QUITO
Quito is a high-altitude marvel where colonial history meets the rugged peaks of the Andes. As the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage city, it preserves the finest Spanish architecture in South America.
The city breathes between the past and the future, flanking a historic core with a vibrant modern district. From mist-covered volcanoes to golden cathedrals, it is the cultural heart of Ecuador.
Most Popular Attractions
Historic Center (UNESCO World Heritage Core):
Plaza Grande (Independence Square): The political heart of the city, surrounded by the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral.
Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús: Renowned for its breathtaking interior covered almost entirely in gold leaf.
Basílica del Voto Nacional: A massive Neo-Gothic cathedral famous for its gargoyles shaped like native Ecuadorian animals.
San Francisco Church and Convent: A sprawling 16th-century complex known as the “Escorial of the New World.”
El Panecillo: A volcanic hill topped with a winged statue of the Virgin Mary, offering 360-degree city views.
La Ronda: A narrow, romantic street filled with traditional workshops, galleries, and local eateries.
Museo de la Ciudad: Housed in an old hospital, it tells the daily social history of Quito through the ages.
Convento de San Agustín: A historic site where the Ecuadorian Declaration of Independence was signed.
Casa del Alabado: A beautifully curated museum of Pre-Columbian art located in a restored colonial mansion.
Plaza de Santo Domingo: A vibrant square featuring a stunning church and a statue of Sucre.
Modern Districts & Viewpoints:
Telefériqo Quito: One of the world’s highest aerial lifts, ascending the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano.
Guayasamín Museum (Capilla del Hombre): A powerful art complex dedicated to the work of Ecuador’s most famous painter.
Parque La Carolina: The city’s massive central park, featuring a botanical garden and an exhibition of dinosaurs.
Quito Botanical Garden: Located within La Carolina, showcasing the incredible floral diversity of the Andes.
La Mariscal (Pink Zone): The hub for modern nightlife, artisan markets, and international cuisine.
Itchimbía Park: A hilltop park featuring a glass cultural center and spectacular sunset vistas.
Surrounding Wonders & Day Trips:
Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World): The famous monument and museum complex marking the equatorial line.
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve: One of the only inhabited volcanic craters in the world, perfect for hiking.
Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge: An extinct volcano crater home to one of the last remaining high-altitude Andean forests.
Rumicucho Ruins: A pre-Inca archaeological site used for solar observation and military defense.
Sangay National Park (Access): While vast, several trails and lagoons near the province offer a glimpse into this wild ecosystem.
Activities & Experiences
Stand on Both Hemispheres at Mitad del Mundo: Visit the Middle of the World City and the Intiñan Solar Museum to perform physics experiments on the equatorial line.
Ride the TelefériQo to Cruz Loma: Take one of the highest aerial lifts in the world up the Pichincha Volcano for breathtaking views of the “Avenue of the Volcanoes.”
Take a “Chocolate Tasting” Journey: Participate in a professional tasting session to learn why Ecuadorian fine-aroma cacao is considered the best in the world.
Climb the Towers of the Basilica del Voto Nacional: Ascend the steep ladders of this neo-Gothic masterpiece for a panoramic view of the Old Town, guarded by stone iguanas and tortoises.
Wander through Calle La Ronda: Explore this historic, romantic street at night to try canelazo (hot spiced cinnamon drink) and watch artisans work on traditional crafts.
Take a Cooking Class in the Old Town: Learn to prepare traditional Andean dishes like locro de papa (potato soup) or empanadas de viento using ingredients from local markets.
Explore the Guayasamín Museum (Capilla del Hombre): Visit the “Chapel of Man,” a stunning art complex dedicated to the work of Oswaldo Guayasamín, Ecuador’s most famous artist.
Go on a “Street Food” Tour in San Roque: Join a local guide to navigate the bustling San Roque market and sample exotic fruits and traditional snacks like hornado (roasted pig).
Hike the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge: Escape the city to this collapsed volcanic caldera that houses one of the last remaining high-altitude Andean forests.
Experience a Spiritual Cleansing at San Francisco Market: Observe or participate in a limpia, a traditional healing ritual using medicinal herbs and flowers performed by local curanderas.
Night Tour of the Jesuit Church (La Compañía): Witness the jaw-dropping gold-leaf interior of the most ornate Baroque church in the Americas during a guided evening tour.
Local Tips & Transport
The Metro is a Game Changer: It is the fastest way to travel north-to-south, connecting the historic center with the modern business district (La Carolina) in minutes.
Navigating the BRT System: The city uses “Metrobús-Q,” a system of dedicated bus lanes. The Trolebús (Green line) and Ecovía (Blue line) are efficient but can get very crowded during rush hour.
- Tip: Keep your backpack on your front when using public transport to avoid pickpockets.
Taxis and Apps: Yellow taxis are plentiful. Ensure the driver turns on the taxímetro (meter). For safety and fixed pricing, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify are widely used and recommended at night.
Walking in the Old Town: The UNESCO World Heritage center is best explored on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and uneven cobblestones. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Airport Transit: Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) is about 45–60 minutes from the city. Use the “Aeroservicios” shuttle bus for a budget-friendly direct link, or take a registered airport taxi for a flat rate (approx. $25–$30).
Respect the Altitude: Quito sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 ft). Take it easy on your first day, drink plenty of water, and avoid heavy meals or excessive alcohol until you acclimatize.
The “Four Seasons” in One Day: The weather is notoriously unpredictable. Always dress in layers and carry a small umbrella, as it can go from scorching sun to a torrential downpour in minutes.
The Equatorial Sun: Because you are on the equator, the UV rays are extremely strong even when it is cloudy. Wear high-SPF sunscreen every day to avoid “equatorial burn.”
Dining Etiquette: Lunch (almuerzo) is the main meal of the day, usually consisting of a soup, a main (meat/rice/beans), and a juice for a very low price. Dinner is typically lighter and served between 7 PM and 9 PM.
Safety Awareness: Like any major city, stay alert. Avoid walking alone at night in the Old Town or in parks like El Ejido. Stick to well-lit areas like Plaza Foch (La Mariscal) for nightlife.
Hidden Gems:
- Guápulo Neighborhood: A bohemian enclave tucked behind the Hotel Quito. Its winding cobblestone streets and sanctuary offer a Mediterranean village feel with stunning valley views.
- Monastery of Santa Clara: Often overlooked, this quiet convent offers beautiful architecture and a peaceful courtyard away from the main tourist trail.
- Café Águila de Oro: A legendary coffee shop in the center where you can buy freshly roasted beans and experience the old-school Quito atmosphere of the 1940s.
- Viewpoint of Itchimbía: A hill-top park featuring a glass house (Palacio de Cristal). It offers arguably the best sunset view of the entire historic city center.
Language: While English is spoken in high-end hotels and tour agencies, many locals only speak Spanish. Knowing “Cuanto cuesta?” (How much?) and “La cuenta, por favor” (The check, please) will go a long way.
Top Restaurants
Heladería San Agustín [$10-$20] – An institution since 1858 located just steps from Plaza Grande, famous for its helados de paila (hand-churned ice cream) and classic Quiteño lunch plates like seco de chivo.
Hasta La Vuelta Señor [$15-$25] – Set in the beautiful courtyard of the Palacio Arzobispal in the Old Town, this legendary spot serves authentic regional specialties like empanadas de viento and fritada.
Cafetería Modelo [$10-$20] – A beloved, no-frills historic café in the city center known for its traditional humitas, tamales, and the best hot chocolate with cheese in the neighborhood.
Las Corvinas de Don Jimmy [$5-$10] – Located inside the Mercado Central, this famous stall is a local legend for its oversized portions of fried sea bass served with potatoes and ceviche.
Casa Los Geranios [$15-$30] – A charming restored house on the historic La Ronda street that offers a cozy atmosphere and refined versions of traditional Andean dishes.
Fabiolita [$10-$20] – A tiny, historic gem tucked under the Metropolitan Cathedral in the Old Town, popular for its high-quality sandwiches and traditional canelazo drinks.
Mama C’chara [$10-$20] – A warm, family-run “hueca” in the artistic La Floresta neighborhood serving honest, home-cooked Ecuadorian food that makes you feel like a local.
Restaurante La Vid [$15-$30] – Located on the second floor of a colonial building in the Historic Center, offering great views of Plaza Grande and a solid menu of classic Ecuadorian coastal and highland dishes.
En Dulce [$5-$15] – A small but iconic bakery in the Old Town specializing in traditional Quiteño sweets, artisan breads, and excellent local coffee.
Pizzería Amici Miei [$15-$25] – A local favorite in La Floresta that prioritizes organic, locally sourced ingredients for its authentic Italian pizzas in a relaxed, bohemian setting.
Mr. Encebollado [$5-$15] – A quintessential neighborhood spot in La Floresta famous for its encebollado (tuna and yuca soup), often considered the ultimate local hangover cure.
Humitas de la Floresta [$2-$8] – A humble corner kiosk in La Floresta that has been serving the neighborhood’s favorite steamed corn cakes and quimbolitos for generations.
URKO Cocina Local [$40-$70] – A standout in the La Floresta neighborhood that focuses on “conscious cuisine,” using seasonal ingredients from across Ecuador’s four regions to create artistic, modern plates.
Somos [$30-$50] – Located in the modern northern district, this restaurant’s “Ecuadorian born, globally inspired” philosophy results in creative dishes like “Ecuadorean poutine” and innovative ceviches.
De La Llama [$20-$40] – A trendy, casual spot near Parque Carolina that reimagines traditional mountain food with modern techniques and a playful, youthful energy.
La Purísima [$20-$40] – Situated in the Historic Center, this restaurant takes forgotten traditional recipes and gives them a sophisticated, contemporary presentation.
Zfood [$25-$45] – A stylish “fish market” style eatery in the northern district that brings fresh coastal seafood to the Andes with a modern, transparent supply chain.
Quitu Identidad Culinaria [$40-$70] – A pioneer in the “farm-to-table” movement in Quito, located in the northern area and offering a menu that changes daily based on what’s fresh in the markets.
Achiote Ecuador [$20-$40] – A vibrant spot in La Mariscal that offers a creative, modern take on traditional flavors with many excellent vegetarian and vegan adaptations.
Ciré [$30-$60] – Located in the valley of Cumbayá, this restaurant is known for its eclectic decor and a sophisticated menu that blends global techniques with local produce.
Miskay [$20-$35] – A modern, colorful restaurant in La Mariscal that focuses on sharing plates, allowing guests to sample a variety of contemporary Ecuadorian flavors in one sitting.
Sereno Moreno [$15-$30] – A hip, modern tavern in the Old Town that pairs artisanal Ecuadorian craft beers with creative, elevated versions of street food favorites.
Ananké [$15-$25] – Tucked away in the Guápulo neighborhood, this bohemian pizza and wine bar offers one of the most atmospheric dining experiences in the city.
El Salnés Gastro-Picantería [$25-$45] – A modern tribute to the traditional picanterías, located in the northern district and serving refined versions of Ecuadorian “soul food.”
Bandido Brewing [$15-$25] – Housed in a former colonial chapel in the Old Town, this microbrewery serves some of the city’s best craft beer alongside excellent artisanal pizzas.
Nuema [$100-$150] – Consistently ranked as one of Latin America’s best, this restaurant in the northern district offers an avant-garde tasting menu that is a poetic exploration of Ecuador’s biodiversity.
Zazu [$70-$120] – A Relais & Châteaux member in the northern business district, offering a world-class fine dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and a spectacular wine cellar.
Casa Gangotena [$60-$100] – Located in a converted mansion on Plaza San Francisco, this Michelin-recognized restaurant specializes in “Cocina Mestiza,” blending indigenous ingredients with European refinement.
Chez Jérôme [$50-$90] – An elegant establishment in the northern part of the city where Chef Jérôme Monteillet fuses classic French gourmet techniques with the richness of Ecuadorian products.
Carmine Gastronomía y Arte [$40-$80] – Set in a stunning heritage house in the northern district, this upscale Italian restaurant is famous for its elegant atmosphere and impeccably prepared pastas.
La Gloria [$40-$80] – A long-standing favorite for the city’s elite in the northern district, known for its Mediterranean-Peruvian fusion and one of the largest wine selections in the country.
Theatrum [$50-$90] – Located inside the historic National Theatre in the Old Town, this restaurant offers a sophisticated, dramatic setting for high-end Mediterranean and Ecuadorian cuisine.
Al Forno [$25-$45] – A beautiful garden restaurant in Puembo (near the airport) famous for its wood-fired oven dishes and incredible views of the Quito skyline.
La Palma Polo Club [$30-$60] – A prestigious spot in Puembo that offers a family-friendly, high-end dining experience set between lush polo fields.
Casa Angus Tumbaco [$25-$50] – A top-tier steakhouse in the Tumbaco valley, popular with local families for its high-quality cuts and expansive outdoor play areas.
La Galleta de Bruselas [$10-$25] – A unique Belgian-inspired kiosk in Tumbaco that has gained a cult following for having the best fries and waffles in the region.
Hoshi Sushi [$25-$50] – Located in the trendy Paseo San Francisco mall in Cumbayá, this is widely considered one of the best spots for high-quality, creative sushi in the city.
Mercado de Iñaquito [$5-$15] – A bustling market in the northern district where locals flock for hornado (roasted pig) and fresh exotic fruit juices in a high-energy, authentic setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
La Huerta de los Gallegos: Tucked away in the charming Guápulo neighborhood, this bar is famous for its artisanal cocktails infused with local Andean herbs and a terrace that offers breathtaking views of the valley.
La Oficina: Located in the historic San Blas district, this craft beer and cocktail hub is set in a refurbished colonial building and features live music and a bohemian, community-focused vibe.
Sirka: A cornerstone of the artistic La Floresta neighborhood, this venue combines a craft brewery with a sophisticated cocktail bar, often hosting art exhibitions and independent film screenings.
The Alchemist: Situated in the modern northern hub of the city, this sleek lounge specializes in molecular mixology, serving drinks that are as much a visual performance as they are a treat for the palate.
Vista del Angel: Perched high on a hill overlooking the Historic Center, this upscale bar offers classic cocktails paired with one of the most iconic panoramic views of the city’s illuminated cathedrals.
Sereno Moreno: Found in the traditional San Marcos neighborhood, this cozy spot focuses on “Misque” (agave spirit) cocktails, celebrating Ecuadorian ingredients in a rustic, friendly atmosphere.
Zazu Lounge: Part of the renowned restaurant in the northern business district, this elegant bar is the place for high-end spirits and signature cocktails in a cosmopolitan, fine-dining setting.
Bandido del Páramo: Located in the Whymper area, this popular taproom and cocktail bar offers a lively industrial atmosphere where locals gather for inventive gin-based drinks and craft ales.
Altamira Gastropub: Situated in the heart of the Mariscal Foch district, this spot offers a refined take on pub culture with a wide array of international cocktails and a relaxed outdoor seating area.
Hoppy: Found in the La Floresta area, this trendy bar focuses on high-quality ingredients, offering a creative menu of cocktails that highlight Ecuadorian fruits like lulo and maracuya.
Salsoteca Lavoe: A legendary spot near the Mariscal district, it serves classic Caribbean-inspired cocktails in a space dedicated to the history and rhythm of Salsa music.
La Playa: Located in the residential yet trendy González Suárez neighborhood, this chic terrace bar is perfect for sundowners, offering a sophisticated menu of spritzes and classic martinis.
Dirty Sánchez: A vibrant and edgy bar in the northern part of the city known for its bold decor and equally bold mezcal and tequila-based cocktail creations.
Secret Garden Rooftop: Situated atop a popular hostel in the Historic Center, this laid-back bar is famous among travelers for its social atmosphere and sweeping views of the Panecillo hill.
Butaco: A stylish, intimate bar in the La Carolina park area that focuses on precision mixology and a curated selection of South American wines.
Bungalow 6: An institution in the Mariscal Foch area, this high-energy club is famous for its Wednesday “Ladies Night” and a mix of reggaeton, pop, and international hits that keeps the dance floor packed.
Blues: Located in the northern part of Quito, this long-standing club is the go-to destination for alternative music lovers, featuring rock, indie, and 80s nights in a dark, atmospheric setting.
Wonder 19: A trendy, upscale nightclub in the modern north known for its state-of-the-art sound system and a rotation of top local and international DJs playing electronic and house music.
Strawberry Fields Forever: A Beatles-themed club in the Mariscal district that transitions from a classic rock pub into a lively dance floor featuring hits from the 60s to the 90s.
Soundgarden: Situated in the northern district, this open-concept club features large screens and multiple bars, specializing in commercial hits and Latin pop for a younger, energetic crowd.
Cats: Found in the northern nightlife hub, this club is a staple of Quito’s electronic scene, frequently hosting underground techno and house events in an industrial-style venue.
La Ideal: Located in a beautifully restored house in the Mariscal area, this multipurpose venue serves as a cultural center by day and a trendy club by night, hosting eclectic DJ sets and themed parties.
Sexto Nivel: A high-end rooftop club in the González Suárez area that offers a glamorous nightlife experience with VIP tables, craft cocktails, and a mix of deep house and top 40.
Varadero: Located near the Plaza Foch, this club brings a taste of Cuba to Quito, featuring live bands and a dedicated space for dancing to authentic Caribbean rhythms.
Teatro Capitol (Late Night Events): While primarily a theater in the Historic Center, it occasionally transforms into a grand venue for massive electronic music events and cultural festivals, providing a unique architectural backdrop for a night out.