Travel to Ecuador: Quito Tours

Why travel to Quito

As the second highest capital in Latin America after La Paz, Quito is blessed with one of the most spectacular settings of any city in the world. Flanked by the staggering peaks of lush Volcano Pichincha to the west, and cradled by a low ridge to the east, Quito guarantees a mountain view from almost every point in the city.

Formerly the seat of Real Audencia de Quito, the crown government that once controlled present day Ecuador, southern Columbia, and northern Peru, Quito boasts one of the most attractive historic centers in South America. The exquisite architecture, combined with the dramatic volcanic mountains surrounding the city and the large indigenous population are what really makes this city so memorable.

Quito’s charm truly rests in its colonial center, known as the “Old City,” with its narrow and steep cobbled streets, indigenous vendors selling everything and anything under the Andean sun, and discrete doorways leading to expansive flower-filled courtyards. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978, Quito’s charming historic center offers countless attractions that will, without a doubt, delight travelers.

In the modern part of Quito, or the “New City,” travelers can take a break from history and dive into the dynamic and trendy district of Mariscal Sucre with its countless restaurants, bars, and shops.

What to do in Quito

Quito walking tour. Begin in Quito’s main plaza, Plaza Independencia, dominated by the Catedral, adorned with plaques celebrating the city’s founding fathers. From there, stroll down Garcia Moreno and Venezuela streets leading straight toward the Panecillo, a hill in the middle of Quito, for spectacular views of the city. Don't be afraid to stray away to smaller streets and look up to admire the buildings’ wrought-iron balconies and intricate architectural details.

The Monastery of San Francisco, the oldest colonial building in the city, is definitely worth a stop. It houses the Museo Franciscano where paintings, art, and furniture are on display. On Plaza San Francisco there is the beautiful gold-decorated church of La Compañia.

Ride the TeleferiQo. Quito’s cable car will transport you to a mountainside that stands over 13,000 feet above sea level, where you will be able to admire the impressive volcanoes that overlook and surround the city. It is with your head in the clouds and your mind filled with unforgettable images and memories that you’ll ride the TeleferiQo back to Quito.

Mitad del Mundo. Don’t miss Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), about 45 minutes from Quito, where the Equatorial Monument stands. The monument was built between 1979 and 1982 and marks the place where a 17th century French expedition located the equator. You can’t return home from Ecuador without bringing at least one photo of yourself straddling the center of the world! Over the years, Mitad del Mundo has almost become a little village with shops, restaurants, and various museums inside the gates. The Ethnographic Museum and Scientific Museum Intiñan are particularly interesting.

Explore the city and artisan villages. Quito has fascinating museums, excellent restaurants, and shopping galore. For ideas about how to get off the beaten track in Quito, read our article on the Latin America For Less Blog. We also have a guide to shopping in Otavalo, a small Andean city that hosts one of the largest markets in all of Latin America.

When to visit Quito

Quito's climate is often described as eternal spring, with warm sunny days and cool nights. The Quiteño saying, that the city experiences all four seasons in a single day, isn't far off the mark. Quito is definitely a year-round destination.

Quito is home to a number of festivities that are worth attending to get a unique insight into Ecuadorian culture:

Easter: During Holy Week, Quito is home to various impressive celebrations. The Good Friday processions are especially stunning and the largest in the country. The processions take over every aspect of life in the Old Town as they meander through the hilly geography of Quito’s historic heart.

24 May: The celebration of Quito’s independence commemorating the Battle of Pichincha in 1882 begins with early morning cannon fire and parades. Be aware that most shops and restaurants are closed, so plan your day accordingly.

August: Every year, the municipality of Quito organizes the Mes de Arte y Cultura, a month-long celebration of cultural events, dance, and music in various places throughout the city.

First week of December: The city’s main festival, Día de Quito, is celebrated throughout the week, commemorating the foundation of the city with elaborate parades, bullfights, performances, and music in the streets. This is a very lively and widely attended event.

New Year: Ecuador celebrates New Year’s Eve differently than the rest of South America. Instead of celebrating the coming New Year, Ecuadorians have a ceremony saying goodbye to the old year. Processions are organized with various creations representing past negative memories that are to be burned away at the end of the day. This unique and cheerful celebration is truly magical and is a must-see if your Ecuador vacation occurs during this time of year.

Travel Testimonials

We had a fabulous trip to Ecuador and Peru. The Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu were definitely the highlights. Amazing!!! Thanks for coordinating the trip.

Joan Stearns (Virginia, USA)

---

We indeed had a wonderful time. Everything went according to plan without a hitch. Galapagos trip also went without any problem. Very efficient and courteous staff. We would like to thank you for your efforts.

Masud Shaukat (Arizona, USA)

See all testimonials »

Top Pick Quito Hotel

Hilton Colon Quito 5*

This 5-star luxury hotel is conveniently located only 20 minutes from the Quito airport and a 10-minute walk from the city's historic center. This fully equipped and elegant hotel is perfect if you are looking to pamper yourself and enjoy a carefree vacation. Relax in the fitness center, spa, or swimming pool, and treat yourself to a delicious meal in one of the hotel's five exquisite restaurants, or simply rest in your modern and luxurious room. All rooms and suites are stylishly decorated in a contemporary fashion and provide spacious areas for you to relax in style.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service Room Service Gym Spa Parking Swimming Pool

Hilton Colon Quito Photos & Info »

---

Hotel Anahi 4*

This new luxury boutique hotel is probably one of the best hotels in all of Ecuador. This elegant hotel successfully combines contemporary and traditional Ecuadorian styles, giving it an air of authenticity while offering great comfort and stylish décor. As a reminder of the city's fascinating and complex history, each room is uniquely decorated to emphasize different elements of Ecuador's cultural heritage. The hotel's architecture, however, focuses on simplicity with a carved wood and stone center bringing an air of serenity to the entire place. Enjoy instant relaxation in the hotel's wellness zone equipped with a Jacuzzi, hammam, and massage room.

Restaurant Laundry Service Spa

Hotel Anahi Photos & Info »

---

Hotel Vieja Cuba 3*

Located in Quito's newest commercial district and inside a majestic renovated colonial house, the Hotel Vieja Cuba comprises 26 rooms offering all the amenities that comfortable modern life requires. The stylish rooms, equipped with wooden furnishings and warm colors, are cozy and create a peaceful haven where guests can rest after a long day of sightseeing. The three restaurants and the coffee-bar are all characterized by the distinctive touch of the various chefs who manage to exquisitely combine African, French, Spanish and Chinese influences into a delicious Cuban gastronomy.

Restaurant Internet Laundry Service

Hotel Vieja Cuba Photos & Info »

See all Quito hotels