Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is often overlooked in favor of its more popular Galapagos Islands. But this city has a few different attractions that tourists may not always be aware of.
This is a place every traveler should visit, with over two dozen old churches, a variety of museums, and tourist sites; it also harbors an incipient gourmet culture that respects traditional ingredients. Some of the things to do in Quito are:
1. Relax At Plaza Grande
You will feel Quito, Ecuador's heart when you enter Plaza Grande. Plaza Grande is also known as Plaza de la Independencia or Independence Plaza and it is the vibrant heart of Quito.
The hectic center, UNESCO World Heritage-listed, is the main square of the city surrounded by such notable buildings as the Archbishop's Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Presidential Palace.
Centuries of the history of Ecuador come alive on this plaza, which is like a living museum. One can revel in the dynamic atmosphere, where most social, political, and cultural activities tend to happen, or relax at one of the many nearby cafes watching locals and absorbing the ambiance.
2. Take A Free Walking Tour
Free walking tours can be found in the Old Town for those who would like a guided tour without paying too much for a private guide. You might want to try one of the native-led Spanish or English tours that take you through the very historic core of Quito, that extremely lively Colonial neighborhood.
You can walk through the Presidential Palace, Plaza Grande, Plaza de San Francisco, and all other major sights of the city center with a free walking tour.
It is good to spend a couple of hours getting acquainted with the city before heading out on your own. It is customary to pay your guides a few bucks apiece for their time, even though the trip is free.
3. Hike The Bread Roll
"The Bread Roll," or El Panecillo, is a little hill with a view of the city. With a height of slightly over 200 meters (656 feet), it provides a stunning view over the city and the mountains in the area. There was an Inca temple there before the arrival of the Spanish in the sixteenth century.
Today, the city is dominated by a huge aluminum monument of the Virgin Mary, also called the Virgin of Quito, which was constructed in 1976. Due to the high height and frequent clouds, try to go there early in the morning for the best views.
4. See Sunset From Gangotena
It's a hotel but also a real point of interest. This casa is located in what was once considered one of the richest families in Quito. It brings tourists back in history. There's a patio in there that fits the period and is designed exquisitely.
Casa Gangotena has a rooftop bar, and this was the place to take in a sunset view over the Old City. One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Quito is stunning to see from above.
Try visiting the chocolate factory beside if you can't get into the rooftop bar. It also features a patio with a view of the square.
5. Wander The Old Town
One of Latin America's best-preserved historic centers is located in Quito. The entire region was designated a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1978, and the winding alleyways are studded with structures that date back hundreds of years.
Numerous cafes, churches, plazas, and beautiful historic buildings may be found here. It's a pleasant area to walk about and have a sense of time travel. A large number of the structures are from the 1600s.
6. Check Out Street Art Tour La Floresta
Try the free La Forest Street Art Tour if you want to see the city from a local's perspective while you're on foot. As you meander among ancient homes for three hours, you will discover more about Ecuador's rich past, as well as its vibrant murals and thriving graffiti art culture.
You will also visit the well-known Ocho Y Medio, an independent theater featuring unique films, as part of the program.
A visit to Quito wouldn't be complete without sampling some delectable coffee and regional cuisine. This excursion gladly accommodates a recharging break at one of the neighborhood coffee shops. You will have a deeper appreciation for Quito's lively culture and friendly residents after this tour.
7. Walk Down La Ronda
One of colonial Old Town's best-preserved streets is La Ronda. The cobblestone street is vibrant and bustling, with cafes, galleries, and the finest traditional craftspeople invited by the government to showcase their skills to the public.
It's a fantastic place for a quiet cup of coffee and is still sleepy if you visit early in the day. Later, the street is bustling with activity from both visitors and store owners.
Don't overlook any of the merchants hidden in little passageways in the back of stores. They are excellent places to find souvenirs and support the preservation of traditional crafts, and they embody the finest of Quito.
8. Changing Of The Guards At Presidential Palace
Witnessing a lively demonstration of Ecuadorian tradition and patriotism at the Changing of the Guard event at the Presidential Palace is one of the best things to do in Quito. Every Monday at 11:00 am, the historic Plaza Grande hosts this remarkable spectacle that attracts both residents and visitors who want to see the guards' grandeur and accuracy in action.
With marching bands, horse-mounted cavalry, and maybe even a sight of the president of Ecuador, who frequently makes an appearance on the palace balcony, the celebration offers a rare chance to witness Ecuador's historic military traditions up close.
Anyone traveling to Quito should not miss this free event. The plaza soon fills with people eager to take in this weekly show, so visitors are urged to arrive early to guarantee a good viewing place.
9. Visit Jesuit Church
One of the most beautiful churches in Quito is the Jesuit Church. This gold-adorned chapel is housed within the ancient city. It was not allowed to take pictures inside, but even so, it is worth seeing because of the beautiful Baroque architecture.
Its interior will be stunning with its elaborate wood carvings, colorful paintings, and opulent gold leaf. Tucked right in the heart of Quito's thriving historic district, this little treasure is hidden.
The Jesuit Church should be on the list of the finest things to do in Quito, as it is one of the most striking buildings in the city that offers tourists a unique insight into the artistic and religious heritage of Ecuador.
10. Eat Empanadas
When you travel, do you like to eat local cuisine? After visiting Quito, if you have never tasted an empanada, you will get addicted. One of Ecuador's favorite street snacks is this delicious South American delicacy. Empanadas may be found in a variety of locations across the city, including sidewalk kiosks and restaurants.
The heart of Empanadas de Viento is covered with sugar and packed with cheese. Empanadas de Verde, a popular South American classic cooked from green plantains, are an additional option. It will be time for some active fun when you've had your fill. The best way to burn off those delicious calories is to take the La Forest Street Art Tour.
11. Dinner At Casa Gangotena
Casa Gangotena serves one of the greatest dinners in Ecuador. The chef creates the ideal nibble, and every meal is an artistic creation. In front of you, serving staff members bring out food and apply sauces. After that, they explain how to eat them properly and combine the flavors to make the ideal mouthful.
Make sure to order one of Casa Gangotena's Fiesta Cocktails if you decide to visit for lunch or supper. These drinks, which draw inspiration from Ecuador's famous festivals, are also works of art.
12. See Plaza de San Francisco
The oldest structure in the city, the Church and Convent of St. Francis, is located in Saint Francis Square. It took about 150 years to finish and dates to the 1500s.
It is one of the biggest historical buildings in Latin America and has baroque architecture. The large plaza itself is a pleasant spot to observe people. It was constructed atop the remains of old Incan structures, such as the palace of Emperor Atahualpa from the fifteenth century.
13. Go To The Basilica Del Voto Nacional
For a 360-degree, aerial perspective from the Twin Bell Towers, visit the Basilica if you like to gain a general idea of a new city. Although the Neo-Gothic Tower is not for the faint of heart, there is an elevator available, so don't worry. To get the finest light for photos, try to schedule your visit for early morning or late afternoon.
On the outside, keep an eye out for the gargoyles. Ecuadorian native creatures have been whimsically sculpted into the facade by the sculptors. Traditional goblins and religious figures are replaced with armadillos, tortoises, birds, and dolphins.
14. Tour Casa Del Alabado Museo
Only a short distance from Plaza San Francisco's main plaza, the collection depicts the indigenous American environment before colonization. The rooms are divided into reasonable chunks of similar items for visitors to peruse.
The tour takes visitors through the link between nature, rituals, and communication. Images from the Middle Earth, underworld, and heavens adorn the connected things, showing how they are all interwoven.
The central courtyard provides a place to have a quick snack, relax, and plan your next sightseeing excursion in a covered area.
15. Spend An Afternoon At Parque Carolina
Often referred to as Quito's Central Park, this expansive 165-acre urban area is a favorite weekend destination for city people seeking some greenery and activities. Try the skate park, rent a paddleboat, or ride the bike paths.
Located in Carolina Park, the Quito Botanical Garden features a lagoon, an orchid garden, a stunning cloud forest, a medicinal plant garden (which includes the native South American plant Cinchona officinalis, which is used to treat malaria), a hydroponic rose collection, and both native and exotic plants.
A vivarium and the Quito Exhibition Center, which frequently holds fairs and exhibitions, are also located in the park. The park also includes the Museum of Natural Sciences. Paleontological, botanical, and animal exhibitions are available here.
16. Explore Calle De La Ronda Quito
Wander down Calle de La Ronda, a small avenue in the historic center that is filled with stores, cafes, art galleries, and colonial buildings. With street performers and a variety of artisanal stores selling anything from colorful textiles to handcrafted jewelry, this charming cobblestone avenue gives tourists a taste of real Ecuadorian culture.
You may have a cup of the best coffee in the nation or a refreshing canelazo, a classic spiced fruit drink that is frequently shared among friends, at some of Quito's most charming cafes and bars along the street.
Calle de La Ronda becomes a hive of music and celebrations as the sun sets. This is the ideal time to interact with welcoming people and take in the nightlife, which will make your trip genuinely remarkable.
17. Cable Car To Pichincha Volcano
Enjoy a view from one of the highest aerial lifts in South America when you ride the TeleferiQo. One of the most thrilling attractions of this city takes travelers up to the slopes of Pichincha Volcano. It's a cable car that crosses stunning scenery as it starts right on the edge of the city, with a broad view of Quito below and the Andean horizon beyond.
At the top, trekkers are rewarded with a view of the volcano and a chance to trek or just take in the breathtaking scenery from the summit, which is more than 4,000 meters above sea level.
This must-do tourist attraction is reasonably priced, with adults paying about $8.50 for this unique experience and children and seniors paying less.
18. Taste Ecuadorian Cuisine
Quito is an excellent location to learn more about Ecuadorian cuisine if you like to savor it even more. You may sample regional favorites like ceviche, empanadas, and locro de papa (potato soup) in markets and eateries all across the city.
Heladeria San Agustin is among the top restaurants. They shut the doors and wouldn't let anyone in until a table was empty since this restaurant was so busy.
Foods like ceviche are available in Quito. Unlike the often light-tasting ceviche, this popular seafood dish has a distinct Quito flair and is cooked with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and cilantro. Ceviche is one of the dishes to try in Quito.
19. Go On A Day Trip To Cotopaxi National Park
Cotopaxi National Park is another well-liked day trip destination from Quito. One of the tallest active volcanoes in the world is located at Cotopaxi.
This natural marvel, which is only a short drive from Ecuador's capital, allows both nature lovers and adventurers to explore its breathtaking landscapes, which range from the snow-capped summit of Cotopaxi to huge plains populated with wild horses.
The park has a range of routes that accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrian riders of various skill and fitness levels, making it the perfect place to go.
20. Explore The Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
Just a short drive from Quito is one of the few inhabited volcano craters in the world. Activities such as hiking, horseback riding, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Andes are a must here.
You can walk along tracks that lead into green forests and up to scenic lookouts, providing spectacular vistas of the crater and surrounding hills. The volcanic land of the Reserve creates a dynamic ecosystem. And with small villages living within its boundaries, Pululahua is also a place of exciting history and culture.
21. Discover Quito’s Historic Centre
The well-preserved Historic Center of Quito is the ideal starting point for exploration. The ancient town, which is situated between Alameda Park in the north and Panecillo Hill in the south, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978.
If you are ever planning to visit Ecuador, you are also likely to visit the capital city Quito. So, while you are in the capital city, you should not miss out on the chance to explore the historic center in Quito, which is also called Centro Historico.
22. Check Out The Views From Itchimbia Park
In Quito, there is undoubtedly no shortage of places to see. Another excellent choice for getting a fresh perspective of the city is Parque Itchimbia. This park was our favorite, despite not being as well-known as El Panecillo or the Basilica.
The Palacio de Cristal, a stunning glass-only structure, is located at the summit. Unfortunately, we were unable to view the inside during our visit because of ongoing restorations.
Not too far away is another well-known eatery called Vista Hermosa, where you may eat and drink while taking in the scenery. Keep in mind that costs will inevitably be greater there than elsewhere in the city.
