Things To Do
in Quito
Nestled high in the Andes at about 2,850 meters, Quito blends colonial grandeur with vibrant Andean life. Its UNESCO-listed Historic Center showcases churches, monasteries, and gilded altars set along cobblestone lanes. The city is framed by volcanic peaks and offers panoramic viewpoints from hills and ridges.
With a mild, year-round climate, Quito serves as a springboard to nearby natural wonders and a lively scene of markets, museums, and restaurants.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza Grande, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture surrounding the square. Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local dishes like ‘bolón de verde’ and fresh juice. After breakfast, take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history and culture of Quito, visiting landmarks like the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral.
In the afternoon, explore La Ronda, a charming street known for its artisan shops and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a local chocolate shop to indulge in some of Ecuador’s finest chocolates and learn about the chocolate-making process. As you stroll, take in the colorful murals and street performances that bring this historic area to life.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at a traditional Ecuadorian restaurant, where you can savor dishes like ‘cuy’ (guinea pig) or ‘locro de papas’ (potato soup). Afterward, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a live music performance or dance show at a nearby venue. Finally, take a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, soaking in the illuminated beauty of Quito’s historic buildings.
Embark on a short trip to the Mitad del Mundo, the famed equatorial monument located just outside Quito. Upon arrival, explore the interactive museum, where you can learn about the significance of the equator and try the famous water experiments. Don't forget to take a selfie standing on the equator line, marking the northern and southern hemispheres.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, perhaps trying the ‘empanadas’ or ‘llapingachos’ (potato patties). Post-lunch, visit the Intiñan Museum, where you can participate in engaging demonstrations and discover more about indigenous cultures. Explore the surrounding area to enjoy the unique landscapes that characterize this part of Ecuador.
Return to Quito in the evening and relax at a café in the Historic Center. Savor a cup of Ecuadorian coffee while you reflect on the day’s experiences and engage with fellow travelers. For dinner, consider a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary Ecuadorian cuisine, enhancing your culinary journey.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (local, 3-5 km) | $4-8 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historic center with UNESCO heritage and impressive churches
- Access to stunning Andean scenery within a short drive
- Warm, welcoming people and diverse food scene
- Pleasant, mild climate compared to lowland regions
- Some areas can be hilly and steep for walkers
- Altitude may cause mild symptoms for first-time visitors
- Tourist prices can be higher in busy zones; bargaining is common in markets
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Necesito un taxi" - I need a taxi
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Quito
Visit one of these nice places.
A commanding hilltop statue with expansive city views, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour silhouettes against the highland skyline.
Cobblestone lanes, colonial balconies, and merchant storefronts create colorful, intimate street photography moments, especially in the morning light.
Grand façades, gold-trimmed chandeliers, and dramatic perspective shots with the cathedral and arcades as a backdrop.
A hilltop park offering city panoramas and modern architectural lines against the older city’s spires.
Food in Quito
Quito Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheesy potato patties served with chorizo, avocado, and a peanut sauce; a classic Quito staple.
Must-Try!
Creamy potato soup enriched with cheese, a touch of milk, and avocado; a comforting mountain dish.
Slow-fried pork served with mote (corn) and llapingachos; common at markets and street stalls.
Roast pork with crispy skin, typically served with mote and tortillas or potatoes.
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean specialty available at some restaurants and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub near the historic center offering fritada, empanadas, mote, and other traditional snacks; great for an authentic taste of Quito.
Large market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and juice stalls; ideal for a quick, affordable meal and local produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting such as 'Buenos días' or 'Hola' is standard. In informal settings, a light handshake or cheek kiss among friends may be used in some circles.
Polite conversation is valued; avoid sensitive topics like politics in new encounters. When dining, wait to start until everyone is served.
Safety
Tipping in Quito
Ensure a smooth experience
In many restaurants, a service charge of 10–15% may be included; if not, leaving a 5–10% tip is appreciated. Taxis and street vendors typically do not expect tips beyond rounding up the fare.
Cash is widely accepted, including small bills. Credit/debit cards are accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and larger shops; some markets and street vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with clearer skies and excellent visibility for mountains and city views. Days are typically mild (roughly 18–23°C) and comfortable for outdoor exploring; evenings can be chilly, so bring a light jacket.
October through May bring frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity. Mornings are often cool and foggy; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof shoes for urban and hillside walking.
Quito at Night
Hiking in Quito
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular high-altitude hike starting near the Teleférico; rewarding views of Quito and the volcano chain.
Walk along the crater rim of the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve for surreal panoramas and peaceful scenery.
A green foothill reserve with moderate trails, abundant birdlife, and easier climbs suitable for a half-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Quito by plane.
The main international gateway to Quito, located about 18-25 km east of the city center. Taxis and pre-arranged shuttles are common ways to reach central Quito; flight connections include regional and international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, blending Indigenous and European heritage; contributes significantly to the city’s culture and cuisine.
Visible in markets, crafts, and rural-adjacent areas; diverse languages and traditions persist in daily life.
Historically influential in business and culture; present across restaurants, galleries, and urban institutions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Ecuador, with local matches and fan culture across stadiums and public viewing areas.
Urban cycling and nearby mountain routes are popular for both recreation and training, with scenic routes around the Andean hills.
Played in gyms, schools, and community centers; courts are widely available for pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quito.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Quito dishes accommodate vegetarian preferences through beans, corn, potatoes, and fresh vegetables. Look for options like llapingachos without chorizo, locro de papa, and salads; ask for ají or salsa verde for extra flavor and confirm that stock and sauces are vegetarian.