Quito is a high-altitude Andean capital renowned for its remarkably preserved colonial center and stunning volcanic backdrop. It is a city of contrasts where centuries-old cathedrals sit alongside modern urban infrastructure, best visited between June and September for clear, sunny days.
Top Things to Do in Quito
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Getting Around Quito
From the Airport
Aeroservicios Bus. A dedicated shuttle service that runs between the Mariscal Sucre International Airport and the city's main hotels and the old airport terminal for about $8. Rideshare. Uber and Cabify are widely available and are generally the most convenient and safe way to reach the city center, typically costing between $20 and $30.
Once You're There
Metro de Quito. The city recently opened its first metro line, which is the fastest way to travel between the northern and southern sectors of the city. Rideshare. Uber and Cabify are the standard for getting around safely, especially at night when walking is not recommended in certain areas. Walking. The historic center is very walkable, but be mindful of the high altitude which can make even short walks feel more strenuous than expected.
Where to Stay in Quito
Hotel picks for Quito are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Quito
Casa Gangotena★ 4.8 (1,930)Bolívar, Cuenca, OE6-41, 170401 Quito, EcuadorFamous for its elegant afternoon tea service and gourmet adaptations of traditional Quiteño dishes.
Achiote★ 4.7 (751)Juan Rodríguez 282, 170524 Quito, EcuadorA go-to spot for authentic Ecuadorian staples like locro de papa and ceviche served in a cozy, welcoming environment.
Urko★ 4.7 (751)Mallorca 449 y, 170525 Quito, EcuadorA pioneer in the farm-to-table movement in Quito, focusing on seasonal tasting menus that honor indigenous ingredients.
Zazu★ 4.6 (1,623)Mariano Aguilera 331, 170517 Quito, EcuadorRenowned for its sophisticated take on contemporary Ecuadorian cuisine using fresh coastal and highland ingredients.
La Purísima★ 4.5 (773)Junín E1-04 y Montúfar, 170401 Quito, EcuadorAn excellent choice for traditional snacks and light meals in a charming, historic setting.
Theatrum★ 4.5 (297)entre Guayaquil y flores, Manabi, 170401 Quito, EcuadorLocated inside the National Theater, this venue offers a refined fine-dining experience with a view of the historic plaza.
Hasta La Vuelta Señor★ 4.4 (1,784)Chile Oe 456, 170401 Quito, EcuadorSituated in a beautiful colonial courtyard, it is the best place to try hearty local classics like llapingachos.
Tributo★ 4.4 (658)Av. Isabel la Católica, y y Luis Cordero, 170525 Quito, EcuadorCelebrated for its exceptional quality of locally sourced beef and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
El Ventanal★ 4.3 (139)Carchi y Nicaragua &, 170402 Quito, EcuadorThis restaurant provides an unmatched panoramic view of the historic center while you dine on upscale Andean fusion.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Quito
Colonial Heart & Heights
Morning. Begin your journey at the Plaza de la Independencia, the heartbeat of the Old Town, where you can admire the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral. Walk a few blocks to the ornate La Compañía de Jesús, widely considered the most beautiful church in the country for its gold-leaf interior. Spend about an hour soaking in the intricate details before heading toward the Basílica del Voto Nacional. Arriving early helps you avoid the midday sun when climbing the steep, narrow ladders to the Basílica's towers. From the top, you get a bird's-eye view of the entire valley and the surrounding volcanic peaks.
Afternoon. After grabbing a quick lunch, take a taxi or rideshare up to El Panecillo to see the towering Virgin of Quito statue. The view from this hill provides the perfect perspective of how the city stretches long and narrow through the Andes mountains. Spend some time wandering the small artisan stalls around the base of the statue for authentic souvenirs. Afterward, head back down into the historic district to explore the charming, narrow corridors of Calle La Ronda. This street is famous for its preserved colonial architecture, traditional candy makers, and local musicians who often perform in the afternoon.
Evening. Wind down your evening by finding a quiet corner in a colonial-era courtyard restaurant. The atmosphere in the Old Town transforms at night when the cathedrals are beautifully illuminated against the dark sky. Take a slow stroll back through the quiet, cobblestone streets near the plaza to appreciate the silence after the busy daytime crowds. Consider ending the night with a traditional canelazo, a warm cinnamon-spiced alcoholic drink, at a local tavern. It is the perfect way to warm up as the mountain air turns chilly after sunset.
Art, Culture & Modern Quito
Morning. Start your second day in the modern northern part of the city at the Museo Nacional del Ecuador to get a deep dive into the country's pre-Columbian history and gold artifacts. It is a large, well-curated space that requires at least two hours to fully appreciate. Once you have finished, take a quick ride over to Parque La Carolina. This massive urban park is where locals go to play sports, visit the botanical gardens, or simply walk through the lush green space. It is a refreshing change of pace from the dense architecture of the colonial center.
Afternoon. Dedicate your afternoon to the arts by visiting the Capilla del Hombre, the masterpiece of renowned Ecuadorian painter Oswaldo Guayasamín. The architecture of the building itself is just as moving as the powerful, emotive paintings housed within it. Located on a hill overlooking the city, the museum offers a serene environment for reflection on the human condition. After leaving the museum, you can explore the nearby neighborhood of Bellavista, which is known for its quiet, upscale residential feel and proximity to several artisan workshops.
Evening. Head back toward the commercial district for a more contemporary dining experience. The area around La Floresta is known for being an artistic hub with various galleries and hip cafes that stay lively into the night. It is a great place to mingle with the local creative crowd and sample modern Ecuadorian fusion. Finish your night at a local craft brewery to taste how the city's culinary scene is evolving beyond traditional roots. The energy here is much younger and more vibrant than in the historic center.
Equator & Mountain Views
Morning. Dedicate your final morning to the iconic Mitad del Mundo, the monument marking the equator line. While it is a bit of a drive from the city center, the chance to stand in both hemispheres at once is a must-do for any first-time visitor. Be sure to visit the Intiñan Solar Museum located right next door, where they offer fun, interactive demonstrations regarding the physics of the equator. Arrive as soon as they open to avoid the large tour bus crowds that arrive by midday. It is a unique, albeit touristy, experience that defines the geographical significance of Ecuador.
Afternoon. Return to the city and head straight to the base of the TelefériQo, one of the highest aerial lifts in the world. As you ascend to the top of Cruz Loma, the temperature will drop significantly, so bring a warm jacket even if it feels sunny at the bottom. Once you reach the top, you can hike along the ridge for breathtaking views of the city below and the surrounding volcanoes like Pichincha. Spend a few hours here taking photos and enjoying the thin, crisp Andean air. It is arguably the most spectacular natural viewpoint in the entire region.
Evening. For your final evening, treat yourself to a high-end dinner that celebrates the diversity of Ecuadorian ingredients. Look for a restaurant that offers a tasting menu to get a complete overview of the country's flavors, from the coast to the Amazon. After dinner, take a final walk through the illuminated streets of the northern business district to see the city's modern skyline. Reflect on the incredible variety of experiences, from historic colonial churches to high-altitude mountain peaks, that you have encountered over the past three days. It is the perfect conclusion to an Andean adventure.