Quito’s best experiences mix high-altitude cityscapes with colonial history and easy access to the Andes. Start with the TelefériQo cable car for the most dramatic views, then spend a day wandering the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Below are the 12 essential things to do in Quito, Ecuador, based on what’s actually worth your time.
Explore Old Town (Historic Center)
Wander through the streets of Old Town, the Historic Center, lined with colonial buildings. Visit historic churches, including La Compañía de Jesús, and the plazas. Stop at the Presidential Palace and San Francisco Church.
Take in the panoramic views from El Panecillo
Climb El Panecillo hill for panoramic views of Quito. The large statue of the Virgin Mary, "Virgen de Quito," stands atop the hill. Capture photos of the cityscape stretching out before you.
Visit the Mitad del Mundo
Discover the equator at Mitad del Mundo, just outside Quito. Stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere at the Equatorial Monument. Explore the Intiñan Museum to learn about the history and science behind this geographical phenomenon.
Ride the TelefériQo
Ride the TelefériQo, a cable car that takes you up the slopes of Pichincha Volcano. Ascend to an altitude of over 3,900 meters, taking in views of the city. At the top, hike the trails through the Andean landscape. The upper station sits at Cruz Loma, a common starting point for hiking and the outdoors in Ecuador.
Discover the beauty of Parque Metropolitano
Visit Parque Metropolitano. This expansive park offers trails, lush greenery, and panoramic viewpoints. It's a place for a stroll, a picnic, or a bike ride.
Delve into Ecuadorian art at Museo Guayasamín
Immerse yourself in Ecuadorian art at Museo Guayasamín, dedicated to Oswaldo Guayasamín. Admire his paintings depicting the struggles and resilience of indigenous people. Explore the museum's collection of contemporary and historical art pieces.
Embrace nature at the Botanical Garden of Quito
Escape to the Botanical Garden of Quito. Discover native plant species, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. Stroll through its curated gardens.
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Mariscal
Indulge in the atmosphere of La Mariscal, Quito's entertainment district. Explore its bars, clubs, and restaurants, offering a mix of local and international cuisine. Dance to Latin rhythms or enjoy a live music performance.
Visit the stunning Basilica del Voto Nacional
Marvel at the architecture of Basilica del Voto Nacional, one of the largest neo-Gothic churches in the Americas. Climb its towers for panoramic views of the city and visit the stone gargoyles depicting Ecuadorian animals.
Explore the vibrant La Ronda neighborhood
Step back in time in the La Ronda neighborhood. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful colonial houses that now hold artisan workshops, galleries, and cafés. Immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere and enjoy live music performances.
Discover the wonders of the Museo Casa del Alabado
Immerse yourself in pre-Columbian art at the Museo Casa del Alabado. Explore its collection of ancient artifacts and learn about Ecuador's indigenous cultures and their artistic expressions. Admire intricately crafted ceramics, textiles, and sculptures.
Indulge in delicious Ecuadorian cuisine
Try Ecuadorian cuisine. Sample local dishes such as ceviche, llapingachos (potato pancakes), and the traditional dessert, helado de paila (hand-churned ice cream). Visit traditional markets, such as Mercado Central, to explore fresh produce and local food stalls. For a deeper dive, consider hidden chocolate tours in Ecuador's cacao farms, which offer a taste of the country's bean-to-bar heritage.
Practical Tips for Your Quito Visit
Best time to visit: The dry season from June to September offers pleasant weather with clear skies, ideal for outdoor attractions.
Safety: Quito is generally safe for tourists, but avoid isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings.
Altitude: At around 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level, some visitors feel altitude sickness—headaches or shortness of breath. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and acclimate properly.
Walking: The historic center is compact and walkable, but wear comfortable shoes for uneven streets and sidewalks.
Must-try dishes: Locro de Papa (potato soup with cheese and avocado), Ceviche de Camaron (shrimp ceviche), and Empanadas de Viento (savory filled pastries).
Day trips: Quito is a gateway to the Otavalo Market, Cotopaxi volcano, and the scenic Quilotoa Lagoon. For those with more time, exploring the Pululahua volcano and a hotel perched on its crater rim offers a memorable overnight excursion. You can also check which countries border Ecuador to plan a longer regional trip, and if you prefer the coast, the beach towns and coastal highlights in Ecuador are a short flight away.
Costs: Quito is budget-friendly compared to many capitals, but prices vary. For current details on what it costs in Ecuador, check local listings at the time of your visit.
