a bite to eat and a fresh fruit juice . Street vendors are everywhere at weekends.

Located right in the middle of La Carolina Park, the garden was a pleasant surprise for us. The concept of the Quito Botanical Garden is to reproduce the typical environments to be found in Ecuador: the coast, the Andes, the Amazon… What’s more, it boasts two magnificent greenhouses , one filled with sublime orchids and the other with carnivorous plants. In short, we loved wandering around this plant-filled environment!

The Quito Botanical Garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and admission costs $4 .

There are also other interesting parks in Quito, such as Parque Bicentenario , the Bicentennial Park , which stands on the site of the old airport. The runway has been transformed into a place for relaxation and sports, and over a million trees have been planted. An interesting way to recycle an airport, in my opinion! Elsewhere, El Ejido Park , famous for its painters, is well worth a visit.

Take El TeleferiQo to the summit of the Pichincha volcano

Now that, my friends, is THE program to do on a sunny day! As you may know, Quito lies partly on the eastern slope of the Pichincha volcano . As a result, it’s possible to take El TeleferiQo from Quito, a cabin that climbs up the volcano’s slope to an altitude of 4,000 m. And what if I told you that the panorama from the top of the cable car is INCREDIBLE! Of course, you’ll have a stunning view of the whole of Quito, but on a clear day, you’ll also be able to admire the majestic Cotopaxi volcano , as well as Antisana and Cayambe, which lie a little further away.

It’s best to take a taxi to the cable car , as several locals told us that the area was a bit dodgy… Expect to pay $2-3 for a cab from downtown Quito (La Mariscal or the historic center). The cable car is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday and from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday to Sunday. El TelefriQo tickets cost $9 per person round trip.

If you’re in good physical condition or want to train to climb one of Ecuador’s big volcanoes (Cotopaxi, Cayambe, Chimborazo…), you can then climb from the top of the cable car to the summit of Rucu Pichincha at 4696 m, on your own. You can’t go wrong, there’s only one way up and it’s very well signposted. You can download the route here .

Allow between 4 and 7 hours round trip , depending on your speed. Don’t forget that altitude makes you short of breath too! But be warned that the last part is quite difficult, and more of a climb than a hike. If you’re used to walking in the mountains, this won’t be a problem, but I’ve seen guides rope their clients themselves together (although I doubt it’s really necessary). Otherwise, the section on the right is a little easier on the loop before the summit. For the view alone, it’s well worth the effort 😉

Shopping in Quito

When it comes to shopping, Quito isn’t quite as good as Bangkok or Hong Kong, but you’ll be able to find everything you’re looking for. If you’re looking for local brands, you’ll find what you’re looking for at the Quicentro , located right in front of the Olympic Stadium. It’s Quito’s biggest and fanciest shopping mall but beware: prices are rather high. Taxes on items imported into Ecuador are considerable, so don’t be surprised if a computer or cell phone is more expensive in Quito than it is in Europe!

If you’re looking for cheap clothes, shoes, or other knick-knacks, head to the historic center, near the Panecillo, to the San Roque market . You’ll have plenty of choices, but you can’t be sure of the quality. If you have more time, take a day trip to the Otavalo market , 2 hours from Quito. It’s the biggest market in the country, and you’ll find a huge choice at very good prices.

For a gourmet break, the central market ( Mercado Central ) on the edge of old Quito offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables , as well as traditional cuisine . The market we visited most was just behind the Quicentro, the Mercado Iñaquito . Here you’ll find fruit and vegetables, bread, meat, cheese, and often inexpensive almuerzos (lunch). In short, excellent value for fresh, local food!

If you don’t have the time or courage to go to the market, you’ll find fruit and vegetables in the fruterias (small stores that can be found absolutely everywhere) and bread in the panaderias . Otherwise, of course, there are big chains like Super Maxi or Mega Maxi, where you’ll find everything, but prices are generally 20% higher.

As we said earlier, the main reason for our 2-month stay in Quito was to learn Spanish . This interlude in our round-the-world trip was one of the best decisions we made during our trip!

In 2 months of more or less intensive classes (4 hours a day, 5 days a week), we acquired a solid grounding in Spanish that would serve us well throughout the rest of our South American tour! Being able to communicate with people was a real joy. Frankly, we’d recommend you do the same if you’re a long-haul traveler!

Quito is an excellent place to learn Spanish ! There are many reasons for this, but the main ones are probably the charm of the city and the Spanish spoken here. Ecuadorians speak beautiful, clean Spanish , and Quito’s inhabitants have the particularity of speaking quite slowly . This is a great advantage for beginners like us!

Need more ideas to round off your stay in Quito? Here are a few ways to make the most of Ecuador’s capital:

• take a night tour of Quito on a trolley or electric scooter , in complete safety, to discover a completely different city;
• visit La Capilla del Hombre , the museum dedicated to Guayasamín, to learn all about this illustrious Ecuadorian painter and sculptor;
• discover the illustrious women of Quito ;
• opt for a street food tour or a gourmet chocolate tour if you’re an epicurean at heart;
• taste the craft beers .

What to do near Quito?

As Ecuador is a small country and Quito is centrally located, there are many possibilities for short 1 or 2-day trips from the capital. Here are just a few of the things we did during our 2 months in Quito.

As the name suggests, this is the middle of the world ! In fact, Ecuador lies 35 km north of Quito. So it would be a shame not to take a trip there, wouldn’t it? Well, as you know, the line also passes through Brazil, Africa and Indonesia. But historically speaking, it was here, in 1736, that the first group from the French Academy of Sciences went to measure the exact shape and size of the earth.

There’s a large memorial on site, as well as the Templo del Sol museum , which tells the story of the scientists’ difficult task. But the good joke is that the monument is not located exactly on the Equator!

To get there, you’ll have to leave the monument and walk another 500 m past the roundabout on the left. You’ll then see the Sitio Intiñan museum signposted. To be honest, if we had to do it all over again, we wouldn’t pay the entrance fee for the Mitad del Mundo monument ($5/person) and would only do the Sitio Intiñan museum.

For the same price, you can take a guided tour , which we really enjoyed. You’ll learn a little more about the culture of Ecuador’s indigenous people , the different tribes, their rites… We found the guide superbly competent and very interesting. Nothing to do with many of the average guided tours we’ve had in the past.

Then it’s on to the real Equator line, this time calculated by GPS! It’s amazing to realize that we’re standing on the border between the northern and southern hemispheres ! Here, we observe some interesting measuring instruments and do some fun experiments, such as the Coriolis force…

Even though we knew some of the experiments were faked, we found the tour interactive and highly recommend it!

To get there, simply take bus line 208 to Mitad del Mundo . From the historic center, it takes a good hour and a half and costs less than a dollar per person. Cheap public transport in Ecuador, eh? You’ll probably see tours that take you from your hotel, but you’ll pay a lot… If you’re not too thrilled by the bus, take a cab, Uber, or Cabify to the Middle of the World.

Located 2 hours by bus from Quito, the Otavalo market is renowned for the quality of its textiles and handicrafts . Frankly, if you’re planning a small shopping/souvenir budget for your trip to Ecuador, we’d advise you to save your money for this market. You’ll find absolutely everything in Quito (and more) at a better price. So if you’re in the mood for a nice wool sweater, hat, poncho or whatever, this is the market for you.

Many agencies offer excursions to Otavalo for several dozen euros, but frankly, you can do it on your own (and save money!). Getting to Otavalo is easy! First, you’ll need to get to the Carcelén bus station , north of Quito. From there, buses leave regularly for Otavalo. Ticket price? Around 3 dollars for a 2-hour journey. If you’re staying in or coming from the south of Quito, the Quitumbe bus station also offers trips to Otavalo several times a day. Tickets cost 5 dollars for a 2 hr. 10 min. journey, and you can reserve your seat here or here .

And if you’ve finished shopping quickly enough at the Otavalo market and fancy a little stroll, head for the Laguna de Cuicocha . Located a 30-minute drive from the market (about $10 for a cab ride), the lagoon is an excellent alternative for an afternoon of fresh air. In fact, this lake lies inside a crater at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano (there are many volcanoes in Ecuador, aren’t there?).

Frankly, the scenery from the lake with the imposing volcano in the background is sublime. Like us, you can take a short boat trip on the Cuicocha lagoon for $3. But if you have more time, or if you’re spending a weekend in Otavalo, a superb 5-hour walk around the lake and crater awaits you. Given the scenery, it must be well worth the effort… You can find the trail here .

The start of this hike is also about 30 minutes from Otavalo, but this time to the south ($10 taxi fare). More challenging than the hike to the Cuicocha lagoon, you’ll climb to the summit of Mount Fuya Fuya (4279 m) to discover the beautiful landscape surrounding the Mojanda lagoon . Beware, it’s (very) steep! If you’re in Otavalo and have the day ahead of you and the necessary conditions, you can do both hikes. Otherwise, choose the one best suited to your level. Find and download the trail here .

Another lake in a crater! To get there, all you have to do is take a bus from Quito’s Quitumbe terminal to Latacunga (1 hour 30 min bus ride for 2 dollars), then take a second bus to Quilotoa (they’re frequent) to finish the trip with a 2 h ride for $2 a ticket.

The special feature of this region around the Quilotoa lagoon is the possibility of trekking from village to village (all have hostals ) for several days without having to take a bus or cab. It’s unique in Ecuador, and the scenery is well worth the effort! We’ve devoted an entire article to this magnificent trek to Quilotoa .

Located 3-4 hours by bus from Quito, Baños is considered the extreme sports capital of Ecuador, and we headed there for a weekend with friends. Several tours take you from Quito to discover the essentials of Baños in 1 day . On the program: waterfalls , hot springs, volcano (Tungurahua), rafting, mountain biking, zip-lining, canyoning, trekking… The list goes on! We give you all the information you need on how to visit Baños .

This perfectly shaped volcano, with its snow-capped peak of 5,897 m, is one of Ecuador’s symbols ! I was so fascinated by it when we arrived in Quito that I got it into my head to climb it …

As the Cotopaxi volcano is just 60 km south of Quito, you can take a day trip up to the refuge or go mountain biking for between 30 and 70 dollars a day. If you want to reach the summit, you’ll need 2 days to get to the refuge and make the ascent at night with a guide. The total cost is around $200.

If you don’t want to climb the volcano, some great day trips to Cotopaxi National Park allow you to get a closer look at this behemoth from Quito.

Located in the rainforest 2 hours by bus west of Quito, the small village of Mindo is known for the incredible diversity of birds and insects (especially butterflies) that live there. But with the growth of tourism in the area (nothing too excessive), other activities such as rafting, zip-lining and mountain biking have grown.

In fact, Mindo is a kind of mini Baños , but with animals. In our opinion, it’s even nicer than Baños, as it’s much quieter.

As you’ve read, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do in and around Quito ! Here are a few more ideas to complete your trip to Ecuador.

Papallacta hot springs

If you’ve skipped Baños and its famous hot springs, that’s no reason not to take advantage of the hot water! The Papallacta hot springs are a 1 h 20 min drive from Baños and are a great alternative. On site, you’ll find plenty of pools in which to relax and enjoy the surrounding nature and views of the Antisana volcano . There’s also a restaurant and a small path where you can stroll along the stream. Entrance costs $10 each. Choose weekdays rather than weekends, when Ecuadorians flock to the thermal baths. The quickest and easiest way to get there is by taxi from Quito.

Yanacocha Biological Reserve

Your time in Quito is limited and Mindo is whisked away? The Yanacocha Biological Reserve is located to the west of Quito, 1 hour’s drive away, which is enough time to discover the rainforest and its multicolored fauna . Several hiking trails crisscross the site for total immersion. For more information, visit the website of the Jocotoco Foundation , which manages the reserve.

No lie, gastronomy is not Quito’s strong point. The typical midday meal, almuerzo , consists of a chicken or fish soup often served with popcorn (!), followed by a rice dish with potatoes and meat and a tiny bit of salad. All accompanied by a huge glass of fruit juice . We promise you, it’s high in calories!

We also tried another specialty, tortillas de Guaranda , thick pancakes topped with cheese. But otherwise, Ecuadorians are carnivores. They really like to eat meat at every meal.

As we had a kitchen at our disposal, we often took the opportunity to cook for ourselves. To tell you the truth, it feels good to cook after 10 months on the road! But let’s face it, the price of an almuerzo is really unbeatable: between $1.5 and $2.5 for a full menu. So there’s no need to spend a lot more money on food!

But we confess to being a little shocked by the quantities compared to Asia. We also understand why people on this continent are a little pudgy.

After that, it’s also possible to treat yourself in Ecuador by browsing the markets . They have delicious fruits that you can’t find anywhere else. For example: the árbol tomato (or tamarillo), pomegranate, taxo and many others. Most of the time, we found the fruit to be really tasty !

The last sweet to try in Quito is chocolate! You’ll find plenty of places offering delicious hot chocolates .

Quito is a big city, so you’ll have no trouble finding a place to sleep! There really is something for every price and every standard. As for us, we moved straight into our apartment , perfect for several days or even weeks in Quito.

Our only piece of advice is to choose accommodation in or near the historic center or towards La Mariscal . This is where the majority of guesthouses are located, and it’s a relatively safe area in which to get out and about.

Here’s a map with a wide selection of accommodations. Use the filters to display the type of accommodation you’re looking for (and prices), then zoom in to find the area of your choice:

For backpackers looking for a low-cost room , we recommend the Latinos Brothers House , a great establishment in a great location with a crazy terrace. For a budget double room , you can choose between the Colonial House Inn and the Hostal Juana de Arco . Both offer basic but comfortable rooms with an excellent breakfast, all in the heart of old Quito!

You can also rent an entire apartment in Quito through Booking, which can sometimes cost less than a room! In addition to having a home, the major advantage is having a kitchen as well. You’ll find them for as little as 15 euros a night .

Getting around Quito

It’s easy to think of taking a taxi from the airport to the city center, but that’s the most expensive option here (at least $25-30 a ride). Otherwise, the bus is an inexpensive way to get to the heart of Quito. You can find the different bus lines here . Take line 198 to the Rio Coca terminal. From there, take a cab into Quito’s historic center for a few dollars, or take the E3 bus to the Marin Central stop for less than $1.

An even simpler way to connect the airport with the old town of Quito is to take the airport shuttle bus . The ticket costs $8 per person ($4 for children), and you can find the Aeroservicios timetable here . The advantage is that it goes directly to Bicentennial Park. From there, take the metro a stone’s throw away (El Labrador station at San Francisco station) or take a cab for a few dollars to your hotel. A final option is to take an Uber or Cabify , but this will always cost you more than the shuttle.

If you’re landing late , take a cab, Uber (or Cabify), or shuttle (+ taxi), as these are the safest ways to get to your hotel in Quito at night.

Bus and metro

The best ways to get around Quito are by bus and metro , which cross the city from north to south. You can also walk, but the city is really spread out and distances are quickly considerable. What’s more, the altitude makes you feel the strain more quickly!

The whole city is served by bus. However, there are 3 main lines : the green line (el trole), the blue line (metrobus) and the red line (ecovia). A bus ticket costs just $0.25 in Quito, with no distance limit. To find your way around, use Google Maps, the application will tell you which bus lines to take.

Since early 2023, Quito has been adorned with a brand-new metro . Its 23-kilometer line runs longitudinally between El Labrador station in the north and the Quitumbe bus terminal in the south, passing through old Quito (San Francisco station).

You may find yourself taking one of Quito’s many cabs (there are over 10,000!). During the day, they all operate on a taximeter, and the fare is very low by international standards (around $10 per half-hour). Make sure your registration number is clearly visible on the bodywork and that the meter is activated. Please note that from 7-8 p.m., most cabs stop using the meter, so you’ll have to negotiate the price of your fare. It’s about 2 times more expensive at night than during the day… The other, cheaper way is to hire the services of a driver via Uber or Cabify .

We’ll discuss this further below, but it’s common sense to take a cab or chauffeur after dark . It’s usually after 7 p.m. that it’s best not to wander around the less busy streets, so don’t take any unnecessary risks!

The best way to get out of Quito and travel around the region is still by bus . A bus ticket generally costs around $1 per hour of travel. Quito has several major terminals, depending on your next destination:

• Quitumbe in the south for most destinations on the coast (Guayaquil), in the Amazon (Baños) and the Andes (Cotopaxi);
• Carcelén to the north for the Otavalo market.

To help you find your way around all this information about Quito, we’ve put it all together on a map. All you have to do is visit 😉.

As Quito is very close to Ecuador (no kidding!), there are no seasons to speak of. Temperatures fluctuate between 10 and 20°C year-round, with an average of around 14°C.

However, Quito does have a rather wet season between October and May (10-15 days of rain per month) and a dry season from June to September (5-7 days of rain per month). Having lived through May, we can assure you that it’s best to visit Ecuador (and therefore Quito ) between June and September . During the wet season, the weather in Quito can change very quickly.

It’s often quite sunny early in the morning, then quickly clouds over and rains in the afternoon. As we had Spanish lessons in the morning, our month of May was a little frustrating. On the other hand, we had a wonderful June with very little rain. Bear in mind that you’re at an altitude of 2800 m, Quito being the second-highest capital in the world! As a result, the sun beats down harder than at sea level. After a day’s hiking in the sun, even with cream and a hat, I got a good dose of sunstroke…

Danger: is Quito a safe city?

This is THE point that scares all travelers. Yes, Quito is not a safe city , and even the locals will tell you so. If you doubt it, here are a few anecdotes:

• One of our Spanish teachers, although married, never wears her wedding ring for fear of having it stolen. Can you imagine that back home?
• Another teacher at our school owns a Swatch watch (nothing fancy!). We set off together to climb the Panecillo and when we got to the foot of the hill, he took off his watch and put it in his bag .
• Most locals never carry a wallet . They usually have $20 in change in their pockets and nothing more.
• Several of the school’s students were victims of snatching , pickpocketing , or even stabbing during our stay. Sometimes it was carelessness, but sometimes it was just bad luck . In short, it’s best not to have your wedding ring on you and $200 in your pocket.
• Just yesterday, the bottom of my backpack was cut with a box cutter on the bus (which was crowded, of course). I didn’t feel a thing, but fortunately, nothing was stolen! I just have a big hole in the bottom of my backpack.

But then, Quito isn’t hell either and you shouldn’t see evil everywhere. I imagine the situation is similar in most of South America’s big cities, where the gap between rich and poor is all the more marked. In two months, we haven’t had a single problem. It’s probably a question of luck, but we’ve always respected certain basic safety rules .

• Wear as neutral clothing as possible . We’re never overdressed, and we never show off our wealth (even if we don’t have much value apart from our computers).
• After 7 p.m. , we don’t fool around and always take cabs . Clearly avoid crossing parks after dark.
• Always follow the recommendations of locals who know the dangerous neighborhoods (e.g., walk up to Panecillo or TeleferiQo).
• Don’t carry anything in your pockets on the bus, and always carry your backpack in front of you. Don’t laugh, all the locals do the same!
• Just carry cash and a copy of your passport . Avoid taking your credit card (unless you really need it) and your original passport.
• Take as many photos as you like, but put the camera away when you’re not using it to avoid snatching.
• Relax , you’re not risking your life. A cheerful, smiling person generally attracts less attention than a stressed or suspicious person who gives the impression of not knowing where he or she is going.

Find out more in our article Travelling safely in South America .

So after that, if you still don’t know what to do in Quito, there’s nothing more we can do for you 😉. What’s next? Mindo: waterfalls and butterflies !

About Fabienne

I'm the female part of the pair. A little stubborn, spontaneous and passionate about the digital world and the tourism industry, I am also the one addicted to numbers and practical information in our couple. I carefully keep all our travel budgets . Then we are reassured, sometimes I drop my Excels sheets for a nice hike! With the well-deserved artesanal beer at the end... of course!

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Reader Interactions

2 years ago

Hello- where did you learn Spanish? What are the exact associations/ classes you took? We want to go there with our kids for exactly the same reason.

We were at the Columbus academy in Quito for our spanish classes.Hope it helps

9 months ago

Loved your travel blog. Got some terrific tips and go tos and not tos! Thank you. Spending a week in Quito in late January-February and not too sure where to make a base camp. Historico? Business/financial? Outside the city limits? Would prefer not to have a car, but that’s not a requirement if a car would make exploring easier. Interested in leaving the city for outside city limit shoppping or sightseeing; contemplating car vs. bus vs. travel groups like Viator. If you could help, assist in any way, would love to here. Thank you again. D

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Ecuador Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Offering stunning landscapes, the country also boasts delicious food, plentiful mountains, and hospitable people.

It’s also home to the bucket-list-worthy Galapagos Islands, one of the country’s main draws and home to rare and iconic wildlife.

But there is much more to Ecuador than the Galapagos.

Adventure lovers will be keen to explore the Ecuadorian Amazon or climb one of the country’s many volcanoes, including the world-famous Cotopaxi Mountain.

This tiny country packs a lot of punch and this Ecuador travel guide can help you make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ecuador

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in ecuador.

1. Enjoy Quito

Ecuador’s capital is beautiful and energetic. Head to the city’s Old Town to see its historic colonial past. Quito also has plenty of colorful markets to explore with vendors selling incredible indigenous crafts, art, textiles, and delicious local food. The city’s largest and oldest church, Monasterio de San Francisco, features some of the original tilework from its construction in the 16th century and a staircase that was originally designed for the Vatican. Quito is the closest major city to the equator as well, so you can straddle the line and be in both hemispheres at once!

2. Hike Cotopaxi Mountain

Cotopaxi is Ecuador’s second-highest mountain and was the world’s highest volcano until the Chilean volcano Tupungato erupted in 1986. This 12,500-foot-tall snow-capped monster is popular with hikers and mountain bikers. Climbing the entire mountain usually takes about two days and is considered moderately difficult due to the steep climbs and high altitude. It’s best for experienced hikers and climbers who have some training. There are plenty of shorter hikes available, however, including the short (but steep) walk to the first refuge at the base of the volcano. Guided day trips range from $50-90 USD per person.

3. Explore the Galapagos Islands

There are few places in the world that offer wildlife spotting opportunities as good as the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands were formed from active volcanoes and they’re most famous for being the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution during his visit in 1835. From marine iguanas and Galapagos penguins and sea lions to orcas, manta rays, and the Giant Galapagos tortoise (some tortoises are more than five feet long), these islands are teeming with a wide variety of life. Book a multi-day visit to make the most of your time. While not cheap, it’s worth every penny!

4. Adventure in Ibarra

Located 90 minutes outside of Quito, Ibarra is perfect for adventure travel and indigenous visits. It’s a beautiful city with quaint cobblestone streets and colonial-style whitewashed buildings surrounded by the Andes Mountains. Consider rafting, swing jumping, trekking, climbing, kayaking, and more. Don’t leave without trying their handmade ice cream — it’s a local delicacy made in bronze bowls with fruit, sugar, and ice.

5. See the Amazon rainforest

Approximately half of Ecuador is covered in the Amazon rainforest. There are five National Parks located within Ecuador’s Amazon jungle. Yasuni National Park is believed to be the most biodiverse place on the planet and has been named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Over 1,000 species of animals can be found in the forests and lagoons of the Ecuadorian Amazon, including tapirs, monkeys, jaguars, and ocelots. Temperatures in the Amazon remain hot year-round, and it might rain at any time, but if you’re prepared it’s possible to visit year-round. Ecuador offers one of the quickest routes to the Amazon in South America. A day trip costs $150 USD while multi-day tours start at $350 USD.

Other Things to See and Do in Ecuador

1. see baños.

This small town lies high in the Andes and on the hillside of Ecuador’s most active volcano, Tungurahua. Besides the fantastic volcano treks, visitors also flock to Baños to experience the healing powers of its hot springs and to give thanks for miracles performed at the Church of the Virgin of the Holy Water. It’s also the country’s adventure capital, with lots of biking, white water rafting, bungee jumping, ATV rentals, and a circuit of beautiful waterfalls to visit. Prices vary, but activities are not expensive. Bungee jumping, for example, is only $20 USD, while white water rafting is just $30 USD for a half-day trip.

2. Wander the Otavalo Market

Otavalo, located less than 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Quito, is Ecuador’s most famous indigenous market. Handicrafts, jewelry, necklaces, musical instruments, and clothing are just a few of the things you can buy at this expansive market, one of the largest in all of Latin America. It’s open daily from 7am-6pm, but it’s best to arrive early in the day.

3. Visit Cuenca

Cuenca is Ecuador’s third-largest city. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca has colonial buildings, churches, and cathedrals that are extremely photogenic. The city is also thought to be Ecuador’s intellectual capital and has been dubbed the “Athens of the Andes.” Activities range from climbing the towers of Cathedral de la Inmaculada, for a stunning view of the city for only $2.50 USD to pampering yourself at Piedra de Agua with a relaxing soak in the heated mineral baths ($15 USD for 3 hours). Be sure to stroll through Mercado de las Flores (Flower Market) to take in the local pace of life.

4. Explore Ingapirca

Ingapirca is Ecuador’s premier Inca site and is located in the Canar Province, near Guayaquil and the country’s Pacific coast. Dating to the 15th century (not long before the Spanish arrived), the crowning glory of the site is the Temple of the Sun, which is a circular building made of intricately carved stones so as to fit together without mortar. There is also a burial site and a series of low walls which are ruins from various other historic buildings. A guided tour costs $45-50 USD.

5. Relax in Montañita

This surfer’s paradise is a relatively new addition to Ecuador’s list of attractions, although its reputation for pristine beaches and perfect waves has been growing steadily over the years. This is a proper backpacker’s paradise with laid-back beach parties, live bands, and inexpensive accommodations. A week-long surf camp (including lessons, accommodation, and food) costs as little as $500 USD.

6. Go whale watching in Puerto Lopez

One of the many tourist towns that lay along the coast is Puerto Lopez. Not so much of a surfing spot, it’s known instead for its incredible whale watching season. Witness the humpback whales in action, and then check out the blue footed boobies (a very rare bird species) at La Plata island (also referred to as “the poor man’s Galapagos” as the same animals found in the Galapagos are also on La Plata). Full-day tours that combine whale watching and an island visit cost $35–45 USD (plus a $15 USD national park fee).

7. Learn Spanish

There are hundreds of places to take a language course in this country if you’re looking to improve your language skills. If you are going to visit for a prolonged period of time, it might be a good idea to take a couple of lessons. Two top-rated schools are Yanapuma Spanish School and Simon Bolivar Spanish School, which have locations in Quito as well as other cities around the country. Each class is about four hours long, with prices ranging from $6-12 USD per hour. Courses run anywhere from 1-4 weeks long so you can pick an option that suits your budget and language needs.

8. Explore the lava tubes

North of Puerto Ayora, there are tons of underground tunnels that have been formed from molten lava. For $3.50 USD, you can take a self-guided tour or pay more to go with a guide. It’s pretty freaky being in these huge lava tubes but pretty amazing too and something you won’t really find in other destinations.

Ecuador Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation is inexpensive in Ecuador. Dorms start around $6 USD per night, while a private room ranges from $10-50 USD. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and many hostels also include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available all around the country. Campground prices vary but can be found for as little as $5 USD. Most national parks have spots in or around them.

Budget hotels are only slightly more expensive than hostels, with prices starting around $25 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common. For a hotel with a pool, prices start at $30-40 USD per night.

Airbnb is also available, with shared accommodation starting at $15-20 USD per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect prices to begin around $25 USD (though prices average closer to $50 USD).

Food – The local fare of Ecuador features ilapinchagos (fried potato cakes stuffed with cheese), ceviche , empanadas, arroz con pollo (chicken with rice) , and cuy (roasted guinea pig). Seafood is common, owing to its location on the ocean. Potatoes with roasted pig is a popular dish in the mountainous regions, while cassava (also known as yuca) is a common staple near the jungle.

Traditional meals typically cost between $3-5 USD. You can find food stalls on the street for around $1-2 USD. Western-style meals cost around $10-12 USD.

For a meal at a mid-range restaurant, expect to spend around $20 USD per person.

Beer is just $2.50 USD while a latte/cappuccino is $2.34 USD. Bottled water is $0.60 USD.

If you’re planning on shopping in the markets and grocery stores, you can expect to spend around $20-30 USD per week on basic groceries like bread, milk, eggs, cheese, chicken, fruit, and veggies.

Backpacking Ecuador Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of $30 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food and cook some meals, take a free walking tour, and use public transportation to get around. If you plan on drinking, add $5-10 USD per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of $105 USD per day, you can stay in a decent hotel, eat out for all your meals, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, paid tours, and visit most museums.

On a “luxury” budget of $245 USD per day, you can stay in a top hotel, rent a car or take more taxis, eat out anywhere you want, and take as many tours as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Ecuador Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Ecuador is an affordable destination, however, it never hurts to save money! Here are a few tips to cut down your costs during your visit:

• Stay at hospedajes – These family-run guesthouses are all over the country and have rooms for just a few dollars per night. They’re one of the cheapest options available for accommodation.
• Eat at the markets – This is the place to do your food shopping. You can find meals (or buy groceries) for just a few dollars, making this the best way to eat cheaply in the country!
• Embrace almuerzos – Many restaurants have almuerzos , cheap lunches from a set menu. These are usually just a couple of dollars and usually include a drink. If you want to eat out for cheap, this is a great choice.
• Carry small change – Forget about carrying any bills over $20 USD as you’ll have trouble changing them — even $20s can be difficult to break in small towns. Keep change on hand for smaller purchases.
• Book last minute tours – Galapagos cruises are expensive. By booking your tour in Quito last minute, you can save up to 40% off the cost of the trip. You can also just fly there and see what is around too. If you’re flexible in when you go and can wait around for a spot to open, this is the cheapest option.
• Couchsurf – Use Couchsurfing to find a local who can host you for free. You’ll only get a free place to stay but you get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Stay at a Hola Hostel – Hola Hostels is a network of hostels predominantly in South and Central America. They offer 10% off to their members, as well as other discounts for food and activities. Joining is free, and their hostels are also committed to environmentally sustainable practices.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier will come particularly in handy in Ecuador since you can’t always drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a reusable bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw .

Where to Stay in Ecuador

Ecuador has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my top suggested places to stay while there:

• Community Hostel (Quito)
• Vibes Hostel (Quito)
• Esperanto B&B Surf Backpacker Hostel (Montanita)
• Hostel Nucapacha (Guayaquil)
• Dreamkapture Hostel (Guayaquil)

How to Get Around Ecuador

Public transportation – The bus is the most common, efficient way to get around Ecuadorian cities. A local bus ticket costs around $0.25 USD. Bus stops are really only existent in Quito — outside of the city, you’ll generally just have to flag one down and request your stop whenever it comes along.

Bus – The bus network in Ecuador is incredibly extensive, and it’s an easy way to get around the country. Most buses travel along the common backpacking routes. For the 7-hour ride from Quito to Guayaquil, expect to pay between $11-28 USD for a one-way ticket. A 20-hour ride from Quito to Bogota, Colombia costs between $80-100 USD. From Quito to Lima, Peru tickets start at $95 USD for the 29-hour ride.

Typically you can just show up at the bus station to get your ticket, but you can also use latinbus.com to look up routes and prices.

Another option is to book a hop-on/hop-off pass. These passes give you flexibility in your travel but are only available along specific routes. You can hop off and hop on at any time. Wanderbus Ecuador passes start around $249 USD for 11 stops, while longer routes can cost up to $699 USD for 20 stops.

Train – Ecuador’s national railway company shut down during the pandemic and due to lack of funding, has yet to resume operations. There are currently no trains running in Ecuador.

Flying – Flying within Ecuador is affordable, with most destinations being serviced from Quito or Guayaquil. Ecuador’s airlines are:

• Emetebe (Galápagos-based airline)

Flights from Quito to Guayaquil start at $58 USD each way. TAME will also get you to some smaller Ecuadorian destinations, like Quito to Loja for $43 USD (one-way). Flying to the Galapagos Islands is obviously the most practical way to get there, but it’s certainly not cheap. One way from Quito to Baltra (the busiest airport) starts from about $133 USD. Guayaquil to Baltra is about $155 USD. Expect prices to double if you don’t book in advance.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around $35 USD per day, however, the driving conditions are far from ideal (poor road conditions, no driving signs, etc.). Unless you have experience driving in Central or South America, I’d skip the rental as buses are much cheaper and safer.

Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Ecuador

Ecuador technically only has two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. But since Ecuador has such varying altitudes, it really depends on where/when you visit.

January to May is the coolest, wettest time of year for most of the country. Navigating the Amazon can be difficult during this time due to road closures and flooding. Temperatures along the coast are milder, and it’s actually quite pleasant in the Galapagos as the ocean waters are calm and warm.

June to the end of September is very dry, and you’ll also experience some of the warmest temperatures in Ecuador. This is peak season, so you can expect higher prices for flights and accommodations. Still, the weather is always nice and the entire country has a fun, upbeat atmosphere. Temperatures near the coast hover around 25°C (77°F), while in Quito the daily average is around 21°C (70°F).

How to Stay Safe in Ecuador

Ecuador is generally a safe place to travel around, even if you’re traveling alone or as a solo female traveler. Petty theft is the most common type of crime in Ecuador. Valuables like laptops, jewelry, and cell phones should be hidden from sight. Transport terminals are especially a hot spot for petty theft so stay vigilant.

In Quito, avoid the Old Town at night. Taxi crimes are a danger in places like Quito, Guayaquil, Manta, and Playas. The US consulate in Guayaquil even forbids its staff from hailing cabs in the street because of the risk of crime.

In a popular scam, someone will hop into your taxi with you once the journey has started and take you on a little tour of the city’s ATMs as they rob you blind. So use caution and have your accommodation call a taxi for you whenever possible.

If you’re worried about scams, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in the country, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the country.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather beforehand and bring appropriate clothing, as well as water and a hat.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, move. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of emergencies.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ecuador Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Ecuador Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Ecuador travel and continue planning your trip:

The 13 Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

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• Where To Stay
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A capital city high in the Andes, Quito is dramatically situated, squeezed between mountain peaks whose greenery is concealed by the afternoon mist. Modern apartment buildings and modest concrete homes creep partway up the slopes, and busy commercial thoroughfares lined with shops and choked with traffic turn into peaceful neighborhoods on Sundays. Warm and relaxed, traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture – overflowing market stands, shamanistic healers, fourth-generation hatmakers – mixes with a vibrant and sophisticated culinary and nightlife scene.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús

Capped by green-and-gold domes, La Compañía de Jesús is Quito’s most ornate church and a standout among the baroque splendors of the Old Town. Free guided…

For spectacular views over Quito’s mountainous landscape, hop aboard this sky tram, one of the world's highest aerial lifts, that takes passengers on a 2…

Casa Museo Guayasamín

In the former home of the legendary painter Oswaldo Guayasamín (1919–99), this wonderful museum houses the most complete collection of the artist's work…

Capilla del Hombre

One of the most important works of art in South America, Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín’s Capilla del Hombre stands next to the Casa Museo…

Palacio de Gobierno

The low white building on the northwestern side of Plaza Grande is the seat of the Ecuadorian presidency. Visitors can enter by joining a free guided tour…

Museos Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana

Newly reopened following a full-scale makeover, Museos Casa de la Cultura encompasses three museums in a single bright, modern space. The expansive Museo…

Museo Nacional

Located in the circular, glass-plated, landmark building of the Casa de la Cultura is one of the country’s largest collections of Ecuadorian art, with…

Catedral Metropolitana

On Plaza Grande's southwest side stands Quito's cathedral. Although not the most ornate of the Old Town’s churches, it has some fascinating works by…

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