Things To Do
in Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is renowned for being the highest constitutional capital in the world, sitting at an elevation of around 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. It impresses visitors with its beautifully preserved historic center, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a rich array of colonial architecture, museums, and religious sites.
Nestled among Andean mountains, Quito serves as a gateway to the country's natural wonders, including the Galápagos Islands and the Amazon Rainforest, and offers breathtaking views and a vibrant cultural scene.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the stunning Plaza Grande, where you can admire colonial architecture. Don't miss the Cathedral and the Government Palace nearby.
After lunch, head to La Ronda, a charming street filled with artisan shops and cafes. Enjoy the local atmosphere and grab a few souvenirs.
End your day with a delicious meal at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. Watch the sunset and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Take a trip to the Equatorial Monument and learn about its history. Capture some fun photos standing on both hemispheres.
Explore the surrounding museums and attractions at the site, including the Intiñan Solar Museum. Discover fascinating exhibits about indigenous cultures.
Return to Quito and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Ecuadorian dishes to wrap up your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, with stunning colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
- Mild climate year-round due to its high altitude and equatorial location.
- Breathtaking natural beauty, surrounded by mountains and close to various outdoor activities.
- Diverse and vibrant food scene, with a mix of indigenous and international cuisines.
- Relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other cities in South America.
- Higher altitude (around 2,850 meters) can cause altitude sickness for some visitors.
- Air quality can be poor, particularly in congested areas of the city.
- Crime can be a concern in certain neighborhoods, making safety precautions necessary.
- Traffic congestion may occur, leading to longer commuting times.
- Limited access to some modern amenities and services found in larger cities.
Best Activities in Quito
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Ride the Teleférico cable car for stunning views of Quito and the surrounding mountains.
Explore the Pululahua crater, a geobotanical reserve with hiking and horseback riding trails.
Visit Parque Metropolitano, a sprawling park offering opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.
Tours
Uncover the best of Quito with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Quito
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding mountains.
Provides stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for photography.
Ride the cable car to the top of the Pichincha volcano for incredible views of Quito.
Food in Quito
Quito Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish made from marinated shrimp, usually served with popcorn or plantain chips. One great place to try this dish is in the Mercado Central.
Must-Try!
Delicious potato patties stuffed with cheese and served with avocado, fried eggs, and a choice of meat. La Cuchara de San Marcos is known for serving fantastic llapingachos.
A hearty potato and cheese soup, flavored with avocado and cilantro. Look for this traditional dish at Hasta la Vuelta Señor.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Quito better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of local delicacies including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and traditional street food like empanadas and tamales.
A charming cobblestone street lined with food stalls and small restaurants where you can savor Ecuadorian snacks such as humitas (steamed corn cakes) and quimbolitos (sweet steamed cakes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Quito, it's important to maintain a respectful distance when talking to or interacting with others, as invading personal space can be considered rude.
When meeting someone for the first time or when entering a social gathering in Quito, it is customary to greet with a kiss on the cheek. This is a common gesture of familiarity and warmth.
Punctuality is valued in Quito, so it's important to arrive on time for social or business engagements as a sign of respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Quito with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Quito
Ensure a smooth experience
In Quito, Ecuador, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill. Additionally, tipping a small amount for services such as taxi rides, hotel staff, and tour guides is also appreciated.
In Quito, Ecuador, cash is widely used for small transactions and in local markets. However, credit and debit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and high-end establishments. It is advisable to carry small denominations of the local currency for convenience in day-to-day transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Quito.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit, with sunny days and clear skies. Expect cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Expect frequent rainfall, but also lush green landscapes and blooming flowers. Higher chance of encountering tourist crowds.
Quito at Night
Hiking in Quito
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 50 km south of Quito, Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views.
A protected area east of Quito, Antisana features various trails with stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and views of the Antisana volcano.
Just west of Quito, Pichincha offers accessible hiking trails leading to its summit, providing panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.
Located near Quito, Rumiñahui is known for its diverse ecosystems and offers several hiking routes, including an option to trek to its summit.
A little further out, this famous hike features a stunning crater lake and dramatic landscapes, and is often explored as a multi-day trek.
Although a bit further from Quito, Cajas offers picturesque lakes and rugged terrain, making it a favorite for serious hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Quito through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Quito by plane.
The main international airport serving Quito, Ecuador, located about 18 kilometers east of the city.
Located in Guayaquil, approximately 260 kilometers southwest of Quito, this is the second-largest airport in Ecuador.
Situated in Manta, approximately 300 kilometers west of Quito, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
A small airport serving limited regional flights, located near Quito.
Located in Cuenca, about 450 kilometers south of Quito, this airport serves several international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Quito, a mixed heritage of Indigenous and European ancestry.
Various Indigenous groups, including the Quitu, offering a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Individuals of European ancestry, often descending from Spanish colonists.
A community with African ancestry, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Ecuador.
Includes various immigrant communities and ethnic minorities residing in Quito.
The Soul of Quito
Discover the essence of Quito through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Quito, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base. The city is home to two major teams: LDU Quito and El Nacional.
Cycling has gained popularity in Quito, especially with the improvement of cycling paths and the annual events that promote this sport, contributing to its growing community.
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Quito, with various local leagues and clubs. The sport has a significant following among the youth in the city.
Volleyball is popular in schools and recreational leagues in Quito. It is played both indoors and on the beach, attracting many participants.
Athletics, including running and track events, is a favored pastime in Quito, with various competitions and events held throughout the year, especially given the city's altitude.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quito.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ecuadorian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants in Quito offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Look for trendy eateries like El Maple, which specializes in plant-based variations of local favorites.
Gluten-free dining options are available, particularly at modern restaurants and cafes in the city. Places like Govindas Vegetarian Restaurant provide gluten-free choices alongside their extensive vegetarian menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Quito with these cultural adventures.
